logo

Somnath Temple: Significance, how to reach & Nearby attractions

Somnath Temple

Somnath Temple is one of the most beautiful and sacred Hindu temples in India. It is located in Somnath city, Gujarat. Somnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. According to Hindu mythology, it was first built by Somraj (the moon god) in Somnath and built with gold. Later this temple is rebuilt by Ravana with Silver, by Krishna in wood & by Bhimdev in Stone.

Significance of Somnath Temple

Significance-of-Somnath-Temple

According to the legends and scriptures of the temple, it is said to have been constructed by the moon god himself and hence states the name Somnath. The temple was destroyed by Mahmud Ghazni in 1025. It was later rebuilt by the Somnath Temple Trust in 1951. 

This temple is one of the most famous places of Worship for Hindus all over the world. It is also one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Hindus. The temple attracts a large number of tourists every year. There is a strong belief that performing rituals at the temple relieves a person of his sins and brings him closer to God.

Somnath Temple has a rich history that is depicted in various murals in the temple complex. The temple is also an important pilgrimage site for Hindus. Every year, thousands of people visit the temple from all over the world to seek the blessings of Lord Shivji. If you are planning to visit the temple anytime soon, make sure that you book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.

How to Reach Somnath Temple

How to Reach Somnath Temple

The Somnath temple is considered one among the twelve jyotirlingas of Shiva. It lies on the shore of the Arabian Sea in the state of Gujarat.

Somnath Temple is located 82 km from Junagadh in Gujarat. It is well connected by road and train to other parts of the country. You can get down at the Porbandar airport which is at distance of 120 km. Although, you can take train, nearest railway station from temple is named itself Somnath railway station which is only 2.5 km away from the temple. There are many buses that run from the station to the Somnath temple. However, it is advisable to take a cab from Porbandar airport as there are number of cheap hotels on the route which can serve as your stopover.

Sardar Vallabhai Patel Airport in Ahmedabad is the nearest international airport. You can board a flight from the Ahmedabad airport and reach Somnath within an hour. Moreover, from the airport, you can take a cab and travel the remaining distance to the Somnath templ

Best Time to Visit Somnath Temple

Best Time to Visit Somnath Temple

Somnath Temple is located on the Arabian Sea coast, and is visited throughout the year. The best time to visit the temple is between November to February. The weather is pleasant in this duration and you can avoid the crowds. You can also enjoy the temple’s annual fair during this period as lots of religious ceremonies and cultural events are held during this time. If you wish to see the temple in its full glory, avoid visiting it during monsoon season as the rainwaters may reduce your enjoyment.

However, the best to visit the temple is during the Mahashivratri festival when the temples attract large crowds and the atmosphere is charged up with fervour and enthusiasm. If you wish to witness such an exciting spectacle, make sure you book your tickets in advance to avoid any hassle on the big day.

Nearby Attractions of Somnath Temple

If you are planning a trip to the Somnath temple, you should also plan a trip to other attractions in the nearby areas.

1. Gir National Park

The national park lies to the south of the Gir forest and is a protected area which is home to several species of animals including lions, tigers, leopards and deer. The park is known for its excellent wildlife sanctuary and is a great place for nature lovers. Moreover, there are several resorts near the park and one can visit the Gir forest national park for a weekend getaway. The park is open all through the year but the timings vary depending on the season. It is best to visit the park during the summers or the winters to enjoy a pleasant weather and sightings of wild animals in their natural habitat.

2. Triveni Sangam

The Triveni Sangam is said to be a place where Hindus can achieve moksha, or liberty from the cycle of life and death. A number of people can be seen praying or simply enjoying the spiritual atmosphere while sitting near the stairs.

The Triveni Sangam is a confluence of three rivers: Kapila, Hiran and Saraswati. It is believed that taking a dip in this river offers one salvation from the sins committed in life. However, for devotees who want to get close to the gods, the Sangam is the place to be at. There are various rituals performed here every day which attract a large number of devotees and visitors alike. It is one of the best nearby attractions of Somnath Temple.

3. Sasan Gir Wildlife Sanctuary

The Sasan Gir Wildlife Sanctuary is a reserve forest in Gujarat, India. It was declared a sanctuary in 1965 to protect the natural habitat of lions, tigers and other endangered species found in the area. Over the years, the sanctuary has become one of the most important tourist attractions in the state. It is spread over an area of more than 1412 sq km and offers incredible views of wildlife to the visitors. The Sasan Gir sanctuary is the only place in India where one can see Asiatic lions in their natural habitat.

Sasan Gir Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in the Junagadh district of Gujarat, India. It forms part of the larger Gir Forest area and was declared a sanctuary in 1965 to protect the natural habitat of lions, tigers and other endangered species found in the area. Over the past few years, the park has become an important tourist attraction in the region.

Summary

The best time to visit the Somnath temple is during the Mahashivratri festival. You can enjoy the magnificent procession and the unique rituals which take place during this festival. However, try to book your tickets in advance to avoid any inconvenience on the day of the event.

Sneh Singh

Sneh Singh

Sneh Singh is a content writer with a passion for both reading books and writing about health and lifestyle-based information. He has a deep understanding of the latest health trends and he is knowledgeable about a variety of lifestyle topics. He uses this knowledge to craft engaging and informative content that provides real value to the readers. His style is approachable and he strives to make complex health and wellness information accessible to everyone. For more info, you can visit his linkedIn profile.

Comments