The Somnath Temple, located in Prabhas Patan, Gujarat, is one of the most revered Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It has a history spanning thousands of years and has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times due to invasions.
Historical and Mythological Significance:
The Legend of Somnath: The Curse of Chandra (Moon God)
The story of the Somnath Temple is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology and revolves around Lord Chandra (Moon God), Daksha Prajapati, and Lord Shiva.
1. Chandra and His 27 Wives–
- Chandra (Moon God) was married to the 27 daughters of Daksha Prajapati, one of the Saptarishis (great sages and progenitors of the universe).
- However, Chandra was deeply in love with Rohini, the most beautiful among them, and neglected his other wives.
2. The Curse of Daksha Prajapati–
- Seeing his other daughters suffer, Daksha Prajapati cursed Chandra that he would gradually lose his light and luster (resulting in waning).
- As the curse took effect, Chandra began losing his glow and became weak and lifeless.
3. Seeking Lord Shiva’s Blessings–
- In despair, Chandra sought advice from Devarishi Narada, who told him to worship Lord Shiva.
- Chandra performed severe penance at Prabhas Kshetra (modern-day Somnath) on the banks of the Saraswati River.
- Pleased with his devotion, Lord Shiva appeared and blessed Chandra, restoring his glow in cycles (leading to the waxing and waning phases of the Moon).
- As a mark of gratitude, Chandra built a golden temple in honor of Lord Shiva at this very spot, calling it Somnath (meaning “Lord of the Moon”).
4. The Eternal Jyotirlinga–
- Shiva manifested here as a Jyotirlinga, a divine pillar of light that is self-manifested (Swayambhu).
- The temple became one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, the most sacred Shiva shrines in Hinduism.
- Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu also praised this sacred site, declaring it a tirtha (holy place) where devotees could attain moksha (liberation).
5. Cycles of Creation and Reconstruction
- According to Hindu texts, Somnath Temple has been built and rebuilt multiple times in different ages:
- Golden Temple by Chandra (Moon God)
- Silver Temple by Ravana (King of Lanka)
- Wooden Temple by Lord Krishna
- Stone Temple by King Bhima of the Pandavas
- This eternal cycle of destruction and reconstruction symbolizes the indestructible nature of faith.
Somnath Temple Visit Details:
- Somnath Mandir is located in Prabhas Patan, Gir Somnath District, Gujarat, India.
- Nearest City: Veraval (7 km away)
Temple Timings:
- Darshan Timings: 🕉️
- Every day: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Aarti Timings: 🔔
- Morning Aarti: 7:00 AM
- Afternoon Aarti: 12:00 PM
- Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM
- Somnath Light & Sound Show (Jay Somnath): 🌟
- Timings: 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Language: Available in Gujarati, Hindi, and English
How to Reach:
By Air:
- Nearest Airport: Diu Airport (80 km)
- Other airports: Rajkot (195 km), Ahmedabad (400 km)
By Train:
- Nearest Railway Station: Somnath Railway Station (0.5 km)
- Major Railhead: Veraval Junction (7 km)
By Road:
- Well-connected by buses, taxis, and private vehicles.
- Ahmedabad to Somnath: ~400 km (8-hour drive)
- Dwarka to Somnath: ~230 km
Conclusion: .
The Old Somnath Mandir, Gujarat stands as a symbol of faith, resilience, and devotion. Despite facing multiple destructions by invaders, it was rebuilt time and again, proving that spirituality and belief cannot be erased. The temple’s mythological significance as the first Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva and its historical importance make it one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India.
Today, the modern Somnath Temple, reconstructed under Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s initiative, continues to attract millions of devotees, offering them peace, divinity, and a connection to ancient Hindu traditions.