Somnath Temple: The Eternal Jyotirlinga of Faith and Resilience
Somnath Temple is one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations in India and holds a special place in Hindu spirituality. Located in the state of Gujarat, Somnath is revered as the first among the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The temple stands gracefully on the western coast of India near the Arabian Sea, symbolizing eternal devotion, strength, and resilience.
The word “Somnath” means “Lord of the Moon.” The temple is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of India's cultural heritage and unbreakable faith.
Location of Somnath Temple
Somnath Temple is situated in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in the Gir Somnath district of Gujarat. The temple is located at the Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of three rivers: Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati (mythical).
The temple overlooks the vast Arabian Sea, and the scenic beauty enhances the spiritual atmosphere of the place.
State: Gujarat
Nearest Railway Station: Veraval Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Diu Airport
District: Gir Somnath
Religious Significance of Somnath Jyotirlinga
Somnath is the first Jyotirlinga among the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to Hindu scriptures, especially the Shiva Purana, the Moon God (Chandra) worshipped Lord Shiva here to rid himself of a curse given by his father-in-law Daksha.
Pleased with his devotion, Lord Shiva restored Chandra’s radiance and manifested as a Jyotirlinga at this site. Hence, the temple came to be known as Somnath, meaning “Protector of the Moon.”
Devotees believe that visiting Somnath and offering prayers removes sins and grants spiritual liberation.
Mythological Story of Somnath
According to legend, Chandra married the 27 daughters of King Daksha but loved only Rohini. Upset by this partiality, Daksha cursed Chandra to lose his brightness. As Chandra began to fade, he prayed to Lord Shiva at Prabhas Kshetra.
After intense penance, Lord Shiva appeared and partially relieved the curse, allowing Chandra to wax and wane. This phenomenon explains the phases of the moon. In gratitude, Chandra built the original Somnath Temple in gold.
History of Somnath Temple
The history of Somnath Temple is a story of destruction and reconstruction. It has been destroyed and rebuilt several times by different rulers and invaders.
Major Historical Events
The original temple is believed to have been built in ancient times.
In 1025 CE, it was attacked by Mahmud of Ghazni.
The temple was rebuilt multiple times by various Hindu kings.
In 1951, the present structure was reconstructed under the leadership of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
The temple was inaugurated by Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India.
The present temple stands as a powerful symbol of India’s resilience and spiritual strength.
Architecture of Somnath Temple
The current structure of Somnath Temple is built in the Chalukya style of architecture, also known as the Kailash Mahameru Prasad style.
Key Architectural Features
Height of Shikhara: Around 155 feet
A large Nandi statue facing the sanctum
Intricate carvings on pillars and walls
Kalash weighing about 10 tons
A flag that is changed three times a day
An interesting feature is the “Baan Stambh” (Arrow Pillar), which indicates that there is no land between Somnath and the South Pole in a straight line.
Somnath Temple Timings
If you are planning a visit, here are the general timings:
Opening Time: 6:00 AM
Closing Time: 9:00 PM
Aarti Timings: 7:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 7:00 PM
Light and Sound Show: 8:00 PM (based on season)
It is always advisable to check local updates before planning your visit.
Best Time to Visit Somnath
The best time to visit Somnath is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Summers can be hot due to coastal humidity.
Major festivals celebrated here:
Maha Shivaratri
Kartik Purnima
Shravan Month (July–August)
During these festivals, thousands of devotees visit the temple.
How to Reach Somnath
By Air
The nearest airport is Diu Airport, approximately 85 km away.
By Train
Veraval Railway Station is just 7 km from the temple and is well connected to major cities.
By Road
Somnath is well connected by road to cities like Rajkot, Ahmedabad, and Junagadh.
Nearby Attractions
When visiting Somnath, you can also explore nearby sacred and tourist places:
Triveni Sangam
Bhalka Tirth (associated with Lord Krishna)
Panch Pandav Gufa
Gir National Park (for wildlife lovers)
These places make Somnath a spiritually and culturally rich destination.
Why Somnath is Special
Somnath is not just a temple; it is a symbol of eternal faith. Despite multiple invasions and destruction, it has always been rebuilt. It represents:
Strength of belief
Cultural heritage
Spiritual energy
Historical resilience
The sound of waves hitting the temple walls and the chants of “Om Namah Shivaya” create a divine experience for every visitor.
Conclusion
Somnath Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India. As the first Jyotirlinga, it holds immense spiritual importance for devotees of Lord Shiva. Located on the serene coast of Gujarat, it beautifully blends mythology, history, architecture, and devotion.
Whether you are a spiritual seeker, history lover, or traveler, Somnath offers a deeply enriching experience. A visit to Somnath is not just a journey to a temple; it is a journey into faith, resilience, and timeless spirituality.