Somnath – Radhe Krishna Tour And Travels

Ancient Origins & Mythology

According to Hindu legend, Somnath means “The Lord of the Moon.” The temple is believed to have been originally built by Chandra (the Moon God) as an offering to Lord Shiva, who cured him of a curse.
The temple finds mention in texts like the Skanda Purana, Shiva Purana, and Rigveda, suggesting its antiquity.
It is also associated with Krishna’s era—it is said that Krishna was struck by an arrow at Bhalka Tirth near Somnath and left for his divine abode from this region.

The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt multiple times over centuries:

First Construction (Ancient Period)
- Said to have been built in gold by the Moon God, in silver by Ravana, in wood by Krishna, and in stone by King Bhimdev of Gujarat.
Repeated Invasions & Reconstruction
- 1025 CE: Mahmud of Ghazni attacked the temple, looted its wealth, and destroyed the Jyotirlinga.
- Late 12th Century: Rebuilt by the Solanki King Bhima II, but later destroyed by Alauddin Khilji’s general in 1299 CE.
- 14th & 15th Century: Repeatedly attacked by rulers like Zafar Khan and Mahmud Begada.
- 1665: Aurangzeb demolished it and built a mosque in its place.
Modern Reconstruction (1947–1951)
- After India’s independence, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel initiated the rebuilding of Somnath Temple in 1951, restoring it to its former glory.

Built in the Chaulukya style of architecture, the temple stands as a symbol of resilience.
The Jyotirlinga inside is revered by millions of devotees every year.
Near the temple is the Baan Stambh (Arrow Pillar), which signifies that Somnath is at the first landmass in the north from the South Pole.

It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and holds special importance in Shaivism.
It stands as a testament to India’s cultural endurance, having been rebuilt several times.
A major pilgrimage site that attracts devotees from all over India.