Located on the western coast of Gujarat, India, the Somnath Temple stands as a symbol of unwavering faith and timeless beauty. This temple is not only a spiritual destination but also a testament to India’s rich history and cultural heritage. Revered as the first of the twelve jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, Somnath has been a center of devotion for centuries. Despite numerous invasions and destruction over time, the temple has always risen again—stronger and more majestic than before.
| Location | Prabhas Patan, near Veraval in Gujarat, India, by the Arabian Sea. |
| Deity | Lord Shiva (Somnath – “Lord of the Moon”) |
| Significance | First of the 12 Jyotirlingas; sacred in Shaivism |
| Mythological Origin | Built by Moon God Chandra to thank Shiva for lifting a curse |
| Destruction & Rebuilding | Repeatedly destroyed by invaders (e.g., Mahmud of Ghazni, Aurangzeb) and rebuilt by devotees |
| Current Structure | Reconstructed in 1951 under Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in Chalukya style |
| Architectural Highlights | Tall spire (~50m), intricately carved pillars, Baan Stambh (Arrow Pillar) |
| Spiritual Importance | Major pilgrimage site; especially vibrant during Mahashivratri |
| Economic Role | Drives local tourism and employment; managed by the Somnath Trust |
| Historical Role | Symbol of cultural resilience and post-independence unity |
| Nearby Attractions | Prabhas Patan Museum, Bhalka Tirtha, Triveni Sangam |
| How to Reach | By air (via Diu), train (Veraval), or road (from Rajkot/Ahmedabad) |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March; festivals like Mahashivratri are ideal |
Mythological Origins
The origin of the Somnath Temple is steeped in mythology and legend. According to Hindu scriptures, the temple was originally built by Chandra Deva, the Moon God. Legend says that Chandra was cursed by his father-in-law, Daksha, which caused him to lose his brightness. Desperate to regain his glow, Chandra prayed to Lord Shiva at this very spot. Moved by his devotion, Lord Shiva partially lifted the curse, and Chandra regained his luminance. In gratitude, Chandra built the first temple of Somnath in gold. Over time, it is believed the temple was rebuilt by Ravana in silver, Lord Krishna in wood, and Bhima (from Mahabharata) in stone.
The name “Somnath” translates to “Lord of the Moon,” highlighting its connection with Chandra and Shiva, who is often associated with the moon in Hindu symbolism.
A Witness to Time and Turmoil
Somnath is not just a place of worship—it is a survivor of history’s harshest trials. The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times—most notably by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1025 AD, who looted its treasures and demolished the structure. Following this, the temple was attacked by other invaders like Alauddin Khilji’s generals, the Portuguese, and later by Aurangzeb.
Each time it was destroyed, the people of the region, driven by unshakeable faith, rebuilt the temple. This cycle of destruction and restoration is a reflection of the temple’s spiritual resilience and the unwavering devotion of its followers. The current structure, built in 1951, was spearheaded by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India. It was a crucial step in reclaiming India’s cultural identity after centuries of foreign rule.
Architectural Grandeur
The present-day Somnath Temple is an architectural marvel. Built in the Chalukya style, the temple exhibits intricate carvings, majestic pillars, and a towering shikhara (spire) that reaches about 50 meters high. The temple’s main sanctum houses the jyotirlinga, a symbol of Lord Shiva’s infinite form.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the temple is the “Arrow Pillar” or Baan Stambh. This pillar has an inscription stating that there is no land between Somnath and the South Pole, emphasizing its geographic and spiritual significance. The temple stands proudly by the Arabian Sea, its walls often kissed by the waves, creating an atmosphere of serene beauty and divine presence.
Spiritual Significance
As the first jyotirlinga, Somnath holds immense significance in Shaivism. The jyotirlingas are believed to be self-manifested symbols of Shiva’s presence across India. Pilgrims from all over the country visit Somnath seeking blessings, spiritual growth, and inner peace.
Every year, thousands of devotees gather for Mahashivratri, the night dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple comes alive with rituals, chants, and celebrations, creating an electrifying yet peaceful ambiance. The spiritual energy of the place is said to be so strong that even a few moments spent in silent meditation can leave a lasting impact.
Cultural and Economic Impact
Somnath is more than a religious site; it’s a cultural and economic cornerstone for the region. The temple has contributed significantly to local tourism, providing employment and boosting related industries like hospitality, transport, and handicrafts.
The Somnath Trust, established to manage the temple, has played a key role in infrastructure development, maintenance of the temple complex, and social welfare activities. It has also made efforts to promote heritage tourism by developing nearby historical and religious sites, such as the Prabhas Patan Museum and Bhalka Tirtha, where Lord Krishna is believed to have left his earthly body.
A Symbol of Unity and National Pride
After India’s independence, the reconstruction of Somnath Temple became a national mission. Sardar Patel and K. M. Munshi, another stalwart of Indian politics and culture, took a strong stand for its restoration. It was not just about rebuilding a temple but about reclaiming a part of India’s soul that had endured centuries of suppression.
When the temple was inaugurated in 1951, it was not with pomp and show but with quiet dignity—signifying that spiritual strength doesn’t need loud proclamations. The restored temple became a symbol of India’s resurgence, unity, and cultural pride.
How to Reach Somnath
Somnath is well-connected by rail, road, and air:
By Air: The nearest airport is Diu (around 80 km away). You can take a taxi or bus from there.
By Train: Veraval Railway Station is just 7 km from Somnath and connects to major Indian cities.
By Road: Buses and taxis are available from nearby cities like Rajkot, Ahmedabad, and Junagadh.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Somnath is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant. Festivals like Mahashivratri and Kartik Purnima are especially vibrant times to witness the temple’s grandeur.
