Introduction
The majestic Somnath Temple stands as a testament to India’s enduring spiritual heritage and architectural brilliance. Perched on the western coast of Gujarat where the Arabian Sea meets the sacred soil of Prabhas Patan, this ancient shrine isn’t merely a place of worship—it’s a living chronicle of India’s tumultuous past.
Rising from destruction time and again, the Somnath Temple embodies the unbreakable spirit of devotion. As one of the first twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, it attracts pilgrims from across the nation who seek divine blessings from Someshwar, “the Lord of the Moon.” The temple’s golden spires reaching skyward against the backdrop of crashing waves create a sight that stirs both spiritual awakening and aesthetic appreciation.
Through centuries of destruction and subsequent resurrections, Somnath stands today as a powerful symbol of cultural resilience—telling the story of a civilization that refused to let its sacred heritage vanish into the pages of history.
MCQ on Introduction
MCQ 1: The Somnath Temple is primarily dedicated to which deity?
- A) Lord Vishnu
- B) Lord Brahma
- C) Lord Shiva
- D) Lord Ganesha Answer: C) Lord Shiva
Brief Information
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Somnath Temple (Somnath Mahadev Temple) |
| Identity | First among the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva |
| Location | Prabhas Patan, Gir Somnath district, Gujarat, India |
| Initial Construction | Believed to be built in gold by the Moon God (mythological) |
| Current Structure | Built in 1951 (completed in 1995) |
| Architecture Style | Chaulukya (Solanki) style of temple architecture |
| Height | 155 feet (7 stories) |
| Primary Deity | Lord Shiva as Someshwar/Somnath |
| Geographic Significance | Built at the confluence of three rivers (Kapila, Hiran, and Saraswati) on the Arabian Sea shore |
| Architectural Highlight | Intricate carvings, 15-meter high Shikhara with an 8.2-meter flag pole |
| Historical Significance | Destroyed and rebuilt seven times; symbol of resilience |
| Darshan Timings | 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Aarti Timings | 7:00 AM, 12:00 Noon, and 7:00 PM |
| Management | Shri Somnath Trust |
The Mythological Origins
The Moon God’s Temple
The name “Somnath” itself reveals the temple’s mythic origins—”Som” refers to the Moon God (Chandra) and “Nath” means lord. According to Puranic traditions, the temple’s story begins with a divine curse and redemption.
As legend tells, Chandra (the Moon God) had married twenty-seven daughters of Daksha Prajapati, but showered his affection exclusively on Rohini. This favoritism angered his other wives, who complained to their father. Enraged by this unequal treatment, Daksha cursed Chandra to lose his luster and light.
Desperate to free himself from this curse, Chandra traveled to Prabhas Teerth and dedicated himself to rigorous penance and devotion to Lord Shiva. Pleased with Chandra’s unwavering devotion, Lord Shiva partially lifted the curse—which explains why the moon waxes and wanes but never remains permanently darkened.
In gratitude, Chandra is said to have constructed the first temple at Somnath, crafted entirely of gold. Later iterations of the temple were reportedly built in silver by the demon king Ravana and in sandalwood by Lord Krishna.
While these mythological accounts cannot be historically verified, they highlight the deep cultural significance of Somnath in Hindu cosmology and establish it as an ancient site of spiritual importance long before recorded history.
MCQs on Origins AND Mythology
MCQ 2: According to Hindu mythology, who is said to have originally built a temple at Somnath?
- A) Lord Krishna
- B) The Moon God Soma
- C) Ravana
- D) The Pandavas Answer: B) The Moon God Soma
MCQ 3: The Somnath Temple is located in which state of India?
- A) Gujarat
- B) Rajasthan
- C) Maharashtra
- D) Madhya Pradesh Answer: A) Gujarat
Historical Evolution
Early Historical References
While mythological accounts place the temple’s origins in the realm of gods, historical records suggest the temple has existed since at least the early medieval period. The earliest historical references indicate that a significant temple structure existed at Somnath before the 7th century CE.
The second documented temple was built around 649 CE by a Yadava king from Vallabhi. Later, the Gurjara-Pratihara king erected what is considered the third iteration of the temple around 815 CE. Archaeological evidence and historical accounts suggest that by the 10th century, the Somnath temple had become one of the wealthiest and most revered shrines in the subcontinent.
