Somnath Temple | History, 12 Jyotirlingas, Darshan, Aarti Timings, and Complete Travel Guide

Tilak Kathayein01 Apr 20267,094 views📖 1 min read

The Somnath Temple, located in Prabhas Patan, Gujarat, is the **first and holiest of the 12 Jyotirlingas** of Lord Shiva. This temple is world-renowned for its ancient history, numerous reconstructions, magnificent architecture, and profound religious significance. In this article, learn about the history of Somnath Temple, its mythology, the importance of the Jyotirlinga, darshan timings, aarti, travel routes, major festivals, and interesting facts associated with it.

📋 Table of Contents

Somnath Jyotirlinga: Introduction, Spiritual Significance & Important Facts
Mythological Story, Lord Chandra's Cure from Leprosy & The Mystery of Prabhas Kshetra
History of Somnath Temple, Invasions & Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's Resolve
Chalukya / Nagar Architecture, Sanctum Sanctorum & The Mystery of the Arrow Pillar
Holy Triveni Sangam, Bhalka Tirth & Sacred Sites of Prabhas Patan
Somnath Complex & Other Major Temples & Attractions Nearby
Darshan Timings, Daily Aarti Schedule & Special Abhishek Arrangements
'Jai Somnath' Sound and Light Show & Grand Evening Darshan
Visitor Rules: Entry Eligibility, Dress Code & Security & Photography Regulations
Somnath Travel Guide: How to Reach & Best Time to Visit
1-Day Somnath & Prabhas Tirth Itinerary (Detailed Itinerary)
20 Interesting & Historical Facts Related to Somnath Jyotirlinga
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Conclusion & Other Major Jyotirlingas of India

Introduction to Somnath Jyotirlinga & Important Facts (Quick Facts)

Located on the picturesque coast of the Arabian Sea in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, at Prabhas Patan (Gir Somnath District), Shree Somnath Temple is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites of Sanatan Dharma. It is considered the first of the twelve (Dwadash) Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. 'Som' means 'Moon' and 'Nath' means 'Lord'—thus, "Lord Shiva, the Lord of the Moon".

Somnath Dham is not just a temple, but an eternal symbol of Indian civilization, unwavering faith, and resurgence. Despite countless foreign invasions and destructions, this sacred pilgrimage site has risen from its ashes every time. This is why it is called 'Amar Tirth' or 'Eternal Jyotirlinga' in history.

Spiritual Significance: The glory of Prabhas Kshetra is sung in the Rigveda, Skanda Purana, and Shiva Purana. It is believed that after bathing in the sea here, having Darshan and performing Abhishek of the first Jyotirlinga washes away the sins of countless lifetimes, bestowing health, mental peace, and ultimately, salvation.

Somnath Temple: At a Glance (Quick Facts)

Detail	Information
Temple Name	Shree Somnath Jyotirlinga
Order	First among the Dwadash Jyotirlingas (1st Jyotirlinga)
Presiding Deity	Lord Shiva (Somnath Mahadev)
Location & District	Prabhas Patan, Veraval, Gir Somnath District, Gujarat, India
Coast / Holy Rivers	Arabian Sea Coast & Triveni Sangam (Hiran, Kapila, Saraswati)
Architectural Style	Kailash Mahameru Prasad / Chalukya (Solanki) Nagar Style
Current Temple Consecration Date	May 11, 1951 (by Dr. Rajendra Prasad)
Temple Opening Hours	Daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Daily Main Aartis	7:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 7:00 PM
Managing Body	Shree Somnath Trust
General Entry Fee	Completely Free for all devotees (Free Entry)

Note: On major festivals like Mahashivratri, Sawan Month, and Kartik Purnima, temple visiting hours are extended. It is advisable to check the updated information from the official portal of the Shree Somnath Trust (somnath.org) before your visit.

Mythological Story, Lord Chandra's Cure from Leprosy & The Mystery of Prabhas Kshetra

According to the Kotirudra Samhita of the Shiva Purana, the establishment of the Somnath Jyotirlinga is linked to Lord Chandra (the Moon) and the severe penance he performed.

