Somnath Temple – Junagadh, Gujarat
Location: Prabhas Patan, Veraval, Junagadh District, Gujarat, India
Dedicated To: Lord Shiva (as Somnath, meaning “Lord of the Moon”)
Significance: One of the 12 Jyotirlingas (most sacred Shiva shrines) and an iconic symbol of India’s spiritual resilience.
History & Legend
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Ancient Origins: Believed to have been first built by the Moon God (Soma) to atone for a curse.
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Destruction & Rebuilding: The temple was repeatedly destroyed by invaders (notably by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1026 CE) and rebuilt each time.
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Post-Independence Revival: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel led its reconstruction in 1951, blending ancient and modern architecture.
Architectural Highlights
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Built in the Chalukya style (Kailash Mahameru Prasad style).
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Features intricate carvings, a towering shikhara (spire), and a massive Nandi bull statue.
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The temple overlooks the Arabian Sea, offering breathtaking views.
Key Features & Rituals
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Aarti Timings:
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Morning: 7:00 AM
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Evening: 7:00 PM (famous Sandhya Aarti)
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Light & Sound Show: A must-watch narration of the temple’s history (in Hindi & English).
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Triveni Sangam: The confluence of three rivers (Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati) near the temple.
Visitor Information
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Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant weather).
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Nearby Attractions:
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Prabhas Patan Museum (ancient artifacts)
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Bhalka Tirth (where Lord Krishna was mistakenly shot)
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Veraval Beach
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How to Reach?
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Nearest Airport: Diu (90 km) or Rajkot (200 km).
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Railway Station: Veraval (5 km from the temple).
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Road: Well-connected via NH51 and state highways.
The Somnath Temple is not just a pilgrimage site but a testament to India’s unyielding faith and cultural revival. A visit here is a spiritual and historical journey.