During the Chaulukya (Solanki) dynasty’s rule under King Bhima I and later Kumarapala, the temple flourished as a center of religious activity and received royal patronage. Elaborate rituals were conducted daily, and the temple’s wealth grew substantially through donations from devotees and royal grants.
The Era of Invasions
Somnath’s wealth and prominence made it a target for invaders, beginning a cycle of destruction and reconstruction that would define its history. The temple’s story is intertwined with some of the most dramatic moments in medieval Indian history.
The Mahmud of Ghazni Raid (1024 CE)
The most infamous attack on Somnath came from Mahmud of Ghazni in 1024 CE, during the reign of Chaulukya ruler Bhima I. According to Persian chronicles like the Tarikh-i-Yamini, Mahmud’s forces plundered the temple’s vast treasures—estimated at 20 million dinars—and destroyed the sacred Shivalinga.
Turko-Persian accounts describe the raid in triumphant detail, emphasizing the destruction of “idols” as a religious victory. Indian sources, however, suggest that while damage was significant, the temple complex was not completely destroyed, and the sacred emblem was hidden by devotees before the attack.
This raid has become symbolic of the religious conflicts that characterized parts of medieval Indian history and continues to be referenced in historical and political discourse today.
MCQs on Historical Destructions
MCQ 4: Who is recorded as the first invader to raid and destroy the Somnath Temple in 1024 CE?
- A) Alauddin Khilji
- B) Mahmud of Ghazni
- C) Aurangzeb
- D) Muhammad Ghori
Answer: B) Mahmud of Ghazni
MCQ 5: How many times has the Somnath Temple been destroyed and rebuilt throughout history?
- A) 3 times
- B) 5 times
- C) 7 times
- D) More than 7 times
Answer: C) 7 times
Subsequent Destruction and Rebuilding
Following Mahmud’s raid, the temple was rebuilt by King Bhima I and later enhanced by Kumarapala of the Chaulukya dynasty. However, this revival was short-lived, as the temple faced repeated attacks:
- In 1299 CE, Alauddin Khalji’s army led by Ulugh Khan attacked Gujarat and defeated the Vaghela king Karna, causing damage to the temple.
- Around 1308 CE, during the reign of Mahipala I, the Chudasama king of Saurashtra rebuilt the temple.
- In 1395 CE, Zafar Khan, founder of the Gujarat Sultanate, attacked the temple.
- In 1451 CE, Mahmud Begada, Sultan of Gujarat, conducted another attack.
- The final major destruction came in 1665 CE under Mughal emperor Aurangzeb’s orders.
After Aurangzeb’s destruction, the temple remained in ruins for over a century until Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore constructed a new temple adjacent to the ruins in 1783 CE. This structure, though smaller than its predecessors, helped maintain the sacred continuity of worship at the site.
MCQs on Modern Reconstruction
MCQ 6: Who laid the foundation for the reconstruction of the present Somnath Temple?
- A) Mahatma Gandhi
- B) Jawaharlal Nehru
- C) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
- D) K.M. Munshi
Answer: C) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
MCQ 7: When was the current structure of the Somnath Temple completed?
- A) 1947
- B) 1951
- C) 1963
- D) 1995
Answer: B) 1951
Under British Rule
During the British colonial period, an unusual incident related to Somnath became a subject of political controversy. In 1842, Edward Law (Lord Ellenborough), the Governor-General of India, ordered the British army in Afghanistan to retrieve what he believed were the original sandalwood gates from Somnath that had been taken by Mahmud to his tomb in Ghazni.
This “Proclamation of the Gates” became highly controversial when it was discovered that the gates brought back were actually made of Deodar wood and bore no resemblance to Gujarati craftsmanship. They were ultimately stored in the Agra Fort, and Lord Ellenborough faced criticism in the British Parliament for this politically motivated action.
The incident highlighted how Somnath had become not just a religious symbol but also a political one—representing India’s historical wounds and cultural resilience in the colonial imagination.
Postal stamp in honor of Somnath Temple
Post-Independence Reconstruction
After India gained independence in 1947, the reconstruction of Somnath became a project of national significance, symbolizing the restoration of cultural heritage after centuries of foreign rule. Key leaders of the independence movement, including Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, K. M. Munshi, and with the blessing of Mahatma Gandhi, initiated plans for rebuilding the temple in its full glory.
In October 1950, the remnants of the old structure were carefully documented and then removed to make way for a completely new temple. The foundation stone was laid on May 8, 1950, by President Rajendra Prasad. Construction began in earnest in 1951 under the guidance of the Somnath Trust.
