Gir Somnath

This Chalukya-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is one of the most thronged Places to visit in Somnath and has many fascinating mythological stories attached to it. One such is that Moon God who lost his light and glory due to curse by Daksha got back his lustre by praying fervently to Lord Shiva at Somnath Temple and that Bhagvan Shree Krishna had built Somnath temple with Sandalwood. There are inscriptions on the Arrow-Pillar or Baan-Stambh of the temple which says that there is no piece of land in straight line between the temple and Antarctica to the south. A flag flutters atop the main spire which is 15 metres tall. The Sound & Light Show “Jay Somnath” featured every night from 8.00 pm to 9.00 pm is definitely worth watching.Location: Somnath Mandir Rd, Veraval, GujaratTiming for Darshan at Somnath Temple: 6.00 am to 9.00 pmTiming for Aarti: 7.00 am, 12.00 Noon and 7.00 pm"Jay Somnath" Sound and Light Show: 8.00 pm to 9.00 pmBest Time to Visit: All round the year

Somnath Beach is located 6 km east of the port town of Veraval and just about 750 metres from the Somnath temple. The beach looks serene and one can spend hours watching the waves rumbling to the shoreline and breaking the silence that fills the air. While swimming on the beach is not recommended, one can enjoy came and horse rides at the beach. There are also streetside eateries by the shore, where you can enjoy light snacks like tender coconut and corn. Tourists can shop for souvenirs like seashell crafts at the shops lining the shore. The beach is usually crowded by locals and tourists alike.Location: Near Access Road to Temple, SomnathTiming: 07.00 AM - 07.00 PM on all daysBest Time to Visit: From November to February

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Laxmi Narayan Temple is perched beautifully on the serene shores of Somnath. It is well-known for its magnificent architectural design that is full of intricate carvings on its 18 pillars. These carvings depict the sacred messages of Krishna which are propagated in Bhagavad Gita.Attracting a number of devotees throughout the year, the temple is one of the most famous places to visit in Somnath. It is renowned for being a gorgeous replica of the Laxmi Narayan Temple which is in Badrinath. When visiting here, don’t forget to relish some tranquil moments while watching a brilliant sunset on the banks of River Hiren.Location: Somnath Mandir Rd, Prabhas Patan, Gujarat 362268.Timings: All days of the week from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year.

Shana Dungar Buddhist Caves at Vankiya or shortly referred to as "Sana Buddhist Caves" are artificial caves that were carved out of rocks and excavated by the Buddhist monks. The caves are actually a complex of 62 caves spread over the hill consisting of stupas, chaityas, pillows, and benches. Cave 2 which is named Bhima-ni-Cori is the largest cave and the caves have archaeological symbols representing Buddhism. These caves were created between the 1st century BC and the 1st century AD to provide shelter during the monsoons. Sana Caves are one of the most interesting places to visit in Somnath to know about the influence of Buddhism in the western parts of IndiaLocation: Shana Vankiya, GujaratTimings: 6.00 am - 6.30 pm Mon-Sun-MonBest Time to Visit: All round the year

If you are seeking a religious respite away from the troubles of life, then a visit to Shree Parshuram Temple is most recommended. It is one of the most sacred places to visit in Somnath and located on the banks of River Triveni.It is believed that this was the spot where Bhagwan Parshuram performed a strict penance and eventually got relieved by Bhagwan Somnath from the curse he had got because he killed Kshatriyas. The beautiful temple also consists of shrines which are dedicated to Lord Hanuman and Lord Ganesh.The temple is also well-known for having two ancient kunds along with the prominent structures-sabhamandap, a central mandap and a garbhagriha. When you are here, you can also see a structure which is dedicated to Renuka, Parshuram’s mother. It is a great place to visit if you are interested in mythology and legends.Location: Sree Parshuram Temple, Somnath, Gujarat.

Veneshwar Mahadev Temple in Somnath is one of the most interesting places to visit in Somnath that is located opposite the Somnath Trust Dharamshala Gate. This east-facing temple with an unusual spire is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has a history behind its name. In 1025 AD, Mahmud Gazni decided to invade Somnath but failed in his attempt. So, he devised a cunning plan of kidnapping Veni, the princess of the kingdom who visited the Shiva temple outside the fort every day. When Ghazni tried to kidnap her, Veni sought Lord Shiva's help to save her. On hearing her earnest plea, the shiva linga opened into two, engulfed her in, and closed itself back. At that time a ‘Veni’(a strand of her hair) was left out and Lord Shiva and henceforth worshipped as Veneshwar. Location: Somnath Mandir Rd, Prabhas Patan, GujaratTiming: 07.00 am - 07.00 pm on all daysBest Time to Visit: All round the year

Also known as Suraj Mandir, Surya Mandir is one of the ancient Places to see in Somnath. The temple is believed to be 5000 years old and is located in the northern part of Triveni Ghat. Sun God is the main deity at the temple and just above the entrance doorway lies the image of Surya with his two wives riding on seven horses. There is a circumambulatory passage around the main shrine with three niches. The temple walls have sculptures of lions, birds, elephants, etc., The temple is small and is located within a residential area. There is a small water body, the Surya Kund within its premises.Location: Near Triveni Ghat, GujaratTiming: 7.00 am - 7.00 pm on all daysBest Time to Visit: All round the year

Dedicated to Kankani Mata, this famous temple is where you can cherish a pristine getaway. Accessible after taking permission from the forest department, this temple is located at a distance of 25 km from Sasan Gir.This place is tucked away in the wilderness and you can easily listen to the cry of lions during the night who assemble near the lake here. At one time, only 50 devotees are allowed to enter the temple and no one can stay overnight in this restricted area.The old temple is revered among the Gujarati families and a lovely getaway for nature lovers. It is advisable to pay a visit to this serene temple in the early hours of morning to have the best experience with your loved ones. The temple is one of the most adorable places to visit in Gir for religious travellers and soul-seekers. Location: Kankai Gir National Park, Gir Somnath, Gujarat 362135.