Amarnath Temple, Jammu and Kashmir Amarnath Temple, Jammu and Kashmir History For Hindus, the Amarnath Temple in Jammu and Kashmir, India, is of utmost religious significance. It is one of Hinduism's most sacred sanctuaries and is devoted to Lord Shiva. The Amarnath Temple has a long and illustrious history. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva is believed to have given his celestial spouse, Goddess Parvati, the secret to immortality there in the Amarnath Cave. Legend has it that Lord Shiva chose to give this secret knowledge to her in this remote cave high in the Himalayas. The cave was hidden and inaccessible for many years before being rediscovered in the 18th century by a Muslim shepherd by the name of Buta Malik. According to the mythology, Buta Malik was handed a bag of coal by a sadhu (holy man), who ordered him to wait until he reached home before open it. Buta Malik discovered the coal had turned into gold when he opened the bag. He was so overwhelmed by this miracle
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| Somnath Temple |
Somnath Temple is a Hindu temple located in the Prabhas Kshetra of Saurashtra in Gujarat, India. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are considered to be the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva. The temple has a long and fascinating history that dates back to ancient times.
The original Somnath Temple was built by Lord Soma, the Moon God himself, in gold. Later, it was rebuilt by Ravana, the demon king of Lanka. However, it is believed that the current temple was built by the Solanki dynasty in the 11th century CE.
The temple was a major pilgrimage site for Hindus for centuries and was considered one of the most important religious centers in India. The first attack on the temple was carried out by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1024 CE, who looted the temple of its wealth and destroyed the lingam (the symbol of Lord Shiva).
The temple was rebuilt by King Bhimdev- I of the Solanki dynasty, but it was destroyed again by Alauddin Khilji in 1296 CE. The temple was rebuilt several times by different rulers, but it was destroyed again by Aurangzeb in 1706 CE.
The current temple was built by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the first Deputy Prime Minister of India, after independence in 1947. The temple is a magnificent structure made of red sandstone and features intricate carvings and sculptures. It is considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India and attracts millions of devotees every year.
In addition to its religious significance, the Somnath Temple is also an important symbol of India's cultural heritage and resilience. Despite being destroyed multiple times, it has been rebuilt time and again, a testament to the enduring faith of the people and their commitment to preserving their traditions and beliefs.
Somnath Temple timing
The timings of Somnath Temple vary according to different seasons of the year.
From November to February, the temple is open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
From March to October, the temple is open from 5:00 AM to 9:30 PM.
However, these timings are subject to change during special occasions and festivals. It's best to check with the temple authorities or visit their official website for the updated timings before planning your visit.
Note that there may be specific darshan timings (timings for public to have a glimpse of the deity) for different categories of visitors such as general public, senior citizens, differently-abled persons, VIPs, etc. It is advisable to check with the temple authorities regarding the same.
Interesting facts about Somnath Temple
Somnath Temple is believed to be one of the twelve jyotirlingas, which are the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva in Hinduism.
The temple has a rich history and has been destroyed and rebuilt several times. It is said that the temple was initially built by the Moon God, Soma, and later by Lord Krishna.
The temple is situated on the shore of the Arabian Sea and offers a beautiful view of the sea from its premises.
The temple has a unique flag post (dhvajastambha) made of pure gold, which is 15 feet high and weighs around 10 kg.
The temple has a vast underground chamber that is believed to house a secret treasure.
The temple complex has a sound and light show that depicts the rich history and significance of the temple.
The temple attracts millions of devotees and tourists every year, especially during the Mahashivratri festival.
The temple has been mentioned in various ancient texts, including the Skanda Purana and the Mahabharata.
Things to know before visiting Somnath Temple
Dress Code: There is a strict dress code at the temple, and visitors are required to dress modestly. It is recommended to wear clothes that cover your shoulders, arms, and legs.
Photography: Photography is allowed at the temple, but not inside the sanctum sanctorum. Make sure to respect the privacy of other devotees and not use flash photography.
Footwear: Visitors are required to remove their footwear before entering the temple premises. There are shoe stands available outside the temple where you can leave your shoes.
Security Check: There is a strict security check at the temple, and visitors are not allowed to carry any electronic devices or bags inside the temple premises.
Crowd: Somnath Temple is a popular tourist and religious site and attracts a large number of devotees and tourists, especially during festivals. Be prepared for crowds and long queues during peak season.
Weather: The weather in Somnath can be hot and humid, especially during the summer months. It is recommended to carry sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle when visiting the temple.
Somnath Temple nearby tourist place
Here are some nearby tourist places that you can visit when you are in Somnath:
Veraval: Veraval is a coastal town situated just 7 km from Somnath. It is known for its beautiful beaches, including the Somnath Beach, and also has a fort and a fish market that are worth visiting.
Gir National Park: Gir National Park is one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in India and is located around 70 km from Somnath. It is home to the Asiatic lion, which is a rare species of lion found only in this region.
Junagadh: Junagadh is a historic city located around 80 km from Somnath. It is known for its ancient forts, temples, and stepwells, including the Uparkot Fort, the Mahabat Maqbara, and the Adi-Kadi Vav stepwell.
Diu: Diu is a beautiful island situated around 80 km from Somnath and is known for its beaches, colonial architecture, and Portuguese history. It also has a fort, a lighthouse, and a few churches that are worth visiting.
Porbandar: Porbandar is a coastal city located around 130 km from Somnath and is known for its beaches, temples, and historic sites. It is the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi and has a museum and a few other sites associated with him.
How to reach Somnath Temple
Somnath Temple is located in the Prabhas Kshetra of Saurashtra region in Gujarat, India. Here are the different ways to reach Somnath Temple:
By Air: The nearest airport is the Diu airport which is around 80 km away from Somnath. Another option is the Rajkot airport, which is around 200 km away. From both these airports, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Somnath Temple.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Veraval, which is about 7 km from the temple. Veraval is well connected to major cities like Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Mumbai. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Somnath Temple.
By Bus: There are regular bus services from major cities like Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Junagadh to Somnath. Gujarat State Road Transport Corporation (GSRTC) runs buses from different cities to Somnath.
By Car: You can also reach Somnath by car. The temple is well connected by road to major cities in Gujarat and other neighboring states. You can hire a car or taxi to reach Somnath from nearby cities.
Once you reach Somnath, you can easily reach the temple by taking a local taxi or an auto-rickshaw. The temple is located near the Somnath Railway Station and Somnath Bus Stand.
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