Like the proverbial phoenix that rises every time from the ashes, the magnificent temple at Somnath in Gujarat also has a remarkable history of being destroyed and re-built over and over. From what the historians have described, today’s temple is no match to earlier editions in terms of wealth and glory; and yet, its magnificence is simply astounding. Set in a small sleepy town on the coast of the Arabian Sea, this temple attracts more and more tourists by the year and leaves a lasting impression.

We went to Somnath as a part of our summer vacation among other places. A lot has changed around since I visited more than 20 years ago. Then, there was no town; and the temple stood a few miles from Veraval in isolation; and only the Arabian Sea as its companion. As the tourism business flourished, a small town has mushroomed around it, offering almost everything a tourist would need. Ample accommodation is available if booked well in time. We booked ourselves over phone into what we thought was VIP Guest House. It however turned out to be Sagar Darshan Dham, a brand new hotel offering a magnificent view of the Sea from its balcony. And more importantly, adjacent to the temple with a 5-minute walk.

Unlike most other famous temples in India, it was not very crowded when we went in and as a result we could spend good time inside. It was a great experience. We also witnessed the light and sound programme that depicts the history of the great edifice; and to top it all, it was a super-moon day, when the moon is closest to the earth, looks bigger and radiates more light than any other day. The magnificent structure of the temple sparkling in the moon’s glow, the sea waves splashing the shore in a constant rustle and the refreshing breeze from sea more than made up for a memorable evening.