Introduction
Somnath Temple, which stands majestically on the serene Arabian Sea coast in Prabhas Patan, Gujarat, is more than just a temple; it is a representation of faith, devotion, and unwavering faith.
This sacred home of Lord Shiva has been regarded as the first of the twelve Jyotirlingas since ancient times. Despite being repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt over the centuries, millions of devotees continue to flock to Somnath in search of divine blessings and spiritual solace.
Hindu mythology places great importance on Somnath, one of the most well-known Shiva temples in India.
The name Somnath, which translates to “Lord of the Moon,” comes from the belief that the Moon God, Soma, built the first temple in gold as a sacrifice to Lord Shiva to break a curse.
Located in the tranquil town of Prabhas Patan, the temple attracts pilgrims not only for its religious significance but also for its architectural beauty. The eternal sound of the waves adds to its sacred atmosphere, echoing the enduring spirit of devotion. In this guide, we will explore how to reach Somnath Temple.
Where is Somnath Temple Located?
The highly revered Somnath Temple is located in Prabhas Patan, a small but spiritually significant town near Veraval in Gujarat, India’s Gir Somnath district. It offers divine peace and a stunning sea view that enhances the spiritual experience, all while being nestled on the Arabian Sea coast.
Approximately 400 km from Ahmedabad, 200 km from Rajkot, 90 km from Junagadh, 85 km from Diu, and roughly 230 km from Dwarka, Somnath is ideally situated close to a number of significant cities and places of worship.
The temple is located in a spiritually rich area that also includes Triveni Sangam, where three sacred rivers converge, Bhalka Tirtha, where Lord Krishna is believed to have left his mortal form, and several historic shrines and kunds.
Because of its location, it makes Somnath is an essential stop for pilgrims exploring the sacred spiritual circuit of western India.
How to Reach Somnath Temple by Train
One of the most convenient and affordable ways to get to Somnath is by train.
The Somnath Temple is just 5–6 kilometers from the nearest train station, Veraval Junction (station code: VRL). Due to Veraval’s excellent connections to numerous major Indian cities, train travel is a preferred choice for both pilgrims and tourists.
- If you’re traveling from Ahmedabad, you can take the Saurashtra Express or the Somnath Express (22957/22958), both of which operate every day.
- From Mumbai, the Bandra Terminus–Somnath Express (22963/22964) offers a relaxing overnight journey.
- The Somnath Superfast Express, which links the capital with this holy location, is accessible to visitors from Delhi.
- It’s easy to book train tickets via the official IRCTC website or mobile app.
Devotees should make reservations at least a few weeks in advance when the temple sees a surge in visitors during holiday seasons like Mahashivratri or the Shravan month. You can get to the Somnath temple in less than fifteen minutes by taking one of the many shared jeeps, taxis, or autorickshaws that are available outside Veraval station.
Additionally, a lot of local drivers offer round-trip packages for visiting nearby places of worship..
How to Reach Somnath Temple by Road
Driving to Somnath is not only convenient, but it also offers a beautiful tour of Gujarat’s central region.
Thanks to its excellent connections via National Highway 51 and several state highways, the temple town is easily accessible from all of the major cities in the area.
Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) runs regular buses to Somnath from Ahmedabad (400 km), Rajkot (200 km), Porbandar (125 km), Junagadh (85 km), and Dwarka (230 km).
Buses range from budget to luxury Volvo services, and private bus companies also offer air-conditioned coach options and overnight travel.
Popular routes for self-drive trips are as follows:
- The drive from Ahmedabad to Rajkot, then to Junagadh, and finally to Somnath takes about seven to eight hours.
- It takes roughly five to six hours to travel from Dwarka to Porbandar to Somnath.
Along the route are gas stations, eateries, and dhabas, and the roads are generally in good shape.
For families or groups looking for comfort and flexibility, it’s a fantastic choice. Travelers can use private taxis, local rental cars, and even Ola/Uber taxis (though they are scarce, especially from neighboring cities) for short-distance and regional travel.
Additionally, Veraval offers shared jeeps and autorickshaws to assist you with the final few kilometers to the templeTraveling by road to Somnath is a pleasant and unforgettable experience through Gujarat’s cultural heartland, regardless of whether you’re on a pilgrimage or a spiritual road trip.
How to Reach Somnath Temple by Air
If you’re short on time or traveling from a far-off city, flying is the fastest way to get to Somnath. The nearest airport is Diu Airport (DIU), about 85 kilometers from the temple.
With daily flights from Mumbai and a few flights from Ahmedabad, Diu’s excellent connectivity makes it a convenient choice for both domestic and international travelers.
After you land in Diu, it takes about two and a half to three hours to travel by taxi or private cab to Somnath. Views of the Gujarati countryside and coast can be seen from the scenic and convenient road that connects Diu and Somnath.
Other airports in the area are:
- Porbandar Airport (~130 km)
- Rajkot Airport (~190 km)
- Ahmedabad International Airport (~410 km)
While Rajkot and Porbandar have poor flight connectivity, Ahmedabad is the greatest choice for visitors coming from other major Indian cities or from abroad.
- You can take a private vehicle or train from Ahmedabad to Somnath.
- For foreign tourists, flying into Mumbai or Ahmedabad and then connecting to Diu or Rajkot is the most efficient route.
