About Somnath Temple:

• Somnath temple is located on the western coast of Gujarat. It is believed to be the first among the twelve jyotirlinga shrinesof Shiva.
• It was reconstructed several times in the past after repeated destruction by several Muslim invaders and rulers.
• This temple is also referred to as Ahilyabai Templesince it was built by Queen Ahilyabai of Indore when she found that the old temple was in ruins.
• The present temple was reconstructed in the Chaulukya styleof Hindu temple architecture, with a shikhara nearly 50 m tall.
• It was completed in May 1951. The reconstruction was completed by Vallabhbhai Patel.
• The temple’s imposing architecture includes intricate carvings, silver doors, an impressive Nandi idol and the central shivalinga.

Chalukyan Style of temple architecture:

• It is a blend of Nagara and Dravidian styles, and evolved its own distinctive style. It is sometimes referred to as the ‘Vesara’ style of architecture.
• Style included vimanaof Dravidian style and faceted walls of Nagara style.
• The Ladh Khan and Durga temples at Aihole are the best examples of Chalukyan architecture.

Source: Architecture of India