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Shree Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple
The Chalukya-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva stands as one of the most revered and frequented places to visit in Somnath, steeped in mythological lore and historical significance. According to legend, the Moon God, who had been cursed by Daksha and lost his radiance, regained his luminosity by fervently praying to Lord Shiva at the Somnath Temple. Another fascinating tale attributes the construction of the Somnath temple to Bhagvan Shree Krishna, who is said to have built it using sandalwood.
The temple’s Arrow-Pillar, or Baan-Stambh, bears inscriptions indicating that there is no piece of land in a straight line between the temple and Antarctica to the south, underscoring the temple’s unique geographical alignment. Atop the main spire, which towers 15 meters tall, a flag flutters, symbolizing the temple’s spiritual presence and significance.
One of the highlights of visiting the Somnath Temple is the Sound & Light Show titled “Jay Somnath,” which takes place every night from 8:00 pm to 9:00 pm. This immersive experience offers visitors a captivating journey through the temple’s history and mythology, bringing to life the timeless tales and legends associated with this sacred site.
Overall, the Somnath Temple stands as a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage and spiritual legacy, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike to its hallowed precincts to seek blessings, witness its architectural splendor, and immerse themselves in its profound spiritual ambiance.
Timing for Darshan at Somnath Temple: 6.00 am to 9.00 pm
Timing for Aarti: 7.00 am, 12.00 Noon and 7.00 pm
“Jay Somnath” Sound and Light Show: 8.00 pm to 9.00 pm
Gita Mandir
Gita Mandir, situated at Gaulok Dham in Somnath, stands as a tribute to Lord Shree Krishna, embodying the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita. Built in 1970 by the Birla group, this temple holds a special place in the hearts of devotees who flock to seek solace and spiritual guidance.
According to legend, Gita Mandir is believed to be located at the spot where Lord Krishna rested before departing for ‘Neej Dham,’ marking the end of the Dwapar Yuga. This sacred association with Lord Krishna’s final moments in Dwapar Yuga adds to the temple’s significance and spiritual resonance.
The Gita Mandir is renowned for its reverence towards the holy scripture, the Bhagavad Gita, which serves as a guiding light for countless devotees on their spiritual journey. The temple’s walls are adorned with intricate paintings depicting scenes from Lord Krishna’s life, further enriching the spiritual ambiance.
The highlight of Gita Mandir lies in its eighteen marble pillars, each meticulously decorated with one of the eighteen Adhyayas (chapters) of the Shrimad Bhagavad Gita. These pillars serve as a visual representation of the sacred verses, symbolizing the timeless wisdom and teachings imparted by Lord Krishna to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra.
The design and craftsmanship of the Gita Mandir’s pillars are a testament to the devotion and reverence towards the Bhagavad Gita, inspiring devotees to reflect upon its profound teachings and integrate them into their lives. As pilgrims visit Gita Mandir, they are not only greeted by the divine presence of Lord Krishna but also by the eternal wisdom encapsulated within the verses of the Bhagavad Gita, guiding them towards enlightenment and inner peace.
Opening Timing – 6:00 AM
Closing Timing-7:00 PM
Bhalka Tirtha
Bhalka Tirtha, situated near Veraval just about 3 kilometers from the renowned Somnath Lord Shiva Jyotirlinga Temple, holds profound significance in Hindu mythology. It is believed to be the spot where Lord Krishna, while resting in a deerskin, was mistakenly shot by a hunter named Jara, who mistook him for a deer. This tragic incident marks the final moments of Lord Krishna’s earthly existence, as he departed for his heavenly abode shortly after.
Following his cremation at Dehotsarga, which is located at Triveni Ghat, Lord Krishna is said to have embarked on his divine journey, an act referred to in the Puranas as Shri Krishn Neejdham Prasthan Leela.
Adjacent to Bhalka Tirtha lies the sacred town of Somnath, renowned for its shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva, believed to have been built by Soma, the Moon God. The present-day majestic monument stands as a replica of its earlier constructions, with legends recounting its origins. According to mythology, the original temple was constructed of gold by the Moon God Soma, rebuilt in silver by Ravana, and subsequently reconstructed in wood by Lord Krishna. The final reconstruction in stone is attributed to Bhimdev.
Relics of the ancient Somnath shrine are preserved in a museum housed within a temple complex, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past. Additionally, Somnath boasts an intriguing Sun Temple, further enriching its cultural and religious significance.
As one of the twelve Jyotirlingas or sacred shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva across India, Somnath holds a revered place in Hindu pilgrimage, attracting devotees from far and wide who seek blessings and spiritual solace in its hallowed precincts.
