Friday 8 February 2013

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Somnath Shiv Temple at Gujarat

Somnath Shiv Temple at Gujarat

Let's Go.Somnath is one of 12 jyotirlinga in India of load shiv in Gujarat.


somnath temple

In the Shivapurana and the Nandi Upapurana, Lord Shiva is quoted as saying, 'I am omnipresent, but I am especially in twelve forms and places.' These places are known as jyotirlingas, and Somnath is the first to be found in the world. Around the linga the moon god Soma built a mythical temple of gold as an ode to Lord Shiva's glory and compassion. Like the waxing and waning moon, and fittingly for a place associated with Lord Shiva's cosmic dance of creative destruction, the Somnath temple has risen unfailingly from repeated acts of devastation. 

On Kartik Sud 14 in the Hindu calendar, the day of Shiva's son Kartikeya's birth, a fair is held for four days at the shrine of Somnath. Millions of devotees converge here for these ebullient celebrations on the shores of the Arabian Sea.

Somnath Temple, located in the coastal town of Prabhas Patan in the Indian state of Gujarat, is one of the most revered Hindu shrines in India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, or sacred shrines of Lord Shiva.

The temple has a rich history and is mentioned in ancient Hindu texts such as the Rig Veda, Skanda Purana, and Shreemad Bhagavata. It is said that the temple was first built by Lord Moon (Chandra) to atone for his sins and was later rebuilt by Ravana, the demon king of Lanka. The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries, with the present structure being the seventh reconstruction.

The Somnath Temple is a magnificent architectural marvel, with intricate carvings, sculptures, and paintings adorning its walls and pillars. The temple complex is surrounded by lush green lawns and beautiful gardens, and a holy tank, called the Surya Kund, adds to the serene beauty of the temple.

Apart from being a major pilgrimage site, Somnath Temple is also a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. The temple is well-connected by road and air, and there are plenty of accommodation options in the nearby area. Visitors can also enjoy various cultural programs, including traditional dance and music performances, held in the temple premises.

In conclusion, the Somnath Temple is a must-visit for anyone interested in Hindu mythology, architecture, and spirituality. Its rich history, beautiful architecture, and peaceful atmosphere make it a truly special and unforgettable experience.

How to go:

By road: Somnath is 79 km from Junagadh and 25 km from Chorwad. State transport buses and private luxury coaches connect various centres of Gujarat to Somnath.

By rail: Somnath is located 6 km from the nearest railway station at Veraval.

Where to Stay:

Somnath Trust Guest house

Somnath Temple Click Hear View more Photos 



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