Somnath Jyotirlinga: The Temple with a Rich History

1. Introduction

Somnath Jyotirlinga is the first and foremost among the twelve Jyotirlinga temples in India. Located in Gir Somnath, Gujarat, it holds a significant place in Hindu mythology and is considered one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in the country. The temple boasts a rich history, captivating architecture, and fascinating legends associated with it.

The Somnath Temple stands proudly on the western corner of the Indian subcontinent, near the shore of the Arabian Sea. It is situated in Gir Somnath district of Gujarat, India. The serene and picturesque location adds to the spiritual aura of the temple, attracting devotees from far and wide.

3. Architecture of Somnath Temple

The temple is built in the Chalukya style of temple architecture, which is known for its intricate carvings and grandeur. It showcases the artistic brilliance of ancient craftsmen. The architecture of Somnath Jyotirlinga is a visual delight, with its majestic spires, domes, and ornate pillars. The temple complex includes various other structures like mandapas (halls), sabha mandapa (assembly hall), and a magnificent shikhara (tower) above the sanctum sanctorum.

4. Legends and Mythology

Creation by the Moon and Reconstruction by Ravana, Krishna, and Bhimdeva. According to Hindu mythology, Somnath Temple has a fascinating history of creation and reconstruction. It is believed that the original temple was created by the moon (Soma) in pure gold. Later, it was reconstructed by Ravana in silver, followed by Krishna in sandalwood, and finally by Bhimadeva in stone. Each reconstruction added to the magnificence and sanctity of the temple.

Curse of Daksha and Soma’s Worship of Shiva

The legend goes that Soma (the moon) had married Daksha’s 27 daughters but showed more attention to Rohini, neglecting the others. Daksha became displeased and cursed Soma to lose his luster and beauty. In order to get rid of the curse, Soma fervently worshipped Lord Shiva, who granted his prayer. From then on, the temple came to be known as Somnath, meaning “lord of the moon.”

Invasions by Mahmud Ghazni

Somnath Temple has faced numerous invasions throughout history. One of the most notable invasions was by Mahmud Ghazni, a ruler of the Turkic dynasty. Mahmud Ghazni invaded the temple multiple times with the intention of looting its gold and treasures. Despite the invasions and destruction, the temple has always risen again, signifying the indomitable spirit of devotion and resilience.

5. Significance of Somnath Jyotirlinga

Somnath Jyotirlinga holds immense religious and spiritual significance for devotees. It is believed that worshipping Lord Shiva at this sacred site can bestow blessings, fulfillment of desires, and spiritual enlightenment.

6. Temple Opening Hours

The Somnath Temple is open to devotees throughout the year. The timings may vary on different days and during different seasons. It is advisable to check the official website or local sources for the current opening hours. Generally, the temple opens early in the morning and remains open till late evening, allowing devotees to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva at their convenience.

7. How to Reach Somnath

 By Air:

The nearest airport to Somnath is the Diu Airport, located about 80 kilometers away. Regular flights connect Diu with major cities in India. From the airport, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Somnath.

 By Train:

The nearest railway station to Somnath is the Veraval Railway Station, which is wellconnected to various cities in Gujarat and other parts of India. From the railway station, one can easily find transportation options to reach the temple.

 By Road:

Somnath is wellconnected by road to major cities in Gujarat and neighboring states. State transport buses, as well as private taxis and cabs, are available for travel to Somnath. The road journey offers scenic views of the Gujarat coastline.

It is advisable to plan your visit in advance and check for any travel restrictions or guidelines due to the current circumstances.

Visiting the Somnath Jyotirlinga temple is an experience filled with devotion, spirituality, and a deep sense of history. The grandeur of the architecture, the captivating legends, and the divine aura of the place make it a mustvisit destination for devotees and those seeking a spiritual retreat.

Please note that the above information is based on the knowledge available up until September 2021, and it’s always a good idea to verify the current details before planning your trip.

8. Accommodation Options

Somnath offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. There are several hotels, guesthouses, and resorts located near the temple and in the surrounding areas. Some of the popular choices include:

Somnath Trust Guest House: Managed by the Temple Trust, this guesthouse provides comfortable accommodation for pilgrims. It is located near the temple premises and offers basic amenities.

There are various hotels around the temple as well as some luxury hotels also available with various facilities and suits according to vary the prices.

These are just a few examples, and there are many more options available to cater to different budgets and preferences. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons or festive periods, to ensure a hassle free stay.

“12 Sacred Jyotirlingas – Mahakal: Divine Fusion – Unveiling the Magnificence “

9. Nearby Attractions

While visiting Shree Somnath, you can explore other attractions in the vicinity as well. Some of the popular nearby places to visit include:

Bhalka Tirth:

Located just a short distance from the this Jyotirlinga, Bhalka Tirth is the sacred site where Lord Krishna is said to have been mistakenly shot by an arrow, leading to his departure from the mortal world. There is a temple and a serene garden at this spot, attracting devotees and tourists alike.

Gir National Park:

Situated approximately 45 kilometers from this Jyotirlinga, Gir National Park is renowned for being the only natural habitat of the Asiatic lions. A visit to this national park offers an opportunity to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, along with a variety of other wildlife.

Junagadh:

Located about 80 kilometers from Somnath, Junagadh is a historic city with several attractions, including the Uparkot Fort, Mahabat Maqbara, Darbar Hall Museum, and the Girnar mountain range.

These are just a few examples, and there are several other interesting places to explore in the region. It is advisable to plan your itinerary accordingly and allocate sufficient time to visit these attractions.

I hope this information helps you plan your visit to Somnath. Enjoy your spiritual journey and the rich cultural heritage of this sacred place!

“12 Jyotirlingas: Divine Awakening & Blessings!”