2 Days in Somnath for a Relaxing Nature Trip

A day filled with spiritual vibes, coastal beauty, and local flavors in Somnath, starting with its iconic temple and ending with a serene beach visit.

Activities

Somnath Temple Darshan

Begin your day with a visit to the legendary Somnath Temple, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The temple, rebuilt several times, stands as a symbol of resilience. The morning aarti is a peaceful experience, with the sound of waves from the nearby Arabian Sea adding to the spiritual ambiance.

Somnath Temple, Near Triveni Sangam6:00 AM - 8:00 AM (best for fewer crowds and cooler weather)Free (donations welcome)

Tips:

• Dress modestly as it's a religious site
• Carry a small bag for shoes as you'll need to remove them before entering

Explore Triveni Sangam and Prabhas Patan Museum

Just a short walk from the temple, Triveni Sangam is where three rivers meet—Hiran, Kapila, and Saraswati. It's a serene spot for reflection. Nearby, the Prabhas Patan Museum houses ancient artifacts and sculptures from the temple's history, giving you a deeper understanding of its significance.

Triveni Sangam and Prabhas Patan Museum, Near Somnath Temple9:00 AM - 10:00 AM₹20-50 per person for the museum

Tips:

• The museum is closed on Mondays
• Early mornings are less crowded at Triveni Sangam

Relax at Somnath Beach and Sunset View

Wrap up your day at Somnath Beach, a quiet stretch of sand perfect for unwinding. The sunset here is breathtaking, with the temple silhouette in the background. You can also spot the Somnath Lighthouse nearby, which offers panoramic views if you're up for a climb.

Somnath Beach, Near Somnath Temple5:00 PM - 6:30 PM (ideal for sunset)Free (₹20 for lighthouse entry)

Tips:

• The beach is clean but avoid swimming due to strong currents
• Carry water as there aren't many shops nearby

Must Try Foods

Discover the lesser-known but equally captivating side of Somnath with a mix of nature, history, and local flavors.

Activities

Morning at Bhalka Tirth

Start your day at Bhalka Tirth, a serene spot where Lord Krishna is believed to have been accidentally wounded. The peaceful atmosphere and the ancient temple here make it a perfect place for quiet reflection. Don’t miss the peepal tree nearby, said to be a descendant of the original tree from Krishna’s time.

Bhalka Tirth, Somnath7:00 AM - 9:00 AM (best in the early morning light)Free (donations accepted)

Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the temple complex.
• Carry a bottle of water as it can get warm later in the day.

Explore the Gita Mandir

Head to Gita Mandir, a unique temple dedicated to the Bhagavad Gita. The walls here are inscribed with verses from the sacred text, and the architecture is simple yet striking. It’s a great place to soak in some spirituality without the crowds of the main Somnath Temple.

Gita Mandir, Somnath9:30 AM - 10:30 AMFree

Tips:

• Photography is allowed, but be respectful of worshippers.
• Visit the small garden outside the temple for a quiet break.

Lunch at a Local Dhaba

For an authentic taste of Gujarati cuisine, stop by a local dhaba near the temple area. Try the classic thali with dal, kadhi, roti, and seasonal vegetables. The flavors are hearty and homely, perfect for a midday meal.

Near Gita Mandir, Somnath12:00 PM - 1:00 PM₹150-₹300 per person

Tips:

• Ask for the day’s special—it’s often the freshest dish.
• Don’t skip the buttermilk—it’s a great refresher in the heat.

Afternoon at Suraj Mandir

Wrap up your day with a visit to Suraj Mandir, a small but charming temple dedicated to the sun god. The temple’s location offers a nice view of the surrounding area, and the evening light here is particularly beautiful. It’s a quiet spot to unwind before heading back.

Suraj Mandir, Somnath4:00 PM - 5:00 PM (best in the late afternoon)Free

Tips:

• Check the sunset timing—the view from here is worth staying for.
• Carry a light scarf or shawl as the breeze can get chilly.

Must Try Foods