Ujjain

A great devout center on the banks of river Shipra, Ujjain, in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh is regarded as a sacred place since time immemorial. A holy city, which found its mention in the ancient Hindu scriptures as Avantika, Ujjain positioned in equal terms with other major religious centers. Later the name was changed to Ujjayini, which literally means the glorious conqueror. One among the seven sacred cities of the Hindus, Ujjain has been a high-flying center of spiritual activities for over 2,000 years. The sacredness of this township is attributed by the mythological legend that during Sagar Mathan, one drop of nectar spilled over Ujjain, which makes it a sacred place. Whatever be the truth behind this, Ujjain has got a considerable mention in the Vedas and it is believed that two parts of Skanda Purana, are supposed to have been composed here. Ruined sculptures and monasteries have been found scattered around Ujjain, leading to the credence that Buddhism thrived here in the 4th century. A glut of these, along with ruined temples and old remnants of houses found in the district take the visitor to the historic reign of the Mauryan Empire. Ujjains relevance is not constrained to the small circle of a religious place. Apart from that, this city was a haven of astronomers, and great poets. Besides this, Ujjain was ruled over by many greatest rulers who have given out their best to this historic city. The illustrious kings of the Gupta dynasty whose reign is considered as the golden rule of India belonged to Ujjain. Festive occasions and fairs play a significant role in the lives of people in Ujjain and tourists should book Ujjain tour package during this time. An ancient religious centre, Ujjain is famous for the Kumbh Mela, Ardha Kumbh and Shivaratri. Today the city presents a unique blend of glorious past with the vibrancy of modernity. A plethora of ruined temples, damaged sculptures, ancient monasteries along with attractive monuments and a serene ambience, Ujjain provides unlimited opportunities of exploration.

When To Go
Ujjain experiences extreme climatic conditions of very hot summers and chilly cold winters. The summer months (March June) are ruthless with temperatures soar up to a maximum level of 45C, associated with hot winds, known as loo, in the afternoon. The winter months during November to February are pleasant and cool in daytime with maximum temperatures of about 20C. Nights become chilly with a minimum of 3C. Monsoons during June to September offer moderate rainfalls. Simhastha is the great bathing festival of Ujjain, which is celebrated once in twelve years. Ceremonial bathing in the holy waters of Shipra begin with the full moon day of Chaitra (March) and continue up to the next full moon day. Best period to visit Ujjain is from October to March.

History
Ujjain, the holy town in Madhya Pradesh, goes back to the times of Lord Buddha when the city used to be the capital of the Avanti Kingdom. During the 4th century B.C. the city was home to Emperor Asoka and it was during this time that the Hindu Geographys first meridian of longitude was marked. Post the Mauryan rule, the city came under the rule of Sungas and the Satavahanas respectively. The Ror Sakas came on to the forefront after the downfall of the Satavahanas and ruled here from 2nd to 4th century CE. During the reign of Gupta Kings, Ujjain became an important trading capital. It became an immensely important center of astronomical and mathematical research in the 6th and 7th century. The famous mathematician Brahmagupta and Varahamihira were born here. This hot seat of religion was raided by Iltutmish, the king of Delhi Sultanate in 1235, thus causing a lot of destruction to the temples. It became the capital of the Malwa region under the kingship of Akbar. The city came under the rule of the Sindhia kings during the second half of the 18th century. However, they shifted their base to Gwalior and after the independence of India, it became a part of Madhya Bharat. In the year 1956, it was merged in to the state of Madhya Pradesh.

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Travel within city

Traveling around Ujjain is very easy and you can opt for one of the various modes of transportation available within the city. There are buses, shared auto rickshaws, auto rickshaws and tongas available for local transport and opting for one among these can be a very good idea.

Shared Auto Rickshaw

Share auto rickshaws in Ujjain are the most preferred mode of transport. These are not crowded and ply between major parts of the city so that almost all the places of interest are accessible. While travelling through these share auto rickshaws, you should make sure that you know where you are headed. Share auto rickshaw fares may range around Rs 5 to 10. These are very cheap and one of the best ways to travel within the city.

Auto Rickshaw
Auto rickshaws in Ujjain dont run on meter and you need to negotiate on a fixed rate before opting for travel through auto rickshaws. These auto rickshaws however can be a safe mode of travel during night time. Fares may range anywhere from Rs 15 to 60. There are no night fares.