1. King Daksha's Curse and Lord Chandra's Leprosy

Prajapati Daksha married his 27 daughters (27 constellations) to Lord Chandra. Among all of them, Chandra loved and favored Rohini the most. The other daughters complained about this to their father, Daksha. Daksha repeatedly advised Chandra, but when Chandra's favoritism continued, Daksha, in anger, cursed him to "be afflicted with decay, diminishing day by day (losing his radiance)".

2. Mahamrityunjaya Penance at Prabhas Tirth

Due to the curse, Chandra's radiance and light began to fade, causing distress among the flora and fauna. On the instructions of Lord Brahma, Chandra came to the sacred Prabhas Kshetra in Saurashtra. Here, he built a Shivalinga on the banks of the holy Saraswati River and performed rigorous penance of the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra of Lord Shiva with selfless devotion for six months.

3. Lord Mahadev's Boon and the Manifestation of the First Jyotirlinga

Pleased by Chandra's unwavering devotion, the Lord of Lords, Mahadev, appeared. While respecting Daksha's curse, Lord Shiva blessed Chandra: "During the waning moon (Krishna Paksha), one of your digits will diminish daily, but during the waxing moon (Shukla Paksha), one digit will be restored daily, and you will shine as the full moon on Purnima."

Having been cured, Chandra prayed to Mahadev to reside in that place forever in the form of a Jyoti (divine light). Mahadev accepted his plea and was consecrated as the first Jyotirlinga, known as 'Somnath' (Lord of Soma). Chandra himself built a magnificent temple of gold here first.

History of Somnath Temple, Invasions & Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's Resolve

The history of Somnath Temple is a remarkable saga of faith, resistance, and national pride. Throughout various centuries, the temple was repeatedly destroyed and plundered, but after each devastation, it was rebuilt in an even grander form.

1. Temple Construction in Different Eras

According to traditional accounts, the construction of Somnath Temple is believed to have been done with four different metals/materials in four different ages:

Satyuga: Built by Chandra Dev with Gold.
Tretayuga: Built by Ravana with Silver.
Dwaparayuga: Built by Lord Krishna with Sandalwood.
Kaliyuga: Built by King Bhimdev Solanki and the Maitrak kings of Vallabhi with Stone.

2. Era of Foreign Invasions and Destruction

From the 11th century to the 18th century, Somnath Temple faced attacks from invaders repeatedly:

Mahmud of Ghazni (1026 AD): Ghazni looted the immense wealth of the temple and desecrated the main Jyotirlinga and the temple. Local heroes (like Hammirji Gohil) sacrificed their lives to protect the temple.
Reconstruction by Solanki and Chalukya Kings: King Bhoja of Malwa and Kings Kumarpal and Bhimdev of Patan repeatedly carried out grand renovations of the temple.
Sultanate and Mughal Period: In 1299, the army of Alauddin Khilji, and in 1706, Aurangzeb, ordered the temple to be demolished again.
Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar (1783 AD): The queen of Indore, Ahilyabai Holkar, built a secret underground temple near the ruined site, ensuring the continuation of worship traditions.

3. Resurgence of Modern India (Sardar Patel's Resolve)

Shortly after India's independence, on November 13, 1947, the Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel visited the ruins of Somnath upon arriving in Junagadh. Taking water from the sea in his hand at the same spot, he made a historic resolve to rebuild the temple grandly.

The current magnificent temple, built with the cooperation of K. M. Munshi and public support, saw the consecration of the Jyotirlinga on May 11, 1951, by India's first President, Dr. Rajendra Prasad. On this occasion, Dr. Rajendra Prasad said: "This temple of Somnath is a symbol that the power of creation is far stronger than the power of destruction."

Chalukya / Nagar Architecture, Sanctum Sanctorum & The Mystery of the Arrow Pillar

The current Somnath Temple is an unparalleled stone marvel built in the traditional Western Indian Kailash Mahameru Prasad style (Chalukya/Solanki Nagar style). The construction of this temple was carried out by the renowned 'Sompura sculptors' of Prabhas Patan.

1. Structural Grandeur of the Temple

Shikhara and Flagstaff: The stone shikhara (spire) of the main temple is 155 feet (approximately 50 meters) high. The kalash (finial) at the top of the spire weighs 10 tons, and a 27-foot-high flagstaff is installed on it.
Nritya Mandap and Sabha Mandap: In front of the sanctum sanctorum, there is a vast sabha mandap and an intricately carved nritya mandap, whose pillars are adorned with beautiful stone sculptures of deities, gandharvas, and apsaras.
Sea-Facing Rampart: The temple is situated at a slight elevation from the sea level, from where the rising waves of the Arabian Sea appear to crash against the temple ramparts.

2. The Mysterious Arrow Pillar (The Sea-Route Arrow Pillar)

Towards the southern sea coast of the temple complex, an ancient Arrow Pillar (Baan Stambh) is erected, which is a wondrous testament to ancient Indian astronomical and geographical knowledge.

Unobstructed Jyotirmarg: An arrow mark is inscribed on this pillar, pointing towards the sea. It is inscribed in Sanskrit: "Aasumudrant Dakshin Dhruv Paryant Abadhith Jyotirmarg".
Geographical Truth: This means that from this point of the Somnath temple, there is no landmass or island in a straight line along the sea route all the way to the South Pole. The existence of such precise geographical knowledge in ancient times, without satellite technology, still amazes modern scientists.

Holy Triveni Sangam, Bhalka Tirth & Sacred Sites of Prabhas Patan

Somnath is not only a place of Shiva devotion but also the sacred land where Lord Krishna performed his divine play of departing from this earth to Goloka (Mahaprasthana).

1. Sacred Triveni Sangam

Just 1.5 km from Somnath Temple, the confluence of three sacred rivers—Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati—occurs, which then merge into the Arabian Sea. It is believed that performing a bath and Pind Daan (Shraddha) at this Triveni Sangam grants salvation to ancestors.

2. Bhalka Tirth

Located about 4 km from Somnath, Bhalka Tirth is the historical site where an arrow from the foot of Lord Krishna was struck by a hunter named Jara while he was resting under a peepal tree. A very beautiful temple here houses a reclining posture of Lord Krishna with four arms.

3. Dehotsarg Tirth & Golak Dham

This is the sacred site on the banks of the Hiran River from where Lord Krishna departed his mortal body to reach his divine abode (Goloka). The footprints of Lord Krishna are imprinted here.

Places to Visit Near Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple (Nearby Places to Visit)

1️⃣ Bhalka Tirth (Bhalka Tirth) – 4 km

Religious Significance: The sacred historical site where Lord Krishna was resting in meditation under a peepal tree when an arrow from the hunter Jara struck his lotus feet.
Special Attraction: Inside the temple, a very beautiful and rare reclining posture of Lord Krishna with four arms is installed.

2️⃣ Triveni Sangam & Bathing Ghat (Triveni Sangam) – 1.5 km

Religious Significance: The sacred confluence of three holy rivers—Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati—which then merge into the Arabian Sea.
Major Tradition: Performing a holy bath, offering Arghya to the Sun, and performing Pind Daan and Shraddha Tarpan for ancestors here is considered highly meritorious for salvation.

3️⃣ Dehotsarg Tirth & Golak Dham (Dehotsarg Tirth) – 1.8 km

Religious Significance: The supremely sacred site on the banks of the Hiran River from where Lord Krishna relinquished his mortal body and departed for his divine abode (Goloka).
Special Attraction: The sacred footprints of Lord Krishna's lotus feet are imprinted here, and nearby is the cave of Lord Balarama (Dauji's Cave).

4️⃣ Mata Ahilyabai Holkar Somnath Temple (Old Temple) – 200 meters

Historical Background: Located right in front of the main temple, this is the same historical temple that Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore secretly built in 1783 AD to protect the Shivalinga from invaders.
Special Construction: Its main sanctum sanctorum is underground (at basement level), where worship is still performed traditionally.

5️⃣ Gita Mandir & Lakshminarayan Temple – 1.5 km

Architecture: A very beautiful and grandly carved temple made of white marble, located near Triveni Sangam.
Specialty: The entire 700 verses of the 18 chapters of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita are beautifully inscribed on the grand stone pillars and marble walls of the temple.

6️⃣ Shree Parashuram Temple – 1.5 km

Mythological Story: Located on the banks of Triveni Sangam, this is the place where Lord Parashuram performed severe penance to Lord Shiva to be freed from the sin of his axe after annihilating Kshatriyas 21 times.
Two ancient sacred water tanks and the historical idol of Lord Parashuram are installed here.

7️⃣ Somnath Beach & Promenade – 300 meters

Natural Beauty: The picturesque coastline of the Arabian Sea spread around the temple and the modern Sagar Darshan Walkway (Promenade).
The view of the rising sea waves and the golden spire of the temple at sunset is ideal for photography and peaceful strolls (swimming in the sea is prohibited for safety reasons).

8️⃣ Sasan Gir National Park (Gir National Park) – 50 km

Wildlife Attraction: The world's only natural habitat for Asiatic Lions.
Most tourists visiting Somnath make a trip to Sasan Gir for a safari, which is just a 1.5-hour drive away.

Darshan Timings, Daily Aarti Schedule & Special Abhishek Arrangements

Darshan and puja at Shree Somnath Temple are conducted in a highly organized and time-bound manner throughout the 365 days of the year.

Daily Darshan & Aarti Timings Schedule

Program / Service	Timings	Description
Temple Gates Open	6:00 AM	General Darshan begins
Morning Prabhat Aarti	7:00 AM	First Aarti with conch shells, drums, and Vedic chants
Afternoon Rajbhog Aarti	12:00 PM	Special afternoon offering Aarti
Evening Sandhya Aarti	7:00 PM	Grand and enchanting Mahapuja adorned with lamps
Temple Gates Close	10:00 PM	Gates close after Shayan (sleep)

Special Pujas & Online Sankalp Services

Devotees can book various special puja rituals through the Shree Somnath Trust:

Dhwararohan Puja: A special ritual of hoisting a new flag on the 155-foot-high spire of the temple.
Rudrabhishek & Laghurudra: Grand Abhishek of the Shivalinga with Panchamrit and Ganga water using Vedic mantras.
Someshwar Mahapuja & Kaalsarp Dosh Puja: Special rituals performed by Vedic Brahmins.
(Note: Bookings for these pujas can be made at the puja counter within the temple premises or through the Trust's website somnath.org.)

'Jai Somnath' Sound and Light Show & Grand Evening Darshan

After the Mahapuja at 7:00 PM, a grand event called 'Jai Somnath' (Sound and Light Show) is organized in the temple courtyard against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea.

Timings: Daily from 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM (except during monsoon/rainy days).
Specialty: The glorious history of the temple, the invasion of Ghazni, the sacrifices of heroes, and the entire saga of its reconstruction by Sardar Patel are depicted through 3D projection mapping and laser lights, narrated in the powerful voice of the world-renowned actor Amitabh Bachchan.
Ticket Price: Approximately ₹30 to ₹50 (nominal fee).

Visitor Rules: Entry Eligibility, Dress Code & Security & Photography Regulations

Strict rules are in place considering the national security sensitivity and religious sanctity of Somnath Temple:

Entry Eligibility: The temple is open to all devotees of Sanatan Dharma. For followers of other faiths, the prescribed procedure according to the Trust's rules must be followed.
Dress Code: Modest and traditional attire is mandatory in the temple. Dhoti-kurta or pant-shirt for men and sarees, salwar-suits, or modest attire for women are acceptable. Entry is prohibited in overly short clothing, bermudas, shorts, or ripped jeans.
Complete Ban on Electronic Devices: For security reasons, carrying mobile phones, cameras, smartwatches, pen drives, laptops, and leather items (belts/wallets) inside the temple premises is strictly forbidden. A free cloakroom (Locker Facility) is available outside the temple by the Trust.
Photography: Any kind of photography or videography is strictly prohibited inside the entire temple complex.

How to Reach Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple?

Shree Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple is located in Prabhas Patan (Veraval) in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat. It is very well connected by road, rail, and air to major cities in Gujarat and across the country.

1️⃣ By Air – Nearest Airports

Two major nearest airports are available for reaching Somnath:

Diu Airport: Approximately 85 kilometers away from the temple (nearest for domestic flights).
Rajkot International Airport (Hirasar/Rajkot Airport): Approximately 200 kilometers away from the temple (extensive connectivity from major cities).
Porbandar Airport: Located approximately 130 kilometers away.

✈️ How to reach the temple from the airport?

It takes about 2 to 2.5 hours by taxi to reach Somnath from Diu Airport.
It takes about 4 to 4.5 hours via the 4-lane highway to reach Somnath from Rajkot Airport.
Taxi/Cab Fare: Approximately ₹2,000–₹3,500 from Diu and ₹3,500–₹5,500 from Rajkot (depending on vehicle type).
Regular state transport (GSRTC) buses also run from both airports to Veraval/Somnath.

2️⃣ By Train – Nearest Railway Station

Two major railway stations serve as access points to reach Somnath Temple:

🚆 Main Railway Station and Distance

Somnath Railway Station (SMNH): Located just 1.5 to 2 kilometers away from the temple.
Veraval Junction (VRL): The main and larger railway station, located approximately 5 to 7 kilometers away from the temple.

🚖 How to reach the temple from the railway station?

Auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws, and taxis are available 24 hours from Somnath or Veraval stations.
Auto/Taxi Fare: ₹50 to ₹250 (depending on shared or private vehicle).
It takes only 15 to 20 minutes to reach the temple from Veraval station.

🚉 Direct Train Connectivity from Major Cities

From Ahmedabad: Direct daily trains like Somnath Express, Veraval Express, and Vande Bharat.
From Rajkot: Regular passenger and Intercity Express trains are available.
From Mumbai: Saurashtra Janata Express, Bandra-Veraval Express.
From Delhi, Jabalpur & Pune: Direct long-distance weekly and regular trains run to Veraval.

3️⃣ By Road – Major Routes, Distances & Bus Services

🚌 Nearest Bus Stand

Somnath Bus Stand (Prabhas Patan) is located just 1 kilometer away from the temple.

🚗 Road Distances & Travel Times from Major Cities

From Veraval: 6 km (approx. 15 minutes)
From Junagadh: 85 km (approx. 1.5 to 2 hours)
From Sasan Gir (Gir National Park): 50 km (approx. 1.5 hours)
From Porbandar: 130 km (approx. 2.5 hours)
From Rajkot: 200 km (approx. 4 hours)
From Dwarka: 235 km (approx. 4.5 to 5 hours via coastal highway)
From Ahmedabad: 410 km (approx. 7 to 8 hours)

🚌 Bus Services & Fares

Gujarat State Transport (GSRTC) express, Gurjarnagari, and Volvo buses run continuously from Ahmedabad, Rajkot, Vadodara, and Surat to Veraval/Somnath.
Special tourist and sleeper buses connecting both Jyotirlingas are available from Dwarka to Somnath.
Bus Fare: ₹100 to ₹800 (from local ST bus to luxury AC Volvo).

🚖 Local Taxi & Auto Services

Autos and cabs are easily available in Veraval and Somnath for local sightseeing (Bhalka Tirth, Triveni Sangam, etc.).
Local Package Fare: ₹400 to ₹1,500 (for half-day local darshan).

Best Time to Visit Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple

Somnath Temple is located on the coast of the Arabian Sea, so sea breezes blow here throughout the year. The period from October to March (winter season) is considered the best for visiting. During this time, the weather is pleasant, cool, and between 15°C to 28°C, making temple visits and strolls on the beach very comfortable.

During the Sawan month (Shravan) and Mahashivratri, the spiritual ambiance and special Mahapuja here are very grand, although there is a heavy crowd of devotees during this time.