Somnath Beach
Somnath Beach, situated approximately 6 kilometers east of the port town of Veraval and just a short distance from the Somnath temple, offers visitors a tranquil escape amidst the natural beauty of the Arabian Sea coastline.
The beach’s serene ambiance invites visitors to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of nature, with waves gently rolling onto the shoreline and breaking the silence that envelops the air. While swimming may not be recommended due to potential hazards, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at Somnath Beach.
Visitors can partake in camel and horse rides along the sandy shores, offering a unique perspective of the coastal landscape. Additionally, streetside eateries dotting the beach offer a variety of light snacks such as tender coconut and corn, allowing tourists to savor the flavors of the region while taking in the scenic views.
For those looking to take home a piece of their seaside experience, souvenir shops lining the shore offer a range of seashell crafts and other mementos, providing a tangible reminder of their time spent at Somnath Beach.
Popular among both locals and tourists alike, Somnath Beach serves as a gathering place for relaxation, recreation, and leisure, offering an opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate amidst the soothing embrace of the sea.
Prabhas Patan Museum
The archeological museum in Somnath stands as one of the premier tourist destinations in the region, offering visitors a captivating journey through the rich cultural heritage and history of the area. Established in 1921, the museum boasts an impressive collection of approximately 3500 artifacts, showcasing the diverse legacy of ancient civilizations and religious traditions.
Among the notable exhibits are sculptures and carved stones from ancient temples, inscriptions, five domes, and 12th-century toranas (ornamental gateways). The museum also houses sacred waters collected from various rivers, along with pillars and statues dating back to the 11th century, depicting deities such as Lord Agni, Uma Maheshwara, Lord Vishnu, Parvati, and Natya Bhairava.
In addition to these heritage treasures, the museum features a fascinating display of waters sourced from overseas rivers such as the St. Lawrence, Tigris, Plate, Danube, and Nile, as well as seas from Tasmania and New Zealand. This unique exhibit highlights the interconnectedness of civilizations across continents and the significance of water as a symbol of life and spirituality in diverse cultures.
With its diverse collection and insightful exhibits, the archeological museum in Somnath offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the past, fostering a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural tapestry of the region and its enduring legacy.
Timing: 10.30 AM – 5.30 PM Thursday – Tuesday; Closed on Wednesdays and public holidays
Triveni Sangam Atithigruh
Triveni Sangam holds a sacred significance as the confluence point of three holy rivers – Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati – where they merge with the Arabian Sea. This revered site is considered one of the holiest places to visit in Somnath, steeped in mythological lore and spiritual reverence. According to legend, it is believed that Lord Krishna himself took a dip at Triveni Sangam before embarking on his journey towards Goloka Dham.
Today, pilgrims from far and wide flock to Triveni Sangam to partake in the sacred tradition of taking a dip in its waters, believed to bestow blessings and pave the way towards salvation. To ensure the perennial flow of the riverbank, a small dam has been constructed at Triveni Sangam, ensuring that the sacred waters remain accessible to devotees throughout the year.
Additionally, visitors to Triveni Sangam can avail themselves of boat ride facilities, which offer a unique opportunity to sail along the confluence point of the three rivers and witness the serene merging of waters. This tranquil experience allows pilgrims and tourists alike to connect with the divine essence of the sacred rivers and immerse themselves in the spiritual ambiance of Triveni Sangam.
Overall, Triveni Sangam stands as a symbol of spiritual harmony and reverence, inviting devotees to partake in its sanctity and seek solace in its tranquil waters, while also offering visitors a serene and memorable experience amidst the natural beauty of Somnath’s sacred landscape.
Timing: 06.00 AM – 06.00 PM on all days
The Laxmi Narayan Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, stands as a majestic monument on the serene shores of Somnath, drawing devotees and visitors alike with its divine aura and magnificent architectural beauty. Adorned with intricate carvings on its 18 pillars, the temple is renowned for its exquisite design, which serves as a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of its creators.
The carvings on these pillars depict the sacred messages of Lord Krishna, as propagated in the Bhagavad Gita, enriching the spiritual ambiance of the temple and inspiring devotees to delve deeper into the teachings of Hindu scriptures.
As one of the most famous places to visit in Somnath, the Laxmi Narayan Temple attracts devotees from far and wide, seeking solace and blessings in its sacred precincts. Its stunning architecture serves as a beautiful replica of the Laxmi Narayan Temple in Badrinath, further enhancing its allure and significance.
While exploring the temple, visitors are encouraged to take a moment to savor the tranquility of the surroundings and witness the breathtaking beauty of a sunset on the banks of the River Hiren. This serene experience offers a perfect opportunity for reflection and contemplation, allowing visitors to connect with the divine essence of the temple and the natural splendor of Somnath’s landscape.