Tonga
Tongas are horse drawn carriages, and this mode of travel is slower than the above modes but cheaper. Fares will vary from Rs 10 to 30 depending on the distance covered.

Bus
Buses are the cheapest and the most crowded mode of travel. You will need to have a basic idea about the town layout before traveling through buses, and fares will range from Rs 4 to 15. Buses, autos will be available from all major centers in the town.
Attractions

Bhartruhari Caves

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Bhartruhari Caves in Ujjain is believed to be the place where Bhartrihari, the step brother of Vikramaditya, have lived and meditated after renouncing worldly life. His famous works, Shringarshataka, Vairagyashataka, and Nitishataka, were possibly written here. Situated just above the bank of the Shipra River, Bhartrihari Caves is a predominant tourist place in Ujjain. One among the ideal location where one can experience the glorious heritage of past, Bhartrihari Caves exemplifies the historical elegance of Ujjain

Mahakaleshwar Temple

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Mahakaleshwar Temple, cited by the great poet Kalidasa in his works, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. The temple is a five-storied massive structure and its carved motives displays the Rajput style of architecture while screens and pavilions combined with marble colonnades reminds the influence of Mughal style. The deity here is called Dakshinamurtias since the idol is facing southwards. Bhasm Arti, one of the important ritual of this temple is a symbolic representation of Death and Life. This unusual sacrament that involves smearing the linga with hot ashes from the burning ghats is a mark of respect the Destroyer of the universe, Lord Shiva. The Mahakaleshwar Temple is undeniably a treasured place and a sculptural glee to the visitor.

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Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir

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Situated near the tank of the Mahakaleshwar Temple, Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir holds a colossal statue of the elephantheaded God. The elephant head of the deity signifies wisdom, discretion and foresight that the Hindus attribute to divinity. In the center of the Ganeshji temple, there lies an exceptional statue of Hanuman, a deity of devotion and belief. What makes this deity so unique is the fact that Hanuman is depicted here with five faces, which symbolises courage, loyalty, devotion, strength, and righteousness. An important centre for learning, Bade Ganeshji Temple imparts knowledge in the field of astrology and Sanskrit.

Chaubis Khamba Temple

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An impressive structure, which belongs to ninth or tenth century AD, Chaubis Khamba Temple presents an architectural marvel. The majestic entrance gate of the magnificient Mahakala-Vana, the remains of which provides an amazing spectacle. Two splendid images of goddesses are depicted on each side of the gate with the inscription of their names on the foot steps. These guardian-deities by name Mahamaya and Mahalaya in a very graceful form guards the grand entrance of the structure. One can imagine the dimensions of the boundary-wall of the conventionally recognized Mahakala-vana, which is now covered under thick inhabitation.

Gomti Kund

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The legendary place where Lord Krishna believed to have summoned the holy rivers from all the pilgrim centres so that his old Guru can peacefully do all the rituals. Gomti Kund is a steeped water tank, which situates near to the Sandipani Ashram. Sandipani ashram bears references in the Vedas and Puranas and excavations held here revealed 3,000 years old painted artifacts, which show that this was a significant place from ancient days. Remnants of excavation show a close resemblance to the articles unearthed from Hastinapura, Indraprastha, Mathura & Kausambi. One among the oldest holy spot, Gomati Kund is the perennial source of water supply to the Ashram.

Gopal Mandir

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Dedicated to lord Krishna, Gopal Temple in Ujjain presents a classic example of Maratha architecture. Built in the 19th century, by Bayajibai Shinde, this huge temple is placed in the middle of a big market. Its strategic position in the heart of the city attributes the popularity of the temple. This temple is a marble-spired structure and the deitys two feet tall statue is placed on a marble-inlaid altar with silverplated doors. The door in the inner sanctum is the same door, which had been carried away by Ghazni from the Somnath temple. Mahadji Scindia recovered the door and now it has been installed in this temple.

Kal Bhairav Temple

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Bhairav is a fierce materialization of Lord Shiva, and the city of Ujjain has numerous shrines dedicated to this ferocious manifestation. Kal Bhairav temple is believed to be associated with the Tantra cult, a heretical secret religious group with brawny black magic nuances. The temple premises are mottled with holy men with ash smeared body and long matted hair. The Kal Bhairava Temple houses a Shiva linga under a banyan tree inside the periphery of the temple opposite to the statue of Nandi Bull. Kal Bhairav temple also depicts beautiful sculptures of other deities along with Lord Vishnu. On the eve of Mahasivarathri, the temple premises put on a festive mood when this shrine is packed with ardent devotees.

