🕉️ Prabhas (Chandrabhaga) Shakti Peetha 🕉️
The Stomach Peetha — Where Maa Chandrabhaga Dwells Near Somnath
📍 Prabhas Patan, Gir Somnath District, Gujarat, India
📜 Explore This Sacred Guide
1. Introduction
In the sacred town of Prabhas Patan in the Gir Somnath district of Gujarat, near the world-famous Somnath Temple, stands the ancient Prabhas Shakti Peetha — also known as the Chandrabhaga Shakti Peetha. This shrine is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and is deeply intertwined with the legendary history of Somnath, the first of the twelve Jyotirlingas.
Prabhas is the shrine where the stomach (Udara) of Sati fell to earth, making it the Udara Peetha — the shrine of the Goddess's sacred stomach. The presiding Goddess is worshipped as Maa Chandrabhaga, and her Bhairava is Vakratunda, a fierce form of Lord Shiva.
What makes Prabhas truly extraordinary is its dual sacred identity. The temple is located in Prabhas Patan, the same sacred town that houses the Somnath Jyotirlinga — the first and most revered of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. This rare coexistence of a Shakti Peetha and a Jyotirlinga in the same town makes Prabhas a complete Shiva-Shakti Kshetra.
2. The Tale Behind the Peetha
The origin of the Shakti Peethas is rooted in the tragic yet profound story of Sati, the daughter of King Daksha and the first consort of Lord Shiva.
Against Shiva's wishes, Sati attended a grand Yagna (fire sacrifice) organised by her father, where Shiva was deliberately insulted and excluded. Unable to bear the humiliation of her beloved, Sati immolated herself in the sacrificial fire. Grief-stricken and enraged, Lord Shiva lifted her lifeless body and began the Tandava — the dance of cosmic destruction that threatened to annihilate the universe.
To save creation, Lord Vishnu used his Sudarshan Chakra to dismember Sati's body. As her limbs fell across the Indian subcontinent, each spot became a Shakti Peetha — a seat of the Goddess's eternal presence. The number of Peethas is traditionally counted as 51, though some texts mention 52 or 108.
At Prabhas Patan, it is believed that the stomach (Udara) of Sati fell to earth. The Goddess here is worshipped as Maa Chandrabhaga, and her Bhairava is Vakratunda. The name "Prabhas" means "radiance" or "splendour," referring to the divine light that emanates from this sacred site.
Local legend adds another layer: the town of Prabhas Patan is associated with the Yadav dynasty, and it is here that the Mahabharata war's aftermath culminated in the destruction of the Yadavas. The sacred Somnath temple, rebuilt many times, stands as a testament to the enduring faith of the region.
3. Goddess & Her Specialty
Maa Chandrabhaga is worshipped as the Goddess of nourishment, fulfilment, and spiritual grace. She is the embodiment of Shakti — the divine feminine power that sustains and nourishes the universe. At Prabhas, she is revered as a form of Goddess Durga and as the consort of Vakratunda Bhairava.
- Form: The Goddess is worshipped in the form of a sacred idol (murti) within the temple. She is adorned with sacred ornaments and offerings.
- Name Meaning: "Chandrabhaga" means "the one who shares the moon's radiance" or "the Goddess of the moon-like splendour." "Prabhas" means "radiance" or "splendour."
- Bhairava: The Bhairava of this Peetha is Vakratunda, a fierce form of Lord Shiva.
- Specialty: Fulfilment of desires, nourishment, protection, and spiritual awakening. The shrine is especially revered for granting prosperity and well-being.
- Festivals: Navaratri, Durga Puja, Maha Shivaratri, and Diwali.
"Chandrabhaga is the Mother who nourishes all. Her radiance lights the path of her devotees."
4. The Shakti Peetha Legacy
Prabhas is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and is one of the most revered shrines of Shaktism in Gujarat. The temple is closely associated with the Somnath Jyotirlinga, making Prabhas a unique dual pilgrimage site.
- Prabhas (Gujarat): Udara khanda — the stomach of Sati fell here. The shrine of Maa Chandrabhaga.
- Kamakhya (Assam): Yoni khanda — the womb of Sati fell here.
- Kalighat (West Bengal): Dakshina Pada — the right toe of Sati fell here.
- Taratarini (Odisha): Stana khanda — the breasts of Sati fell here.
The Pithanirnaya Tantra lists Prabhas as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, with the stomach as the body part and Vakratunda as the Bhairava. The shrine is also mentioned in the Shiva Purana and other sacred texts.
5. Somnath Jyotirlinga Connection
Prabhas Patan is world-famous as the home of the Somnath Jyotirlinga — the first and most revered of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The Somnath Temple is located just a short distance from the Prabhas Shakti Peetha, making the town a complete Shiva-Shakti Kshetra.
