Somnath, Gujarat, (West India)
Discover places to visit in Somnath, a revered destination in Gujarat, India. Known for its rich history and sacred sites, Somnath is a must-visit for those seeking both serenity and cultural enrichment. Key attractions include the iconic Somnath Temple, a pinnacle of architectural splendor and a significant part of the history of Somnath. Explore other fascinating places to visit in Somnath like Triveni Sangam, Bhalka Tirth, and the serene Somnath Beach. The best time to visit Somnath is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, perfect for exploring its historical landmarks and spiritual ambiance. Whether you're a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or a casual traveler, Somnath offers a memorable journey through India's rich cultural tapestry.
Unlock the beauty of Somnath with our comprehensive guide to the best things to do and places to visit in this mesmerizing region. From nature's marvels to cultural gems, Somnath has it all
Religious Visit
According to legend, it's the place where Lord Krishna was mistaken for a deer and hit by an arrow from a hunter. There's a temple marking this spot.
Best Time to Visit: January - February, November - December
Timings: 06:00-18:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Proper attire is required
Beach
While swimming is not advised due to rough waves, the beach is perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Best Time to Visit: January - February, November - December
Timings: 06:00-18:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Swimming is often not recommended due to strong currents
Religious Visit
The temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva and a must-visit pilgrimage site. The current temple, built in 1951, is the seventh reconstruction on the original site.
Best Time to Visit: January - February, November - December
Timings: 06:00-21:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Proper attire is required
Trekking
It's approximately 65km from Somnath and is famous for being the royal home of Asiatic lions.
Best Time to Visit: January - March, December
Timings: 06:00-17:00
Closing Days: Closed on Wednesday
Price: 800.0 (Price is for 6 people)
Online Booking is recommended during peak season & The vehicle fee for safari is Rs 35, and the photography fee is Rs 100.
Sightseeing
The meeting point of three rivers - Hiren, Kapila, and Saraswati. It's considered a very holy spot.
Best Time to Visit: January - March, October - December
Timings: 06:00-20:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Be mindful of currents if bathing
Sightseeing
The major entrance to the town, this historical gate is a beautiful structure to visit.
Best Time to Visit: January - March, October - December
Timings: 06:00-18:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Religious Visit
The show called "Jay Somnath" is an enchanting experience that narrates the history of the temple.
Best Time to Visit: January - February, November - December
Timings: 19:45-20:45
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 25.0 (Price is for 1 people)
May be canceled in bad weather
Museum
You can learn about the ancient history of the region and the temple's history.
Best Time to Visit: January - March, October - December
Timings: 10:00-17:00
Closing Days: Closed on Friday
Price: 5.0 (Price is for 1 people)
No photography allowed
Travel Guidelines for Somnath, Gujarat (West India) For Indian Travellers Only
1. Place Information
Somnath, located in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat, is predominantly known for the Somnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. Historically, the temple has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times, making it an emblem of cultural resilience. Apart from its spiritual significance, Somnath also boasts a beautiful coastline.
2. Travel Related Information
By Road: Somnath is well-connected by road to major cities in Gujarat. It's about 400 km from Ahmedabad and around 85 km from Diu.
By Air: The nearest airport is Diu Airport, which is about 60 km away. Keshod Airport is another option, approximately 55 km from Somnath.
By Railway: Somnath has its railway station, connecting it to various major cities in Gujarat and India.
3. Visa Related Information
Indian citizens don't require a visa to travel within India. For any ID or travel-related concerns, refer to local administrative offices or the Ministry of Home Affairs website.
4. SIM Card/Network Related Information
Major telecom providers in Somnath include Jio, Airtel, Vodafone-Idea, and BSNL. Network connectivity is generally good throughout the town.
5. Govt Safety Guidelines
Somnath is a significant pilgrimage site and is generally considered safe for visitors. Tourists are advised to follow local customs and etiquettes, especially when visiting religious places. For any advisories or information, check the Gujarat Police website.
6. Internal Transport Related Information
Local auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available for sightseeing within Somnath. The town is relatively small, so many sites can also be accessed on foot.
7. Places to Visit in somnath
Somnath Temple: A renowned temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, representing one of the twelve Jyotirlingas.
Triveni Sangam: A confluence of three holy rivers – Kapila, Hiran, and Saraswati. It's a serene spot with religious significance.
Surya Mandir: A temple dedicated to the Sun God, it's an architectural beauty.
Somnath Beach: A tranquil beach, perfect for relaxation and watching sunsets.
Bhalka Tirth: A historically significant place where Lord Krishna is believed to have been struck by an arrow, leading to his departure from the mortal world.