Panch Pandava Gufa, which is known as the Caves of Five Pandavas, situated in Lalghati near the temple city of Somnath of Gujarat State. Panch Pandava Gufa is typically a Hindu temple revered by the followers of Hinduism.
This foundation of Caves of Five Pandavas was laid way back in 1949. Late Baba Narayandas is credited as the founder of this temple, which is dedicated to the famous five Pandava brothers of the Mahabharata.
Caves of Five Pandavas or Pancha Pandava Gufa enshrine the idols of various Hindu Gods and Goddesses, along with idols of the five Pandava brothers. The tourists and pilgrims visit Panch Pandav Gufa or Caves of Five Pandavas to offer their prayers to Lord Rama, Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga.
The magnificence of Pancha Pandava Gufa can be observed from the town and sea beach that it overlooks. People often climb up the hill on which the temple is located, to get a breathtaking view of the sunset and spend some time in the soothing precincts of this temple.
Panch Pandav Gufa is located in the colourful Junagadh district of Gujarat. The temple lies in the shadows of the famous Somnath Temple which is home to one of the twelve revered Jyotirlingas of Shiva. International as well as domestic travellers throng Somnath, which is also referred to as Lord of the Moon God, to savour the delights of its rich spiritual and cultural legacy.
Along with the Panch Pandava Gufa, pilgrims also like to offer their reverence at Junagadh Gate, which is an important entry point into the city.
The aura of these Panch Pandava Gufa, also referred to as Aravalem Caves, lures visitors with its folklores and other mythological tales. It is believed that Pandava brothers Yudhisthir, Arjuna, Bheem, Nakula and Sahdeva had spent time in this temple during the term of their exile. With consistent prayers and fasts, they had evoked the powers of Lord Shiva (Mahadeva) in this cave.
Panch Pandava Gufa bears the proofs to several Muslim invasions which destroyed the Temple of Somnath and looted its rich treasures and wealth. It has a long history of attacks and siege and represents the faith of Hindu pilgrims and devotees along with their dedication, resilience and immortal love.
Visiting Information
Panch Pandava Gufa, which is known as the Caves of Five Pandavas is located in the city of Somnath, which is very well connected to various nearby places by road. Visitors can take a bus/ taxi from as Veraval (7 km), or Junagadh (85 km). The highways are well maintained and scenic and have facilities for essential amenities on the way. Most visitors who choose to travel by train get off at Veraval Railway Station, which is located 7 km from Somnath. It acts as the nearest railhead in the region. Veraval is connected by train to Ahmedabad and some other prominent cities. The nearest airport to Somnath is at Keshod, which is located 55 kilometres away. Tourists from Mumbai can avail direct flights to Keshod. After touching down at Keshod, they can hail a cab or bus to take them to Somnath.