Somnath means "Lord of the Moon." The Jyotirlinga is believed to have been established by Chandra (the Moon God) himself, who worshipped Lord Shiva here to regain his lost radiance after being cursed by Daksha. The temple has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history, standing today as a symbol of India's enduring spiritual resilience.
Together with the Chandrabhaga Shakti Peetha, Somnath makes Prabhas Patan a rare pilgrimage destination where devotees can worship both Lord Shiva as the Jyotirlinga and the Divine Mother as the Shakti Peetha. This dual sacred identity makes Prabhas one of the most spiritually potent sites in all of India.
The Chandrabhaga River — named after the Goddess — flows through the region and adds to the sacredness of the location. Devotees believe that bathing in the river and worshipping at both shrines grants purification and spiritual fulfilment.
6. Festivals & Celebrations
Navaratri is the most important festival at Prabhas Shakti Peetha, celebrated with immense devotion and grandeur. The temple comes alive with elaborate decorations, special rituals, and cultural programs. Devotees from across Gujarat and India gather to seek the blessings of Maa Chandrabhaga.
Maha Shivaratri is another major festival, especially significant because of the Somnath Jyotirlinga's presence in the same town. The entire region becomes a hub of devotion, with pilgrims visiting both the Somnath Temple and the Chandrabhaga Shakti Peetha.
- Navaratri: Nine nights of special worship, fasting, and cultural programs.
- Durga Puja: The temple is packed with devotees, and special pujas are performed.
- Maha Shivaratri: Night-long prayers, fasting, and special pujas at both Somnath and the Shakti Peetha.
- Diwali: The temple is decorated with lamps and rangoli.
- Chaitra Navaratri: Celebrated in March–April with special rituals.
During Navaratri and Maha Shivaratri, the air around Prabhas Patan echoes with chants of "Jai Maa Chandrabhaga" and "Om Namah Shivaya," and the divine presence of both Shiva and Shakti is felt most powerfully.
7. Temple History
The Prabhas Shakti Peetha has a rich history spanning thousands of years, interwoven with the legendary history of Somnath and the Yadav dynasty.
- Ancient Origins: The shrine is believed to be one of the oldest centres of Mother Goddess worship in Gujarat. It is mentioned in ancient texts and Puranas.
- Mahabharata Connection: Prabhas Patan is associated with the Yadav dynasty and the aftermath of the Mahabharata war. It is here that the Yadavas were destroyed in a fratricidal conflict, and Lord Krishna departed from the earth.
- Somnath Temple: The Somnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, is located in Prabhas Patan. It has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history, including by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1025 CE and later by the Marathas and the Indian government.
- Modern Era: The Prabhas Shakti Peetha and the Somnath Temple continue to be living centres of worship, drawing millions of pilgrims every year. The temple is managed by the Shree Somnath Trust and the local administration.
8. Architecture & Deity Form
The Prabhas Shakti Peetha reflects the classical Nagara and Chalukya architectural styles of Gujarat, with its sacred sanctum and serene surroundings.
- Main Sanctum: The Goddess is worshipped in the form of a sacred idol (murti) within the temple. She is adorned with sacred ornaments and offerings.
- Architecture: The temple complex features traditional Gujarati temple architecture with intricate carvings and a spacious courtyard.
- Somnath Temple: The nearby Somnath Temple is one of the most magnificent temples in India, with its grand Shikhara and intricate carvings. It stands on the shores of the Arabian Sea.
- Chandrabhaga River: The sacred Chandrabhaga River flows through the region, adding to the spiritual significance of the location.
- Surroundings: The temple is set in a serene, spiritually charged environment near the Arabian Sea coast. The sound of the waves and the sea breeze create a unique devotional atmosphere.
9. Ancient References
The Prabhas Peetha is mentioned across many sacred texts, reflecting its enduring significance in Hindu and Shakta tradition:
- Pithanirnaya Tantra: Lists Prabhas as one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, with the stomach as the body part and Vakratunda as the Bhairava.
- Shiva Purana: Describes the glory of Somnath and the sacred town of Prabhas Patan.
- Mahabharata: Mentions Prabhas Patan as the site of the Yadav dynasty's destruction and Lord Krishna's departure.
- Skanda Purana: Contains detailed descriptions of Prabhas Kshetra and its sacred sites.
- Bhagavata Purana: References the Somnath Jyotirlinga and the sacredness of Prabhas Patan.
10. Travel & Tour Guide
Planning a pilgrimage to Prabhas Shakti Peetha? Here is everything you need to know:
🚆 How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Diu Airport (about 90 km) and Rajkot Airport (about 190 km). Ahmedabad Airport is about 400 km away.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Somnath Railway Station (also known as Veraval Railway Station), about 6 km from the temple. It is well-connected with Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and other major cities.
- By Road: Prabhas Patan is well-connected by road from Ahmedabad (400 km), Rajkot (190 km), and Veraval (6 km). Buses and taxis are available from all major cities.
