Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple Darshan Timings Today – Essential Travel Guide

Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple Darshan is one of the most spiritually uplifting experiences for devotees visiting Gujarat’s sacred western coastline. This guide gives you accurate **darshan timings, aarti schedule, booking steps, travel tips, insider insights from my visit, how to reach the temple, and nearby attractions** to help you plan your pilgrimage with confidence and ease. For official information, visit official TTD portal.

Quick Facts

Fact	Details
Location	Prabhas Patan, Veraval, Gir Somnath, Gujarat, India
Darshan Timings Today	6:00 AM – 10:00 PM (continuous)
Aarti Timings	7:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 7:00 PM
Light & Sound Show	8:00 PM – 9:00 PM (subject to weather)
Entry Fee	Free (regular darshan)
VIP Darshan	₹500 approx (optional priority)
Contact	+91-2876-231212 / See official contact list below
Official Website	https://somnath.org

About Somnath Jyotirlinga

The Somnath Temple at Prabhas Patan in Gujarat is the first among the 12 sacred Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva. Historically revered for millennia, it stands as a symbol of devotion and resilience through repeated destructions and reconstructions, the latest completed in 1951.

This temple is not just a pilgrimage site but also an architectural and cultural landmark on India’s western seaboard, where the Arabian Sea’s waves wash close to its plinth — a sight that deeply moving pilgrims. Understanding Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple Darshan is essential.

Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple Darshan Timings Today

The temple opens early to accommodate pilgrims seeking blessings at dawn and remains accessible until late evening.

• Darshan Hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily (continuous darshan)
• Aarti Schedule:
  • 07:00 AM – Morning Aarti
  • 12:00 PM – Noon Aarti
  • 07:00 PM – Evening Aarti
• Light & Sound Show (“Jay Somnath”): Around 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM – a narrated audio-visual experience about the temple’s history (nominal ticket charges may apply).

My personal visit at sunset was unforgettable — the transition from the evening aarti to the sound & light show created a magical spiritual atmosphere that’s hard to describe in words.

How To Reach Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple

By Air

The nearest airport is Diu Airport (DIU), about 65 km away — ideal if you’re flying from major Indian cities. Alternatively, Porbandar Airport (PBD) is another option at around 110 km. This relates to Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple Darshan.

From either airport, taxis and buses offer connectivity to Veraval and the temple complex.

By Train

The closest rail head is **Veraval Junction**, located approximately 7 km from the temple. Regular trains connect Veraval with major cities such as Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and Delhi.

However, upon arrival, autorickshaws, taxis, and local buses serve the short onward journey to Somnath Temple. Learn more about Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple Darshan.

By Road

Somnath is well linked via national and state highways. It’s a popular road trip destination from cities like Rajkot (~185 km), Ahmedabad (~400 km), and Bhavnagar (~280 km). Comfortable private car hires and state buses make the trip convenient.

Booking And Entry Information (Step-By-Step)

Regular darshan at Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple is free of cost for all devotees. No ticket or reservation is required for standard entry.

In contrast, if you want a priority experience or special darshan rituals, follow these steps for booking:

Online Booking (Official)

1. Visit the official Somnath Trust portal at somnath.org.
2. Select “Online Donation / Pooja Vidhi” from the menu.
3. Choose your service (e.g., VIP Darshan, Bilva Pooja) and preferred date/time.
4. Enter your personal details (name, contact, etc.) and complete payment.
5. Download or note your booking confirmation for darshan or pooja.

Important Tip: Always use the official website to avoid scams or unofficial intermediaries.

Offline Booking

You can also book VIP darshan or special poojas directly at the temple’s booking counter near the entrance during your visit. Priority passes are typically available subject to availability.

Entry Fees And Pooja Charges

• Regular Darshan: Free of charge.
• VIP/Special Darshan: Around ₹500 per person (may vary by season)
• Pooja/Special Rituals: Bilva Pooja ₹300, other rituals priced accordingly
• Light & Sound Show: Nominal ticket (approx ₹25 adults)

Insider Tips From My Visit

When I visited Somnath, I reached right at dawn (before 6:00 AM) to enjoy serene darshan before the crowds gathered. The early morning light on the temple spires against the Arabian Sea is breathtaking.

On the other hand, what surprised me most was how smoothly the aarti sessions were conducted despite large crowds — the temple staff manage the flow very well. I personally recommend attending the 7:00 PM aarti and then the light & sound show for a complete spiritual experience in one visit.

Furthermore, wear modest, comfortable clothing and carry a scarf or shawl, especially during the hot midday hours if you visit in summer.

Nearby Attractions And Distances

• Triveni Sangam: Where three rivers meet the sea – ~2 km.
• Old Somnath Temple Ruins: Archaeological interest point – ~0.5 km.
• Bhalka Tirth: Site associated with Lord Krishna – ~6 km.
• Surya Temple: Solar deity shrine – ~1.5 km.

Best Time To Visit

October to March offers cool, pleasant weather that enhances the darshan experience and sightseeing around Somnath. Peak summer months (April–June) can be extremely hot, and monsoon season (July–September) brings scattered rains near the sea.

Visiting during festivals like **Maha Shivratri** adds extra spiritual fervour but expect larger crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a ticket for Somnath Jyotirlinga Temple Darshan?

No ticket is required for regular darshan — entry is free for all pilgrims. VIP or special darshan may have a fee.

Can foreigners visit the temple?

Yes, the temple welcomes visitors of all faiths. Carry valid ID for any booked services.

Is online darshan booking mandatory?

Online booking is optional and recommended only for VIP darshan or special pooja services.

Are photography and phones allowed inside?

Typically, respectful photography is allowed in outer precincts; inside sanctum rules may vary — follow temple guidelines.

Is there accommodation nearby?

Yes. Guest houses and pilgrim lodges are available, with bookings possible through the official Somnath Trust contacts.