For countless devotees of Lord Shiva planning a pilgrimage, a primary question is how to reach the sacred Somnath Temple. This revered Jyotirlinga, situated on the tranquil coast of the Arabian Sea in Prabhas Patan near Veraval, Gujarat, has recently commemorated a monumental milestone. The temple has completed a thousand years of existence, a testament to its enduring spiritual and cultural legacy.
A Millennium of Faith and Resilience
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently visited the Somnath Temple to offer prayers and participate in sacred rituals as part of the Somnath Swabhiman Parv celebrations. The Prime Minister joined priests and devotees in chanting mantras, marking 1,000 years since the 1026 invasion of the temple by Mahmud of Ghazni. This event is observed to honour the shrine's long history of cultural endurance and revival.
Somnath holds the distinguished position of being the first among the 12 sacred Jyotirlinga temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Drawing millions of pilgrims and travellers every year, its significance is rooted in both spirituality and a profound historical narrative.
The Saga of Destruction and Rebirth
The history of the Somnath Temple is unlike any other. Its origins are ancient, with the exact date of the first construction still debated by scholars. The temple's name, meaning 'Lord of the Moon', derives from the legend of the Moon god (Soma) who, after being cursed, regained his lustre by praying to Lord Shiva at this very site where three rivers—Kapila, Hiran, and Sarasvati—meet.
The temple's journey has been marked by repeated trials. It faced destruction and plunder by invading forces multiple times, most famously by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1026 CE. Historical accounts suggest the temple was looted and demolished more than 17 times, yet it consistently rose from the ashes, becoming a powerful symbol of resilience.
After India gained independence, the temple was reconstructed. The present structure, built in the Chaulukya architectural style, was completed in May 1951. Today, it is managed by the Shree Somnath Trust and continues to be a beacon for devotees worldwide.
Your Guide to Reaching Somnath Temple
Somnath is well-connected by air, rail, and road, making it accessible for pilgrims from all corners.
By Air: While Somnath does not have its own airport, several nearby options are available. The Keshod Airport is approximately 55–60 km away, and Diu Airport (DIU) is about 70–85 km from the temple. For broader connectivity, Rajkot Airport (RAJ), situated around 200 km away, offers flights from major Indian cities. From these airports, taxis and buses are readily available for the onward journey.
By Train: Train travel is a highly convenient mode. The Somnath Railway Station (SMNH) is merely 1.5 km from the temple complex. Alternatively, Veraval Junction (VRL), located 6–7 km away, is well-linked to many major cities. The introduction of the Sabarmati–Veraval Vande Bharat Express has significantly reduced travel time, connecting Ahmedabad to Somnath in approximately 7 hours.
By Road: An extensive road network links Somnath to other towns and cities. The Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) and private operators run regular bus services. The town is connected via National Highway 51 (NH51) and state highways. The road distance from Ahmedabad is about 400 km (an 8–9 hour drive), and from Rajkot, it is around 190–200 km.
Darshan Timings: Devotees can have darshan from 6 AM to 9 PM daily, though it is advisable to check for any special schedule changes during festivals.
More Than a Religious Site
A visit to the Somnath Temple is not merely a religious undertaking; it is an immersion into a living piece of Indian history. It represents centuries of unwavering faith, remarkable endurance, and deep devotion. A pilgrimage here offers profound spiritual insight and a timeless connection with the nation's rich cultural heritage, standing proudly after a thousand years.
