Somnath is a sacred pilgrimage town in Gujarat, best known for the Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva. Plan your visit between October and March for pleasant weather. Base yourself near the temple for easy access to key attractions, allowing for a focused spiritual and cultural experience.
Quick facts
Quick facts about Somnath
- Best time
- October to March
- Typical trip
- 1-2 days
- Language
- Gujarati, Hindi, English
- Currency
- Indian Rupee (INR)
- Airports
- Diu Airport (DIU), Rajkot Airport (RAJ)
- Climate
- Tropical savanna climate, hot and humid summers, mild winters.
Best for
- pilgrims
- history enthusiasts
- cultural tourists
- senior travellers
- short breaks
Less ideal for
- party seekers
- adventure sports enthusiasts
- nightlife
- extensive shopping
Where to stay
Where should I stay in Somnath?
- 01
Near Somnath Temple
mixed
Staying close to the Somnath Temple offers unparalleled convenience for darshan and attending aartis. This area has a range of hotels and guesthouses, mostly catering to pilgrims. Expect a peaceful atmosphere but limited modern amenities.
- 02
Veraval
overnight
Located about 5 km from Somnath, Veraval offers more diverse accommodation options, including budget and mid-range hotels. It's a fishing port with a bustling local market, providing a different local experience. Taxis and auto-rickshaws connect easily to Somnath.
- 03
Somnath Beach Road
mixed
This area provides proximity to the Somnath Beach and offers hotels with sea views. It's a good choice for those who want to combine their pilgrimage with some relaxation by the sea. Facilities are generally modern with dining options.
Things to do
What are the best things to do in Somnath?
Pilgrimage & Spirituality
Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple
Visit the revered Somnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. Witness the magnificent architecture and attend the evening Aart
2-3 hours
Triveni Sangam
Experience the confluence of three holy rivers — Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati — before they merge into the Arabian Sea. This is a significant ritualistic bathing spot.
1-2 hours
Historical & Cultural Exploration
Bhalka Tirth
Visit the sacred spot where Lord Krishna is believed to have been mortally wounded. The temple and its serene surroundings offer a place for reflection.
1 hour
Panch Pandav Gufa
Explore a cave temple dedicated to the Pandavas, discovered in 1949. It houses shrines for Shiva, Ram, Sita, Laxman, and Hanuman, offering a quiet spiritual retreat.
1 hour
Nature & Leisure
Somnath Beach
Enjoy a stroll along Somnath Beach, especially during sunrise or sunset. The beach is a popular spot for locals and offers scenic views of the Arabian Sea.
1-2 hours
Somnath Exhibition Centre
Learn about the history and significance of the Somnath Temple through various exhibits and multimedia displays.
1-1.5 hours
Itineraries
Sample itineraries for Somnath
1-day plan
One Day Spiritual Journey in Somnath
- 01
Morning: Somnath Temple Darshan
Start your day with an early morning visit to the Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple for darshan and attend the morning aarti. Explore the temple complex thoroughly.
- 02
Late Morning: Triveni Sangam & Bhalka Tirth
Proceed to Triveni Sangam for a holy dip or observation, then visit Bhalka Tirth, just a short drive away, to pay respects at the spot of Lord Krishna's final earthly moments.
- 03
Afternoon: Lunch & Local Exploration
Have lunch at a local eatery. Afterwards, visit the Panch Pandav Gufa and explore the Somnath Exhibition Centre for historical context.
- 04
Evening: Somnath Beach & Temple Aarti
Spend the late afternoon relaxing at Somnath Beach. Conclude your day by returning to Somnath Temple for the evening aarti and the sound and light show (confirm timings locally).
Typical daily costs
- Budget
- ₹1,500 - ₹3,000 per person per day
- Mid-range
- ₹3,000 - ₹6,000 per person per day
- Luxury
- ₹6,000+ per person per day
Accommodation near the temple can be budget-friendly. Food costs are generally low, especially for vegetarian options.
Best time to visit
When is the best time to visit Somnath?
Winter
October to March
Pleasant and cool weather, ideal for sightseeing and temple visits. Temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C. This is the peak tourist season.
Summer
April to June
Hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C. Sightseeing can be uncomfortable, especially during midday. Avoid if sensitive to heat.
Monsoon
July to September
Receives moderate to heavy rainfall, making some outdoor activities challenging. The landscape becomes lush and green, but humidity remains high. Fewer crowds.
Getting there
How to get to Somnath
Air
The nearest airport is Diu Airport (DIU), approximately 85 km away, with limited flights. Rajkot Airport (RAJ) is about 195 km away and offers more connectivity. Taxis are available from both airports.
Rail & road
Veraval Railway Station, just 5 km from Somnath, is well-connected to major cities in Gujarat and India. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available from the station to Somnath.
Getting around
Local transport includes auto-rickshaws and shared jeeps for short distances. Taxis can be hired for longer excursions or full-day tours. Most attractions are within a small radius.
Practical tips
- 01Dress modestly when visiting temples, covering shoulders and knees. Remove footwear before entering temple premises.
- 02Bargain politely when shopping at local markets for souvenirs or religious items.
- 03Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, and carry a water bottle.
- 04Book accommodation in advance, particularly during peak pilgrimage seasons and festivals.
- 05Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas like the temple or market.
FAQ
FAQ — Somnath
What is the best time to visit Somnath?
The best time to visit Somnath is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant for sightseeing and temple visits.
How far is Diu from Somnath?
Diu is approximately 85 km from Somnath. It takes about 2 to 2.5 hours to travel by road between the two locations.
Are there vegetarian food options in Somnath?
Yes, Somnath is predominantly a pilgrimage town, and vegetarian food options are widely available at local restaurants and eateries, including traditional Gujarati thalis.
Can I visit Somnath Temple on all days?
The Somnath Temple is open to devotees every day from early morning until late evening. Confirm specific darshan and aarti timings locally as they can vary.
What is the significance of Triveni Sangam in Somnath?
Triveni Sangam in Somnath is the sacred confluence of three rivers – Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati – with the Arabian Sea, considered highly auspicious for holy dips and rituals.