Planning a Visit to Somnath
Somnath Temple stands at Prabhas Patan, near Veraval, with the Arabian Sea breaking against the sea wall below it. Revered as the first of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the temple has been rebuilt many times over the centuries, and the present temple was consecrated in 1951.
Best time to visit
October to March offers the most comfortable weather for travel along the Saurashtra coast. The monsoon brings dramatic seas but wetter roads.
Mahashivratri, the month of Shravan and Kartik Purnima are especially significant at Somnath and draw large numbers of pilgrims. Plan and enquire well in advance for these dates.
At the temple
Aarti timings and the evening light-and-sound show follow a published schedule that can change, so confirm the current timings when you arrive.
Security at the temple may not allow phones, cameras or bags inside; cloakroom facilities are usually available near the entrance. Dress modestly and allow time for queues at busy periods.
Worth adding nearby
- Triveni Sangam, the meeting point of three rivers close to the temple.
- Bhalka Tirth, associated in tradition with the last days of Lord Krishna.
- Diu, a quieter coastal escape with Portuguese-era forts and beaches.
- Sasan Gir, home of the Asiatic lion — safari permits are booked through the official Gujarat Forest Department portal, often well in advance.
- Dwarka, for a combined Saurashtra pilgrimage circuit.
Booking your cab
A round trip works well for Somnath because it lets you keep the car for Gir, Diu or Dwarka without arranging separate transport. Share your dates, the number of travellers and the places you want to include, and we will suggest a suitable vehicle and plan.
Timings, rules and access arrangements at temples, monuments and parks change from time to time — please check them locally before you travel.
