Shree Somnath Jyotirling Temple: Timings, History & How to Reach

Shree Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple is one of the 12 jyotirlinga; Somnath temple is the main attraction of Gujarat. The history of the Somnath temple is rich, and destroyed or reconstructed multiple times in earlier times. Lord Shiva dedicated the temple, making it one of the popular pilgrimage sites in India.

The temple is the first Jyotirlinga among 12 Jyotirlinga shrines. The Somnath temple in Gujarat is an eye-catching site for visitors and devotees annually. Somnath temple timings are mentioned on the internet, which we will also discuss in this blog.

In this temple, pandits perform puja and rituals to honour the Lord Shiva regularly. Online booking for darshan and puja are easily accessible. The Somnath Jyotirlinga temple observes dress modestly.

Somnath Temple Timings

Shree Somnath Jyotirlinga temple opens daily at 6:00 AM. The first Mangala aarti starts at 7:00 AM. The darshan timing for the temple begins at 6:00 am and lasts till 9:30 pm.

The average time of darshan is 30 min to 1 hour. Depending on the rush, waiting time might increase hence, please visit the temple on weekdays. On weekdays, the crowd is less, and darshan can be done easily.

Darshan Timings:

• Temple Opening: 6:00 AM
• Darshan Timings: 6:00 AM – 9:30 PM
• Temple Closing: 10:00 PM

Aarti Timings:

• Morning Aarti: 7:00 AM
• Afternoon Aarti : 12:00 PM
• Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM

The light and sound show at the temple begins at 8:00 pm and finishes at 9:00 pm. The showtime is performed daily in the temple. The time might vary depending on occasion thus, please check the updated time for darshan and show it on their official website.

Significance of Somnath Temple Gujarat

In Hinduism, there are twelve temples dedicated to Shiva called Jyotirlingas. The Someshwar Mahadev Temple is one of these Jyotirlingas. Known more popularly as Somnath Temple, it is one of India’s oldest and most revered pilgrimage sites.

The Somnath Temple is located in Gujarat’s Prabhas Kshetra, close to Veraval. This temple contributes to India’s cultural legacy and is mentioned in the revered Hindu text known as the “Rig Veda.”

“The protector of the Moon” is what the name “Somnath” means.

For those who practice Hinduism, it is a highly sacred location. One of the most revered gods in Hinduism, Lord Shiva, is the object of this ancient temple. The “Jyotirlinga,” a stone at the temple, is a representation of Lord Shiva. People think that this stone has divine light.

In Hindu mythology, the temple is associated with Lord Shiva, who is said to have manifested here in three distinct guises: Mahesh, Vishnu, and Brahma. This temple, which is teeming with spiritual energy and tales, is where people flock to worship these sacred manifestations of Lord Shiva.

This temple is a representation of India’s rich history and culture in addition to being a site of worship. Despite numerous obstacles, such as destruction in the past, it has consistently been rebuilt, demonstrating India’s powerful spiritual force.

This Shiva temple attracts visitors from all around the world who come to pray, relax, discover inner peace, and take in the stunning architecture.

Somnath Temple History

The history of the Shree Somnath Jyotirlinga temple is mesmerizing as this is motivating. Recognizing Somnath Jyotirlinga temple comes as a testament to the unshakable devotion and resilience of the devotees for centuries. This is not just an infrastructure of appeasing; this is an echoing story of faith, rebirth, and destruction.

According to legend, the moon deity initially constructed this temple in gold, Ravana in silver, and Lord Krishna in wood. Bhimdeva completed the final reconstruction in stone.

According to the chronicles, the temple was repeatedly destroyed by invaders yet continued to rise, demonstrating the enduring significance of Lord Shiva, its presiding god.

I’ve discovered that the Somnath Jyotirlinga remained a magnet for pilgrims, not standing these restorations. The temple suffered severe destruction during invasions in the eleventh century.

Like the stories of its divine patron, it remained strong despite this. The most recent reconstruction operations in 1951 produced the current structure, guaranteeing that the spiritual drama will be witnessed by future generations.

The Somnath Temple has endured as a symbol of spirituality and optimism despite its turbulent past. It is a living example of India’s cultural legacy and a symbol of faith triumphing over hardship.

Story Behind Somnath Jyotirlinga

Earlier, there was a story of Chandra, the moon god, who had several wives. He loved one of them named Rohini, compared to others, which upset her father, Prajapati. He wanted the god Chandra to love all his daughters equally, but he did not listen. This makes Prajapati angry and curses Chandra, and due to this Chandra loses its brightness.

When the moonlight was gone, the world became quite dark. The other lords asked Prajapati to take back the curse, but he said that Chandra had to seek blessings from Lord Shiva. This is why people call Lord Shiva Somnath, the lord of the moon.

This is considered that Chandra also took a dip into the Saraswati river to get back his glory, and this is why the moon waxes and wanes, and it impacts the tides here by the seashore.

Best Time to Visit Somnath Temple Gujarat

Winter, from October to March, is the ideal season to visit Somnath Temple. The mild, pleasant weather at this time of year is perfect for touring the stunning seaside town of Somnath and visiting temples.

