Places to Visit in Ujjain
Table of Contents
Why is Ujjain famous?
Located in Madhya Pradesh on the banks of the Kshipra River, Ujjain is a sacred town known for its solitude and peace. This holy city hosts Kumbh Mela, i.e., one of the biggest spiritual gatherings in the world, occurring once every 12 years. The city houses several pilgrimage attractions and over 100 temples dating back hundreds of years. Given its rich spiritual heritage, most Ujjain Tour Packages are designed to cover these historic temples and cultural landmarks in a well-planned itinerary.
Historical Importance of Ujjain
A city steeped in ancient times, Ujjain reveals its history through its timeless appeal. Ujjain is an ancient city that witnessed the rise of early human civilisations, considering archaeological findings like artefacts and ancient rock paintings traced back to its ancient history. The city has been the origin of different cultures, with a diversity of Oraon and Munda tribes. It is worth noting that the historical narrative of Ujjain took a drastic shift with the rise of colonial powers, especially during the Gupta and Maurya empires.
Religious Significance of Ujjain
The religious significance of the town was marked by the development of the Mahakaleshwar Temple in the 4th to 6th centuries. The religious significance of Ujjain has faltered with dynasties changing over the centuries, which is evident in its historical landmarks. In Independent India, Ujjain has become a living example of diverse and rich heritage, which invites tourists to explore the history that has redefined its presence.
Top Places to Visit in Ujjain
Mahakaleshwar Ujjain
Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is the biggest and most important attraction for religious tourists. Ujjain is well-known for its iconic Bhasma Aarti, which is performed here. Mahakaleshwar Temple is also one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. The procession starts with a ritual bath or “Abhishek” of the Shivling and sprinkling the same with honey, curd, sandal paste and cleaning the same with water and milk. Finally, the Shiva Linga is ornamented with shringar and ash. There is an advanced registration process to attend Bhasma Aarti. Legends have it that the temple was founded by the Creator himself, Lord Brahma.
Mahakal Lok Corridor
For the development of tourism, providing excellent facilities to the visitors, and maintaining the ancient heritage, the Mahakal Lok corridor was developed, which is spread over 900m. It is covered by Rudrasagar Lake. There are over 200 statues, 108 pillars, and murals displaying the tales of Lord Shiva.
Bada Ganpati Temple
Bada Ganpati Temple is located next to the Mahakal Temple complex en route to Harsiddhi Temple. It has a giant statue of Lord Ganesha, which stands 4m tall. It also has a 4-faced Lord Vishnu idol made of brass in the inner complex.
Kal Bhairav Temple
It is another popular temple that is accessible through the bridge across the Kshipra River near the Bhagirathi caves. Along with having darshan of the Mahakal Temple, one also has to visit the 8 attendants of Shiva or Ashta Bhairava. Kal Bhairava is the chief deity among the 8 attendants. This temple is especially vital for Shiva Bhakti. The temple was known to be built by King Bhadrasen from Maheshwar. The temple is also mentioned in Avanti Khanda and other Hindu scriptures. Coconut, liquor, incense, and flowers are offered to the deity. There are liquor shops outside the complex where one can buy the offerings and offerings in the Garbh Griha. Then half of the liquor is offered to the idol by the priest and returned to the devotee.
Harsiddhi Temple
Harsiddhi Mata Temple has idols of goddesses Mahasaraswati and Mahalaxmi, with Annapurna sitting between them. Goddess Annapurna is the major deity worshipped in this temple. In the Ardhamandapa, the pillars are dated back to the 11th century. During the Maratha Empire, the existing structure of the temple was rebuilt. There are two pillars with 1008 lamps outside the entrance.
Along with those tourist attractions, Ujjain is also known for these hidden gems –
Kaliadeh Palace
Located on the banks of the Kshipra River, the Kaliadeh Palace was built in 1458 by the Sultan of Mandu. It consists of great Persian architecture, which gives idyllic views with the river flowing on both sides.
Triveni Sangam
Triveni Sangam is a nice, serene spot where three rivers meet – Gandaki, Saraswati and Shipra. This peaceful spot has old banyan trees where one can enjoy the cool breeze.
