Somnath Temple
About Somnath Temple
The Somnath Temple is believed to be the first among the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Located on the western coast of Gujarat at the confluence of three rivers — Kapila, Hiran, and Saraswati — the temple overlooks the Arabian Sea. The present temple was rebuilt in the Chalukya style of architecture in 1951 under the guidance of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel after India's independence. It stands as a powerful symbol of reconstruction and cultural continuity.
Historical Significance
According to tradition, the temple was first built in gold by Somraj (the Moon God), then in silver by Ravana, and in wood by Lord Krishna. Historically, the temple was destroyed and rebuilt at least six times, with famous invasions by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1026 CE. The current structure was initiated by Sardar Patel and completed under K.M. Munshi, with the first President of India, Dr Rajendra Prasad, performing the installation ceremony in 1951.
Architecture
The temple is built in the Kailash Mahameru Prasad style, a fusion of Chalukya and Solanki architectural traditions. The main spire rises to 50 metres and is adorned with intricate carvings. A flag pole (dhvaja stambh) stands 27 feet tall. The Nandi mandap, sabha mandap, and garbhagriha are aligned in a straight line facing east.
Spiritual Significance
The Somnath Jyotirlinga is associated with the legend of the Moon God who was cursed to wane, and Lord Shiva blessed him to regain his lustre at this spot — hence 'Somnath' (Lord of the Moon). It is a symbol of India's indomitable spirit, having been destroyed and rebuilt repeatedly across centuries. The temple's geographic location at the coast adds to its spiritual aura — a plaque states that there is no land between Somnath and the South Pole along that longitude.
How to Reach
Temple Offerings & Pujas
Jalabhishek
₹151Sacred water offering to the Jyotirlinga
Rudrabhishek
₹1,100Elaborate puja with Vedic mantra chanting
Prasad
₹21Temple prasad available at the counter
Seek Divine Blessings
Book an authentic online puja at Somnath Temple, performed by expert Acharyas.
Quick Facts
- Best Time to VisitOctober to March
- Entry FeeFree
Temple Timings
- Morning Darshan6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Afternoon Darshan12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Evening Aarti7:00 PM – 7:30 PM
- Sound & Light Show8:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location
Somnath Mandir Road, Prabhas Patan, Veraval, Gujarat 362268
