Somnath Temple Travel Guide 2025: How to Visit & Where to Stay Nearby

If you want an ideal mix of spirituality, culture and natural beauty, Somnath is a place to visit. This spiritual city is located on the west coast of India in Gujarat [Saurashtra], and is the home of the famous Somnath temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. But Somnath is not just about temples, it's about a calm experience where history, nature and spirituality come together.

Whether you are planning a peaceful trip or planning a stay filled with excitement and relaxation, this guide will not only help you visit Somnath, but also show you how to make the most of your trip by staying at The Destiny Resort, a premium accommodation in Sasan Gir, close to Somnath.

Where is Somnath Located?

Somnath is in Gir Somnath district, located on the Arabian Sea coast of Gujarat, around:

  • 6 km from Veraval Railway Station

  • 85 km from Junagadh

  • 130 km from Gir National Park (home to the Asiatic lions)

Somnath is well-connected via train, road, and air, making it an easily accessible destination for visitors and travelers alike.

Why is Somnath Famous?

1. The Somnath Temple

Somnath Temple is one of the most prestigious pilgrimage sites in India, and it has special significance:

  • First Jyotirlinga: This is the first of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva.

  • Historical Importance: The temple has been destroyed many times in history, especially by Mahmud from Ghazni in 1025 AD.

  • Architectural Grandeur: The current structure of temple is a beautiful blend of traditional and modern architecture, standing majestically by the sea.

Visitors come to seek blessings, reflect in a peaceful atmosphere and perform miracles in the sunset scenes in the temple at the Arab Sea.

2. Spiritual Significance

The city is also known as "The Eternal Shrine". According to Hindu legend, the temple was originally built in gold by Lord Moon (Soma), and was later rebuilt in silver and wood. Deep roots in this place are spiritual meaning, where devotees from all over the world are looking for loneliness and blessings.

Top Things to Do in Somnath

Apart from the famous Somnath temple, there are many other attractions and experiences you can enjoy in this beautiful city.

1. Triveni Sangam

A sacred place where deer, Kapila and Saraswati rivers meet the Arab Sea. The pilgrims take a sacred dip here, provided it cleans sins and gives spirituality. It is also a cool place for a comfortable evening walk.

2. Bhalka Tirth

This site marks the place where Lord Krishna accidentally was killed with an arrow. This is an important stop for pilgrims running on the footsteps of Krishna's life. The Krishna temple here is peaceful and inspiring.

3. Somnath Beach

Although it is not suitable for photo lovers, Somnath Beach is a picturesque place where you can enjoy a camel ride, beach walk and relax by viewing sunset scenes. Nearby, you’ll find quaint beachside eateries offering local snacks.

4. Prabhas Patan Museum

For history's amateurs, this museum holds old sculptures, coins and inscriptions from early temples. It provides a detailed history of destruction and reconstruction of the temple over the years.

5. Old Somnath Temple (Ahilyabai Temple)

The temple was built by Rani Ahilyabai Holkar  in the 18th century when the original structure was still in ruins. This is an example of dedication and faith that crosses time.

Travel Tips for Somnath Visitors

Best Time to Visit

  • October to March is the best time for a trip, when the weather is nice and ideal for a trip to sightseeing.

Temple Etiquette

  • Footwear is not allowed inside the temple, so wear sandals or slip-on shoes for convenience.

  • Modest clothing is recommended, especially when entering temples.

Stay Nearby Somnath Temple 

For a simple and comfortable stay, consider booking your rooms at The Destiny Resort in Sasan Gir, which is just a small drive from Somnath. This resort gives you a peaceful atmosphere to relax a day after the discovery of Somnath's spiritual and historical miracles.

Stay at The Destiny Resort: A Perfect Base for Your Somnath Trip

While Somnath has many housing options, living in Destiny Resort in Sasan Gir provides a unique advantage. Not only does it provide luxurious facilities, but it is convenient to visit both Somnath and the Gir National Park, home of famous Asiatic lions.

Why Stay at The Destiny Resort?

  • Near Somnath Temple: Only 130 km from Somnath gives Destiny Resort the right mix of comfort and nature, so you can reach spiritual places easily while living in a calm environment.

  • Family-Friendly: Resort offers family -friendly activities such as Giant Rooms, a separate restaurant and direct safari and nature walking, making it an ideal alternative for families visiting Somnath.

  • Activities: Enjoy nature-based experiences such as bird watching, jungle safari and the quiet atmosphere of giving Forest-All of Somnath.

For more information and to book your stay, visit The Destiny Resort.

What to Eat in Somnath?

Gujarat is famous for its rich, flavorful cuisine, and Somnath is no exception. Make sure to try:

  • Gujarati Thali: A traditional food with different types of dishes, including lenses, bread, vegetables and sweets..

  • Fafda & Jalebi: A crispy snack paired with sweet, sticky jalebi.

  • Undhiyu: A flavorful mix of seasonal vegetables, perfect for a winter meal.

If you stay in Destiny Resort, you can enjoy a variety of local foods, which are prepared daily for their internal restaurants.

How to Reach Somnath

  • By Train: The nearest railway station is Veraval, which is around 6 km from Somnath. Train is run regularly from Rajkot, Surat, and Ahmedabad.

  • By Plane: You can fly to Diu Airport (65 km) or Rajkot Airport (190 km) and take a taxi for Somnath.

  • By Road: Somnath is well connected to Gujarat and Maharashtra by road, and you can easily reach it by bus or taxi.

FAQ

Q1: What is Somnath famous for?

Somnath is known for its Somnath temple, one of the 12 Jyotirling of Lord Shiva and has important spiritual and historical significance.

Q2: How far is Somnath from Sasan Gir?

Somnath is about 130 km from Sasan Gir, making it a short drive for visitors staying at The Destiny Resort.

Q3: What are the best things to do in Somnath?

Apart from visiting Somnath Temple, Triveni Sangam, Bhaalka Tirtha and Somnath Beach.

Q4: Is Somnath safe for solo travelers?

Yes, Somnath is a safe and peaceful destination for single travelers and pilgrims.

Q5: Can I combine a visit to Somnath with a safari in Gir?

Absolutely! Destiny Resort has an ideal location for Somnath's visit and a Jungle safari in Sasan Gir.

Conclusion

Somnath offers a unique blend of spirituality, history and natural beauty. By staying at The Destiny Resort, you can enjoy a comfortable, peaceful refuge after the temple trips and discover the beauty of the Gir jungle. Whether you are for a spiritual journey here or a family migration, Somnath and the surrounding areas provide something for everyone.