The Somnath Temple, located in Prabhas Patan near Veraval in Gujarat, is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. This iconic temple, with its stunning architecture and profound spiritual significance, attracts pilgrims and tourists from across the globe. If you are planning a visit to Somnath Temple from Delhi, here is a comprehensive guide detailing how to get there by road, train, and air.
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History of Somnath Temple
The Somnath Temple, also known as the “Shrine Eternal,” has a rich and tumultuous history that spans centuries. According to Hindu mythology, the temple was originally built by the Moon God, Chandra, in gold, then rebuilt in silver by Ravana, in wood by Lord Krishna, and finally in stone by King Bhimdev. Over the centuries, the temple faced multiple invasions and destruction by foreign rulers but was rebuilt each time, symbolizing the resilience and devotion of the Indian people.
The current temple structure was reconstructed in 1951 under the guidance of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, and it stands as a magnificent example of Chalukya-style architecture. Perched on the Arabian Sea’s shores, the temple’s spire rises to a height of 155 feet, with its intricate carvings and serene atmosphere leaving visitors in awe.
1. Reaching Somnath Temple by Air
Traveling by air is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Somnath Temple from Delhi. While Somnath does not have its own airport, the nearest airports are located in Diu and Rajkot.
Key Points:
Nearest Airports:
Diu Airport (DIU): Approximately 85 km from Somnath.
Rajkot Airport (RAJ): Approximately 195 km from Somnath.
Flight Duration: Direct flights from Delhi to Diu or Rajkot take around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Airlines Operating: IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet operate flights to Rajkot, while Diu Airport has limited connectivity.
Travel Options from the Airports:
From Diu Airport: Taxis and private cabs are readily available for the 2-hour drive to Somnath.
From Rajkot Airport: You can hire a taxi or take a bus to cover the approximately 4-hour journey to Somnath.
Pro Tip:
Flights to Diu are limited, so booking well in advance is recommended. Rajkot offers better connectivity and more flight options.
Suggested Itineraries for Gujarat tour:
- Explore Dwarka, Somnath, Sasan Gir & Diu – 8-Day Itinerary
- Discover Rann of Kutch & Sasan Gir – 8-Day Travel Plan
- Experience Gujarat – 7 Days, 6 Nights Tour Package
2. Reaching Somnath Temple by Train
The train is a popular and economical choice for many pilgrims. Veraval Junction, located just 7 km from Somnath, is the nearest railway station.
Key Points:
Nearest Railway Station: Veraval Junction (Station Code: VRL).
Train Connectivity: Veraval is well-connected to major cities like Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai.
Popular Trains from Delhi to Veraval:
Delhi Sarai Rohilla – Veraval Express (19263): A direct train from Delhi to Veraval, taking approximately 27 hours.
Other Options: You can also take a train to Ahmedabad and then a connecting train to Veraval.
Travel Options from Veraval Junction:
Auto-Rickshaws: An affordable way to reach Somnath Temple from the station.
Taxis: Private taxis are also available for a quicker and more comfortable journey.
Pro Tip:
Book your train tickets well in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons.
Explore more Itineraries for Gujarat:
- Gujarat Wildlife and Beach: 5-Day Tour
- Gujarat Temple Tour: 4 Nights, 5 Days
- Explore Gujarat and Diu: 6-Day Tour
- Dwarka and Somnath: 5-Day Tour
3. Reaching Somnath Temple by Road
For those who enjoy road trips, driving to Somnath from Delhi is an adventurous and scenic option. The journey takes you through vibrant cities and picturesque landscapes.
Key Points:
Distance: Approximately 1,350 km.
Travel Time: Around 23-25 hours by car, depending on the route and stops.
Route Overview:
Delhi → Jaipur → Udaipur → Ahmedabad → Rajkot → Somnath.
Bus Services:
State-Run Buses: Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) operates buses to Somnath from Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and other cities.
Private Buses: Luxury and sleeper coaches are available for a more comfortable journey.
Tips for Road Travel:
Plan your journey with adequate breaks and overnight stops if needed.
Carry essentials like snacks, water, and a first-aid kit.
Use navigation apps for the best routes and real-time traffic updates.
4. Nearby Attractions and Destinations
Visiting Somnath Temple is just the beginning of an enriching spiritual and cultural journey. The region is home to several nearby attractions worth exploring:
1. Triveni Sangam near Somnath Temple
Distance from Somnath: 1 km.
Significance: The confluence of three sacred rivers—Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati—is considered highly auspicious. Pilgrims often take a holy dip here before visiting the temple.
2. Bhalka Tirth
Distance from Somnath: 5 km.
Significance: This is the legendary site where Lord Krishna was mistakenly shot by a hunter, marking the end of his earthly life.
Attraction: A serene temple and beautiful surroundings make it a must-visit.
3. Gita Mandir
Distance from Somnath: 2 km.
Significance: Dedicated to the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, this temple’s marble walls are inscribed with verses from the scripture.
4. Diu
Distance from Somnath: 85 km.
Attractions: Pristine beaches, the historic Diu Fort, and Portuguese-inspired architecture make Diu a perfect coastal getaway.
5. Gir National Park
Distance from Somnath: 65 km.
Attraction: Famous for being the only natural habitat of Asiatic lions, Gir offers thrilling wildlife safaris.
5. Best Time to Visit Somnath Temple
Ideal Seasons:
Winter (October to February): The weather is pleasant, making it the best time to visit.
Festivals to Experience:
Mahashivratri: Celebrated with grandeur, attracting thousands of devotees.
Somnath Fair: Held annually, offering cultural performances and local crafts.
6. Accommodation Options Near Somnath Temple
Somnath offers a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets:
- Budget Lodges: Affordable stays for solo travelers and pilgrims.
- Mid-Range Hotels: Comfortable options with modern amenities.
- Luxury Resorts: Premium services with stunning views and proximity to the temple.
Tips for Booking:
Book in advance during peak seasons and festivals.
Opt for accommodations near the temple for convenience.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the fastest way to reach Somnath Temple from Delhi?
Flying to Diu or Rajkot and then taking a taxi to Somnath is the fastest option.
Q2: Are there direct trains from Delhi to Veraval?
Yes, the Delhi Sarai Rohilla – Veraval Express is a direct train option.
Q3: What is the cheapest way to reach Somnath Temple?
Traveling by train is the most economical option for budget-conscious travelers.
Q4: Can I drive to Somnath from Delhi?
Yes, the road trip is possible and offers a scenic journey through Rajasthan and Gujarat.
Read the blog to explore details:
Conclusion
The Somnath Temple is not just a place of worship but also a testament to India’s rich cultural and historical heritage. With multiple travel options from Delhi and a plethora of nearby attractions, your visit to Somnath promises to be a spiritually enriching and memorable experience. Plan your journey during favorable seasons, explore the surrounding destinations, and immerse yourself in the divine ambiance of one of India’s most revered temples.
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