Somnath Jyotirlinga is located in the western state of Gujarat, India. This temple is one of the oldest temples in India which preserves the history of India, which was tried to be destroyed many times but they failed and the temple stood like a rock. Somnath Jyotirlinga is known as the first Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva.
In this blog we have told you about the history of Somnath Jyotirlinga and how to reach Somnath Jyotirlinga which will help you in your journey.
Mythological Significance of Somnath Jyotirlinga
According to Hindu mythology, Som or Moon was the husband of 27 daughters of Daksha Prajapati, but Moon had special affection towards his wife Rohini, due to which his other 26 wives felt insulted, so they complained about Moon to their father Daksha Prajapati, after which Daksha tried to convince Moon many times, but he could not convince Moon, then King Daksha cursed Moon to lose its brightness.
Due to the curse, the brightness of the moon started decreasing gradually, due to which Moon became sad and to get rid of the curse, Moon started worshiping Lord Shiva, did penance of Lord Shiva for many years and Lord Shiva was pleased with the penance of Moon and freed him from the curse.
Lord Shiva blessed the Moon saying that every 15 days its brightness will gradually increase and then in 15 days its brightness will gradually decrease, and gave place to Moon on his forehead and since then Lord Shiva came to be known as “Somnath” i.e. “Lord of Moon”.
It is said that the Moon prayed to Lord Shiva to reside in the Shivlinga and since then this Shivlinga came to be worshipped as Somnath Jyotirlinga.
Historical and Architectural Grandeur
The history of Somnath temple is very old, over the centuries, there were many attacks on Somnath temple and many attempts were made to destroy the temple but the temple remained intact.
Whenever the temple was destroyed, Hindu kings rebuilt the temple. The first attack on the temple was done by Mahmud Ghaznavi, even after that many people tried to destroy it but could not reduce the devotion towards the temple.
The recent reconstruction of the temple was done under the guidance of Iron Man Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first Home Minister of independent India. An attempt has been made to preserve the old history of Somnath temple in the construction of the temple. The beautiful carvings of the temple complex, the grand spire and the statue of Nandi are amazing.
Spiritual Experience at Somnath Jyotirlinga
Jyotirlinga is established in the sanctum sanctorum of Somnath temple and small temples dedicated to other gods and goddesses are also established in the temple premises and the atmosphere of the entire temple remains devotional and devotees can also meditate.
Somnath Aarti and Light and Sound Show
In the evening, the courtyard of the temple becomes devotional, devotees remain immersed in bhajan kirtan and along with this, a light and sound show is also organized in the temple which tells the history of the temple.
How to Reach Somnath
By Air
The first way to reach here is by air the nearest airport is Diu Airport which is located about 85 km from Somnath and further travel is done by private taxis and buses.
By Rail
The second way to reach here is by rail the nearest railway station is Veraval Railway Station which is located about 7 km from Somnath.
By Road
Somnath is well connected by road to all the major cities of the state and country and you can easily get state-run buses and private taxis for Somnath.
Best Time to Visit Somnath Jyotirlinga
The best time for devotees to visit Somnath Temple is after monsoon i.e. between October to March when the weather is pleasant and a bit cool and during this time the festival of Mahashivratri dedicated to Lord Shiva attracts huge crowd of devotees and there is a festive atmosphere in the temple premises.
Travel Tips for Visiting Somnath Jyotirlinga
Devotees should pay special attention to their attire at the pilgrimage site and wear decent clothes.
Photography and videography are not allowed in the temple premises.
The temple is open for devotees from 6 am to 10 pm. Devotees should come on time to attend the aarti. You can check the timings here.
Devotees should follow the rules of the temple premises and pay special attention to cleanliness.
To avoid inconvenience, devotees can book their stay in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Somnath Jyotirlinga
Can I visit Somnath Temple without registration?
Yes.
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