weekends

VERAVAL AND SOMNATH

The shore temple of Somnath, believed to have been built by the moon God in gold, Ravana in silver, lord Krishna in wood and Bhimadeva in stone. Waves of destruction engulfed Somnath as tales of it's riches in the 6th-10th century spread. The Caravan Serai of Muhammad Ghazni in the 10th century ransacked the temple and took back precious stone studded images and silver doors, restoration by the Solanki kings was nulified by the conquests by Alla-ud-din and Muhammad Bin Tuglaq brought in fresh destruction, and finally, Auragzeb in one of his many fanatical moments had it destoyed.

The present temple was commissioned by Sardar Patel in the 1950s. The temple is impressive, the aura of devotion even more awesome, but the high point is it's location by the blue waters of the Arabian sea. The beach of Somnath is unshaded but lovely, the views stupendous, and you can enjoy cool, fresh coconuts, camel rides, and spray of the waves as you wade along the shoreline. Park your car outside the temple,and walk down to the Prabhas Patan museum to see the remains of the 11th century version of Somnath temple, with 5 domes and multiple pillars, fine 11^th century sculpture of lord Agni, lord Shiva, lord Vishnu, Apsaras and Goddesses, and The religious can visit the Bakhla Tirth where lord Krishna was hit by a tribal arrow. The 11th-13th century Sun temple with intricate carvings, the old caves and Triveni Tirth, where 3 rivers meet the sea-as every waterbody is holy in Hindusim, the meeting place for 3 rivers and the sea is 4 times as holy, are other fascinations.

6 kms from Somnath, Veraval was a fortified port town of the royal family of Junagadh. The old walls have been pulled down but the impressive Junagadh gate and Patan gate, both with intricate carvings, can still be seen, as can the old Nawabi palace with Gothic features facing the sea. The beach near the palace, has benches and a jogging path, and is a popular place for strolls and swimming in the morning.

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