The region of Prabhas Patan in Gujarat is also known as Somnath. Spreading across the Veraval. Gir Somnath district, this place is also a part of the prestigious Saurashtra region the place gets its name from the legendary and iconic face of Gujarat which is the temple of Somnath Mahadev. The temple is dedicated to lord shiva and is the world’s first jyotirlinga. It is a popular pilgrimage destination for devotees from all over the world.
Somnath is steeped in ancient history and legends which makes it a must visit. If getting the real flavor of India is on your itinerary then a visit here is a must. There is no dearth of places to visit and explore while learning all about the Indian culture.
Here are some places of interest in Somnath travel guide:
01. Junagadh Gate
Junagadh gate is an iconic historic structure which is the gate through which the Mahmud of Ghazni had entered Somnath Temple to loot it. The current standing structure marks this event and reminds of the sheer vigor of the people of Gujarat to bounce back. Made out of stones and Chattris its has elaborate and finely carved sculptures of tiger on it. Definitely an Instagrammable Place!
02. Prabhas Patan Museum
Located at a distance of just 300 meters from Somnath temple and maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India, if you are visiting Somnath then this place should also be visited. Somnath temple has been through a long history of destruction and reconstruction. This museum holds the old broken previous pieces of the temple. Highlights here include intricately carved ceilings, sculptures and spiritual paintings that date back to the 12th century.
03. Somnath Beach
On reaching Somnath temple you will see a beautiful sandy beach on its adjacent side. This is Somnath beach which is just less than 1 km away from the temple. The beach is extremely serene and a great way to relax after a long tiring day at the temple complex. Watching the waves gently crashing by and seeing the sun setting is a great way of spending your evening. You can go on beach horse rides and try out the local street food of Gujarat.
04. Mahakali Temple
Built in 1738 AD by Queen Ahilyabai Holkar, Mahakali Temple is located very close to the grand Somnath Temple. Vallabhghat is one of the main highlight places of interest in this temple. This ghat is one of the best places to see a serene and peaceful sunset on the horizon. Along with the temple there are numerous other small temples in the complex including Hanuman Mandir and Vinayak Temple.
Apart from the temples there are several other tourist interests. There are several scriptures and writing materials available that make this place an icon among the devotees of lord shiva and other gods and goddesses as well. Somnath tourism guarantees to make you feel pure devotion and sheer holiness washes over the stress and chaos of daily life to give way to brighter and a clearer tomorrow.