Shree Somnath Jyotirling Temple, Gujarat

 Shree Somnath Jyotirling Temple, Gujarat

Somnath Temple

Somnath Temple is a Hindu temple which is located in Prabhas Patan, Veraval in Gujarat, India. This intricately carved temple is located on the western coast of the state. The honey-colored Somnath Temple is the birthplace of the first Jyotirlinga among the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas in India. This is the place where Shiva appeared as a fiery pillar of light. The temple is located at the confluence of three rivers, Kapila, Hiran, and Saraswati, and these rivers touch the shore on which the tidal waves of the Arabian Sea are built. The timeline of the ancient temple can be traced back to 649 BC but is believed to be older. This temple was reconstructed in 1951. On the northern side of the temple garden is a colorful diorama of the Shiva story, difficult to see through the misty glass. An hour-long sound and light show by Amitabh Bachchan in baritone highlights the temple at 7.45 pm.

Somraj (Moon God) is said to have built the first gold temple in Somnath. It was built by Ravana in silver, Krishna in wood, and Bhimdev in stone. The austere design of the present temple is modeled after the original coastal traditional designs: the temple is painted in creamy colors and boasts some fine carvings. One of the holiest Shiva temples in 12 Jyotirlinga houses a large, black Shivalinga.


Best Time To Visit :

The best time to visit Somnath temple is during the cold months i.e. October to February. This place is open throughout the year. Shivratri and Kartik Poornima are celebrated with great enthusiasm.

Nearby Attractions  : 

1. Gir National Park

Gir National Park

Gir National Park forest between Veraval and Junagadh. The sanctuary is spread over 1412-sq-km. It is a sanctuary for the Asiatic Lion. A safari through the dense, undisturbed forest is a joy. You can even see lions, other wildlife, and numerous bird species. One can enter the sanctuary only with safari permits. It can be booked online in advance. Winter from November to March is the best time to visit Gir National park.

2. Triveni Sangam

Triveni Sangam

Triveni Sangam is a renovated Cornish-style area for visitors. It is the confluence of three rivers Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati where they meet the Arabian Sea on the west coast. The Triveni Sangam is believed to be a place where Hindus can attain moksha or freedom from the cycle of life and death. Many people are seen praying or sitting near the steps and experiencing the spiritual atmosphere. Herds of hundreds of cowherds often throng the ghats of the steps with enthusiasm. The months of November to February are the best time to visit Triveni Sangam.  festive occasions like the Kumbh Mela which is hosted once in twelve years or the Magh Mela in January.

3. Bhalka Teerth

Bhalka Temple

One of the grandest temples in Somnath city is the Bhalka temple. The temple at Bhalka Tirtha is known as the bethak of Mahaprabhuji. Tulsi tree is planted here in honor of Lord Krishna. The courtyard of the spectacular Krishna temple, built in sandstone, is dotted with banyan trees. An unusual idol of Lord Krishna in a semi-recumbent position is inside the temple. There is also a beautiful Tribhangi idol of Lord Krishna playing the flute in the temple. The best time to visit is between November to February and during Janmashtami. 


How To Reach Somnath Temple

  • By Road - The temple city lies 82 km from Junagadh, 270 km from Bhavnagar, and 120 km from Porbandar. Ahmedabad is just 400 km away from Somnath.
  • By Train - Somnath is the nearest railway station, is and well connected to other major towns in Gujarat and India.
  • By Air - Porbandar Airport is 120 km and Rajkot airport is 200 km away.


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