The newly built temple was designed in the traditional Chaulukya style of Gujarat temple architecture by architect Prabhashankara Oghadbhai Sompura and completed in 1995. At its inauguration, President Rajendra Prasad famously remarked, “The Somnath Temple signifies that the power of reconstruction is always greater than the power of destruction.”
This modern reconstruction stands not just as a place of worship but as a powerful symbol of India’s cultural continuity and resilience in the face of historical adversities.
Architectural Magnificence
Design and Layout
The current Somnath Temple exemplifies the classic Chaulukya (Solanki) style of Hindu temple architecture, characterized by intricate stone carvings, ornate pillars, and a majestic shikhara (spire). Built by Gujarat’s master craftsmen under architect Chandrakant Sompura’s guidance, the temple stands as a masterpiece of traditional temple architecture.
The temple complex faces east and is constructed entirely of honey-colored limestone and sandstone. Its main shikhara rises approximately 15 meters in height, crowned with an 8.2-meter flag pole, creating an imposing silhouette against the Arabian Sea backdrop.
The temple structure comprises seven stories, standing 155 feet tall. It features three entrances on three sides, leading to a spacious central hall (mandapa) where devotees gather for darshan. The garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) houses the sacred Shivalinga, the primary object of worship.
Artistic Elements
The architectural brilliance of Somnath lies in its exquisite detailing. The exterior and interior surfaces are adorned with elaborate stone carvings depicting deities, celestial beings, floral patterns, and scenes from Hindu mythology. The doorways feature intricately carved images of Nandi (Lord Shiva’s vehicle) and various gods and goddesses.
The temple’s pillared hall showcases masterful stonework with ornate capitals and brackets. Silver partitions enhance the interior’s grandeur, while the convex pyramidal elements add to the architectural complexity. The Nandi idol, facing the main shrine, is an artistic masterpiece that draws significant attention from visitors.
One of the most fascinating architectural elements is the Bāṇastambha (arrow pillar) near the sea-protection wall, which bears a Sanskrit inscription stating: “There is no land between the place where the temple complex lies and Antarctica if you had to draw a straight line to connect the two.” Modern geographical coordinates have confirmed this assertion, as the only landmass along this latitude and longitude (20.8880° N and 70.4012° E) is indeed an uninhabited island.
Sacred Geography
The temple’s location itself holds profound significance in Hindu sacred geography. It stands at the confluence of three sacred rivers—Kapila, Hiran, and Saraswati—where they meet the Arabian Sea. This triveni sangam (three-river confluence) is considered highly auspicious in Hindu tradition.
The temple complex houses not only the main Shiva shrine but also several smaller temples dedicated to other deities, including Hanuman and Ganesha (as Kapardi Vinayak). The integration of Jaina architectural influences alongside predominantly Brahmanical elements reflects the syncretic religious traditions that flourished in medieval Gujarat.
MCQ 8: Which architectural style is predominantly featured in the present-day Somnath Temple?
- A) Dravidian
- B) Nagara
- C) Vesara
- D) Indo-Islamic Answer: B) Nagara
MCQ 9: What special feature of the Somnath Temple demonstrates ancient India’s astronomical knowledge?
- A) The temple spire aligns with the North Star
- B) There is no land mass between the temple’s shore and Antarctica
- C) The temple has precisely 108 pillars
- D) The temple’s shadow disappears at noon Answer: B) There is no land mass between the temple’s shore and Antarctica
Spiritual Significance
Religious Importance
As the first among the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas of Shiva, Somnath holds preeminent status in Shaivite tradition. According to Hindu beliefs, a Jyotirlinga represents Lord Shiva’s manifestation as a column of light, making these sites especially powerful for spiritual practices.
Devout Hindus believe that a pilgrimage to all twelve Jyotirlingas brings immense spiritual merit and liberation. Many devotees begin their Jyotirlinga pilgrimage at Somnath, considering it the starting point of this sacred journey.
The temple’s association with the Syamantak Mani (philosopher’s stone) adds another layer of mystique. Legend suggests that the original Shivalinga was suspended in mid-air due to the magnetic properties of this stone, which was believed to have alchemical properties capable of producing gold. While this particular feature doesn’t exist in the current temple, the legend continues to fascinate visitors.
