Shree Mahakaleshwar Temple

Shree Mahakaleshwar Temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which makes it a sacred temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is situated on the holy banks of the Shipra River. It is renowned for its spiritual energy and attracts millions of devotees every year, particularly during the Simhastha Kumbh Mela. During this meal, devotees take a holy dip in the Shipra River and seek blessings.

The Mahakaleshwar Temple is built in an exquisite blend of traditional and modern styles. It houses the main idol of Lord Shiva in "Swayambhu" form, which symbolizes his supreme power. This temple is famous not only for its religious importance but also for its distinctive rituals, such as Bhasma Aarti. This aarti is performed every morning with the ash from the cremation grounds, and it is believed to purify the soul.

About Shree Mahakaleshwar Temple History

The earliest evidence of the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain is found in the Puranas. According to Puranas, it was established by Prajapita Brahma. The temple has witnessed many attacks and destruction. Shams ud-Din Ittutmish was first destroyed in the temple's complex in the 13th century. He even dismantled and threw the Jyotirling in the nearby "Koti Teerth Kunda" with the Jaladhari, which was stolen during the invasion. Later, the Maratha Diwan Ramchandra Baba Shankar reconstructed and revived the temple. However, Jalauddin Khilji and Alauddin Khilji attacked it again.

Nearby Places

• Dewas
• Ralamandal Wildlife Sanctuary
• Indore
• Ratlam
• Janapav Kuti
• Nagda Birla Mandir
• Mhow
• Omkareshwar Temple
• Maheshwar Fort
• Kal Bhairav Mandir
• Kaila Devi Temple

How to Reach Shree Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain?

By Air:The nearest airport to the Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain is Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport in Indore, located approximately 55 kilometers away. You can take either a taxi or a bus from the airport to reach Ujjain. Depending on traffic conditions, it will take you 1.5 to 2 hours.

By Train:The railway station is located near the heart of the city, making it convenient for travelers to reach their destination. Whether you are from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Jaipur, or elsewhere, you can get a direct train to Ujjain.

By Road:Ujjain is very well connected to cities like Indore, Bhopal, and Ahmedabad by a network of National Highways. You can reach Ujjain by car or bus. There are even bus services to Ujjain from major and nearby cities in Madhya Pradesh.