- Since many visitors combine Somnath with other religious sites like Dwarka, Gir National Park, or Diu Island, flying is a practical and flexible option.
- Regardless of the airport you choose, the final stretch to Somnath is full of picturesque charm and a growing sense of spiritual anticipation.
Best Route Based on Your Location
Getting ready to travel to Somnath?
Where you’re starting from often determines the best route:
- From Delhi, flying to Rajkot or Diu and then taking a taxi or train to Somnath is the most practical way to get there.
- From Mumbai, you have two options: Take a quick flight to Diu and then continue by road, or board a direct train like the Somnath Express.
- Plan a flight to Rajkot or Ahmedabad from Bangalore or Chennai, and then take a train or Volvo bus to Somnath.
- Travellers from other countries: After landing in Mumbai, take a domestic flight to Rajkot or Diu, and then take a taxi to the temple.
Whatever your starting point, a little preparation will guarantee a seamless, effective, and spiritually fulfilling yatra to this revered Jyotirlinga.
Local Travel in Somnath
Somnath is cheap and straightforward to use.
For short distances, such as those between your hotel and the Somnath Temple or nearby locations like Triveni Sangam and Bhalka Tirtha, autorickshaws and e-rickshaws are the most popular and affordable forms of transportation.
They can be hired right away and are easily accessible. If you intend to spend the entire day sightseeing, the best choices are local taxi rentals or private taxi services.
You can arrange half-day or full-day packages that include visits to significant religious locations such as the Prabhas Patan Museum and the Gita Mandir with the help of many hotels.
The Somnath temple offers wheelchair access and assistance services for elderly and disabled pilgrims, especially near the main entrance and darshan lines.
Asking the temple help desks or your hotel about availability and making reservations in advance is the best course of action. Regardless of your preference for comfort or cost, Somnath offers a range of local transportation options to make your pilgrimage hassle-free and peaceful.
Where to Stay Near Somnath Temple
Somnath offers a wide variety of lodging choices to suit every preference and price range.
- A short walk from the temple are dharmshalas and comfortable, clean lodges for budget travelers.
- These are ideal for devotees looking for an affordable yet practical place to stay.
- Think about booking a room at the immaculate Somnath Trust Guest Houses, which offer a trustworthy and spiritual setting along with basic amenities at affordable rates.
- If you want more comfort, there are mid-range and luxury hotels in nearby Veraval, which is only 5 to 6 km away.
- These offer modern conveniences, family-friendly services, and even rooms with temple views.
Pro Tip: During periods of high demand, such as Maha Shivratri, Shravan month, or Kartik Purnima, accommodations quickly fill up.
It is recommended that you book your lodging well in advance through reliable websites or the Somnath Trust portal.
Regardless of your financial situation, staying close to the temple ensures that you never miss the peaceful evening darshan or the early morning aartis.
Temple Timings & Darshan Tips
The Somnath Temple opens daily from 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM, offering ample time for devotees to seek blessings at their convenience. Three main aartis are performed during the day:
- Morning Aarti: Around 7:00 AM
- Midday Aarti: Around 12:00 PM
- Evening Aarti: Around 7:00 PM
One of the must-see events is the Light and Sound Show, which happens on the temple grounds every evening at approximately 8:00 PM.
Because it tells the story of Somnath in Hindi so well, it is both spiritual and educational.
While offline darshan is easily accessible, the official Somnath Trust website offers details on online darshan passes and VIP booking options, especially during festivals.
Darshan Tip: Go early in the morning or late at night for a more peaceful experience with fewer people.
Travel Tips & Things to Remember
Putting together a fun and successful trip to Somnath?
- Keep in mind these quick tips: You need a valid photo ID at all times to check into a hotel, board a plane, and sometimes even enter a temple.
- Dress modestly, preferably in traditional or simple attire, to maintain the temple’s sanctity.
- Bringing cell phones, cameras, or leather items into the main sanctum is strictly prohibited.
- Respect local customs, especially those related to darshan: be silent, remove your shoes, and follow line discipline.
- Make sure to plan for your travel and accommodations if you’re going during popular periods like Maha Shivratri, Shravan Maas, or public holidays.
Sample Itinerary for Pilgrims
Are you thinking of going to Somnath for a spiritual retreat?
Here is a simple three-day, two-night itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:
- Day 1: By the afternoon, travel to Somnath by train or airplane.
Make reservations at a nearby hotel or a dharmshala. In the evening, take in the darshan at Somnath Temple, where a magnificent aarti and light and sound performance will follow.
- Day 2: Visit nearby religious sites like Triveni Sangam, Panch Pandav Gufa, and Bhalka Tirtha, where Lord Krishna was pierced by an arrow, after breakfast. Return in time for an evening stroll along the temple promenade.
- Day 3: Return home or continue your journey by visiting Dwarka, another Char Dham site, or Gir National Park to observe wildlife. This itinerary balances divine darshan with tranquil Somnath exploration.
Conclusion
A visit to Somnath Temple is not just a journey but a deeply spiritual and emotional experience. It offers peace, devotion, and divine energy amidst the coastal serenity of Prabhas Patan, Gujarat. With smooth connectivity by air, rail, and road, reaching this Jyotirlinga is both convenient and memorable.
The temple’s resilience through time reflects the unwavering faith of millions across generations. Whether you’re a pilgrim or traveler, Somnath promises blessings, history, and lasting spiritual fulfillment.