Somnath Temple
The first among the twelve Jyotirlingas, standing resilient at the edge of the Arabian Sea — the Eternal Shrine that has risen from its ashes time and again.
Best Time
October to March
Timings
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Nearest Airport
Diu Airport (63 km)
Languages
Gujarati, Hindi
The Eternal Shrine
Somnath Temple, meaning "Lord of the Moon," is revered as the first among the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Legend holds that the moon god Soma built the original temple in gold after being cured of a curse by Lord Shiva here.
The temple's history is one of remarkable resilience. It was destroyed and rebuilt at least seven times — most famously by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1026 CE. After each destruction, it rose again, symbolising the eternal nature of dharma.
The present temple was reconstructed in 1951 under the guidance of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and K.M. Munshi. Built in the Chalukya style of architecture, it stands majestically on the western coast, where the Arabian Sea meets the shore.
Temple Complex Highlights
Explore the sacred spaces and historic sites around Somnath.
Somnath Jyotirlinga
1-2 hoursThe main sanctum houses the first of the twelve Jyotirlingas, believed to be the most sacred Shiva lingam. The temple has been rebuilt multiple times after invasions, symbolising the eternal nature of dharma.
Light & Sound Show
1 hourAn evening spectacle narrating the temple's glorious history of destruction and reconstruction, set against the backdrop of the illuminated temple and Arabian Sea.
Triveni Sangam
30 minsThe sacred confluence of three rivers - Kapila, Hiran, and Saraswati - at Somnath, where pilgrims take holy dips before temple darshan.
Bhalka Tirth
1 hourThe sacred site 5 km from Somnath where Lord Krishna was struck by an arrow and left his mortal body. Features a beautiful temple and the ancient Peepal tree.
Spiritual Experiences
Morning Aarti
Begin your day with the powerful morning aarti as the first rays of sun illuminate the sanctum
Evening Light Show
Witness the spectacular sound and light show narrating the temple's 1000-year saga
Sunset by the Sea
Watch the sun set over the Arabian Sea from the temple's western shore
Prasad & Bhog
Receive the blessed prasad prepared in the temple's ancient kitchen
Temple Visit Checklist
Essential items for visiting Somnath Temple.
How to Reach Somnath
By Air
Diu Airport (63 km) and Rajkot Airport (160 km) are the nearest airports. Taxis are available from both airports to Somnath.
Diu to temple: 1.5 hours
By Train
Veraval Junction (7 km) is the nearest railhead, connected to major cities. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available.
Station to temple: 15 mins
By Road
Well connected by road to Ahmedabad (400 km), Rajkot (160 km), and Junagadh (80 km). Gujarat State buses operate regular services.
From Ahmedabad: 7 hours