Does Somnath sound familiar to you?
But the Somnath Temple is all you are familiar with. How terrible! Yes, as there are a lot of other activities in Somnath that you should attempt. For those who journey to see Lord Shiva, Somnath is a significant location. It is the location of the Triveni Sangam, which is where the Kapila, Hiran, and Sarasvati rivers come together.
If you don’t mind engaging in a bit of spirituality along the way, Somnath offers a variety of activities. The Moon God, Soma, was once cursed, and in order to break the spell, he took a bath in the Sarasvati River. The location is known as “the lord of the moon” due to this.
You can enjoy yourself while doing many things at the Aadi Jyotirling Somnath Mahadev Temple. You must go to this location and the surrounding areas if you wish to feel more positive. We’re telling the truth when we state that Somnath isn’t just for seniors. If you’re still unsure about what to do in Somnath, keep reading because we’ll explain everything.
Historical Significance of Aadi Jyotirling Somnath Mahadev Temple
The Somnath Temple has seen a lot of ups and downs, making its story really important. Even after being knocked down many times, it stands tall, showing off India’s deep culture and love for Lord Shiva.
This temple is super important in history because it’s believed to have first been made of gold by the Moon God and then remade in silver by Ravana. Famous Indian kings like Vikramaditya and Bhimdev Solanki also added their touch to it.
But it’s not been an easy ride. Invaders, including Mahmud of Ghazni in the 11th century and later Sultan Allaudin Khilji and even Aurangzeb, have attacked and tried to destroy it. Yet, every time, it was rebuilt by devoted kings.
Finally, after India became free, the temple was built again in the 20th century. Its story is a powerful reminder of how strong and determined people can keep their culture and faith alive, no matter what.
Cultural and Architectural Significance of Somnath
The Somnath Temple in Gujarat is not just a beautiful building; it’s a special place that shows off India’s culture and old building styles. Made long ago, this temple has a big tower with amazing artwork and a big room held up by many pillars. Inside, it has a sacred Shiva lingam, one of the 12 very special Jyotirlingas in India.
This temple is more than just its looks; it’s a key place for Hindu pilgrims and sees lots of visitors all year round. There’s a museum there too and some smaller temples. Big festivals like Mahashivratri bring the temple to life with lots of celebrations. It’s a place filled with faith and history.
10 Best Tourist Attractions Places to Visit in Somnath
Have a look at the top 10 sightseeing places in Somnath.
1. Somnath Temple
The Somnath Temple is a famous pilgrimage site and a must-visit place in Somnath. It is believed to be one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in the country and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has a rich history and is a masterpiece of Indian architecture. In Somnath temple, you can also get the best view of SEA from the back side of the template. Also, there is some lighting show, which is mostly held by or after 8 PM. You can buy a ticket after 6 PM from the temple area.
Somnath Temple management also provides Live Darshan on a YouTube channel, You can visit and experience the live darshan of Dada Somnath.
To learn more about the Somnath Temple’s history, visit Somnath.org.
Here you can also book for an Online Prasad, Online Donations, do Online Pooja Vidhi, and more. Somnath Trust also provides the facility to stay. They have 3 guest houses to stay in during your Somnath visit; one is SAGAR DARSHAN GUEST HOUSE, which is the most VIP place to stay; another one is LILAVATI ATITHI BHAVAN and MAHESHWARI ATITHI BHAVAN. Which cost you around 750 to 1500 INR
2. Triveni Sangam
Triveni Sangam is the confluence of three holy rivers, the Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati. It is a sacred site and is believed to be the spot where Lord Krishna took his last bath before leaving for his heavenly abode.
3. Bhalka Tirth
Bhalka Tirth is a sacred place in Veraval where Lord Krishna is believed to have been struck by an arrow by a hunter named Jara. It is said to be the spot where Lord Krishna left his mortal body and entered into the spiritual realm. Bhalka Tirth is just 5-6 Km Away from the Somnath temple, where you can visit by having your own vehicle or taxi services are also available, which you can get from near Somnath temple.
How far is bhalka tirth from somnath Temple?
Bhalka Tirth is just 4-5 Km Away from the Somnath temple, where you can visit by having your own vehicle or taxi services are also available, which you can get from near Somnath temple.
4. Geeta Mandir
Geeta Mandir is a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and houses a life-size statue of him. The temple is decorated with beautiful murals and paintings depicting scenes from the Hindu Hindu epic Mahabharata.
5. Panch Pandav Gufa
Panch Pandav Cave is a cave complex that is believed to be the place where the five Pandavas, the heroes of the Mahabharata, stayed during their exile. The caves are situated on the outskirts of Somnath and offer a glimpse into ancient Indian history.
6. Junagadh Gate
Junagadh Gate is a historical monument that was built during the Mughal era. It is one of the oldest and most well-preserved gates in Somnath and is a testament to the city’s rich heritage.
7. Laxminarayan Temple
Laxminarayan Temple is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. The temple is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures and is a must-visit place for art lovers.
8. Somnath Beach
Somnath Beach is a picturesque beach located near the Somnath Temple. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike and offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea. At Somnath Beach, you can do camel riding and play in the sand with your children, along with a sea bath in the water. Evening time is the best time to visit Somnath Beach where you can have relax time with your friends and family. Also, it’s the best place to spend quality time for a couple. Entry ticket for the Somnath beach is 5 INR per person, Also, you can have a cycle ride on the bench of the SEA which you can rent from the entry area.
9. Prabhas Patan Museum
Prabhas Patan Museum is a museum that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Somnath. It houses a collection of sculptures, paintings, and artifacts that date back to the ancient and medieval periods of Indian history.
10. Kamnath Mahadev Temple
Kamnath Mahadev Temple is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be one of the oldest temples in Somnath. The temple is situated in a serene and peaceful location and is a must-visit place for those seeking spiritual solace.
Somnath Light & Sound Show – A Must-Have Experience when you are in Somnath
Catch the Dazzling Somnath Light & Sound Show
The Somnath Light and Sound Show is a big hit for anyone visiting Somnath. It’s a cool way to learn about the temple’s long history and culture. Every evening, for about an hour, this show lights up with stories in English, Hindi, and Gujarati.
Held outside near the temple, this show tells you all about Somnath’s past, from its early days to now. With fancy lights and laser effects, it feels like you’re stepping into the past.
You’ll hear tales about the temple’s legends, the tough times it went through, and how it stood tall again and again. It even touches on its part in India’s fight for freedom.
Don’t miss this show if you’re in Somnath. It’s a fun way to see the temple’s story come to life. Just check the timings and ticket prices before you go, as they can change.
How to Reach Somnath, Gujarat?
Somnath is located in the state of Gujarat in western India and can be easily reached by air, train, or road.
By Air
The nearest airport to Somnath is the Diu Airport, which is approximately 80 km away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to get to Somnath.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Somnath is Veraval Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. You can hire a taxi from the railway station or take a bus to get to Somnath.
By Road
Somnath is well connected to major cities in Gujarat and other parts of India via road. The city is approximately 420 km from Ahmedabad, 125 km from Rajkot, and 90 km from Junagadh. You can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Somnath from these cities.
Once you reach Somnath, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to explore the city and visit its various attractions.
Best Time To Visit Somnath
November through February, When the weather is lovely and cool, is the ideal time to visit Somnath. It is the perfect season for sightseeing and outdoor activities because the temperature during this period ranges from 10°C to 25°C.
The summer season, which lasts from March to June, may be very hot and muggy, with highs of up to 40°C. It is advised to avoid traveling during this time because it can be uncomfortable to visit Somnath.
Heavy rainfall is brought to the area during the monsoon season, which lasts from July through September. This might cause trip plans to fall through and make visiting the city’s attractions challenging. However, those who enjoy nature may find this season to be a pleasure to behold due to the rich vegetation and stunning surroundings.
The ideal time to visit Somnath is generally during the winter when the weather is beautiful and the city is crowded with visitors and pilgrims. It is a good idea to plan your vacation ahead of time and make airline and lodging reservations as necessary.
Best Places to Visit Nearby Somnath
1. Gir National Park
Gir National Park is located approximately 50 km from Somnath and is a popular wildlife sanctuary in India. The park is home to the Asiatic lion, which is a rare and endangered species.
2. Junagadh
Junagadh is a historical city located approximately 90 km from Somnath. It is known for its ancient forts, palaces, and temples and is a must-visit place for history buffs.
3. Porbandar
Porbandar is a coastal city located approximately 130 km from Somnath. It is the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi and is home to several historical monuments and temples.
4. Dwarka
Dwarka is a holy city located approximately 230 km from Somnath. It is known for the Dwarkadhish Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus.
5. Diu
Diu is a beautiful island located approximately 80 km from Somnath. It is known for its pristine beaches, colonial architecture, and beautiful churches.
6. Palitana
Palitana is a sacred city located approximately 260 km from Somnath. It is known for the Shatrunjaya Hill, which is a popular pilgrimage site for Jains.
7. Mahabat Maqbara
Mahabat Maqbara is a beautiful mausoleum located in Junagadh, approximately 90 km from Somnath. It is known for its unique blend of Indian and Gothic architecture.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the characteristics that combine to make the Somnath Temple magnificent and unique. Visiting the Somnath Temple is strongly advised if you believe in Lord Shiva and Hindu mythology.
Furthermore, we doubt that knowing these fascinating and unusual facts about the temple will cause you to put off packing for your trip to Gujarat to see the Somnath Temple for even a moment. Therefore, you may travel to Somnath Tour with Tusk Travel without worrying and pack your things to see Lord Shiva.
Frequently Asked Questions
How would I travel by train to Somnath?
Somnath can be easily reached by rail. About 7 miles separate Somnath from Veraval railway station. Several other cities like Jabalpur and Pune have regular train service from Veraval, and you have daily trains that are well connected to Ahmedabad.
What Are The Top Sightseeing Places In Somnath?
The top sightseeing places in Somnath are Somnath Temple, Somnath Beach, Paanch Pandav Gufa, Bhalka Tirth, Laxminarayan Temple, and Triveni Sangam Temple.
Can you give Somnath a suggested itinerary?
Arrive in Somnath by noon, eat lunch, and then rest. Starting at the Panch Pandava Gufa temple and concluding at the Somnath temple, you can leave your hotel at around 4:00 PM to start seeing all the neighboring temples. You can unwind on the beach and observe the sunset after visiting the shrine.
