Somnath Temple, Gujarat

Somnath located near Veraval , Gujarat is considered first and foremost of all Jyotirlings. It is named after the Moon (Soma) who worshipped Shiva to get rid of a curse put on him by his father-in-law, Daksha. On getting Shiva’s blessings, the moon regained his light and this is why this town is also referred to as Prabhas. The original Somanth temple was built by the moon in pure gold and later rejuvenated by Ravana in silver, by Krishna in sandalwood and finally by Bhimadeva in stone. Thereafter, this temple was raided multiple times by invaders in the medieval centuries. The latest temple is made with reddish yellow stones and was inaugurated by the first Indian President Dr. Rajendra Prasad in 1951. One can experience complete ecstasy looking at the sight of the gigantic waves of the Arabian Sea hitting the sturdy walls of Somnath temple. Veraval is well connected to all important cities of India via roads and railways.

Although, there is a restriction to go inside the sanctorum and touch the linga, one is still allowed to offer Ganga water on it through a mechanical device. Cell phones, bags, cameras etc, must be deposited in the lockers at the entrance. If you are staying here overnight, then don’t miss the historical and an hour long light and sound show in the evening at 7.45 pm.