Somnath Jyotirlinga, located at Prabhas Patan near Veraval in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, holds the distinction of being the first and foremost of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. This sacred site is revered as a place where Lord Shiva manifested as a radiant column of light—symbolizing eternity, divinity, and liberation beyond time and space.
The very name “Somnath” means “Lord of the Moon”, and its legend is deeply tied to the story of Chandra Deva (Moon God).
The Legend of Somnath: Liberation of Chandra Deva
According to ancient scriptures and the Skanda Purana, Chandra, the Moon God, was cursed by his father-in-law Daksha Prajapati for showing partiality towards his wife Rohini, ignoring his other 26 wives (all daughters of Daksha). As a result, the Moon began to lose his luster.
Desperate, Chandra performed severe penance at the holy site of Prabhas Tirtha, worshipping Lord Shiva. Pleased by his devotion, Lord Shiva restored his brightness and relieved him from the curse. Thus, this sacred place became known as Somnath, and the first Jyotirlinga was established here.
Spiritual Significance of the Jyotirlinga
According to Shiva Purana, Lord Shiva stated:
“I am present everywhere, but especially in twelve sacred forms called Jyotirlingas.”
Somnath stands as the Adi Jyotirlinga—the primordial manifestation of Shiva’s light. Devotees believe that a visit here cleanses lifetimes of karma and grants spiritual liberation (moksha).
A Timeless Heritage: Rebirth Through the Ages
The Somnath Temple has witnessed countless invasions and destructions—yet it has always risen from the ruins with renewed strength, symbolizing India’s spiritual resilience.
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The first temple is believed to have been built by the Moon God in gold, followed by a silver temple by Ravana, and later reconstructed in sandalwood by Lord Krishna.
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Historical texts date the first pran-pratishtha (consecration) to the Treta Yuga, roughly 800 million years ago, as per Prabhas Khand of Skanda Purana.
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The modern structure was rebuilt under the leadership of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and the pran-pratishtha was performed by Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, on 11 May 1951.
Today, the temple stands as a majestic blend of Chaulukya architecture, facing the vast Arabian Sea, unshaken by centuries of turmoil.
Experience the Divine: Attractions & Temple Walks
Somnath is not just a temple—it’s a spiritual journey.
Must-Visit Spots in and Around the Temple Complex:
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Kapardi Vinayak Temple
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Shri Hanuman Mandir
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Ahalyabai Holkar Temple – Maintained the ritual tradition during politically unstable times (built in 1782).
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Vallabh Ghat – A picturesque spot for witnessing sunset over the Arabian Sea.
Temple Walks & Heritage Trails:
Pilgrims can embark on guided or self-paced temple walks, covering:
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The original Somnath temple ruins
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Ancient water bodies and kunds used in Vedic rituals
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The Sound & Light Show “Jay Somnath” (7:45–8:45 PM), narrating the temple’s rich legacy
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Spiritual pathways that evoke reflection and connection to the divine energy of Shiva
Major Festivals Celebrated at Somnath
The Somnath Temple is vibrant year-round with devotional events and traditional festivals. Some of the prominent ones include:
| Festival | Date (Approx.) | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Mahashivratri | Feb/March | Night-long worship of Lord Shiva |
| Somnath Sthapna Din | 11 May | Commemorates the modern temple’s consecration |
| Shravan Month Celebrations | July/August | Highly auspicious for Shiva devotees |
| Kartika Purnima | November | Full moon celebration in the sacred month of Kartik |
| Geeta Jayanti | December | Birth of the Bhagavad Gita |
| Makar Sankranti | 14 January | Sun’s northward movement (Uttarayan) |
| Ram Navami & Parshuram Jayanti | March/April | Celebrating avatars of Vishnu |
Additionally, the temple observes:
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Ganga Dussehra
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Krishna Janmashtami
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Republic Day & Independence Day
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International Yoga Day (21 June) with spiritual gatherings and group yoga events
Nearby Attractions and Travel Spots
While visiting Somnath, explore other historical and natural attractions nearby:
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Triveni Sangam – The sacred confluence of three rivers: Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati
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Bhalka Tirtha – Believed to be the site where Lord Krishna left his mortal body
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Prabhas Patan Museum – Showcasing sculptures, inscriptions, and temple relics
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Veraval Beach – A peaceful spot near the temple
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Gir National Park – Home to the majestic Asiatic lion (approx. 45 km from Somnath)
A Living Symbol of Devotion and Renewal
Somnath Jyotirlinga is not just a destination—it is an eternal pilgrimage. It teaches the world that truth and faith can never be destroyed, no matter how many times they are attacked.
From Vedic legends to modern history, the temple radiates resilience, devotion, and divine grace. Visiting Somnath is a profound spiritual experience—one that stirs the soul, anchors the mind, and awakens the seeker within.