Somnath Temple: The Eternal Shrine Standing Tall Against Time

On the serene shores of the Arabian Sea in Gujarat stands a temple that has defied time, invasions, and destruction — only to rise again and again, more radiant, more revered. Somnath Temple, the “Shrine Eternal,” is not just a holy site; it’s a symbol of India’s resilience, spirituality, and devotion. This is where divinity meets the ocean, where legends walk with history, and where silence sings the song of centuries.

🕉️ The History of Somnath Temple – A Saga of Devotion and Rebirth

Somnath Temple holds the distinction of being the first among the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, believed to have been created by the Moon God (Soma) himself. The name “Somnath” literally means ‘The Lord of the Moon’.

Mythological Origins

As per legend, Soma was cursed by his father-in-law Daksha, which led him to lose his radiant glow. He then worshipped Lord Shiva at the site where the temple now stands. Pleased by Soma’s devotion, Shiva restored his brilliance and took residence here as Somnath, the protector of Soma.

The Temple That Refused to Die

What truly sets Somnath apart is its history of repeated destruction and resurrection:

The original temple is said to have existed as early as the 5th century AD or even earlier.
Over the centuries, it was looted and destroyed by invaders — most notably by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1025 AD, who took away its riches.
The temple was rebuilt by various rulers, only to be destroyed again during later invasions by Alauddin Khilji’s army and Aurangzeb.
Despite these assaults, the temple rose each time — a testament to the unwavering devotion of Hindu rulers and the local populace.
The final and present-day reconstruction was spearheaded by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel after India’s independence in 1947. The rebuilt temple was inaugurated in 1951 by President Dr. Rajendra Prasad.

🛕 The Architecture – A Divine Blend of Grace and Grandeur

The current structure of the Somnath Temple, built in Chalukyan style, is a majestic symbol of spiritual strength and architectural beauty. The temple is made of pink sandstone, intricately carved and sculpted to perfection.

Highlights:

Shikhara (spire): Rises to about 155 feet, topped with a golden kalash (pot) weighing over 10 tons.
Garbhagriha (Sanctum): Houses the Shiva Lingam, serene and powerful, with a backdrop that directly opens to the vast Arabian Sea.
Arrow Pillar (Baan Stambh): An inscription on this pillar facing the ocean proclaims that there is no land mass between Somnath and the South Pole, symbolizing its cosmic importance.
Intricate carvings: Both inside and outside, the temple showcases exquisite carvings of deities, floral patterns, and sacred geometry.

At dusk, when the temple is lit and the waves crash nearby, the entire complex glows with divine energy.

🛣️ How to Reach Somnath

Somnath is located in the Prabhas Patan region of Veraval city in Gujarat. It is well-connected by air, rail, and road.

✈️ By Air:

Nearest Airport: Diu Airport (around 85 km)
Alternate Airport: Rajkot Airport (around 200 km)
Cabs and buses are available from both places.

🚂 By Train:

Nearest Railway Station: Veraval Junction (7 km from the temple)
Trains from major cities like Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Mumbai are available.

🚌 By Road:

Good road connectivity via Gujarat State Road Transport buses and private operators.
You can also drive or hire a taxi from Rajkot, Junagadh, or Diu.

🎟️ Entry Fee and Temple Timings

Entry Fee: Free for general darshan.
Darshan Timings:
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Afternoon: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Evening: 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Aarti Timings:
- Morning: 7:00 AM
- Afternoon: 12:00 PM
- Evening: 7:00 PM

Special Attractions:

Light and Sound Show: Held every evening at 8:00 PM.
- Narrated in Hindi and English, it tells the story of Somnath’s glorious past.
- Entry Fee: Approx. ₹30-50

🏨 Where to Stay – Hotels and Guesthouses

Whether you’re on a budget or looking for luxury, Somnath has a variety of accommodations.

Budget and Mid-Range:

Lords Inn Somnath – Clean, comfortable, close to the temple.
Hotel Sun Plaza – Budget-friendly and family-friendly.
Hotel Shubh Suvidha – Great for pilgrims, near railway station.

Luxury:

The Fern Residency Somnath – Eco-friendly, elegant, great food.
Sarovar Portico Somnath – Premium hotel with all amenities.

Dharamshalas:

Somnath Trust Guest Houses – Clean, simple, and spiritually fulfilling. Book through the official Somnath Trust website.

🌄 Places to Visit Near Somnath

While the temple is the centerpiece, the surrounding region is equally rich in history, mythology, and natural beauty.

1. Triveni Sangam Ghat (1 km)

Confluence of three holy rivers: Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati.
A dip here is considered sacred.
The ghat is peaceful, especially during sunrise.

2. Bhalka Tirth (5 km)

The place where Lord Krishna was struck by a hunter’s arrow and left his earthly form.
Serene, spiritual spot with a beautiful temple.

3. Gita Mandir (4 km)

Constructed by the Birla family, this temple has the Bhagavad Gita carved on marble walls.
A must-visit for spiritual seekers.

4. Prabhas Patan Museum

Houses sculptures, temple fragments, and relics from the temple’s earlier versions.
Offers a glimpse into Somnath’s glorious past.

5. Junagadh (90 km)

Explore Girnar Hills, Buddhist caves, and Uparkot Fort.
A full-day excursion packed with history and scenic spots.

6. Sasan Gir National Park (70 km)

Home to the Asiatic Lion.
Safari bookings must be done in advance, great for nature lovers.

📅 Best Time to Visit Somnath

🌤️ Ideal Season:

October to March – Pleasant climate, perfect for sightseeing and darshan.
Avoid peak summer (April–June) – It can get hot and humid.
Monsoon (July–September) – While the temple looks beautiful, heavy rains may disrupt travel.

Special Times:

Maha Shivratri – The temple is beautifully decorated; thousands of devotees visit.
Kartik Purnima – A grand celebration and cultural performances are held.
Diwali – The entire temple complex glows with lamps and spiritual fervor.

🧘‍♀️ Things to Do in and Around Somnath

1. Attend the Evening Aarti

A divine experience as the ocean roars in the background and bells ring through the air.

2. Meditate by the Sea

Just outside the temple, there are benches facing the ocean. It’s peaceful, energizing, and sacred.

3. Explore the Ruins

Scattered around the complex are archaeological ruins from earlier temples, whispering stories of bygone eras.

4. Try Local Cuisine

Enjoy authentic Gujarati thalis, fresh seafood (if non-vegetarian), and traditional sweets like sutarfeni and ghevar.

5. Souvenir Shopping

Pick up rudraksha beads, religious books, handicrafts, or local art from temple stalls.

6. Photography

While photography isn’t allowed inside the sanctum, the temple exterior, oceanfront, and light & sound show offer wonderful photo opportunities.

🙏 The Spirit of Somnath – More Than a Temple

Somnath is not just about Shiva. It is about faith that stands undeterred. About a people who refuse to let divinity be buried under dust and conquest. Every stone here tells a story — of resilience, of love for God, and of a civilization that never lost its way.

Whether you’re deeply spiritual, a history lover, or simply a traveler looking for meaning, Somnath Temple welcomes you with open arms and ocean winds. Come here not just to offer prayers, but to witness a place that has stood as a witness to the rise and fall of empires, only to emerge eternal.