Somnath Tour Packages

Located in Gujarat, India, Somnath is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and holds extreme importance in Hindu mythology making it a key part of Somnath Tourism. It is also one of the most visited pilgrimage sites of India, which is indicative of resilience, spiritual heritage and cultural pride. Over the past few years, Somnath has become more like a tourist destination because of its ancient history of repeated destruction and reconstruction. The best way to plan a trip to Somnath is by booking a Somnath temple travel package from Thomas Cook.

Meaning “Lord of Soma”, Somnath is becoming one of the most revered sites of India. The devotees who visit these jyotirlingas are known to receive immense awards and divine peace. The architecture of the temple is designed and thought in such a way that it reflects the Gurjara style and is a testament to the rich and glorious past of the city. Triveni Sangam, located in Somnath, is also highly famous because it marks the holy confluence of three of the sacred rivers of India - Kapila, Hiran and Sarawati.

Somnath tour and Somnath temple trips are gaining lots of importance over the past few years because it combines divine blessings, preserving India’s ancient heritage.

Why Choose Somnath for Your Spiritual Journey?

Somnath has been awarded as the first jyotirlinga amongst the 12 jyotirlingas of India. Spiritual faith and living legacy are the two most important factors that make this place the most chosen spiritual destination. Given below are some of the reasons why you should choose Somnath tour for your spiritual journey:

First jyotirlinga:

Somnath is said to be highly potent and divine for spiritual advancement and is therefore ranked as the first jyotirlinga amongst the 12 jyotirlingas. The Somnath temple travel package includes Somnath temple visit and transfers.

Moksha and cleansing:

A visit to Somanth temple makes sure that the devotees are liberated from the cycle of rebirth and is an ideal place to purify your sins.

Connection to Lord Shiva:

The Somnath temple is believed to hold immense divine powers and is a focal point for the prayers of Lord Shiva.

Triveni Sangam:

The profound significance of this place is further added because of the sacred confluence of three important holy rivers - Kapila, Hiran and Saraswati.

Enduring faith:

It is said that the Somnath temple has been destroyed and reconstructed several times. The repeated building of this temple despite so many destructions prove unwavering spirit and faith of Hindu for this divine temple.

Divine energy:

A visit to the Somnath temple offers an altogether different, tranquil experience because it has a combination of spiritual aura and serene atmosphere.

Symbol of resilience:

The Somnath temple is a symbol of faith and perseverance and provides inner peace and contentment.

Planning Your Somnath Trip: Essential Information

The Somnath temple trip should be planned carefully, keeping in mind the rules and regulations of the temple darshan, the most suitable time to visit this place, and the best means to reach the place. It is advised that you plan your Somnath tour package during the months of October to March. It is always preferred and advised that you book your Somnath temple trip in advance because of the heavy rush for the temple darshan. Dressing traditionally and modestly is another important tip for planning your Somnath temple tour. Given below is the detailed guide that will help you select the best Somnath holiday package and plan your Somnath trip with ease:

Best Time to Visit Somnath

The best time to visit Somnath is usually from October to March because the weather during these months is pleasant, which makes it easier to do temple darshan and even enjoy the local sightseeing spots.

October to March:

• This is the peak season for visiting Somnath, and many people select their Somnath tour packages during these months.
• Also, a highly recommended option when planning to explore the Somnath pilgrimage.
• The weather is cold but pleasant and is most suited for darshan and temple visits.
• The streets and temples are decorated during the festive months, such as Diwali.
• The drawback in planning your Somnath trip during these months is that the hotel rates are costlier because of the crowd, and darshan timings may fluctuate between 2 and 3 hours.
• Temperature during these months usually ranges between 12 degrees to 28 degree celsius.

April to June:

• These are the moderately crowded months because it marks the onset of rainfall, but booking a Somnath temple travel package can help you plan your itinerary carefully.
• There are thunderstorms with high chances of cyclones, making it difficult to tour around the city and conveniently do temple darshan.
• Humidity levels are extremely high, thus causing discomfort during travel.
• The stays and hotel accommodations are, however, budgeted.
• The temperature during these months is between 22 degrees and 30 degrees.

