Somnath Temple stands as the first among the twelve sacred Aadi Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, majestically positioned on the western shores of the Arabian Sea in Gujarat. This ancient temple holds immense spiritual significance and attracts millions of devotees seeking divine blessings from Lord Somnath Mahadev.
Temple Timings
Daily Darshan Schedule
- Temple Opens: 6:00 AM
- Temple Closes: 9:30 PM (Darshan ends)
- Final Closure: 10:00 PM
Monthly Variations
During certain months and festivals, timings may be extended. It’s recommended to check the official website or contact the temple for specific dates.
Aarti Timings
The temple conducts three major aartis throughout the day:
Morning Aarti
- Time: 7:00 AM
- Duration: Approximately 30 minutes
- Special Feature: Begins the day’s spiritual activities
Afternoon Aarti
- Time: 12:00 PM (Noon)
- Duration: Approximately 20-25 minutes
- Significance: Midday prayers and offerings
Evening Aarti
- Time: 7:00 PM
- Duration: Approximately 45 minutes
- Highlight: Most attended aarti with elaborate rituals
Puja Services Available
Regular Pujas
- Rudrabhishek: Special abhishek of Lord Shiva
- Jalabhishek: Water offering ceremony
- Laghu Rudra: Shorter version of Rudrabhishek
- Mahamrityunjaya Jaap: Chanting for health and longevity
- Abhishek Puja: Traditional bathing ceremony of the deity
Special Occasion Pujas
- Maha Shivaratri: Grand celebrations with extended timings
- Shravan Month: Special pujas throughout the holy month
- Pradosh Vrat: Bi-monthly special prayers
- Ekadashi: Monthly special observances
Booking Information
Online Booking
- Platform: Official Somnath Temple website (somnath.org)
- Advance Booking: Recommended, especially during festivals
- Payment Options: Credit/Debit cards, Net banking, UPI, Digital wallets
Puja Booking Process
- Visit the official website
- Select desired puja service
- Choose date and time slot
- Fill devotee details
- Complete payment
- Receive confirmation via email/SMS
Booking Guidelines
- Timing: Bookings available from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Advance Period: Can be booked up to 30 days in advance
- Cancellation: Follow temple’s cancellation policy
- ID Proof: Required for all bookings
Special Attractions
Sound and Light Show
- Timings: 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Days: Daily (except during monsoon season)
- Language: Available in multiple languages
- Booking: Separate tickets required
Live Darshan
- Facility: Available on official website
- Timings: During temple hours
- Access: Free online viewing
Dress Code and Guidelines
Appropriate Attire
- General: Decent, modest clothing
- Men: Traditional or formal wear preferred
- Women: Sarees, suits, or modest western wear
- Footwear: Removed before entering temple premises
Temple Etiquette
- Maintain silence during prayers
- Photography restrictions apply in certain areas
- Mobile phones should be on silent mode
- Follow queue discipline during peak hours
Accommodation Services
Temple Guest House
- Booking: Through official website
- Facilities: Basic amenities for pilgrims
- Rates: Affordable accommodation options
- Advance Booking: Highly recommended
Contact Information
Temple Administration
- Official Website: somnath.org
- Location: Prabhas Patan, Veraval, Gujarat
- Nearest Railway Station: Somnath Railway Station
- Nearest Airport: Keshod Airport (55 km)
Best Time to Visit
Ideal Months
- October to March: Pleasant weather
- Avoid: Monsoon season (June-September) for outdoor activities
- Festival Season: Maha Shivaratri, Kartik Purnima for special experiences
Peak Hours to Avoid
- Morning: 7:00 AM – 9:00 AM (Morning aarti crowd)
- Evening: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM (Evening aarti crowd)
- Weekends: Generally more crowded
Important Notes
- Temple timings may change during festivals and special occasions
- VIP darshan tickets are available for priority access
- Prasad can be booked online and collected at the temple
- Free drinking water and basic facilities available for devotees
- Parking facilities available near the temple premises
This sacred abode of Lord Shiva offers a profound spiritual experience for all devotees. Plan your visit according to the timings and make advance bookings for a smooth and blessed darshan experience.
