🛕 Introduction: Why Somnath is a Must-Visit Pilgrimage in India
Somnath Temple, located on the Arabian Sea in Gujarat, is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in India. It is known as the first among the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. This ancient temple is not only spiritually significant but also historically powerful — a symbol of resilience, as it was rebuilt multiple times after being destroyed by invaders.
In this blog, you’ll get a complete travel guide to Somnath — including its history, significance, darshan timings, how to reach, places to stay, what to eat, and more. Whether you're planning a spiritual trip or want to explore Indian heritage, this guide is for you.
🕰️ The History of Somnath Temple: A Legacy Rebuilt Again and Again
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The original Somnath temple was believed to have been built by Chandra Dev (Moon God) in gold.
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Later rebuilt in silver by Ravana, in wood by Krishna, and in stone by King Bhimdev.
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Invaders like Mahmud of Ghazni (1024 CE) looted and destroyed the temple multiple times.
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It was rebuilt under the rule of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel post-independence in 1951, which is the temple you see today.
🔱 Spiritual Significance: The First Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva
There are 12 Jyotirlingas across India, each representing a different manifestation of Lord Shiva. Among them, Somnath is the first and most revered.
The legend says that Lord Shiva appeared as a fiery column of light here. Devotees believe that praying at Somnath removes sins, brings peace, and helps attain moksha (liberation).
📍 Location: Where is Somnath?
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State: Gujarat
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District: Gir Somnath
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Coordinates: 20.8880° N, 70.4012° E
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Closest Cities: Veraval (7 km), Junagadh (88 km), Rajkot (190 km)
🛕 Somnath Temple Darshan Timings
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Temple Opening | 6:00 AM |
| Morning Aarti | 7:00 AM |
| Midday Aarti | 12:00 PM |
| Evening Aarti | 7:00 PM |
| Temple Closing | 9:00 PM |
| Light & Sound Show | 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM |
🔗 Darshan Updates – somnath.org
🚗 How to Reach Somnath – By Road, Train, and Air
🚌 By Road:
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Connected by national highways from Rajkot, Ahmedabad, and Dwarka
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Gujarat State Transport (GSRTC) buses available frequently
🚆 By Train:
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Nearest Railway Station: Veraval Junction (7 km away)
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Daily trains from Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Surat, and Mumbai
✈️ By Air:
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Nearest Airport: Diu (85 km), Rajkot (190 km)
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Rajkot airport has better connectivity to major Indian cities
🏨 Where to Stay in Somnath: Hotels for All Budgets
🏨 Budget Stays:
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Shree Somnath Trust Dharamshala – Safe, clean rooms near the temple
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Hotel Nandi, Hotel Bansidhar – Affordable options close to the temple
🏨 Mid-Range:
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Lords Inn Somnath – Good family hotel with breakfast
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The Fern Residency Somnath – Comfortable stay with modern amenities
🏨 Luxury:
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Safari Resort by The Fern – 4-star, scenic views
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Sarovar Portico – Beachfront, temple-view rooms
🍲 What to Eat in Somnath
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Pure vegetarian food is served widely due to religious customs
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Must-try:
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Gujarati Thali
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Khichdi-Kadhi
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Farsan (snacks)
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Popular food places:
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Sukh Sagar, Domino's (for pizza), and Temple Bhojanalaya
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🧳 Things to Do in and Around Somnath
🛕 1. Visit Triveni Sangam
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Confluence of Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati rivers
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Believed to be a moksha spot
🕍 2. Bhalka Tirth
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The place where Lord Krishna was shot by a hunter
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Sacred site for Krishna devotees
🌊 3. Somnath Beach
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Just behind the temple
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Clean, serene, and peaceful – not suitable for swimming
🛶 4. Gir National Park (90 km)
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Spot Asiatic Lions
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Best time to visit: October to March
🚢 5. Diu Island (85 km)
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Portuguese forts, beaches, and churches
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Ideal weekend escape after visiting Somnath
🗓️ Best Time to Visit Somnath
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October to March: Pleasant climate, ideal for darshan and sightseeing
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Avoid May-June due to high heat
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Shivratri and Kartik Purnima are highly auspicious and attract huge crowds
📷 Photography & Mobile Phones
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Not allowed inside the temple
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Lockers are available outside for phones and belongings
🛍️ What to Buy in Somnath
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Rudraksha malas
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Religious books
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Miniature idols
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Handicrafts and seashell items
Available near temple market and Trust shops.
📌 Tips for Visitors
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Wear modest, traditional clothes.
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Keep change for auto/taxi or temple donations.
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Visit early morning or evening for peaceful darshan.
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Carry a refillable water bottle.
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Respect temple customs — no leather items or photography inside.
🔗 More Information
🧘 Final Thoughts
Somnath is not just a place for devotees — it’s a journey into India’s timeless spiritual heart. With its powerful history, divine atmosphere, and scenic views of the Arabian Sea, it leaves a lasting impression on every traveler.
Whether you’re seeking blessings, inner peace, or just a meaningful escape, Somnath is truly worth your visit.
🙏 Start your journey today and experience the divine energy of Lord Shiva in Somnath!
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