The weather is suitable for outdoor pursuits. Thus, you may take in the temple and its environs without having to deal with the discomfort of the intense summer heat.

Seeing the breathtaking sunrise or sunset by the Arabian Sea when you visit in the early morning or late evening enhances both the spiritual and aesthetic value of your trip. The temple is open all year round, so you may arrange your visit to suit your schedule and tastes, though winter is the best season to come.

Remember during festivals, and religious occasions there might be crowds in the temple, thus if you consider a quieter experience, plan your trip accordingly.

How to Reach Somnath Temple

The Somnath temple is situated in Veraval, Saurashtra region of Gujarat. The temple is well-linked by road, air, and train.

By Road:

• Ahmedabad: The temple is 400km away from Ahmedabad.
• Dwarka: The temple is 230 km away from Dwarka.
• Rajkot: The temple is 214 km away from Rajkot.
• Porbandar: The temple is 130 Km away from Porbandar.

You can arrange local transportation to the temple by bus and taxis from the national highway.

By Train:

• The distance from Veraval Railway Station to the Somnath temple is about 7 Km as this is the nearest railway station to the temple. The Trains are public from Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Dwarka to Veraval.
• The main railway station is 0.7 km from the Somnath Railway Station.

From Ahmedabad to Verval Somnath express train is accessible.

By Air:

• The closest airport to Somnath temple is DIU airport which is approximately 85 km away.
• To reach the temple, Rajkot and Ahmedabad Airports are also available.

Places to Visit Near Somnath Temple

Near Somnath Jyotirlinga temple, there are few places to visit that give a blend of spiritual sanctity, historical richness, and natural beauty. As we have discussed the temple history, timing to seek darshan, and how we can reach Somnath temple; now we will list the nearest place, one of the top 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, to improve your visit with cultural and spiritual experiences.

Bhalka Tirtha

About 5 km from the Somnath Jyotirlinga temple, Bhalka Teerth marks the place where people believe a hunter badly injured Lord Krishna. Here, the Mahaprabhuji’s Bethak temple and a historic peepal tree witness a critical moment in Hindu mythology. A small, and sacred pond at the place gives a chance for devotees to pay tribute.

Somnath Beach

The most attractive place which is a stone’s throw from the temple gives breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea with beautiful sightseeing.

Perfect for relaxation, the beach offers multiple activities like camel rides and local shopping. However, people suggest avoiding swimming due to strong currents.

Triveni Sangam

The confluence of the Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati rivers around Somnath is a religiously important place for Hindus. The Gita mandir and Lakshminarayan temple nearby enhance the location with religious and architectural sensation.

Paanch Pandav Gufa

Baba Narayandas founded the cave temple in 1949, and people believe the Pandavas used it as a shelter during their expulsion. Pennants like Lord Shiva and Ram, give scenic city and sea views, making it the most visited place for both spirituality and scenery.

Dehotsarg Tirtha

Near to the Somnath temple, the place celebrates Lord Krishna’s journey to divine rule. The existence of his footprint and the Baldev Gufa count the layer of historical and religious experience.

Every place around the Somnath temple not only has a spiritual journey but also links the visitors to the rich cultural importance of Somnath. Your journey to these places would be a blender of joy, abundance, and natural beauty, enriching an unforgettable experience.

Other places apart from these to visit in Somnath are:

1. Geeta Mandir
2. Mahaprabhuji Baithak
3. Shri Ram Mandir
4. Ahilyabai Temple
5. Rudreshwar
6. Avadhuteshwar Temple
7. Veneshwar
8. Prachi Tirth
9. Gauri Kund
10. Bhadrakali Rock Inscription
11. Daityasudan Temple
12. Shav No Timbo
13. Somnath Museum
14. Matri Vav
15. Sun Temple
16. Old Jain Temple
17. Jain Temples
18. Old Caves
19. Haveli Sheri
20. Veraval Gate

Essential Guide for Visitors

• Dress Code: Follow Clothing Modestly.
• Footwear: The temple does not allow slippers and shoes.
• Photography: Photography is prohibited.
• Mobile: People do not restrict mobile phones and other electronic assets like smartwatches.
• Early morning Darshan: Early morning darshan doesn’t have a massive crowd as compared to evening darshan.
• Security Checkups: The security checkups are performed at the temple gate.
• Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: The temple restricts smoking and alcohol.
• Parking: The parking facility is open.
• Offerings: Presenting items are available on temple premises.

Conclusion

Scheduling your trip to Somnath Jyotirlinga temple becomes easier with the knowledge of short routes and nearby transport hubs. With Veraval railway station just a stone’s throw away and Diu Airport within a comfortable distance, you’re all going for a hassle-free trip. Remember, a smooth trip to the sacred place allows the visitor a deeper, more serene exploration of the religious aura that covers it.

Whether you are coming from a crowded city or a calm town, the way leading to Somnath temple ensures that your pilgrimage is as elevated as the divine consideration awaiting you at this ancient refuge. Safe travel and may your visit to Somnath temple be exciting as this is unforgettable.