Somnath gets its name from the renowned Somnath Temple, which means “Protector of the Moon God.” According to legend, the Moon God, also known as Chandra, became proud and was cursed by his father-in-law to gradually lose his light. Chandra prayed to Lord Shiva, who softened the curse, allowing him to fade and return in cycles—explaining the phases of the moon.
places to visit in Somnath
Somnath Temple
Located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval on Gujarat’s western coast, the Somnath Temple is believed to be the first of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. It holds deep religious significance and is a major pilgrimage and tourist site.
Junagadh Gate
This historic gate is the main entrance to Somnath from nearby Veraval. Known as Junagadh Gate, it was once damaged during the invasion by Mahmud of Ghazni, who attacked the region. Today, it stands as a reminder of the temple’s rich and turbulent history.
Triveni Ghat
Triveni Ghat is a sacred place where three rivers—Kapil, Hiran, and the legendary Saraswati—are believed to meet before flowing into the sea. This spot symbolizes the cycle of birth, life, and death, and is considered holy for bathing rituals.
Ahilyabai Temple
Built by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar, this temple served as a replacement when the original Somnath Temple was destroyed. It reflects her devotion to restoring and preserving Hindu heritage.
Bhalka Tirth
Bhalka Tirth marks the place where Lord Krishna was mistakenly shot by a hunter named Jara, bringing an end to his earthly life. This sacred site is deeply respected by devotees.
Mai Puri Masjid
This mosque, known as Mai Puri Masjid, is linked to the time when Mahmud of Ghazni raided Somnath and looted its treasures. Today, it stands as a historical site that adds another layer to Somnath’s diverse heritage.
Prabhas Patan Museum
Located in the ancient town of Prabhas Patan, also known as Dev Patan, the Prabhas Patan Museum showcases sculptures, temple remains, and relics that reflect the area’s rich cultural and religious history.
Suraj Mandir (Sun Temple)
Situated close to Triveni Ghat, Suraj Mandir is an ancient temple dedicated to the Sun God. It is adorned with carvings of animals like elephants, lions, and birds, and is believed to be nearly as old as the Somnath Temple.
Laxmi Narayan Temple
This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi. It is a serene and spiritual place for devotees visiting Somnath.
Best Time to Visit Somnath
Somnath is a major pilgrimage site and attracts visitors all year round. However, the best time to visit is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is cool and comfortable for sightseeing and temple visits.
Summers (March to June) in Somnath can be very hot, with temperatures rising up to 42°C, making it difficult to explore the area comfortably. This season is generally avoided by most tourists.
Monsoon (July to September) brings heavy rainfall and strong winds. While the temperature drops and provides relief from the heat, high humidity and the risk of cyclones from the Arabian Sea can make travel less enjoyable.
Winters, on the other hand, are pleasant and mild, offering the ideal climate for temple visits and exploring nearby attractions like Panch Pandav Gufa, Junagadh Gate, and nearby cities such as Bhavnagar and Porbandar.
