Somnath Temple Rules: The Somnath Swabhiman Parv (festival) is being celebrated from January 8th to January 11th. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be on a two-day visit to Somnath starting today, January 10th. He will participate in various programs, including darshan (seeing the deity), puja (worship), chanting of the Omkar mantra, and a Shaurya Yatra (procession). If you plan to visit the Somnath temple and have darshan of the Somnath Jyotirlinga during the Somnath Swabhiman Parv or at any other time, you must follow certain rules. These include both religious rules and rules related to temple administration, which are mandatory. Let's learn about the rules for visiting the Somnath temple, what things you should absolutely avoid doing, and what facilities are available to devotees.

Somnath Jyotirlinga: The First of the Twelve Jyotirlingas
The Shiva Purana's hymn to the twelve Jyotirlingas mentions 12 Jyotirlingas, with the Somnath Jyotirlinga being the first, established by Chandra Dev (the Moon God). The moon is also called Soma, hence the name Somnath. Somnath means the Lord of Soma, i.e., Lord Shiva. Chandra Dev worshipped Lord Shiva here to be freed from tuberculosis, and through his grace, Chandra Dev was cured.

Rules for Visiting Somnath Temple

Things to Avoid
The day before you plan to visit the Somnath Jyotirlinga, eat only sattvic (pure and wholesome) food. Do not consume meat, alcohol, or any other tamasic (impure) substances.

It is said that God is hungry for devotion. Lord Shiva is also known as Bholenath (the innocent one), and the purer and more virtuous your mind is, the more you will experience the closeness of Shiva. Do not harbor any anger, criticism, jealousy, hatred, greed, etc., in your mind. Otherwise, the path of devotion will be difficult for you.

Do not wear shoes or sandals inside the temple. Appropriate places have been provided outside the temple for keeping shoes and sandals, and these services are free of charge. Remove your shoes and sandals there before entering the temple. If you are going to visit the Somnath Temple, you must follow the dress code. Your clothes should be appropriate and modest. You can wear a dhoti, kurta, pajama, saree, salwar kameez, etc. Mini skirts or similar clothing are not allowed inside the temple.

Taking cameras, mobile phones, laptops, or other electronic devices inside the temple is prohibited. You can keep them in the locker room. There is no charge for this service.

Taking photos and making videos inside the temple is prohibited. This is for security reasons.

Consuming items like paan, beedi, and cigarettes is strictly prohibited in the temple premises. If you do so, you may be fined.

Can anyone visit the temple?

Yes, people who believe in Hinduism can worship and visit the Somnath Temple.
Is there a fee for visiting the Somnath Temple?

No. There is no charge for entry and darshan (viewing the deity) at the Somnath Temple.
What facilities are available for disabled and senior citizens?

The temple provides wheelchairs, a lift, and vehicle facilities for disabled and senior citizens. You can find wheelchair and vehicle facilities at the main gate of the temple.
Can Havan and yagna be performed?

The temple also provides facilities for performing havan and yagna. For this, you can email gmsomnathtrust@gmail.com or contact the temple management.
How to book a room in the temple guest house?

You can book a room in the Somnath Temple guest house online. For this, you need to visit the temple's website.

Are there facilities for newborn babies?

Yes, the guest house provides facilities for newborn babies, including cradles.
Somnath Temple Darshan and Aarti Timings
The darshan (viewing the deity) time at Somnath Temple is from 6 AM to 10 PM.
Aarti timings: 7 AM, 12 PM, and 7 PM. Light and sound show: From 8 PM to 9 PM.

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