Cultural Importance
Beyond its religious significance, Somnath represents the cultural resilience of Indian civilization. Its repeated destruction and reconstruction symbolize the enduring nature of Hindu traditions despite historical challenges.
In modern India, Somnath has become a cultural icon representing national heritage and identity. The temple’s restoration after independence was seen as symbolic of India reclaiming its cultural and spiritual sovereignty after centuries of foreign rule.
Visitor Information
Temple Timings and Rituals
The Somnath Temple welcomes devotees throughout the year, with darshan timings from 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM daily. The temple conducts three aartis (ritual worship with light) daily at 7:00 AM, 12:00 noon, and 7:00 PM, which are considered especially auspicious times to visit.
For visitors unable to enter the temple due to crowding or other constraints, the temple management has installed a large display screen outside where devotees can view the Shivalinga and observe the aarti ceremonies.
The best time to visit Somnath is during the winter months (October to February) when temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 20°C to 28°C. Summer temperatures can reach 34°C, making sightseeing less comfortable.
Special religious celebrations take place during Shivratri, Kartik Purnima, and the month of Shravan, when the temple sees a significant increase in pilgrim numbers.
Accommodation Options
The Shri Somnath Trust manages approximately 200 guest facilities within the temple complex, including:
- VIP Guesthouses
- 18 standard guest houses
- Economical dormitories
| Room Type | Beds | Tariff (Rs.) | Deposit (Rs.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deluxe A.C. | 2 | 2250/- | 3000/- |
| A.C. SUITE | 2 | 4000/- | 5000/- |
| Premier Room | 2 | 3000/- | 4000/- |
Several hotels are also available near the temple complex:
- The Fern Residency Somnath: 2.7 km from the temple
- Hotel Majestic Somnath: 2.1 km from the temple
- Hotel Kruti: 2.2 km from the temple
- Athiz Inn Somnath: 2.4 km from the temple
- The Square Somnath: 3.1 km from the temple
- The Grand Daksh: 4.2 km from the temple
Accessibility
Somnath is well-connected to major cities in Gujarat and neighboring states:
By Rail: Somnath has its own railway station with connections to major cities. Veraval railway station, just 5 km away, offers better connectivity with frequent trains.
By Air: The nearest airport is at Diu, approximately 95 km from Somnath. From there, taxis are available for around INR 2000.
By Road: Somnath is connected by state highways to major cities including Ahmedabad (465 km), Rajkot (230 km), and Junagadh (85 km). State transport and private buses operate regular services to Somnath.
Nearby Attractions
Visitors to Somnath can enhance their experience by exploring several noteworthy attractions in the vicinity:
- Gir National Park: Located approximately 43 km from Somnath, this wildlife sanctuary is the last remaining habitat of the endangered Asiatic lion. With around 285 lions protected within its 1400 sq km area, the park offers safari opportunities to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
- Chorwad Beach: About 26 km from Somnath, this picturesque beach resort developed by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat offers pristine shores and tranquil surroundings. Chorwad was once home to the Nawab of Junagadh’s summer palace, which has now been converted into a heritage hotel.
- Veraval: This major fishing port, located 5 km from Somnath, offers a glimpse into Gujarat’s maritime culture. Visitors can observe traditional fishing communities and sample fresh seafood at local restaurants.
- Bhalka Tirth: Just 4 km from Somnath, this sacred site is believed to be where Lord Krishna was accidentally struck by an arrow and left his mortal body. A small temple marks this significant spot in Hindu mythology.
- Triveni Sangam: The confluence of the three rivers with the Arabian Sea creates a sacred bathing spot where pilgrims perform ritual ablutions. The view of sunset from this location is particularly spectacular.
Significant Events in Somnath Temple History
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| Ancient Period | Mythological construction by Moon God Chandra |
| 649 CE | Second temple built by a Yadava king from Vallabhi |
| 815 CE | Third temple built by Gurjara-Pratihara king |
| 1024 CE | Attacked and plundered by Mahmud of Ghazni |
| 1026 CE | Rebuilt by Bhima I of Chaulukya dynasty |
| 1299 CE | Attacked by Alauddin Khalji’s forces under Ulugh Khan |
| 1308 CE | Rebuilt by Mahipala I, Chudasama king of Saurashtra |
| 1395 CE | Attacked by Zafar Khan, founder of Gujarat Sultanate |
| 1451 CE | Attacked by Mahmud Begada, Sultan of Gujarat |
| 1665 CE | Destroyed by Mughal emperor Aurangzeb |
| 1783 CE | New temple built by Ahilyabai Holkar near original site |
| 1842 CE | Controversial “Proclamation of the Gates” by Lord Ellenborough |
| May 1950 | Foundation stone laid for current temple by President Rajendra Prasad |
| 1951 | Construction of current temple begins |
| 1995 | Completion of the current temple structure |
Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this article on the remarkable history of Somnath Temple, then do subscribe to our newsletter for more captivating informative articles delivered straight to your inbox. Don’t forget to share on your favorite social profiles and join us on social media to keep conversation going. The story of Somnath—with its cycles of destruction and rebirth—reminds us that cultural heritage, like faith itself, can never be truly destroyed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Why is Somnath Temple considered so important in Hinduism?
