History:

is an ancient Hindu temple located in the town of Somnathpur in Maharashtra state. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and constructed in 12th century. It is believed to be built by the Yadav rulers of Devagiri and is one of the most important pilgrimage centers in the country. The temple complex has been declared as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also one of the 12 pilgrimage sites of the Jyotirlinga shrines of Lord Shiva, believed to have been built to commemorate the return of the Moon God, Shri Somnath, from where Lord Shiva had taken away all his worldly possessions. It is one of the best temple in Maharashtra which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Somnathpur temple is located near the town of Verul in the Maharashtra state of India. 2. It was built by Maratha chief Kurade, a.k.a. Kondaji, in 1782 AD. 3. The temple is an example of the Hemadpanthi architecture. It is made out of stone and features sculptures of Hindu gods and goddesses. 4. It consists of three main shrines that depict the threeincarnations of Lord Shiva — Lingam, Jagganath and Parvati. 5. The temple is surrounded by a high wall and a gateway that depicts the different incarnations of Lord Shiva. 6. The interior of the temple is decorated with various Hindu gods and goddesses, such as Ganesha, Parvati, Vishnu, Shiva and others. 7. The temple is believed to be the abode of Lord Ganesh. 8. It is believed that the surrounding area was blessed by Lord Shiva and that the temple was constructed as a memorial to Lord Shiva. 9. The temple is considered to be a pilgrimage site and is visited by thousands of devotees every year. 10. The village of Somnathpur is also home to the Somnathpur Mahadarbar, which is an annual cultural and traditional event celebrated at the Somnathpur temple. Here are some facts about the Maharashtra temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in Maharashtra

Worship Method:

The Shri Somnath Temple at Somnathpur, Maharashtra follows the Vatasara Agama style of worship. As per Vatasara Agama, the rituals and poojas to be performed are divided into three categories, namely, Balivaishnava, Rudra and Ganapati which are replicated daily at the Shri Somnath Temple. Some of the everyday rituals and poojas performed at the Shri Somnath temple include Mangalam(prayer for peace and prosperity to the deity), Nandi-Gosha (a morning ritual to worship Nandi deity), Homam(offering of oblations to deities), Abhishekham (showering of holy water, milk and honey on the deity), Nivedyam (offering of food to the deity) and Aradhana (adoration of the deity). Special poojas such as Satyanarayan Puja, Bhagvat Path and Navagraha Puja are also performed on special occasions. This most visited temple in Maharashtra

Opening Timing:

The Shri Somnath Temple in Somnathpur, Maharashtra is open to visitors from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM all days of the week. top temples in Maharashtra

How to reach:

Shri Somnath Temple - Somnathpur in Maharashtra is located in the Bhavsar block of the Hingoli district in Maharashtra. By Air: The nearest airport is Aurangabad Airport located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra and is around 195 km away from Somnathpur. By Train: The nearest railway station is Nanded Railway Station which is 60 km away from the temple. By Bus: The best way to reach Somnathpur from Mumbai and other cities nearby is by taking a bus. There are several bus services available from Mumbai to Somnathpur. By Car: One can also take a private vehicle or a hired cab to reach Somnathpur. The distance from Mumbai to Somnathpur is about 350 km and the journey would take around 7 to 8 hours. famous temples in Maharashtra