About Somnath Temple

Somnath Temple: The Sacred Pilgrimage to Gujarat's First Jyotirlinga

Located near Veraval in Saurashtra within Gujarat's arid western region, the Somnath Temple stands as a beacon of divine grace and blessings in Prabhas Patan. It is revered as the first among the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. Enveloped in Mahadev’s divine aura, the temple is a vital pilgrimage destination. 

Despite enduring numerous invasions by Islamic forces, the temple has been repeatedly restored and reconstructed throughout history. The current structure, reflecting exquisite Chalukyan architecture and supported by traditional Hindu temple design, was completed in May 1951. The reconstruction was consecrated by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, often referred to as the Iron Man of India. 

Nearby, the merging of the Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati rivers creates the Triveni Sangam, an esteemed ancient pilgrimage site now known as Somnath. Legend holds that the Moon God, Soma, lost his sheen due to a curse. 

To restore his luminosity, he bathed in the Saraswati River. This myth is thought to explain the moon's phases, which correlate with the ebb and flow of tides near this picturesque coastal temple. Prabhas Patan, also known as Someshwar and Somnath, derives its name from the Sanskrit word for "lustre," signifying the town's radiant heritage.

Architecture of the Somnath Temple:

The Somnath Temple, located in Gujarat, displays the stunning Chaulukya Style, or Maru-Gurjara style of architecture. The architecture of the temple also features major elements from the Mewar, Gurjara, and Saurashtra regions. The temple, constructed from yellow sandstone, features intricate wall carvings, depicting deities, Hindu mythologies, and celestial beings. 

Key architectural significance of the temple includes: 

• The main sanctum of the temple houses the Jyotirlinga and is designed so that the sunlight directly illuminates the Shiva Lingam.
• The temple includes the Baan Stambh, an ancient pillar, which indicates an unobstructed, straight sea route from Somnath to Antarctica. 

How to reach Somnath Temple:

• By Rail: The railway station code for Somnath is SMNH, connecting it to major Indian cities.
• By Air: While regular flights to Somnath are scarce, Diu Airport (DIU) is only 63 km away, and Porbandar Airport (PBD) is about 114 km away.
• By Road: Somnngth Bus Station offers extensive connectivity across the Indian subcontinent.