Somnath Temple
The first among the twelve Jyotirlingas, on the shore of the Arabian Sea. Destroyed and rebuilt seven times over its long history.
Photos of Somnath Temple
Somnath Temple at a Glance
| Location | Somnath, Gujarat |
|---|---|
| Presiding deity | Shiva |
| Established | Present form 1951 CE |
| Architecture | Chalukyan |
| Timings | 06:00–21:30 |
| Best time to visit | October to March for pleasant weather; the Kartik Purnima fair in November is very crowded. |
| Address | Prabhas Patan, Veraval, Gujarat 362268 |
About Somnath Temple
Somnath, at Prabhas Patan on the western coast of Gujarat, is regarded as the first of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The name means lord of the moon: the moon god Soma, cursed by his father-in-law Daksha, is said to have regained his glow by worshipping Shiva at this spot.
The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt many times, a history that has made it a symbol of resilience for devotees. The present building, begun after independence under Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's initiative, was opened in May 1951, when President Rajendra Prasad installed the jyotirlinga.
History of Somnath Temple
Attacked and looted by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1024 CE and rebuilt several times afterwards. The present temple, in the Chalukyan style, was built after independence on the initiative of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and the jyotirlinga was installed by President Rajendra Prasad in May 1951.
Architecture of Somnath Temple
The temple is built in the Chalukya style, in the form known as Kailash Mahameru Prasad, of sandstone with a tall shikhara topped by a flag. A hall for worshippers leads to the sanctum, and the whole is raised on a plinth facing the Arabian Sea.
Near the sea wall stands the Baan Stambh, an arrow pillar carrying an inscription that says there is no land between this point and the South Pole. The temple is lit in the evening, and a sound and light show tells the story of Somnath's past.
Rituals and Worship at Somnath Temple
The day starts with the Mangala aarti and continues with three aartis through the day, at around seven in the morning, noon and seven in the evening. Devotees pour water and offer bel leaves on the lingam. Offerings of milk and flowers are common.
Maha Shivaratri and the Kartik Purnima fair bring the largest crowds. Many pilgrims also bathe at the Triveni Sangam, where three rivers meet the sea near the temple.
Festivals Celebrated at Somnath Temple
- Maha Shivaratri
- Kartik Purnima
- Somnath Fair
Visiting Somnath Temple: Planning Your Trip
Mobile phones and cameras are not permitted inside the temple, and there are free lockers near the entrance. Visitors go through security screening. The sea-facing walk behind the temple is a quiet place to watch the sunset.
Nearby, Bhalka Tirth marks where Krishna is said to have been struck by a hunter's arrow, and the Junagadh and Gir forest areas make a natural continuation of the trip. Stay in Veraval, which is only a few kilometres away.
How to Reach Somnath Temple
Nearest airport is Diu (85 km) or Rajkot (200 km). Rail head at Veraval, 7 km away.
Temples Near Somnath Temple
- Diu Hindu Temple (St. Thomas)Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu · about 58 km in a straight line
More Shiva Temples to Visit
- Somnath Mahadev Temple DamanDadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu
- Trimbakeshwar TempleMaharashtra
- Bhimashankar TempleMaharashtra
- Grishneshwar TempleMaharashtra
- Mahakaleshwar TempleMadhya Pradesh
- Omkareshwar TempleMadhya Pradesh
Frequently Asked Questions about Somnath Temple
Where is Somnath Temple located?
- Somnath Temple is located at Prabhas Patan, Veraval, Gujarat 362268, in Somnath, Gujarat, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Somnath Temple?
- The presiding deity at Somnath Temple is Shiva (also known as Mahadev, Bholenath), worshipped in the Shaiva tradition.
What are the timings of Somnath Temple?
- Somnath Temple is generally open 06:00–21:30. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Somnath Temple built?
- Somnath Temple was established Present form 1951 CE. Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Somnath Temple?
- Somnath Temple is built in the Chalukyan style, characteristic of Shiva shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Somnath Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Somnath Temple include Maha Shivaratri, Kartik Purnima, Somnath Fair. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Gujarat and beyond.
How can I reach Somnath Temple?
- Nearest airport is Diu (85 km) or Rajkot (200 km). Rail head at Veraval, 7 km away.
Why is Somnath Temple significant?
- The first among the twelve Jyotirlingas, on the shore of the Arabian Sea. Destroyed and rebuilt seven times over its long history.
What is the best time to visit Somnath Temple?
- October to March for pleasant weather; the Kartik Purnima fair in November is very crowded.