Somnath Temple, architectural marvel of India

One of the most celebrated pilgrimage sites, Somnath temple is located on the western coast of Gujarat. The temple holds much importance in the hearts of Lord Shiva devotees as it is believed to house one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva which are considered the manifestation of Lord Shiva.

The glory of Somnath-Jyotirlinga located in the holy Prabhas region is deeply explained in Mahabharata, Srimad Bhagavat and Skanda Purana. One name of the moon is “Som“, he did penance here, considering Shiva as his lord. Hence, this Jyotirlinga named as Somnath.

Significance of Somnath Temple

Worshipping in Somnath destroys all the sins and misdeeds of the devotees. One becomes the character of the unending grace of Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati. Therefore, the path of salvation becomes easily accessible to them. All cosmic acts of devotees are automatically successful.

Jyotirlinga Shree Somnath Mahadev Temple situated on the banks of Arabian Sea in the west of the Indian subcontinent is unique. This shrine is one of the oldest pilgrimage centres in the country.

Also, Somnath temple is mentioned in ancient texts – Skanda Purana, Srimad Bhagavat Gita, Shiva Purana etc. At the same time, the glory of Someshwar Mahadev is also mentioned in the Rigveda.

The temple is divided into three major parts – the Garbh Grih, Sabha mandap and Nritya mandap. It has a 150 feet high peak. The Urn on its peak weighs ten tons and its flag is 27 feet high.

Regarding its uninterrupted sea route – Trishtambha, it is believed that this sea route ends in the South Pole indirectly. It is considered to be amazing proof of our ancient wisdom and understanding. This temple was rebuilt by Queen Ahilyabai.

Also, It is said that this temple is one of the first among twelve Jyotirlingas of Shiva. According to historical sources, the invaders attacked this temple 6 times. Even then, the present existence of this temple is a reflection of its reconstruction efforts and communal harmony.

Temple Architecture

The temple has constantly evolved. The present temple is built in Chalukya style. The main spire is 15 meters high and hosts an 8.2 meters flag atop the spire. It is reckoned that the temple is fabricated in such a way that no mass of land can be seen between the temple and Antarctica! This temple is seven storied and is 155 feet with one of the tallest Vimana.

Mythology Behind Somnath

According to mythology, Som is the name of Chandra, who was the son-in-law of Daksha

. Once he disregarded Daksha’s orders, due to which Daksha cursed him that his light would fade from day to day.

However, when the other gods asked Daksha to take back his curse, he said that taking a bath in the sea at the origin of river Saraswati could prevent the outbreak of curse.

Som worshipped Lord Shiva by bathing in the Arabian Sea at the mouth of Saraswati. Lord Shiva incarnated here and saved him and became famous as Somnath.

Curse of the moon

The local legends speak of the tales that occurred eons ago. Moon was believed to be cursed by his father –in- law, Daksh. Chandra married the 27 stars who were the daughters of Daksh. Upon neglecting his other 26 wives in favor of Rohini, Chandra was cursed to lose his luster and turn invisible. He prayed to Lord Shiva for years to seek relief from the blight. This penance earned him a boon from Lord Shiva and from that time Lord Shiva resides in this temple as “Lord of the Moon.” Mercy is shown to all those who repent and show remorse.

How To Reach? Airways

The nearest airport is Diu Airport which is located approx 63 km away from Somnath. There are regular bus and taxi service between Diu airport and Somnath.

Railways

Veraval railway station is the nearest to Somnath, which is located just seven kilometres from there. There is direct contact with Ahmedabad and other places of Gujarat from here.

Road Transport

Somnath is located at 7 km from Veraval, Ahmedabad 400 km, Bhavnagar 266 km, Junagadh 85 and 122 km from Porbandar. Bus services are available to this place across the state.