1-Day Somnath & Prabhas Tirth Itinerary (Detailed Itinerary)

6:30 AM – 8:30 AM (Mangala Darshan): Arrive at Somnath Temple early in the morning, deposit luggage at the cloakroom, and witness the grand Mangala Prabhat Aarti at 7:00 AM.
9:00 AM – 11:30 AM (Triveni Sangam & Bhalka Tirth): Take a holy dip/sip at Triveni Sangam, visit Parashuram Temple, and then proceed to Bhalka Tirth to have Darshan of Lord Krishna in his reclining posture.
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM (Rajbhog Aarti & Meal Prasad): Return to Somnath Temple and participate in the Rajbhog Aarti. Afterwards, have a very affordable and delicious pure vegetarian meal at the dining hall run by the Shree Somnath Trust.
2:30 PM – 4:30 PM (Prabhas Patan Museum & Ahilyabai Temple): Visit the ancient Somnath Museum and Mata Ahilyabai Temple.
5:30 PM – 7:30 PM (Sea Darshan & Evening Mahapuja): Stroll along the Somnath Sagar Darshan Walkway, watch the sunset, and attend the divine Sandhya Aarti at 7:00 PM.
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Sound and Light Show): Enjoy the 'Jai Somnath' Light and Sound Show and return to your hotel for the night.

20 Interesting & Historical Facts Related to Somnath Jyotirlinga

First Among the Dwadash Jyotirlingas: The name of Somnath appears first in the Dwadash Jyotirlinga Stotra of Shiva Purana ("Saurashtre Somnatham Cha...").
Consecration by the Moon: It is believed that Lord Chandra himself established the first Shivalinga here after being cured of his ailment.
Mystery of the Arrow Pillar: The Arrow Pillar located south of the temple indicates that there is no landmass in the sea between this point and Antarctica (South Pole).
Mahmud of Ghazni's 17 Invasions: Ghazni launched repeated attacks to loot and destroy this temple, but could not destroy the faith.
Valor of Hammirji Gohil: The 16-year-old brave prince Hammirji Gohil attained martyrdom defending the temple against Ghazni's massive army.
Four Constructions in Four Ages: A temple of gold in Satyuga, silver in Tretayuga, sandalwood in Dwaparayuga, and stone in Kaliyuga.
Sardar Patel's Historic Resolve: In 1947, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel took on the task of grandly rebuilding this ruined temple.
Construction Without Government Funds: On Mahatma Gandhi's suggestion, this magnificent temple was built entirely from public donations, not government funds.
Direct Sea Waves: The foundation of the temple is laid in such a way that the waters of the Arabian Sea continuously touch the temple walls.
Lord Krishna's Departure to Goloka: It was near Somnath, at Bhalka Tirth, that Lord Krishna was struck by a hunter's arrow.
Sacred Confluence of Triveni: The rare confluence of the Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati rivers occurs in this holy pilgrimage area.
155 Feet High Mahameru Shikhara: The current temple is an excellent example of Nagar style Mahameru Prasad architecture.
10-Ton Kalash: The stone kalash installed on the main spire of the temple weighs approximately ten thousand kilograms (10 tons).
Ahilyabai's Underground Temple: To protect the Shivalinga from the Mughals, Maharani Ahilyabai established an underground Shivalinga in 1783.
Show in Amitabh Bachchan's Voice: The temple's 'Jai Somnath' Sound and Light Show features the powerful voice of the megastar Amitabh Bachchan.
Meritorious Sea Bath: The Prabhas Khand of Skanda Purana describes bathing in the sea here as being as meritorious as a hundred Ashwamedha Yagnas.
Eternal Flame and Sea Breezes: The structure of the temple's sanctum sanctorum is such that the temple remains safe even during severe sea storms.
Art of Sompura Craftsmen: The exquisite stone carving of this temple was done by traditional Sompura artisans of Gujarat.
Somnath-Dwarka Circuit: This pilgrimage site in Gujarat is the main center of India's prominent 'Hari-Har' (Shiva-Vishnu) pilgrimage circuit.
Eternal Symbol of Resurrection: In world history, no religious site has been rebuilt with such grandeur after being destroyed more than 17 times.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the best timings for Darshan and Aarti at Somnath Temple?

The temple is open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The timings for the morning Prabhat Aarti at 7:00 AM and the evening Sandhya Mahapuja at 7:00 PM are considered the best for Darshan.

