Somnath Jyotirlinga

Somnath Jyotirlinga

Overview & Location

The Somnath Temple is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Prabhas Patan, near Veraval in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, India. Known as the Eternal Shrine, Somnath is the first of the 12 Jyotirlingas, and it holds unmatched spiritual, historical, and architectural significance.

Set on the Arabian Sea coast, the temple offers a mesmerizing view where the divine meets nature. Pilgrims and tourists alike visit to experience the spiritual vibration, rich mythology, and the glorious legacy of resilience through centuries.

Keywords used: Somnath Temple, Prabhas Patan, Veraval, Saurashtra Gujarat, Shiva temple

Somnath Jyotirlinga – The Divine Pillar of Light

The sanctum sanctorum houses the Jyotirlinga of Somnath, which is believed to be self-manifested (Swayambhu), representing Lord Shiva in his infinite cosmic form — the pillar of eternal light (Jyoti). According to legends, Chandra Dev (the Moon God) first built this temple in gold, seeking forgiveness from Shiva for his pride. This was later rebuilt in:

  • Silver by Ravana
  • Wood by Lord Krishna
  • Stone by Bhimdev I

The very name “Somnath” translates to the “Lord of the Moon” — underlining the temple’s divine connection with lunar energy and celestial balance.

Keywords used: Somnath Jyotirlinga, Swayambhu Shiva Lingam, Lord of the Moon, Jyotirlinga temple

Somnath History – A Saga of Devotion and Destruction

The history of Somnath Temple is a compelling saga of devotion, destruction, and undying spiritual energy. The temple has been attacked and rebuilt 17 times by various rulers and invaders, making it a symbol of India’s spiritual resilience.

Timeline Highlights:

  • Prehistoric Origins: Believed to date back to before the Common Era
  • 1026 CE: Destroyed by Mahmud of Ghazni, who looted the temple’s wealth
  • 1299 CE: Again destroyed by Alauddin Khilji’s general, Ulugh Khan
  • 1706 CE: Damaged by Aurangzeb
  • Multiple Reconstructions: Rebuilt by Hindu kings after every destruction

The temple’s repeated reconstruction reflects the unshakable faith of the devotees and its cultural sanctity as an eternal place of worship.

Keywords used: World of Shiva, Somnath history, temple destruction, Mahmud of Ghazni, Alauddin Khilji, ancient Shiva temples

Somnath Jyotirlinga Reconstruction – A Symbol of National Pride

Post India’s independence, the idea to rebuild Somnath Temple came from Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India. This initiative was a symbol of national unity and revival of Indian culture. The reconstruction started in 1947 and the temple was inaugurated in 1951 by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, India’s first President.

Features of the Reconstructed Temple:

  • Architectural Style: Chalukyan
  • Material: Sandstone with intricate carvings
  • Designer: Prabhashankar Sompura
  • Maintained By: Shree Somnath Trust

Today, it is not just a temple but a beacon of heritage, pride, and unity.

Keywords used: Somnath reconstruction, Sardar Patel Somnath temple, Shree Somnath Trust, Prabhashankar Sompura

Somnath Jyotirlinga - Temple Architecture & Features

 

The present-day Somnath Temple is a marvelous specimen of Chalukyan architecture, with finely sculpted pillars, arches, and shikharas (spires).

Notable Features:

  • Sanctum Orientation: Faces the sea — it is said there is no landmass between Somnath and Antarctica on a straight line.
  • Main Deity: Jet-black Shiva Lingam in sanctum
  • Sound and Light Show: Depicts the temple’s historic timeline
  • Nearby Sites:
    • Triveni Sangam: Sacred confluence of three rivers – Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati
    • Somnath Museum: Houses ancient relics and temple models

Keywords used: Somnath architecture, Chalukyan style, Somnath Shivling, Sound and Light Show

🧭 Visiting Somnath – Timings & Travel Tips

🕒 Temple Timings:

  • Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Aarti Timings: 7:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 7:00 PM
  • Light Show: Every evening post 8:00 PM

🚗 How to Reach:

  • By Air: Nearest Airport – Diu Airport (85 km)
  • By Train: Veraval Railway Station (7 km)
  • By Road: Well-connected by state buses and private taxis

✅ Best Time to Visit:

  • October to March – Cooler weather and ideal for darshan and sightseeing

🔍 Must-Visit Nearby:

  • Bhalka Tirth: Believed to be the place where Lord Krishna was accidentally shot
  • Triveni Sangam Ghat
  • Prabhas Patan Museum: For history and archaeology enthusiasts

Keywords used: Somnath visit timings, Veraval railway, how to reach Somnath, Bhalka Tirth

FAQs Related to Somnath Jyotirlinga

Q1: Is Somnath the first Jyotirlinga?
Yes, Somnath is traditionally regarded as the first Jyotirlinga among the twelve sacred sites.

Q2: What is Prabhas Patan?
Prabhas Patan is the ancient city and sacred land where the Somnath Temple is located — rich in mythology and history.

Q3: Who rebuilt the Somnath Temple after Independence?
The modern structure was rebuilt under the vision of Sardar Patel and designed by Prabhashankar Sompura. It was inaugurated in 1951 by Dr. Rajendra Prasad.