This is one of the oldest pilgrimage centers in India and finds mention in the ancient books, like Shivpuran, Skandpuran, and Shreemad Bhagvat. Som refers to the ‘Moon God’, thus Somnath means ‘Protector of the Moon God’. According to a legend, Som got the temple built in the honor of Lord Shiva as it was Shiva who cured the illness, which was inflicted on him due to his father-in-law’s curse.
It is one of the most revered ‘jyotirlingas’ among the 12 existing jyotirlingas of India. The temple is located in Prabhas Kshetra in Saurashtra (Gujarat). Prabhas Kshetra is also the region in which, it is believed that Lord Krishna left his mortal body.
Another interesting thing about the place is that it is built on the shore of the Arabian Sea and in between the temple and the South Pole, in a straight line there is no land area. Somnath temple was destroyed and rebuilt many times. The place also has a Somnath museum, Junagadh gate, a beach, and a sound and light show to amuse the pilgrims.