10 must-visit places in Ujjain: Where the heritage converge devotion!

Located at the banks of Kshipra River the renowned city of Ujjain stands as a timeless tribute to India's rich cultural and religious heritage. Unveiling the must-visit places in Ujjain.

If you are religious, love mythology, or even adore architectural marvels, it's time for you to knock on the doors of Ujjain, or “Mahakal ki Nagri,” a prominent place with religious significance and recognized for its rich culture and heritage. Located on the banks of the holy river Kshipra, the city of Spiritual Heaven is situated in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Ujjayini or Ujjain ranks among the seven ancient Puris – the Sapta Puris of India, regarded as bestowers of deliverance (moksha). This center of pilgrimage has been drawing devotees and tourists for centuries, offering prime attractions with marvelous architecture and a spiritual aura. The city was featured in Amit Rai's OMG or Oh My God 2. Let's commence and accompany the journey of exploring the magical lanes of the city and learning about the 10 must-visit places in Ujjain.

1. Mahakaleshwar Temple

You are exploring the magnificent Mahakaleshwar temple that lies at the heart of Ujjain, among the most auspicious shrines of Lord Shiva and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The best part about this place is the Bhasma Arti, which captivates your attention. This ritual is considered a holy bath, where Lord Shiva is adorned with ashes. This is the only temple where six Aartis are performed with new Shringara (preparing and dressing him in the whole attire for the day ahead). The temple authority also provides the opportunity to experience the Bhasma Aarti through VR. It also boasts a massive corridor of 900 meters, consisting of 200 idols depicting stories of Mahakaal. Experiencing the magnificent corridor during the evenings should be at the top of your list as it is illuminated with lights. Also, there are many small temples within the temple premises worth visiting.

2. Kaal Bhairav Temple

This temple holds immense significance in terms of spirituality and beliefs. It is believed that the pilgrimage to Ujjain is considered incomplete if a devotee doesn’t visit Kaal Bhairav after seeking the darshan of Mahakaal. We came across an unusual aspect: the devotees offer liquor as prasad to the deity. It has cultural and historical importance, symbolizing the acceptance of all offerings with devotion. The dog Vahana (vehicle) of Kaal Bhairav is also notable. In Hindu symbolism, dogs are often associated with protection and loyalty.

3. Har Siddhi Mata Temple

This is one of the Shaktipeeths that holds spiritual importance according to the Brahmanda Purana and Shiva Purana. According to legends, the elbow of Mata Sati had fallen at this spot when Lord Shiva was carrying her burnt body after self-immolation. Devotees believe that worshiping Shaktipeeths can fulfill all their wishes and desires and bless them with health and prosperity. The temple was reconstructed during the Maratha period, and the two pillars adorned with lamps are special features of Maratha art. The best part is the lamp show, which is indeed a prime attraction as it captivates the attention of the crowd for its mesmerizing experience.

4. Gadkalilka Mata Temple

Visiting Gadkalika temple, which is one of the spiritual beauties not mentioned in the Puranas and Vedas as a Shaktipeeth, can provide an enchanting experience. There is an effigy of a lion at the entrance of the temple facing Mata Shakti. It is believed that the spiritual connection lies in the lower lip of Mata Sati falling on the banks of the Kshipra River near Bhairav mountain, imbuing the place with powerful spiritual energy. People from far and wide visit the fairs held during Navratri and other auspicious occasions to seek blessings from Mata Kali.

5. Mangalnath Dham

This place is known for its unique significance. It is considered the birthplace of the planet Mars according to the Matsya Purana and is famous for mangal dosh nivarana bhaat poojan. Additionally, it is said that Mars was created when Shiva melted a portion of Kailash Parvat with the fire emitted from his third eye. While we were shopping for the pooja thali, we learned a unique fact about this place from a vendor. He said, "This is the only temple where a sheep faces the Shivlinga because it is believed that the sheep is the Vahana (vehicle) of Mars and is dedicated to it."

6. Siddhavatt 

We also explored Sidhavatt, which is situated on the banks of the Kshipra River near Bhairavgadh village. According to mythology, the sapling of banyan or Vatt was planted by Mata Parvati for Shivji, and Kartikeya, the son of Shiv-Parvati, was declared as Senapati here. Referring to the Skand Purana, the Poojari said that the Vattvruksh is considered Lord Shiva, and the victory of virtue and righteousness took place here when Kartikeya defeated Tarkaasur.

7. Sandipani Aashram 

This is the place where Shri Krishna, Balram, and their friend Sudama pursued their education. The environment is as soothing and blissful as one would experience during the stages of education in the Dwapar Yug. Gomati Kund is situated at the epicenter of the Ashram. It is a small, steep pond created by Shri Krishna summoning all the holy water so that his guru, Sandipani, wouldn't have to travel far. You'll come across galleries depicting life lessons and education provided in the Ashram during that era. It is advised not to carry phones or cameras for photography, as the temple authority may confiscate them or impose penalties.

8. Ram Ghat

The adorning beauty of the Kshipra River and the mesmerizing experience of Kshipra Aarti can blow your mind. The place is usually crowded during the evenings, so it is advisable to arrive around 5 pm to find a place to sit and have a spectacular experience. You'll find many temples along the way.

9. Chintamani Ganesh

The historic temple of Lord Ganesha, situated 7 km away from Ujjain city, is a must-visit for every friend of Ganesha. The huge idol of Chintamani here is covered with vermilion. This place should be on your travel list as the prasad here is the best.

10. Iskcon Temple 

The Iskcon temple in Ujjain is located on the highway near the Nanakheda bus stop. The white marble structure looks serene, resembling other Iskcon temples around the world. The main deities here are Radha Madhana Mohan, Lord Krishna, Balram, and Sri Gauri Nitai, who are gracious.

For its unique presence, Ujjain has contributed immensely to Indian history and heritage. Its transcendence of body and soul blends you within the culture and opens doors to religious evidence. The street food vibes here are soulful, and it is advisable to maintain decorum by refraining from taking pictures on the temple premises and not spoiling the heritage site.