Archive · 18 Jul 2026
Bengal to Send 1,000+ Pilgrims to Gujarat for Somnath Swabhiman Parv
The Bengal government is sending more than 1,000 people on a trip to the Somnath temple in Gujarat.
This trip is part of a big event called Somnath Swabhiman Parv, which is organized by the central government.
The Bengal government will pay for the travel to and from Gujarat, and the Gujarat government will take care of the visitors once they arrive.
The pilgrims will be chosen based on certain rules, like giving preference to older people and couples.
The goal is to make sure different groups of people from Bengal can go on this trip.
The event is to remember important moments in the history of the Somnath temple.
Bengal government to send 1,100 pilgrims to Somnath temple in Gujarat for Somnath Swabhiman Parv.
Travel expenses from Bengal to Gujarat and back will be covered by the Bengal government.
Gujarat government will handle local hospitality, accommodation, and transportation.
Pilgrims will be selected based on guidelines, with preference given to senior citizens and couples.
District administrations to ensure broad-based and inclusive representation in the selection process.
- Who
- Bengal government and Gujarat government
- What
- Organizing a pilgrimage to Somnath temple in Gujarat
- When
- As part of the Somnath Swabhiman Parv from January 11, 2026 to January 11, 2027
- Where
- From Bengal to Somnath temple in Gujarat
- Why
- To commemorate 1,000 years since the first recorded attack on the Somnath Temple and 75 years since its reconstruction
- Number of Pilgrims
- 1,100
- Organized By
- Government of India
- Duration of Parv
- January 11, 2026 to January 11, 2027
- Travel Expenses
- Borne by Bengal government
- Local Arrangements
- Handled by Gujarat government
- Selection Criteria
- Senior citizens, couples, single eligible pilgrims with a companion
- Deadline for Recommendations
- August 7