Someshwar Mahadev Temple, which is also popularly known as Somnath Temple is one of the most ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva in the state of Gujarat, India. Lord Shiva has resided here for more than thousands of years. It is the ancient and most significant of the twelve jyotirlinga temples all over India. It is believed that the temple was constructed by Chandra (Moon God) himself. During Dwapar yug, Lord Krishna rebuilt the temple with sandalwood. Somnath is one of the most visited and oldest pilgrimage sites in the nation. Situated in Gujarat, it has great importance in Hinduism and history. The temple attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists from all over the world.
Someshwar Mahadev Temple History
The first temple inside the premises was said to have been originally established by Chandra (Moon God). Later on in the Dwapar yug, Lord Krishna built the same temple in sandalwood. The latest temple here was built under the leadership of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel immediately after independence. There is a gate for entry and through that one can visit the mandapa and the sanctum sanctorum that houses the large Shiva Ling. It is adorned very beautifully by the pandits there. There is a quaint temple of Shri Ganesh inside the temple premises. Here he is called ‘Sakshi Vinayak’ which is a must-visit. Lord Ganesh became the witness of the devotee’s visit to the temple, and because of this, Punya one got the opportunity to visit Somnath, allowing a person to enter swarg (heaven).
Must Read: Places To Visit In Gujarat
Someshwar Mahadev Temple Activities
Gujarat is home to many holy temples like the Old Mandir by Ahilyabai, Veneshwar Mahadev Temple, Mahakali Maa Temple, Mahadev Temple and Laxmi Narayan Mandir. Hundreds of pilgrims visit this town each year to worship their beloved deity. Once in Somnath, do take the chance to learn about the historical significance and architecture of these sacred and magnificent temples. Many ancient structures and monuments still narrate many tales of the historic past. The Prabhas Patan Museum near the temple boasts some interesting remains and relics from the 12th century. Being a coastal town, Somnath does have a lot of beaches to help you rejuvenate. It also has some interesting markets and local bazaars for handicrafts that offer a variety of souvenirs and products to choose from.
Places To Visit Near Someshwar Mahadev Temple
There are indeed plethora of places to visit near Someshwar Mahadev Temple. Here is a list of handpicked hotels to make your trip memorable and heartworthy.
1. Chorwad Beach
It lies about 37 km from Somnath in Gujarat. This beach was once the residence of the Nawab of Junagadh but today one can only find a few remains. The beach is not recommended for swimming, but it is quite clean and ideal for rejuvenating and having fun in the breezy weather of the ocean. It does not have many accommodation options but it acts as the perfect excursion outside of Somnath. Chorwad’s past recounts the capture by the Raizadas after the fall of the Mughals in the region of Saurashtra. It later went to Rana Sultanji of Porbandar, who was there till the late 18th century. The renowned businessman Mr Dhirubhai Ambani was born here.
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2. Laxminarayan Temple
The Vishnu temple inside the premises of Somnath was constructed in South Indian architecture with a yellow gopuram. The temple does not lie in a large complex but has a tall gopuram with intricate idols and sculptures on heavenly and historic themes. Inside the main sanctum lies the idol of Lord Vishnu, along with Goddess Lakshmi. The Laxminarayan temple has hundreds of devotees who visit the temple and pay homage to the deity. The temple is said to have been made after the construction of the Laxminarayan Temple in Badrinath. The best time to visit is from November till February.
3. Gir National Park
Gir National Park is the only wildlife spot in the world apart from Africa where a lion can be spotted in its natural habitat. The lions of Gir are popular and majestic. They are about 2.75 m in length and have bigger tails, bushier tufts, and more prominent bellies than the ones found in Africa. This national park comprises around 40 mammal species and 425 bird species. Tourists can take the Gir Wildlife Tour on the site, which will give you an amazing opportunity to sight Asiatic Lions as well as thousands of other rare wild animals and exotic birds like Gir foxes, black buck, brown fish owls and pygmy woodpeckers. The tour will be the most enjoyable for you and your company.
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Gujarat
4. Bhalka Teerth
Bhalka Teerth is one of the most spectacular temples in Somnath city. The temple at Bhalka Tirth is called Mahaprabhuji’s Bethak, and a tulsi tree was planted dedicated to Lord Krishna. Banyan trees don the courtyard of the beautiful Krishna temple that is built completely in sandstone. Inside the shrine is a peculiar idol of Shri Krishna in a half-reclining pose. The temple also features a mesmerizing tribhangi idol of Lord Krishna while playing the flute. The temple displays the scene when Lord Krishna is hit by a poacher’s arrow, mistaking it for a deer. He walked 4 km from this temple to the Shri Goloknathdham Tirth. The Lord had to ascend to heaven after that episode.
Someshwar Mahadev Temple Location and Timings
The Someshwar Mahadev Temple or Somnath Temple is a magnificent temple situated along the coast of Veraval, in Prabhas Patan, Saurashtra, Gujarat. The temple is considered one of the oldest of the twelve holy Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, located all over India.
- The darshan time is from 6 am to 10 pm.
- Aarti time – 7 am, 12 pm and 7 pm
- Light And Sound show is from 8 pm to 9 pm (only during summer and winter)
Someshwar Mahadev Temple Travel Route
By Road: An accessible network of roads connects the city of Somnath to several different tourist places in Gujarat. Ahmedabad, the capital of the state is about 400 km away from the temple. Other cities like Junagadh, Porbandar and Bhavnagar are not too far from the temple either. All of them are well-connected to Somnath by buses and taxis as well.
By Train: Veraval station is the nearest railway station and is 7 km from Somnath. “Somnath Express” operates from the city of Ahmedabad to Veraval.
By Air: The nearest airport to Somnath temple is Keshod, at a distance of around 55 km, this domestic airport is well-linked to many cities. After landing, one can easily hail a taxi, bus or private car towards your destination.
Further Read: Temples In Gujarat
Now that you have some interesting information about the Someshwar Mahadev Temple, it is time to put your worries at bay and plan for the next destination you’re meant to be at. Book your tickets for an amazing trip to Gujarat!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Someshwar Mahadev Temple
What is the best time to visit Someshwar Mahadev Temple?
Winter is the perfect season to visit Somnath. The usual weather in Somnath is quite pleasant and convenient for sightseeing. October to March are the best months to visit considering it is winter and it is cool.
What is the entry fee to enter the temple?
There is no entry fee or additional cost to enter the temple, it is absolutely free although you can donate charitably.
What are some tips to follow before entering the temple?
It is important to remove your shoes before entering the temple. All electronic items are not permitted inside. All these can be stored in lockers provided on the premises.
Is photography allowed inside the temple?
Photography is strictly prohibited inside the premises and you must deposit in the locker before entering the temple.
Is an online darshan facility available for Someshwar Mahadev Temple?
Yes, you can do online darshan on the official website of the Someshwar Mahadev Temple. There are also many TV channels which broadcast the Someshwar Mahadev Temple activities live. You can also find an online darshan through social media channels.
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