July to September:

• These are the off-season months when there is hardly any crowd for temple darshan.
• These are the hottest months of the year with very high temperatures.
• Hotels, stays, and resorts are all available at discounted prices.

How to Reach Somnath?

There are multiple options to reach Somnath, such as by bus, train, flight or personal car or taxi, and you can search for these options by booking a Somnath temple travel package. Distance between your state and Somnath is not just about covering the kilometres, it is a feeling and a journey filled with faith, devotion and peace. Plan your Somnath Temple package by giving a quick read to the points:

• You can reach Somnath by train very comfortably. It is also the most budget-friendly way to reach Somnath. Most of the Somnath holiday packages also suggest reaching Somnath by train.
• The nearest railway station is Veraval railway station, which is only 5 km from the main Somnath temple.
• The fastest train is the Veraval Express and can be booked by selecting the best Somnath travel package and customising your Somnath tour plan according to your departure dates.
• The fastest way to reach Somnath is by flight, and you can book your flights by booking Somnath tour packages.
• The nearest airport is Diu Airport, which is 85 km from Somnath.
• If you ask any travel agency, like Thomas Cook, to book flights for you and include flight tickets in your Somnath temple travel package, they will conveniently do it for you.
• Flight travel saves time, is hassle-free and best for families and elderly people.

Weather & Travel Tips

If you are thinking to plan a Somnath temple travel package, the best time to do so is during winters, that is from October to March. The weather during these months is pleasant. It is best to avoid hot months (April to June) and also humid months (July to September). It is recommended that you dress in modest clothing; no mini skirts, shorts or cut sleeves are allowed in the temple area. Be prepared for the heavy rush during festivals like Maha Shivaratri or Diwali. Photography is totally prohibited inside the temple.

Weather tips:

• Months from October to March are cooler and have pleasant weather. These months are ideal for temple darshan and local sightseeing.
• Avoid planning your Somnath temple trip in the summers or rainy seasons, as the weather is very hot with scorching heat and humidity levels are very high.

Travel tips:

• Dress code: Modest traditional clothing is compulsory. Mini skirts, shorts or cut sleeves are not allowed. Wear comfortable footwear that can be easily removed. These tips are mentioned in the Somnath temple travel package.
• Footwear: Slip-on shoes are recommended so that they can be easily removed and worn.
• Photography: Use of mobile phones, cameras and video devices is strictly prohibited inside the temple.
• Festivals: Somnath temple is beautifully decorated, and grand feasts are organised during Maha Shivratri. If you plan to visit during this time, expect huge crowds.
• Accessibility: Wheelchairs are available for senior citizens, disabled and pregnant women. There are options for golf carts that are available from the main gate to the entry of the temple.
• Facilities of a cloak room and shoe racks are free of cost for everyone to avail.
• Smoking is not allowed in the vicinity of the temple.
• Local Travel, Temple Timings & Darshan Guidelines
• For a smoother and more comfortable Darshan, plan your temple visit during the early morning hours, dress modestly ( salwar kameez, dhoti kurta, saree or suits), try to book your VIP darshan tickets in advance through online modes and follow the general guidelines of the temple.

General darshan guidelines for Somnath temple trip:

• Try to dress up in traditional attire by following the dress code - salwar kameez, sarees or suits for ladies and kurta pyjama or kurta dhoti for gents. Avoid carrying leather items and electronics inside the main temple.
• Try to reach 30 minutes before the temple opening. Evenings are usually crowded because of aarti and bhog.
• Do not break the queues and diligently follow the directions and rules as stated by the priests and temple management.
• Carry small change with you so that you can offer it inside the temple, and if you are interested in the special puja, go to the designated counters.
• Keep your valuables safe in the locker services provided just next to the entry gate, and refrain from carrying any kind of electronics inside the temple.

Temple timings:

The Somnath temple, located in Gujarat, opens up at 6:00 AM in the morning. Morning aarti timings are from 7:00 AM. Darsham timings for the morning slot are from 6:00 AM to 12 PM. The temple is closed from 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM. Evening darshan starts at 4:00 PM and closes at 9:00 PM.