🕒 Temple Timings (2026)
- Somnath Temple: 6:00 AM – 9:30 PM (Aarti at 7:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 7:00 PM)
- Prabhas Shakti Peetha: Approximately 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Timings may vary on festivals. Check locally for current darshan hours.
🎟️ Darshan Options
- General Darshan: Free for all devotees at both temples.
- Special Darshan: Available during festivals. Check with temple authorities.
- Note: During Navaratri and Maha Shivaratri, expect large crowds and special rituals. Plan accordingly.
👗 Dress Code & Tips
- Dress Modestly: Traditional or modest clothing is recommended.
- Footwear: Not allowed inside the temples. Leave them at the designated stands.
- Carry: Water bottles, light snacks, and a cloth bag for offerings. Sun protection is essential.
- Photography: Restricted inside the sanctums. Check locally for current rules.
- Sea View: The Somnath Temple offers a beautiful view of the Arabian Sea. Visit during sunrise or sunset for a memorable experience.
📅 Best Time to Visit
- October to March: Pleasant weather, ideal for travel.
- Navaratri (September–October): The most grand and powerful time.
- Maha Shivaratri (February–March): Grand celebrations at Somnath and the Shakti Peetha.
- Weekdays: Less crowded than weekends and festival days.
🏨 Where to Stay
- Somnath and Veraval offer a range of hotels and guesthouses for all budgets.
- The Shree Somnath Trust provides dharamshalas and guest houses near the temple.
- Book in advance during festivals, as accommodations fill up quickly.
📌 Special Offerings & Rituals
- Red Flowers & Sindoor: Devotees offer red flowers, sindoor, and coconuts to Maa Chandrabhaga.
- Prasad: Blessed food is distributed to devotees.
- Abhishekam: Ritual bathing of the Somnath Jyotirlinga with milk, honey, and sacred waters.
- Aarti: The Somnath Temple performs three aartis daily — morning, afternoon, and evening.
- Chandrabhaga River Bath: Devotees take a ritual bath in the river before darshan.
11. FAQs
What is a Shakti Peetha?
A Shakti Peetha is a sacred site where a part of Goddess Sati's body fell after Lord Vishnu dismembered her to calm Lord Shiva's Tandava. Each site is a powerful seat of the Divine Mother. There are traditionally 51 Shakti Peethas, though some texts mention 52 or 108.
Why is Prabhas unique among Shakti Peethas?
Prabhas is the shrine where the stomach of Sati fell. It is unique because it shares the same sacred town with the Somnath Jyotirlinga, making it a rare site where both a Shakti Peetha and a Jyotirlinga coexist. This makes Prabhas Patan a complete Shiva-Shakti Kshetra.
Who is Maa Chandrabhaga?
Maa Chandrabhaga is the Goddess of nourishment and protection, worshipped as a form of Goddess Durga. Her name means "the one who shares the moon's radiance." She is the presiding Goddess of the Prabhas Shakti Peetha, and her Bhairava is Vakratunda.
What is the best time to visit Prabhas Shakti Peetha?
October to March offers pleasant weather. Navaratri (September–October) is the most grand and powerful time. Maha Shivaratri (February–March) is also a major celebration because of the Somnath Jyotirlinga. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends and festival days.
What is the connection between Prabhas Shakti Peetha and Somnath?
Both the Prabhas Shakti Peetha and the Somnath Jyotirlinga are located in Prabhas Patan, Gujarat. Somnath is the first of the twelve Jyotirlingas, and the Chandrabhaga Shakti Peetha is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. Together, they make Prabhas Patan a complete Shiva-Shakti Kshetra.
What is the nearest railway station to Prabhas Shakti Peetha?
Somnath Railway Station (also known as Veraval Railway Station) is the nearest railhead, about 6 km from the temple. It is well-connected with Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and other major cities in Gujarat.
Who is the Bhairava of Prabhas Peetha?
The Bhairava of this Peetha is Vakratunda, a fierce form of Lord Shiva. He is worshipped alongside the Goddess Chandrabhaga.
Can non-Hindus visit the temples?
The Somnath Temple and the Prabhas Shakti Peetha are open to all visitors. However, it is best to check locally or with temple authorities for current rules regarding entry to the inner sanctum. Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
What is the history of the Prabhas Shakti Peetha?
The shrine has ancient origins and is mentioned in various Puranas and the Mahabharata. Prabhas Patan is associated with the Yadav dynasty and Lord Krishna's departure from the earth. The Somnath Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history.
What are other places to visit near Prabhas Shakti Peetha?
Nearby attractions include the Somnath Temple, Bhalka Tirth (where Lord Krishna was shot by a hunter), Triveni Sangam, Gita Mandir, Lakshminarayan Temple, and the Somnath Beach. The region is rich in spiritual and historical significance.
🌺 Jai Maa Chandrabhaga 🌺
May the Divine Mother bless you with nourishment, fulfilment, and spiritual grace. May her sacred shrine at Prabhas Patan continue to guide seekers toward liberation for generations to come.
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