Navagraha Temple
Located on the banks of the Shipra River, the Navagraha Temple is dedicated to nine celestial bodies, as the name suggests. It receives a huge crowd on the Amavasya on Saturday. This temple has achieved a lot of religious significance over the years. The temple houses Lord Shani as the main deity and Dhayya Shani. The Hindu calendar “Vikram Samvat” is known to have originated in this temple.
Jantar Mantar
Vedh Shala or Jantar Mantar is located in New Ujjain. It is an observatory built by Sawai Jai Singh (Maharaja Jai Singh II) in 1725, which consists of 13 astronomical dials. It is not the only observatory in India. There are 4 others located in Delhi, Mathura, Jaipur, and Varanasi. It was built when Sawai Jai Singh was the governor of Ujjain to determine local standard time, eclipses, declination of stars, planets, and the Sun, and the height of the location.
Gopal Mandir
Also known as Dwarkadhish Temple, Gopal Mandir is the second-largest temple in Ujjain, followed by Mahakal Temple. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, Gopal Mandir was built by the wife of King Daulatrao Scindia, Bayaji Bai Shinde, in the Maratha pattern in the 19th century.
Temple & Spiritual Questions
- Which temples are a must-visit in Ujjain?
There are several religious attractions in Ujjain that provide cultural and divine insight into the rich heritage, such as the Mahakaleshwar Temple, Chintaman Ganesh Temple, Kal Bhairava Temple, Dwarkadhish Temple, Harsiddhi Temple, Chaubis Khamba Temple, ISKCON temple, Navgrah Shani Mandir, and Shri Mangalnath Temple.
- What is special about Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga?
Mahakaleshwar Temple is among the 12 holiest Jyotirlingas and abodes of the deity. The temple is surrounded by the colossal Rudra Sagar Lake, which is constantly being one of the most excellent and holiest pilgrimage destinations for Hindus, providing unmatched and different composure and peace of mind to the visitors.
- How can I attend Bhasma Aarti?
Devotees have to arrive by 3 AM because Bhasma Aarti commences by 4 am or Brahma Muhurat. They have to book at least 30 days in advance. For booking in advance, visit the official Mahakal Temple portal.
- What is the significance of the Kal Bhairav Temple?
Kal Bhairav Temple is dedicated to Lord Kala Bhairava. His idol looks like a rock layered with vermilion. The deity has a silver head adorned with a pagri made in Maratha style. He is well revered as the guardian deity of Ujjain, i.e., Senapati (Chief General or Commander-in-Chief).
History & Culture Questions
- Why is Mangalnath Temple called the birthplace of Mars?
As per the Matsya Purana, the Mangalnath Temple is known as the place of birth of Mars. It is also known for having a clear view of the planet and for astronomical studies. It is known to be located at the centre of the Earth. Here, Bhaat Pooja is conducted to relieve Mangal dosh before marriage.
- What is the history of Harsiddhi Temple?
Ujjain is not only known for being one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. It is also well-known for having one of the 51 Shakti Peethas of Goddess Sati, Harsiddhi Temple, which is dedicated to Mata Parvati. Legends had it that Lord Shiva carried the body of Mata Parvati when she went into the sacrificial fire, and her elbow fell here. In the centre, the main deity is adorned with dark vermilion colour. Tourists can pay homage to Mahalakshmi, Mahasaraswati, and Goddess Annapurna here.
- How to cover the 84 Mahadev Yatra?
Andhakasur, an unbeatable demon, had terrorised all three worlds, as per the Skanda Purana. When Devas tried to kill this demon, each drop of blood led to the birth of a new demon when it fell on earth. To prevent this, the demon was struck in Ujjain by Lord Shiva, and a total of 84 drops fell on the holy land. The Shiva linga emerged to contain the evil at all 84 spots, which later became 84 Mahadev Temples. Hence, 84 spots symbolise cosmic cycles of birth and rebirth, and this pilgrimage and 84 Mahadev yatra symbolise freedom from those 84 lakh births. These temples are located around the old Ujjain along the Shipra River. There are periphery loops and clusters to cover those temples.
Best Time to Visit Ujjain
Visitors can explore Ujjain all year round. However, Mondays of Shravan month, Maha Shivratri, Nag Panchami, Kumbh Mela (which is held once in 12 years), and Kartik Mela (held every year) are some of the best times to witness the holy vibe of Ujjain.
