Somnath is an important pilgrimage and tourist spots in Gujarat on account of being a Triveni Sangam i.e. the confluence of three holy rivers: Kapila, Hiran and Sarasvati. Soma, the Moon god, is believed to have lost his lustre due to a curse, and he bathed in the Sarasvati River to restore it. The name of the town, meaning “the lord of the moon”, arises from this tradition. Primarily a temple town, Somnath also offers other attractions. The places to visit in Somnath derive their identity from Hindu myths and religion.
Top 18 Places To Visit In Somnath
We have shortlisted 15 best places to visit in Somnath on account of their popularity with the tourists. These tourist attractions in Somnath are a spiritual haven for reflection and meditation. Activate your human potential on this peaceful journey. Are you ready to push yourself into this heavenly world, then scroll below:
1. Suraj Mandir
In the front of the temple, above the entrance doorway, is an image of Surya with his seven horses below him and his two wives. Around the shrine, in the circumambulatory passage, are three image niches, one on each of the north, south and west sides. They contain iconography of Vishnu and Lakshmi, Brahma with Saraswati, and Shiva with Parvati, this place is one of the best for an surreal Somnath sightseeing experience.
Location: Near Triveni Ghat, Somnath 362268
Entry fee: Nil
Opening hours: N/A
Nearby Attractions: Laxmi Narayan Mandir, Hiran river
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2. Laxmi Narayan Temple
If you’re looking for places to see in Somnath, Lakshmi Narayan Mandir, situated on the banks of Triveni Tirth, is one of the most famous places to visit in Somnath Gujarat. The temple was constructed by Raja Sahil Verma. It is famous for the carvings on its 18 pillars which have the sacred message of Krishna. It is situated near the Gita Temple and is visited by thousands of devotees every year. You must visit it on your weekend getaways from Somnath.
Location: Near Chowk, Somnath, Ghora, Gujarat
Entry fee: Nil
Opening hours: 6 AM – 8 PM
Nearby Attractions: Somnath temple garden, Somnath beach
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3. Dehotsarg Teerth 
This Teerth is located on the banks of Hiran at a distance of 1.5km from Somnath temple and one of the best places to see in Somnath. Bhagvan Shree Krishna took his divine journey to Neejdham from this sacred soil. Rich accounts of the divined Shree Krishna Neejdham Prasthan Leela are maintained by the authentic traditions of Mahabharat, Shrimad Bhagwat, and Vishnu Puran.
Location: On the banks of Hiran
Entry fee: Nil
Opening hours: N/A
Nearby Attractions: Somnath beach, harbor area
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4. Bhalka Tirth
This sacred tirth is located on the Prabhas Veraval highway and one of the few famous tourist places in Somnath. The arrow of the poacher named Jara hit Shree Krishna at this spot. The latter was resting under a pipal tree when the poacher misread the foot of Bhagvan Shree Krishna as a deer and hit from a distance. This divined leela of Shree Krishna is immortalised by this beautiful temple. Make sure to visit Bhalka Tirth on your Gujarat getaway. One of the famous Somnath tourist places.
Location: Bhalka, Veraval, Somnath 362266
Entry fee: Nil
Opening hours:
Nearby Attractions: Somnath beach, harbor area
5. Somnath Temple
The principal temple of Somnath is believed to have been built in gold by the moon god Soma, in silver by the sun god Ravi, in wood by Krishna and in stone by the Solanki Rajputs in the 11th century and one of the most famous tourist places in Somnath.
The present temple, built in 1951, is the seventh reconstruction on the original site. Tales of its riches attracted a series of invasions, but each time the temple was invaded, it was restored to its original glory by devout Hindu worshipers. It is one of the most magnificent temples in Gujarat.
Location: Somnath Mandir Road, Veraval, Somnath 362268
Entry fee: Nil
Opening hours:
Nearby Attractions: Munjiyasar Lake, temples
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6. Panch Pandav Gufa
Panch Pandav Gufa is situated in the Lalghati near the Temple City of Somnath is typically a cave temple revered by the followers of Hinduism. The Late Baba Narayandas discovered this cave temple in the year of 1949, which is dedicated to the famous five Pandavas Yudhisthira, Arjuna, Mahabali Bheema, Nakul and Sahdev had spent time in this temple during the term of their exile.
The Panch Pandav Gufa also has shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Ram, Lord Laxman, Devi Sita, Goddess Durga and Lord Hanuman. You can visit this place and later stay at some of the top Somnath resorts.
Location: Prabhas Patan, Somnath 362268
Entry fee: Nil
Opening hours:
Nearby Attractions: HariHar Van, Somnath beach
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7. Shree Parshuram Temple
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Shree Parshuram Temple, also called the Somnath Parshuram Temple, is among the most famous attractions located close to Somnath in Gujarat. It is situated on the banks of the river Triveni Theerth at the very spot where Lord Somnath had blessed Lord Parshuram and relieved him of his curse of ‘Kshatriyahatya’.
The renowned Hindu shrine is dedicated to Lord Parshuram and houses two ancient Kunds in its premises other than its three main structures – sabhamandap, a central mandap, as well as a garbhagriha. The temple complex also has small shrines dedicated to Lord Hanuman and Lord Ganesh.
Location: Behind Ram Mandir, Somnath, Gujarat 362268
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry fee: Nil
Nearby Attractions: HariHar Van, Somnath beach, Hiran river
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8. Junagarh Gate
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Junagadh Gate happens to be one of the most important historical attractions in Somnath. It is located very close to the temple of Prabhas Kshetra and this gate is essentially the only way of entering the city of Somnath from the nearest city of Veraval.
Though it was partially destroyed during of Somnath by Mohammed Ghazni, a major part of this gate still stands tall and reminds passersby of its past. Don’t miss the intricate carvings on this ancient structure while you’re passing it. It is one of the best places to visit in Gujarat.
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
Entry fee: Nil
Opening hours:
Nearby Attractions: Gir National Park
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9. Gita Mandir
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Also called the Birla Mandir, Gita Mandir in Somnath is among the most famous attractions located inside this city. It was built in the year 1970 by the Birlas of the famed Dehotsarg Campus and acts as a popular representation of Shrimad Bhagwat Geeta, which happens to be carved on 18 marble pillars here.
The revered shrine is dedicated to Lord Krishna, as is evident from the numerous paintings of Lord Krishna that its walls are decorated with. The holy sanctum is also home to the idols of Lord Lakshmi-Narayan and Lord Sita Ram on either side of Lord Krishna. Indeed one of the famous Somnath places to visit.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry fee: Nil
Opening hours:
Nearby Attractions: Triveni Sangam, Hiran river
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10. Bhidbhanjan Mahadev Temple
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The famed Bhidbhanjan Mahadev Temple of Somnath is located close to Triveni Theerth and is considered one of the most popular pilgrimage spots in the city. Built in modern Indian architectural style, this holy shrine is located quite close to Gita Mandir. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Bhidbhanjan Mahadev Temple is said to have the power to make your wishes come true!
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry fee: Nil
Opening hours:
Nearby Attractions: Temples, beach, harbor area
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11. Triveni Ghat
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Triveni Ghat is also known by two other names – Triveni Sangam and Triveni Sangam Snanghat. It is one of the major places to visit in Somnath and is situated right at the point of confluence of three holy streams, namely Saraswati, Hiranya, and Kapila before they merge into the sea making it one of the best places to visit in Gujarat in summer. According to Hindu Mythology, if you take a dip in the holy waters of Triveni Sangam Snanghat, you’ll be rid of all your sins and acquire Moksha by merging with the Almighty. One of the best Somnath tourist places.
Location: Triveni Sangam, Gujarat Ozat, 2 Dem, 362268
Entry fee: Nil
Opening hours:
Nearby Attractions: HariHar Van, Hiran river
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12. Somnath Beach
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If you’re looking for romantic places to visit in Gujarat, this place is a real treat for beach lovers visiting Somnath, this is absolutely clean and beautiful shores to hang out with your friends and family. However, do keep in mind that you’re not allowed to enter these waters owing to the high tides and the unpredictable climate here causing frequent showers.
The water can get pretty dangerous, so make sure you stay at a safe distance from it. But don’t worry, the beauty of the beach and the stroll-worthy sands will totally make up for it. Visiting this place is one of the best things to do in Somnath.
Location: Near Access Road to Temple, Somnath, Gujarat 362268
Timings: Always open
Entry fee: Nil
Nearby Attractions: Shree Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple, HariHar Van
13. Prabhas Patan Museum
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Want to get an insight into the intriguing history of Gujarat? You must visit the Prabhas Patan Museum in Somnath that will tell you a great deal about the past of this city via its collection of old stones, ancient sculptures, and temple remains that have been restored and kept here. A must tour Somnath places to visit.
Its exhibits are totally unique and will keep you transfixed! You will find antique pieces from the original five Somnath Temples which were reduced to dust preserved here as best as possible. Maintained by the Somnath Trust, it’s a great place for history geeks and archeology lovers.
Location: Near Check Post, Somnath 362001, India
Timings: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry fee: INR 5 per person | INR 100 for still camera
Nearby Attractions: Shree Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple, Somanth Temple Garden, Somnath Beach
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14. Sana Caves
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This is a must-visit place for those looking for some thrill and excitement on their trip to Somnath in Gujarat and couple can also add to their list of interesting honeymoon places in Gujarat. These are essentially a set of two different cave systems in the same place. The Sana caves in question here are the Buddhist caves located at a 7-kilometer distance from Veraval in the Gir Somnath district of Gujarat.
You’ll be blown away by the unique formation of these 62 rock-cut caves spread over the hill and bearing amazing carvings on almost each of them. The halls of these structures are dome-shaped and consist of stupas, chaityas, pillows, and benches. Historians claim that these caves were formed around the 1st century BC.
Location: Sana Caves, Vankiya, Una, Gir Somnath, Gujarat
Entry fee: Nil
Opening hours: 6 AM – 6:30 PM
Nearby Attractions: Gir National Park
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15. Kamnath Mahadev Temple
This temple is the ideal haunt for pilgrims and to marvel at the unique architecture and enjoy a few moments of peace and solace as one of the famous places to visi to Gujarat. enjoy the breathtaking views surrounding the temple as this is a must visit attraction in Somnath. The temple is a massive complex with a pond and a bathing pool.
Location: Kamnath Mahadev Temple, Somnath, Gujarat
Entry fee: Nil
Opening hours: 7 AM – 7 PM
Nearby Attractions: Akshaygadh Garden, Temples
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16. Veneshwar Mahadev Temple
This is one of the famous temples in Somnath which is situated parallel to the Somnath Trust Dharamshala Gate. Facing the east direction, this temple is devoted to Lord Shiva which has an important history behind its name. During the 1025 AD when Mahmud Gazni made an attempt to invade Somnath but failed, he made a plan to kidnap Veni who was the princess of the kingdom. To save herself, the princess prayed to Lord Shiva and seeked his protection who opened the Shiva linga in two pieces and engulfed her. During that time a strand of hair (also called ‘Veni’) was left out, thus Lord Shiva is worshipped as Veneshwar here.
Location: Somnath Mandir Rd, Prabhas Patan, Gujarat
Timing: 7AM-7PM
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year
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17. Gir National Park
Image Credit: Shovik 14 for Wikipedia
This is a home to the Asiatic lions and considered to be a perfect place to enjoy a time amidst the wildlife preserved beautifully in their natural habitat. Also called Sasan-Gir, this forest cum sanctuary was established in 1965. Spread across an area of 1412 sq kms, this place is located at a distance of 65 kms from Junagadh and 2 hours away from Somnath. One of the famous Somnath places to visit.
Location: Gir National Park, Gujarat
Timing: 6:30AM-8:30AM, 8:30AM-10:30AM, 3PM-5:30PM
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year
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18. Harihar Van
Image Credit: Forests.Gujarat.Gov
This is a beautiful garden which is located at the Triveni Sangam and considered to be one of best places to visit in Somnath. Surrounded by the lush-greenery and canopy of tall trees, this place is ideal for the people who want to relax and enjoy a great time away from the hustle. Alongside that this is one of the ideal places for kids to spend some time playing around.
Location: Prabhas Patan, Somnath, Gujarat
Timing: 6.00 AM – 6.00 PM on all days
Best Time To Visit: November-February
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Somnath is well known for its rich culture and religion. A number of stories and legends revolve around this enigmatic town. The town is full of monuments and historical sites. The places to visit in Somnath have surprising and intriguing stories behind them. The architecture of these religious places still leave people mesmerism. Book a trip to Gujarat right away to explore these architectural marvels.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Places To Visit In Somnath
Can you travel across India during Covid-19?
As the travel industry is opening up slowly, yes you can travel to various parts of India during Covid-19. But make sure you follow the given guidelines and precautionary measures for Covid. Also, remember to read the latest updates for Covid before making any travel plans.
What can I buy in Somnath?
While Shopping in Somnath, you can shop for things like wall hangings, quilts, marriage costumes, cradle clothes, embroidered and decorated beadwork.
What is special about Somnath?
Somnath is one of the most famous pilgrim spots in India that is visited by thousands of devoted every year. What makes it special is the renowned Somnath temple where you will find one of the 12 Jyotirlingas Shrines of Shiva. The vibe of this place is dipped in the serenity that spreads immense positivity all around.
How can I go to Somnath from Dwarka?
You can either drive to Somnath from Dwarka or take the train. The driving distance between Somnath and Dwarka is about 231 km, while by train it is approx 398 km. There is one direct train that goes to and fro Dwarka and Somnath. The Okha Somnath Express (19252) will take you to Somnath from Dwarka in just about 8 hours and 40 meters.
How can I go to Somnath temple by flight?
There are no direct flights to Somnath. The nearest airport is the Diu Airport in Daman and Diu. So, you can either commute via cab or bus or go to the nearest airport and then head to Somnath from there.
Why Somnath temple is famous?
The Somnath temple located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Saurashtra on the western coast of Gujarat is believed to be the first among the twelve jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva. Moreover, there are various significant stories attached to it which makes it all the more alluring.
How much time does it take for darshan in Somnath temple?
To seek blessings at Somnath Temple, it can take from 10 minutes to an hour depending on the individuals. It is recommended to visit the temple when there’s a lesser crowd which is in the early morning or noon.
How far is Somnath from Dwarka?
Somnath is located at a distance of 233 Km from Dwarka. With a drive of approximately 4 hours via NH51, you can reach your final destination.
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