Introduction
The Somnath Temple, located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Gujarat, is one of the most sacred and historically significant temples in India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is the first among the revered twelve Jyotirlingas, making it a prime pilgrimage destination for millions of devotees.
Known as “The Shrine Eternal”, the Somnath Temple stands as a symbol of resilience, faith, and timeless devotion. Despite being destroyed and rebuilt multiple times throughout history, it continues to radiate divine energy and architectural brilliance.
The Legend of Somnath – Mythological Significance
According to Hindu mythology, Chandra Dev (the Moon God) was cursed by his father-in-law, Daksha Prajapati, to fade away. Chandra worshipped Lord Shiva at this very site to seek redemption. Pleased with his devotion, Shiva restored his radiance and established himself here as Somnath, meaning "Lord of the Moon" (Soma = Moon, Nath = Lord).
This divine story gives the temple its celestial importance and connects it to the eternal cycle of rejuvenation, faith, and devotion.
Historical Timeline
The Somnath Temple has been a silent witness to the rise and fall of empires, repeated invasions, and heroic restorations. Its history spans thousands of years, highlighting its importance across ages.
Major Historical Events:
- First Temple Construction: Believed to be built in gold by the Moon God (mythologically), followed by a silver temple by Ravana, a wooden one by Lord Krishna, and finally in stone by King Bhimdev of the Solanki dynasty in the 11th century.
- Destruction by Invaders:
- 1026 CE: Destroyed by Mahmud of Ghazni
- 1299 CE: Attacked by Alauddin Khilji’s general
- 1394 & 1706 CE: Further attacks by Timur and Aurangzeb
- Reconstruction:
- Rebuilt every time by brave Hindu kings and devotees.
- Final reconstruction began in 1951, initiated by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India, and completed under Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President.
Today, the Somnath Temple is managed by the Shree Somnath Trust, and it stands tall as a testament to India's spiritual and cultural rebirth.
Architecture and Design
The current Somnath Temple is a brilliant example of Chalukya style temple architecture, reflecting the craftsmanship and spiritual artistry of India’s ancient sculptors.
Key Architectural Highlights:
- Shikhara (Main Spire): Soars up to 50 meters high, visible from a great distance.
- Kalash (Pinnacle): Weighs about 10 tons and glistens under the sun.
- Flag Mast: A large tricolor flag with the emblem of Nandi (the bull) is changed thrice daily.
- Garbhagriha (Sanctum Sanctorum): Houses the sacred Jyotirlinga, an eternal flame of spiritual light.
- Sea-Facing Wall Inscription: “There is no land in a straight line between Somnath and the South Pole,” emphasizing the temple's symbolic and geographical uniqueness.
The temple complex also includes:
- Sabha Mandap (Assembly Hall)
- Nritya Mandap (Dancing Hall)
- Museum and Sound & Light Show Area
Religious Importance – The First Jyotirlinga
Among the 12 Jyotirlingas, Somnath is the first, giving it immense religious significance. A Jyotirlinga represents the infinite nature of Lord Shiva, and visiting Somnath is believed to cleanse one’s soul and bestow divine blessings.
Devotees believe that offering prayers here:
- Removes sins from past lives
- Helps achieve moksha (liberation)
- Fulfills spiritual desires and grants peace of mind
Many undertake the Jyotirlinga Yatra, beginning with Somnath, followed by visits to other sacred Shiva shrines across India.
Festivals and Celebrations
Somnath Temple is at the heart of spiritual celebrations all year round. The temple becomes a hub of divine energy during major Hindu festivals.
Major Celebrations:
- Maha Shivratri: The most important festival, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple sees lakhs of devotees fasting, praying, and chanting through the night.
- Kartik Purnima: A spiritually auspicious time when devotees take holy dips in the sea and perform rituals.
- Shravan Month (July–August): A sacred month in the Hindu calendar for Shiva worship. Daily Abhishekam and special pujas are conducted.
The temple also hosts cultural events, spiritual lectures, Vedic chanting, and devotional music programs, enriching the spiritual experience of every pilgrim.
The Spiritual Experience
Visiting Somnath is not just a religious trip; it’s a journey into the soul of India. The sound of the sea waves crashing against the temple walls, the aroma of incense, the rhythmic chants of mantras, and the magnificent Jyotirlinga together create a mystical atmosphere that transports one beyond time.
Daily Temple Rituals:
- Mangala Aarti (5:00 AM)
- Midday Aarti (12:00 PM)
- Sandhya Aarti (7:00 PM)
- Rudrabhishek and Special Pujas available with prior bookings
The Sound and Light Show (Jay Somnath) in the evening narrates the temple’s rich history in an engaging multimedia format, leaving every visitor inspired.
Pilgrimage and Nearby Attractions
Somnath is a major stop in the Char Dham of Gujarat (Somnath, Dwarka, Nageshwar, and Bet Dwarka). It also holds importance in the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Nearby Attractions:
- Bhalka Tirth: The place where Lord Krishna was mistakenly shot by a hunter and left the earthly realm.
- Triveni Sangam: Confluence of three sacred rivers — Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati.
- Prabhas Patan Museum: Preserves ancient temple relics, sculptures, and coins.
- Junagadh and Gir National Park: Just a few hours away for wildlife and heritage lovers.
Travel Information
Location:
Somnath, Prabhas Patan, Gir-Somnath district, Gujarat, India
How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Diu Airport (80 km) or Rajkot Airport (200 km)
- By Train: Veraval Railway Station (7 km)
- By Road: Well connected by buses and taxis from Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and other cities
Accommodation:
Plenty of dharmshalas, budget hotels, and luxury resorts are available. The Shree Somnath Trust also provides economical lodging for pilgrims.
Temple Timings:
- Darshan: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Aarti Timings:
- Mangala Aarti – 5:00 AM
- Midday Aarti – 12:00 PM
- Sandhya Aarti – 7:00 PM
Tips for Visitors:
- Wear traditional, modest clothing
- Avoid carrying mobile phones/cameras inside
- Check temple calendar for festival rush days
- Book special pujas in advance if desired
Conclusion
The Somnath Temple is not just a religious monument—it’s a shining emblem of India’s indomitable spirit. Rising again and again from the ashes of destruction, it reminds us that faith can never be defeated. Whether you are a devotee, a historian, or a traveler seeking divine energy and architectural splendor, Somnath is a place that touches the soul and stays in the heart forever.
Om Namah Shivaya. Jay Somnath!