History and Significance of Somnath Jyotirlinga

The Somnath Mandir is the first among the 12 Jyotirlingas. It is located at Prabhas Patan on the Arabian Sea coast in Somnath, Gujarat. In Hinduism, Somnath Mandir holds deep religious significance, especially for the devotees of Lord Shiva. 

According to Hindu tradition, the Somnath Jyotirlinga is associated with Chandra, the Moon God, who worshipped Shiva at Prabhas after being cursed by Daksha. Pleased with his devotion, Shiva relieved Chandra from the curse, giving the shrine its name, Somnath, or “Lord of the Moon.”

The history of this Gujarat Jyotirlinga is significant and interesting: 

1. It has been destroyed and rebuilt many times. In 1024 CE, Mahmud of Ghazni raided the temple. Then, in 1297 CE, the temple suffered another massive destruction. 
2. In 1669 CE, under Aurangzeb, Somnath Mandir faced further damage. Then, in 1782, Maharani Ahilyabai Holkar built a temple nearby, helping preserve worship at the sacred site.
3. The modern reconstruction began after Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel visited Somnath in 1947 and supported rebuilding the mandir. 
4. The foundation stone was laid in 1950, while the Pran-Pratishtha of the present temple was performed on May 11, 1951. It was Dr Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President, who did this.

This beautiful mandir is built in the traditional Kailas Mahameru Prasad style and represents both the enduring spiritual importance of the Somnath Jyotirlinga and the centuries-old tradition of rebuilding this sacred shrine.

Everything You Need to Know About Somnath Mandir Darshan

Somnath Temple opens daily in the morning at 6 AM and closes at 10 PM. The timings remain the same unless stated otherwise for any special occasion on the mandir’s website. The darshan remains continuous throughout the day, except during aartis or any other special puja. 

General entry to the temple is free of cost, and there are paid/VIP Darshan options available separately. VIP darshan costs roughly ₹50–₹250. If you are looking for a more convenient experience, you can opt for it. VIP pricing can vary, so check the official portal or temple counter before booking.

Pro tip: On somnath.org, you can do live darshan of Lord Shiva. All you need to do is visit the website and click on the live darshan tab.

Everything to Know About Somnath Temple Aartis

Shree Somnath Mandir has 3 official aartis. The official Somnath Temple timings for all three aartis are listed below:

Pro tip: If you want a quieter experience, arriving early in the morning is a good idea, as this is the least crowded time of the day.

Everything You Need to Know About ‘Jay Somnath’: The Sound and Light Show

‘Jay Somnath’ at the Somnath Jyotirlinga is not to be missed. Somnath temple sound and light show is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that brings you closer to the shrine and Lord Shiva. 

In this mesmerising show, you will learn all about Somnath’s history, along with calming ocean waves.

The timing of this show is from 7:45 to 8:45 in the evening. The cost of one ticket to attend this show is ₹30–₹50. The cost of a ticket, however, may vary.

Please note: On days of heavy rain, the light and sound show may not take place. 

Additional Poojas You Can Book at Somnath Jyotirlinga

Other than normal darshan or attending aarti, there are other pooja vidhis you can do in Somnath mandir. You can simply head to somnath.org and go to the pooja vidhi tab to book yours. Know that these services are available within regular Somnath temple timings.

Below is the comprehensive list of such poojas, along with charges and the timeline required to book these:

Pro tip: Do not transfer money to private WhatsApp numbers, UPI IDs, or agents claiming to represent the Trust. The official website explicitly warns pilgrims to use only authorised booking channels.

Temple Rules You Should Know: Photography, Phones & Cloakroom

An honest suggestion for all Somnath Gujarat devotees is to travel light because temple security restrictions are there. Below are some of them:

1. Photography is not permitted inside the temple. You can take photos of the temple from the outside.
2. You need to deposit mobile phones and electronic devices as required by temple security.
3. Always use the designated cloakroom/deposit facility.
4. Carry only essential belongings with you, such as darshan or pooja confirmation.
5. Make sure to properly follow security instructions, especially during festivals and crowded periods.

What is the Dress Code & Darshan Etiquette of Shree Somnath Mandir?

See, there is no need for you to overcomplicate your clothing. Wear what you would usually wear while visiting a Hindu temple. The clothes should be modest and comfortable.

• Men: Kurta pyjama, dhoti, shirt, pants. Avoid shorts.
• Women: Suits, sarees, full skirt with kurti, jeans with kurti. Avoid sleeveless and revealing clothes.

Good Somnath etiquette includes:

1. Maintain silence or speak softly near the sanctum.
2. Do not cut the queue.
3. Do not attempt photography where prohibited.
4. Follow instructions from temple staff.
5. Avoid carrying unnecessary valuables.
6. During festivals like Shivratri, keep extra time on hand as the temple can be crowded.

Famous Tourist Places Near Somnath Temple

A visit to Somnath can be a lone experience, or it can be combined with several nearby religious, historical, and natural attractions. These are also among the popular places to visit in Somnath and the surrounding region. If you are planning one of the Somnath tour packages, these nearby attractions can be included in your itinerary for a more complete experience. 

Here’s the list:

1. Bhalka Tirth: 

Bhalka Tirth is around 4 km away; this sacred site is associated with the legend of Lord Krishna being struck by an arrow.

2. Triveni Sangam: 

As the name suggests, this is where the Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati rivers meet. It is an important pilgrimage spot and is located near the temple. Triveni Sangam is also a peaceful place to include in your Somnath itinerary. 

3. Prabhas Patan Museum: 

This museum has sculptures, architectural remains, and artefacts. The Prabhas Patan Museum offers a glimpse into the rich historical heritage of the Somnath region. 

4. Somnath Beach: 

Situated beside the temple, it is great for a peaceful walk and views of the Arabian Sea. Somnath Beach is a relaxing stop to add to your Somnath sightseeing itinerary. 

5. Gita Mandir: 

A serene temple dedicated to the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita.

6. Dehotsarg Tirth: 

An important pilgrimage site associated with Lord Krishna’s final journey.

7. Gir National Park: 

Located around 60–70 km away, it is famous for Asiatic lions and wildlife safaris. Gir National Park is a popular addition to a Somnath itinerary for travellers interested in wildlife and nature. 

8. Diu: 

Located roughly 80–90 km away, Diu offers beaches, forts, and Portuguese-influenced architecture, making it a good addition to a longer Somnath Gujarat trip.