How to Reach Ujjain
By Air
Devi Ahilya Bai International Airport, Indore (55 km), is the nearest airport, which is connected to tier-1 cities in India like Mumbai, Delhi, Pune, Hyderabad, Kolkata, etc.
By Rail
Ujjain railway station (2 km) is the closest railway station to the Mahakaleshwar Temple. It is well-connected to all major cities in Madhya Pradesh and the rest of India.
By Road
Both state-owned and private buses run from Indore, Maheshwar, Bhopal, Omkareshwar, Burhanpur, and Maheshwar. Dewas Gate Bus Stand is located only 600m away from the railway station. One can hire cycle rickshaws, cabs, tempos, and auto-rickshaws from there. Nanakheda Bus Terminus is another bus stand located around 5 km away.
If you wish to explore beyond Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh Tour Packages make it easy to cover nearby destinations like Indore, Omkareshwar, and Maheshwar in the same trip.
Famous Festivals in Ujjain
Simhastha Kumbh Mela
Also known as Ujjain Kumbh Mela, Simhastha Kumbh Mela has a lot of religious significance as per Hindu mythology, where drops of Amrit (elixir of immortality) fell by Garuda at four spots, while he was moving it in the pot (kumbha).
Mahashivratri Festival
The night vigil is well aligned with the identity of Mahakal. During this festival, worship is conducted all day long. Ujjain is completely immersed in rituals with divine bells ringing, chantings, and constant Shankhanaad can be heard all day long.
Kartik Mela
Kartik Mela is among the major cultural and religious gatherings during the holy Kartik month at Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga. The festival starts at Dev Uthani Gyaras or Prabodhini Gyaras, i.e., on the 11th day of Shukla Paksha of Kartik month. Omkareshwar witnesses spiritual gatherings, vibrant celebrations, cultural traditions, and religious activities, attracting thousands of pilgrims and devotees across India.
Shravan Month Celebrations
Shravan is known to be one of the holiest periods for worshipping Lord Shiva. During this period, Mondays have special significance, when devotees offer prayers, fast, and visit Shiva temples. This devotion becomes more majestic when the procession of Mahakal Sawari takes place.
Conclusion
Why Ujjain Should Be on Every Traveller’s Bucket List
Located on the banks of the Kshipra River, Ujjain is one of 7 holiest cities in Hinduism. It holds a significant position where deaths meet Moksha. The city of Mahakal, Ujjain, is the city where Lord Shiva bestows his blessings to the visitors. Mahakaleshwar Temple is itself a sight to behold.
Final Travel Tips for a Memorable Ujjain Trip
Tourists have to consider a few tips to have a memorable and convenient journey –
- Tourists should consider religious festivals, cultural events, and other major events before visiting Ujjain.
- Considering the spiritual significance of the temple, visitors have to consider the dress code
- Whether visiting Ujjain by rail, road, or air, tourists have to arrange their travel bookings in advance.
- Pack comfortable footwear and modest clothing to get around town.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days are enough for Ujjain?
For exploring Ujjain to the fullest, 3 days are the sweet spot. During peak season, the time may extend.
What is the most famous place in Ujjain?
Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is the most famous destination, which attracts millions of tourists every year. The temple is well-known for its south-facing Dakshinamurti idol and intense Bhasma Aarti.
Is one day enough to visit Ujjain?
If you don’t have several days, it is recommended to start exploring Ujjain with a pre-booked VIP entry or regular darshan at the Mahakal temple early morning.
What is the best time to visit Ujjain?
The winter months of October to March are considered the best time to explore Ujjain when the weather is pleasant for temple hopping.
Are there any entry fees for tourist attractions in Ujjain?
The majority of temples and tourist attractions are free to visit in Ujjain. However, tourists have the choice to book VIP tickets for early entry.
Which places can be visited near the Mahakaleshwar Temple?
Tourists can visit several historical landmarks, spiritual corridors, and ghats in Ujjain. Some of the major attractions around Mahakal Temple are Ram Ghat, Mahakal Lok Corridor, Kal Bhairav Temple, Sandipani Ashram, Harsiddhi Temple, and Mangalnath Temple.
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