Somnath temple, Hindu temple on the Arabian Sea shore in Gir Somnath district, India
Somnath is a Shiva temple in Prabhas Patan, Veraval, Gujarat, India. Its lower level is an open hall on many carved pillars, above which a tiered roof is covered in dense, repeating small spires. At the right rear rises a tall, tapering tower with vertical ribs, topped by a golden finial, a small flag and a metal emblem; sculpted figures sit above the columns and on the tower's faces.
The earliest Somnath temple's date is uncertain, placed between the early 1st millennium and the 9th century CE. Mahmud Ghazni attacked it in January 1026, and it was rebuilt repeatedly, including by the Maitraka kings of Vallabhi in the 7th century and by Nagabhata in 815. The present temple, in the Māru-Gurjara style, was begun under Vallabhbhai Patel and completed in May 1951.
As one of the twelve Jyotirlinga sites, worshippers visit to participate in daily ceremonies that include chanting and offerings. Pilgrims bring flowers and milk to express their reverence for Shiva, with large groups gathering especially during the evening prayers.
The complex offers facilities for visitors including accommodations and dining options near the main area. A website allows booking of religious ceremonies and organizing donations, which helps plan ahead.
According to Hindu mythology, the Moon God Chandra built the original temple to cure himself from a curse that had weakened his glow. This legend explains why the site is often associated with the moon in religious texts.
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