A: Somnath Temple houses the first of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, making it one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Hindus. Its mythological connection to the Moon God and its location at the triveni sangam (confluence of three rivers with the Arabian Sea) adds to its spiritual significance.
Q2: How many times has the Somnath Temple been destroyed and rebuilt?
A: According to historical records, Somnath Temple has been destroyed and rebuilt seven times throughout its history. The destruction was primarily carried out by various invaders from the 11th to 17th centuries, with the current structure being built after India’s independence.
Q3: What is special about Somnath Temple’s architecture?
A: Somnath Temple is built in the traditional Chaulukya (Solanki) style of temple architecture. Its 155-foot tall structure comprises seven stories, intricate stone carvings, a 15-meter high shikhara (spire), and is positioned so that there is no land between the temple and Antarctica in a straight line.
Q4: What is the story behind the name “Somnath”?
A: “Somnath” combines two Sanskrit words: “Som” (referring to the Moon God or Chandra) and “Nath” (meaning lord). The name refers to Lord Shiva as the deity who helped the Moon God regain his lost luster after being cursed by his father-in-law Daksha.
Q5: When is the best time to visit Somnath Temple?
A: The winter months (October to February) offer the most pleasant climate for visiting Somnath Temple, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C. Religious festivals like Shivratri and the month of Shravan are considered spiritually significant times to visit, though they also attract larger crowds.
Q6: How do I reach Somnath Temple?
A: Somnath is accessible by rail (Somnath and Veraval stations), road (connected to major cities in Gujarat), and air (nearest airport at Diu, 95 km away). Most visitors find train travel to Veraval (5 km from Somnath) followed by local transport to be the most convenient option.
Q7: What is the significance of the Bāṇastambha (arrow pillar) at Somnath?
A: The Bāṇastambha is an arrow-shaped pillar near the sea wall that bears a Sanskrit inscription stating there is no land between this point and Antarctica in a straight line. Modern geographical verification has confirmed this fascinating claim.
MCQs Overall History of Somnath Temple
MCQ 10: Which of these religious texts mentions the glory of Somnath Temple?
- A) Rig Veda
- B) Skanda Purana
- C) Bhagavad Gita
- D) Ramayana Answer: B) Skanda Purana
MCQ 11: Which famous Indian described the reconstruction of Somnath Temple as “the symbol of undying faith and the resurrection of Hindu culture”?
- A) B.R. Ambedkar
- B) K.M. Munshi
- C) Rabindranath Tagore
- D) S. Radhakrishnan Answer: B) K.M. Munshi
MCQ 12: What historical artifact, once part of Somnath Temple, was reportedly taken to Ghazni after Mahmud’s raid?
- A) The golden kalash
- B) The temple’s main gates
- C) The Shiva lingam
- D) Silver statues Answer: B) The temple’s main gates
MCQ 13: Which religious significance does the Somnath Temple hold among the following?
- A) It is one of the four main pilgrimage sites for Buddhists
- B) It is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites
- C) It is the first among the twelve Jyotirlingas
- D) It is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas Answer: C) It is the first among the twelve Jyotirlingas
MCQ 14: What political significance did the reconstruction of Somnath Temple have in post-independence India?
- A) It was a diplomatic gesture toward neighboring countries
- B) It symbolized the restoration of India’s cultural heritage after foreign rule
- C) It was built as a tourism project
- D) It was constructed as a military monument Answer: B) It symbolized the restoration of India’s cultural heritage after foreign rule
MCQ 15: Which feature is NOT present in the modern Somnath Temple complex?
- A) Sound and light show
- B) Museum
- C) Mosque
- D) Beach view Answer: C) Mosque
