Somnath Temple Entry Rules & Visitor Guidelines
Essential rules and guidelines for visitors
Quick Summary
- Entry to Somnath Temple is free for all devotees.
- Temple is open daily for darshan.
- Strict security check at entry points.
- Mobile phones, cameras, and electronic items are not allowed inside.
- Modest and respectful clothing is recommended.
- Basic facilities are available for senior citizens and families.
🔒 Entry Rules & Security Check
All visitors entering the Somnath Temple complex must pass through a security check.
- Bag scanning and personal frisking are mandatory.
- Mobile phones, cameras, smart watches, power banks, and electronic items are not permitted inside the temple.
- Sharp objects, food items, and large bags are also restricted.
- Locker facilities are available outside the temple complex for depositing restricted items.
- Visitors are advised to carry only essential items to reduce waiting time.
👉 Also Checkout:
👕Dress Code & Visitor Etiquette
Somnath is one of the most sacred Jyotirlinga temples, and visitors are expected to maintain decorum.
- Modest and traditional clothing is recommended for both men and women.
- Avoid wearing very short, sleeveless, or revealing clothes.
- Footwear must be removed before entering the temple premises
- Head covering is not mandatory.
- Maintain silence and follow instructions from temple staff and volunteers.
👉 Helpful for families:
⏳Darshan Queue System & Waiting Time
Darshan at Somnath follows a structured queue system.
- General darshan is conducted through designated queue lines.
- Waiting time depends on the day, season, and crowd levels.
- Early morning and late afternoon hours usually have smoother movement.
- Mondays, weekends, Shravan month, and major festivals may be crowded.
- During peak periods, waiting time may range from 30 minutes to a few hours.
👉 Plan ahead:
♿Senior Citizen, Disabled & Family Facilities
Basic facilities are provided to make the visit comfortable for elderly devotees and families.
- Wheelchair assistance may be available on request (subject to availability)
- Seating and resting areas are available within the temple complex.
- Drinking water and washroom facilities are provided.
- Temple volunteers and staff assist visitors when required.
- Seniors are advised to avoid peak hours for a more comfortable darshan.
👉 Detailed guide:
👨👩👧👦Tips for Families & First-Time Visitors
- Staying on Somnath–Veraval Road generally offers the best balance of comfort and access.
- Confirm food availability nearby, especially for late arrivals.
- Ensure check-in timings align with your arrival schedule.
- Staying too close to restricted zones does not always reduce walking.
📅When to Book Accommodation in Advance
Advance booking is strongly recommended during:
- Mahashivratri
- Shravan month
- Weekends, long holidays, and school vacations
During these periods, accommodation near Somnath may fill quickly, and last-minute options may be limited.
👉 Detailed guide:
📷Photography Rules Inside & Outside the Temple
Photography rules are strictly enforced to maintain sanctity and security.
- Photography and videography are strictly prohibited inside the temple
- Cameras and mobile phones must be deposited before entry
- Photography is generally allowed in outer areas such as the temple walkway and sea-facing promenade
- Rules may vary during special events and the Light & Sound Show
👉 Related page:
🧭Planning Your Somnath Stay
You may also find these pages helpful: