Somnath's 75-year journey: 97 lakh pilgrims, ₹828 crore highway, green overhaul
Somnath, one of India's most revered Jyotirlinga shrines, is set to host a grand 'Amrit Mahotsav' celebrating 75 years of its transformation from a heritage pilgrimage site into a major national tourism destination. Officials have highlighted a dramatic rise in footfall, sweeping infrastructure upgrades, and large-scale environmental initiatives that have reshaped the Gir Somnath district's most iconic landmark.
Footfall and Temple Access
More than 25,000 devotees visit the Somnath Jyotirlinga temple every day, with annual pilgrimage footfall estimated at approximately 97 lakh. Officials attribute this sustained surge to improved road, rail, and air connectivity, alongside expanded civic and tourism facilities around the shrine.
The Somnath Trust has overseen extensive upgrades to accommodation infrastructure, including the Sagar Darshan guest house and a modern circuit house, to cater to the growing volume of visitors. Digital services now allow devotees to book rituals, accommodation, donations, and darshan slots online, while live streaming of daily darshan and aarti is available on digital platforms.
Key Attractions and Cultural Additions
Notable additions to the site include a 16-foot-high statue of Lord Hanuman near the Samudra Darshan Path, and 202 Maruti Haat installations along the coastal walkway. A light-and-sound show narrating the history of Somnath has drawn considerable interest, with over 10 lakh visitors attending in the last three years. Purified Gangajal used in temple rituals is distributed to devotees as
