Key Takeaways
- Somnath Temple has been rebuilt many times since 1026 AD. It stands as a testament to endurance and its rich past.
- It is located in Prabhas Patan, near Veraval, Gujarat. You can reach it by state buses or your own car.
- The closest places to get there are Veraval Railway Station, just 7 km away, and Keshod Airport, about 55 km away.
- The temple holds Morning Aarti at 7:00 AM, Noon Aarti at noon, and Evening Aarti at 7:00 PM.
- It’s open every day and draws millions every year, thanks to its stunning architecture and the peaceful feeling it offers.
The Somnath Temple is a powerful symbol of faith and stunning architecture. Located in Gujarat, India, along the western coast, it’s one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which means it’s significant for those who follow Shiva.
Every year, millions of people visit this temple, not just for its spiritual importance but also because it’s beautiful. The temple’s design is inspired by the Chalukya style, known for its detailed carvings and use of dark sandstone. Situated by the Arabian Sea, the temple’s setting is both beautiful and peaceful, offering a perfect place for visitors to find comfort and spiritual renewal in its ancient walls.
History of Somnath Temple
Somnath Temple has an impressive architectural style and a deep history filled with both good and bad times. It’s said that the Moon God first built it in gold, then Ravana remade it in silver, and later Krishna rebuilt it in wood.
The temple’s most notable period started in the 7th century when it was made of stone. Over the years, it was destroyed many times by different attackers. The most famous incident was when Mahmud of Ghazni tore it down in 1026 AD. Despite all this, it kept being rebuilt, showing the unbreakable spirit of faith.
The temple as we see it today was finished in 1951, thanks to Vallabhbhai Patel’s leadership. It’s a story of never giving up, no matter what happens. Each time it was knocked down, it was built back up, a potent symbol of resilience and belief.
How to Reach and Timings of Somnath Temple
Located in Prabhas Patan, Gujarat
Somnath Temple is in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Gujarat. It is easily accessible by road, and it is well connected to other big cities and towns in Gujarat. State buses and private cars frequently visit Somnath, making it easy for both pilgrims and tourists to visit.
If you prefer to travel on your own terms, you can also rent a car or grab a taxi. The temple area has plenty of parking, so there’s no need to worry about finding a spot. It’s open every day, so you can visit anytime from morning to evening to see its old architecture and feel its spiritual vibe.
Nearest railway station and airport
If you’re taking the train, Veraval is your stop. It’s about 7 kilometers from the Somnath Temple. This station links up well with many cities across India, thanks to its several major railway lines. Whether you hop on a local or an express train, you’ll find it straightforward to get here.
Flying in? Keshod Airport is the closest, around 55 kilometers away. Diu Airport is another option, about 80 kilometers from the temple. Both airports have good connections to big cities in India and are served by domestic airlines. Once you land, grabbing a taxi or catching a bus to the temple is accessible.
Timings for darshan and aarti
Visitors can join in the daily darshan and aarti at Somnath Temple at set times during the day. The temple opens early for devotees and holds multiple aarti sessions to handle the number of people coming in.
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Temple Opening Time | 6:00 AM |
| Morning Aarti | 7:00 AM |
| Afternoon Aarti | 12:00 PM |
| Evening Aarti | 7:00 PM |
| Temple Closing Time | 9:00 PM |
| Darshan Timings | 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Special Aarti | 8:00 PM |
| Light and Sound Show | 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM |
Here’s when you can attend:
- Morning Aarti: Starts at 7:00 AM. It’s peaceful and a great start to the day.
- Noon Aarti: At 12:00 PM, perfect if you want to visit around lunch.
- Evening Aarti: Begins at 7:00 PM. The temple looks stunning at night with all the lights.
These times make it easy to plan your visit, so you don’t miss out on these beautiful ceremonies.
Conclusion
In summary, Somnath Temple tells a powerful story of recovery and faith through its history. Every time it was rebuilt, it showed the strong spirit of the people who cared for it. When you visit, you get a real sense of India’s deep cultural roots, especially during the daily aartis, when you feel the devotion of many pilgrims. It’s also easy to get to, making it an essential place for spiritual visits.
Deepak Sharma is a passionate writer and avid traveler who specializes in uncovering the beauty and history of India’s attractions and temples. A graduate of Delhi University, Deepak has a deep-rooted love for his country and its rich cultural heritage.