A Complete Travel Guide to Somnath – The Eternal Shrine of Lord Shiva (2025)
Category: Travel Guides · Somnath Temple, located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Gujarat, is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and a timeless symbol of faith, resilience, and devotion. Revered as “The Shrine Eternal,” Somnath has withstood centuries of destruction and reconstruction, standing today as a majestic temple overlooking the Arabian Sea. This complete 2025 travel guide provides insights into Somnath’s history, significance, how to reach, where to stay, and everything you need for a memorable pilgrimage.
📜 History & Significance of Somnath
The Somnath temple has been mentioned in the ancient texts like the Rigveda, Skanda Purana, and Shiv Purana. It is believed that the original temple was built by the Moon God (Chandra) in gold, rebuilt by Ravana in silver, and later reconstructed by Krishna in wood, before being finally rebuilt in stone by King Bhimdev.
Over centuries, Somnath was plundered and destroyed by invaders like Mahmud of Ghazni, yet it rose again each time, a testimony to the unbreakable spirit of devotion. Today’s temple was reconstructed in 1951 under the initiative of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and K.M. Munshi, and stands as a proud heritage site of India.
🛕 Somnath Temple Darshan & Rituals
- Darshan Timings: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily
- Aarti Timings: 7:00 AM, 12:00 Noon, 7:00 PM
- Sound & Light Show: “Jai Somnath” show in the evening narrates the history of the temple.
- Special Pujas: Rudrabhishek, Laghu Rudri, and Mahamrityunjaya Jaap.
🌟 Places to Visit Around Somnath
- Bhalka Tirtha: The place where Lord Krishna is believed to have left his earthly body.
- Triveni Sangam: The confluence of three sacred rivers – Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati.
- Prabhas Patan Museum: Exhibits ancient temple remains, sculptures, and inscriptions.
- Junagadh Gate: A historical fort entrance showcasing Rajput architecture.
- Gir National Park: Just 45 km away, home to the majestic Asiatic lions.
🛣️ How to Reach Somnath
- By Air: The nearest airport is Diu (65 km), connected to Mumbai and Ahmedabad. Rajkot Airport (200 km) offers wider connectivity.
- By Train: Veraval Railway Station (7 km) is well connected to Rajkot, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai.
- By Road: Regular buses and taxis are available from Ahmedabad (410 km), Rajkot (200 km), and Diu.
🏨 Where to Stay in Somnath
- Dharamshalas & Guesthouses: Managed by temple trusts for budget pilgrims.
- Mid-Range Hotels: Lords Inn Somnath, Hotel Sun Plaza, Hotel Somnath Sagar.
- Luxury Options: The Fern Residency, Sarovar Portico near Veraval.
📅 Best Time to Visit Somnath
- October – March: Pleasant weather and festive celebrations.
- April – June: Hot but manageable with fewer crowds.
- July – September: Monsoon adds charm, but sea can be rough.
🎉 Festivals at Somnath
- Maha Shivratri: Grand celebrations with lakhs of devotees.
- Kartik Purnima: Special rituals and fairs near the temple.
- Somnath Fair: Annual cultural and religious gathering with folk music and dances.
🍴 Food & Shopping
- Satvik Bhoj: Temple offers simple vegetarian meals.
- Local Gujarati Cuisine: Try dhokla, thepla, fafda, and sweets like jalebi and basundi.
- Shopping: Souvenirs, idols of Lord Shiva, rudraksha malas, and handicrafts available in local bazaars.
💡 Travel Tips
- Mobile phones and cameras are not allowed inside the temple premises.
- Dress modestly to respect the sanctity of the temple.
- Plan darshan early morning or late evening to avoid rush hours.
- Combine Somnath visit with Dwarka for a complete spiritual circuit.
🌟 Conclusion
Somnath is more than a temple—it is a living legend of devotion and resilience. Its historical importance, spiritual aura, and seaside beauty make it one of the most sacred destinations in India. For pilgrims and travelers alike, a journey to Somnath in 2025 is a divine experience blending history, faith, and culture.
