Things to do in Ujjain

Mahakaleshwar Temple

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  Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this glorious temple by the Shipra River is one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas and is distinctly described in the Hindu religious texts.

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  The idol residing in the temple, ‘Dakshinamurti’, sits facing the South direction, while the other Jyotirlingas face East.

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  This three-floored temple is home to three lingams - Mahakaleshwar on the lower floor, followed by Omkareshwar, and then, Nagchandreshwar on the top floor.

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  There is also a large-sized kund (pond), named Koti Tirtha in the complex.

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  The temple architecture, reflecting inspirations from Chalukya, Bhumija, and Martha styles, is an example of prime craftsmanship.

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  Temple Timings: The temple is open from 04:00 am to 11:00 pm.

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  Aarti Timings: Bhasma Aarti: 04:00 am to 06:00 am | Naivedya Aarti: Summer: 07:00 am to 07:45 am and Winter: 07:30 am to 08:15 am | Sandhya Puja: 05:00 pm to 05:45 pm | Sandhya Aarti: 07:00 pm to 07:45 pm | Shayan Aarti: 10:30 pm to 11:30 pm

Other Popular Temples in Ujjain

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  ISKCON Ujjain: Following the ideology that Lord Krishna is the supreme divinity, the temple is popular for its white marble stone structure and manicured Tulsi gardens. Temple Timings: 04:30 am to 09:15 pm

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  Harsiddhi Temple: A shaktipeeth, this temple is home to idols of Mahalaxmi and Mahasaraswati, with the deity of Goddess Annapurna set in the middle. The temple was rebirthed during the Maratha period and has plentiful fascinating legends surrounding its existence. Temple Timings: 05:00 am to 07:00 pm

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  Kal Bhairav Temple: Set along the Shipra River, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva’s fierce avatar, Kal Bhairav, who is believed to be a guardian deity of the city. What makes the temple unique is that alcohol is offered as bhog to this manifestation of Lord Shiva. Temple Timings: 06:00 am to 10:00 pm

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  Rama-Janardana Mandir: Built back in the 17th-century, this temple complex is home to two temples, with idols of Shri Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita in one and Lord Vishnu in another. Temple Timings: 06:00 am to 07:00 pm

Must-visit Attractions in Ujjain

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  Bhartrihari Caves: A pilgrimage site along the banks of Shipra River, housing a plethora of images and idols of Hindu Gods.

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  Kaliyadeh Palace: Often tagged as an architectural and historical wonder, this heritage attraction is known for its location, with Shipra River flowing on both its sides.

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  Shri Ram Ghat: A prominent destination in the city, this ghat is the core of Mahakumbh and is visited by thousands of devotees every day.

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  Maharishi Sandipani Ashram: This ashram is a spiritual landmark with the holy shrine of Maharishi Sandipani, guru of Lord Krishna, residing within its boundary.

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  Jantar Mantar: A symbol of India’s great astronomical wisdom, this observatory showcases several instruments used to calculate positions of the Sun, planets, and stars.

Best Areas to Stay in Ujjain

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  Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga: Hotels, both budget and premium, not only promise quick access to the main temple, but several others nestled in this area.

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  Ujjain Junction Railway Station: Located in the heart of the city, this ever so bustling area provides pilgrims with hotels, homestays, and guest houses as stay options.

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  Ujjain Dewas Road: Set on the outskirts of the city, this area has homestays, guest houses, and apartments to offer besides hotels.

Good to Know Before You Travel

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  How to Reach: Take a flight to Devi Ahilyabai Holkar International Airport (Indore Airport, 56 km away by road) or board a train to Ujjain Junction Railway Station.

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  What to Buy: Handicrafts, including pottery and bamboo items, small stone sculptures, brassware, tribal artefacts, and bed linens are a must in every shopping list of those visiting the city. Jantar Mantar Market, Treasure Bazaar Mall, Sethi Gate, and Topkhana Market are local-favourite spots to find these souvenirs.

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  What to Eat: Street food that one should definitely try in the city are poha, kadhi kachori, dabeli, daal baafla, and bhutte ka kees.

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  Shree Mahakaleshwar Savari: Taking place on every Monday of the Sawan and Bhadrapada Hindu months, this celebration is a grand affair in the city. A procession is organised and devotees are seen chanting, paying respects, and showering flowers on Lord Shiva’s idol.

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  Shiv Navratri: This is a 9-day long celebration, with Mahashivratri falling on the eighth day of the festivities. Every day a different ritual is performed, ranging from Vastra Dharan to Shringar. On Mahashivratri, the devotees fast, chant, meditate, and dance all night at Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple.