Frequently Asked Question

What are the timings of the Somnath Temple?

Somnath Temple is open for darshan from 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM daily. The temple does not close entirely between morning and evening — you can visit any time during these hours.

Aarti timings:

Morning Aarti (Mangal Aarti): 7:00 AM
Noon Aarti (Madhyahna Aarti): 12:00 noon
Evening Aarti (Sandhya Aarti): 7:00 PM

During each aarti, the sanctum sanctorum is closed to regular darshan for approximately 30–45 minutes. If your timing coincides with an aarti, you will need to wait briefly. The evening aarti at 7:00 PM is particularly worth attending — the atmosphere with the drumbeats, bells, and the glow of lamps against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea is unlike anything you’ll experience at a landlocked temple.

Jay Somnath Light and Sound Show: The temple complex also hosts a popular sound and light show in the evenings, starting at 8:00 PM. The show runs for about 45 minutes and narrates the history of Somnath in a dramatic audio-visual format. Entry is ₹25 per person. It is shown in Gujarati and Hindi on alternate days — check the current schedule at the temple counter when you arrive.

Entry fee: Darshan at Somnath Temple is free. Photography and videography inside the temple (including mobile phones) are not permitted.

Best time to arrive: Arrive by 6:15 AM for the morning darshan or by 6:30 PM if you want to witness the Sandhya Aarti and then watch the sound-and-light show. Weekends and festival days (especially Maha Shivratri and Shravan Mondays) see very large crowds — on these days, queues can begin forming well before opening time.