2. Are mobile phones and cameras allowed in Somnath Temple?

No, for security reasons, carrying mobile phones, cameras, smartwatches, and leather items is strictly prohibited in the main temple complex. Free locker facilities are available at the entrance by the Trust.

3. Is there an entry fee to Somnath Temple?

No, there is no entry fee for general Darshan at Somnath Temple; it is completely free. There are prescribed charges for special pujas, abhisheks, and the Sound and Light Show.

4. What are the nearest railway station and airport to reach Somnath?

The nearest railway station is Veraval Junction (5 km). The nearest domestic airport is Diu Airport (85 km), and the major airport is Rajkot (200 km).

5. What is the significance of 'Bhalka Tirth' located near Somnath?

Bhalka Tirth is the sacred site where, at the end of Dwapara Yuga, Lord Krishna, while meditating under a peepal tree, was struck by an arrow from a hunter named Jara, after which he departed for Goloka.

6. Are there Trust guest houses available for accommodation in Somnath?

Yes, Shree Somnath Trust operates very well-equipped, clean, and affordable guest houses such as 'Sagar Darshan', 'Maheshwari Atithi Bhavan', and 'Lilavati Atithi Bhavan', which can be booked online at somnath.org.

Conclusion & Other Major Jyotirlingas of India

Shree Somnath Jyotirlinga is not just a temple made of stones and carvings, but a vibrant pinnacle of India's immortal soul, Sanatan culture, and invincible faith. When the roaring waves of the Arabian Sea wash the stone feet of Somnath, and the collective chant of "Har Har Mahadev" echoes from the temple, every devotee experiences an extraordinary energy and spiritual peace.

If you wish to embark on the sacred pilgrimage of the Dwadash Jyotirlingas in your life, then having Darshan of the first Jyotirlinga, Shree Somnath Mahadev, will make your life blessed and spiritually enriched.

Read about other major sacred Dhams of the Dwadash Jyotirlingas:

Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga (Andhra Pradesh): The only Jyotirlinga and Mahashaktipeeth confluence located on Shri Shailya mountain.
Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga (Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh): The world's only south-facing, time-destroying abode located on the banks of the Shipra.
Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga (Madhya Pradesh): The sacred abode situated on the natural 'Om' island in the Narmada River.
Kedarnath Dham (Uttarakhand): A Moksha Dham nestled in the lap of the Himalayas on the banks of the Mandakini.
Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga (Maharashtra): The pilgrimage site of the origin of the Bhima River in the Sahyadri mountain range.
Kashi Vishwanath (Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh): The liberated city of Avimukta, resting on a trident on the banks of the Ganges.
Nageshwar Jyotirlinga (Dwarka, Gujarat): The destroyer of serpents and poisonous forces, Mahadev, located in Darukavana.
Pashupatinath Temple (Kathmandu, Nepal): The world-famous five-faced abode of Lord Shiva, located on the banks of the Bagmati.

Saurashtre Somnatham Cha Shri Shailam Mallikarjunam. Ujjainyam Mahakalo Omkaramamaleshwaram॥
May Lord Somnath Mahadev remove darkness, disease, and suffering from your lives and bestow happiness, peace, and prosperity.

Om Namah Shivaya. Jai Somnath! Har Har Mahadev! 🙏🔱🚩🌊

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Other Kathas

What are the 12 Jyotirlingas? Significance and Stories of Lord Shiva's 12 Jyotirlingas

हिंदू धर्म में भगवान शिव के 12 ज्योतिर्लिंग अत्यंत पवित्र और महत्वपूर्ण तीर्थस्थल माने जाते हैं। धार्मिक मान्यताओं के अनुसार, इन स्थानों पर भगवान शिव स्वयं ज्योतिर्लिंग स्वरूप में विराजमान हैं। सोमनाथ से लेकर रामेश्वरम तक प्रत्येक ज्योतिर्लिंग की अपनी अनोखी पौराणिक कथा, धार्मिक मान्यता और आध्यात्मिक विशेषता है। इस लेख में जानें 12 ज्योतिर्लिंगों के नाम, स्थान, पौराणिक कथाएं, धार्मिक महत्व और इनके दर्शन से जुड़ी महत्वपूर्ण जानकारी।

18 Aug 202668