Local travel:

• You can reach the Somnath temple through DTC buses or private cars and taxis.
• If you wish to explore Gujarat other than visiting Somnath, you can plan your Somnath holiday package in such a way that it covers Bhalka Tirth and Triveni Sangam.
• There are a few other local temples, such as Surya Mandir, Bidbhanjan Mahadev, and Panch Pandav Guha.
• For relaxation from temple visits, you can go to Somnath beach.

Curated Somnath Tour Packages by Thomas Cook

Somnath tour packages provided by Thomas Cook usually combine Somnath with Dwarka and Gir; this can be modified and customised according to the number of days you want to travel. They have a section called “spiritual journeys” or “explore Gujarat,” wherein you can find Somnath temple tour packages, and you can customise it according to your preferences. The basic Somnath tour package starts at INR 24,000, and it includes accommodations, meals, transfer and local guided tours to nearby excursions.

Some of the curated Thomas Cook Somnath temple travel package includes:

• Jyotirlinga tours
• Gujarat circuit tours
• Customised spiritual holiday tours
• Group Jyotirlinga Tours.

Overview of Somnath Tour & Travel Packages

The Somnath tour and travel package included everything from transfers to accommodation to guided tours and meals of your choice. Given below are the inclusions and exclusions in Somnath tour and travel packages:

Inclusions:

• Tickets for transfer - either by train or flight.
• Hotel stays or resort accommodation, generally 3-star but can be personalised according to the budget.
• Complimentary breakfast with the hotel stay. Sometimes lunch and dinner are also included in Somnath packages.
• Transfers and sightseeing options.
• First aid and guides.
• Facilities for VIP darshan with optional VIP access tickets.

Exclusions:

• Entry ticket to any museum or activity.
• Health insurance, if any.

Guide Tips

Somnath Temple Tour Package & Yatra Options

Given below are some of the sample Somnath temple tour packages and yatra options:

• Sample Somnath Holiday Package Details
• Dwarka Somnath Darshan Yatra: This is a group departure tour which starts at INR 15,000 for one person.
• Gujarat - Dwarka Somnath with Sasangir: this is approximately a 6-7-day tour which starts at INR 32,000 per person and can be customised according to your budget.
• Basic Somnath/Dwarka Packages - this is the most basic Somnath packages which starts at INR 25,000 and covers only spiritual sites.

Top Attractions & Spiritual Experiences in Somnath

Some of the top attractions and spiritual experiences that you should add to your Somnath travel packages are:

• Visit Triveni Sangam, which marks the confluence of three holy rivers.
• Visit to Panch Pandav Guha.
• Bhalka Tirth is another historic and spiritual place around Somnath.
• Other famous attractions are the Prabhas Patan museum and Somnath beaches.

Things to Do in Somnath Beyond Temple Visits

Beyond just visiting the Somnath for temple darshan, if you are a history lover, explore Gujarat’s rich history by visiting Prabhas Patan Museum. Further, you can plan a visit to Bhalka Tirth and see the beauty of Triveni Sangam and include these attractions in your Somnath travel package.

You can plan a relaxation day at Somnath’s beaches, such as Chorwad beach, Veraval beach and Triveni ghat. You can even plan a day trip to Gir National Park or Diu Island, which is approximately 50-80 km away from Somnath.

Essential Tips for a Smooth Somnath Trip

Some of the essential tips you need to know before booking your Somnath temple tour are:

• The best time to visit is from October to March.
• Dress traditionally and modestly.
• 1-2 days are sufficient for temple darshan and nearby exploration.
• Book hotels and transfers 1 month in advance, especially during the holiday season.
• No phone, leather items or electronics should be carried.
• Digital payment might be limited, so carry some cash to pay at local shops.

Why Book Your Somnath Tour Package with Thomas Cook?

Booking your Somnath holiday packages with Thomas Cook is the best decision because Thomas Cook is a trusted and renowned travel platform that caters to all your booking needs from start to end. Thomas Cook provides many packages and offers for domestic as well as international tours. If you have thought to book explore Somnath temple tour, just go on Thomas Cook official website and search for the desired options. Thomas Cook provides an ease of booking your hotels according to your budget and preferences, provides meal options, guided tours and also local transfers. It is therefore highly recommended that you book your Somnath travel package through a trusted travel agency like Thomas Cook. You can even get additional discounts and promotional offers in your pre-bookings.