Somnath Temple

Somnath temple

The large, black Shiva lingam at its heart is one of the 12 most sacred Shiva shrines, known as jyotirlinga. A description of the temple by Al-Biruni, an Arab traveller, was so glowing that it prompted a visit in 1024 by a most unwelcome tourist – the legendary looter Mahmud of Ghazni from Afghanistan.

Why was Somnath temple destroyed 17 times?

Hint: Mahmud of Ghazni was a Turkish invader who attacked India 17 times between 1000 and 1024 AD for the dual purposes for accumulating wealth and spreading Islam. In 1024 AD, he raided Gujarat and took away all the wealth of the Somnath temple, damaging it severely.

When should we visit Somnath temple?

The best season to visit Somnath is the winter season. The temperature remains comfortable and is apt for sightseeing. The best months to visit are October, November, December, January, February and March. Winters approach Somnath in November and lasts till February.

Is Somnath temple made of gold?

The temple's interior already has 130 kgs of gold plates. After golden pillars, the ambitious task of gold plating 1,450 Kalash or stone spires atop Somnath temple is undertaken by the trust.

What should I wear in Somnath?

There is no specific dress code, but Somnath being a historical Hindu temple and one of the Jyotirlinga, its suggested to avoid Shorts.

Can we touch Somnath?

No one other than the priests is allowed to enter the ' Garbha Griha ' or the Sanctum Sanctorum of Somnath temple . So there is no question of touching the Jyotirlinga there .

Where is original shivling of Somnath?

The Somnath temple, also called Somanātha temple or Deo Patan, is a Hindu temple located in Prabhas Patan, Veraval in Gujarat, India. It is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus and is believed to be first among the twelve jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva.

Who first destroyed Somnath temple?

In 1026, Mahmud Ghazni lent the precious jewels and property of Somnath temple. After looting, slaughtering innumerable pilgrims of the temple and burning the temple and destroying it.

Who break the Somnath temple?

In the year 815, Pratishtha king Nag Bhatt II constructed the temple for the third time using the red stone, which is the sandstone. Mohammed Ghazni, in the year 1026, lent the precious jewels and the property of the temple. He looted the temple and slaughtered many pilgrims and burnt the temple, and destroyed it.

Is one day enough for Somnath?

Total 5 to 6 days are enough. If having more days, you may also cover Rani Ki Vav (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and Modhera Sun Temple also, these are beautiful. SOMNATH From Delhi there is a flight till Rajkot and from Rajkot 6 hours away is somnath.

Is there any dress code in Somnath temple?

For the temple I dont think its necessary, but shorts could be restricted. If you have booking of any special pooja or abhishek, will suggest you to wear saari being on safer side. No. its not compulsory.

Where should I go first Somnath or Dwarka?

The journey from Somanath is about 4-5 hours. Visit Dwarkadhish temple by 10 A.M. and other nearby temples like gopi talab, Bhadkeswar temple, rukni temple etc. and Nageswar jyotirlinga which can be covered within 2-3 hours. Either visit the above temples or go for Bhet Dwarka.

Which is the most powerful Jyotirlinga?

The Kashi Vishwanath (Vishweshwar) Temple in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh is home to the Vishwanath Jyotirlinga shrine, which is perhaps the most sacred of Hindu shrines.

What is the story of Somnath temple?

Chandra meditated and prayed to Lord Shiva and Shiva gave Chandra the boon that he will grow back to his size. Today, the place where Chandra worshipped Lord Shiva is known as Somnath which means the 'Lord of Moon'. Also, the moon is believed to be the brightest in Somnath.

Which God is Worshipped in Somnath temple?

The Somnath temple is located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Saurashtra. It is said to be the first among the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva. It is the important pilgrimage center for Hindus.

How do I spend a day in Somnath?

Most people travelling to Somnath often come here to attend the aarti and the stunning light and sound show at the Somnath Temple. But the beaches, museums and other temples are also tourist worthy and must be paid a visit during your 1 Day Diu To Somnath Trip by Car.

What is not allowed in Somnath temple?

Somnath temple is a high security area. You will be screened and frisked once at the time of entry and only frisked at the entrance of temple. No electronic items including mobiles, auto car keys etc are allowed. You are also not allowed to wear leather belt or carry your purse inside.

Can we do pooja in Somnath temple?

This Old Somnath Temple is in the same compound as the Jyotirlinga Temple. It is where one can offer prasad/ offerings & do the pooja/prayers with the help of the priest.

How many days are enough for Somnath?

Three to four days are enough to cover all the major sightseeings like Dwarkadish temple, Gomti river, Nageshwar Jyotirling, Bet Dwarka, Rukmani Temple, Porbandar, Somnath temple, Sudama temple, attend the light and sound how Junagarh fort and so much more.

How many steps are there in Somnath temple?

Visitors have to climb 270 steps that rise up from the ghats, to reach this beautiful temple.

14 Somnath temple Images