Kalideh Palace

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Situated on an island in the river Shipra, Kaliadeh Palace was built in the year 1458 AD by the Sultans of Mandu. The palace was demolished at the time of the Pindaris and was restored to its former glory by Madhav Rao Scindia in 1920. The central hall, which is surrounded with galleries, presents a classic example of Persian architecture. Though lost in the loneliness of the torrents of Shipra River, even now, this water palace holds some religious significance. People from the nearby villages took a dip in one of the tanks, which is called as Surya Kund. Once a hall of fame, this majestic monument holds two Persian inscriptions, which states about the visit of Akbar and Jahangir. The splendid landscape of the curving river on both sides of the Kalideh palace and the man-made tanks and channels, with water murmuring through them, offers a stunning background to the imposing building.

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Navagraha Mandir (Triveni)

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A unique temple dedicated to the Planets of Our Solar system, Navgraha Mandir in Ujjain indicates that the planets need to be propitiated to avoid a negative influence. In India, Astronomy and Astrology adorned a pivotal role in the life of people of ancient times and the popular belief is that each planet exercises an influence on the lives of people. Marking of the first meridian at Ujjain, adds a special significance to this temple, which situates at the confluence of the Shipra and two other rivulets. Devotees tender flowers, coconuts and vermilion, and especially mustard oil as their offerings to the deities.

Patal Bhairav Temple

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A legendary temple, which holds an astounding story about the power of the mother Goddess, Patal Bhairav Temple adorns a prime position. Hindu mythology states Bhairav Nath, a selfish demon, chased a young girl Vaishno Devi, who was none other than the incarnation of the Mother Goddess. In order to escape from the demon, Devi shot an arrow into the Earth from which water gushed out and then found a shelter under a cave. When Bhairav located her, Devi was compelled to take the form of Mahakali, and killed the demon. In his last moments, Bhairav pleaded for forgiveness. Bhairav was granted Moksha along with a boon that every devotee, in order to accomplish their pilgrimage, had to visit Bhairav Nath's temple near the Holy cave after the darshan of the goddess.

Pir Matsyendranath

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Pre-Islamic India held peers and saints with great respect and it is believed that they have attained spiritual awareness through stern atonement. Matsyendra, a peer belonged to the Natha sect of Saivism lived in the outskirts of Ujjain, and Pir Matsyendranath is dedicated to the memory of this great leader. The Hindus and the Muslims of Ujjain equally revere an exceptionally attractive shrine on the banks of the Shipra, Pir Matsyendranath. Excavations at this site have revealed some antiques, which date back to the 6th and 7th century BC. Though this shrine is not a marvel in terms of architecture, its simple white structure with a dome flanked by small minarets on four sides provides a serene appeal to the surroundings.

Ram Janardhan Mandir

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Constructed by Mirza Raja Jaisingh in the Seventeenth Century, Ram Janardan temples present an eye-catching look. Presenting an outstanding structural elegance, these temples depict masterpieces of Maratha paintings on their walls. The Maratha Kings added some of the structures in the temples in the eighteenth century. The imposing pictures on the walls of the temples add the charm of the temples. These fabulous shrines also houses some amazing sculptures which dates back to the 11th and 12th century. The image of Govardhandhari Krishna, Brahma, Vishnu and Mashesa are very striking for their architectural grandeur and sculptural excellences. It is certain that these awe-inspiring shrines are worthy enough to catch the attention of not only the devotee but also a casual visitor.

Ram Mandir

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Dedicated to Lord Ram who is flanked by his consort Sita on one side and brother Lakshman on the other side, Ram Mandir in Ujjain is a eye catching spectacle. Built in the 17th century, this fabulous shrine is a finest example of structural brilliance. The walls of the pretty shrine are decorated with beautiful paintings. Besides the attractive scenes from the lives of Rama and Krishna the painting of Bedalya Bua Maharaj and Sant Tukoba are very attractive. Certain old images are seen inscribed inside the temple are very remarkable for their amazing sculptural designs and perfection. A tenth century old image of Lord Vishnu installed in between the assembly hall and the interior of Ram Mandir needs a special mention.

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Ram Mandir Ghat

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Ram Mandir Ghat, located near the Harsiddhi Temple in Ujjain is famous for its Kumbh Mela. Kumbh Mela is held in every 12 years. Ram Mandir Ghat, Ujjain is the most ancient bathing ghat in connection with the Kumbh celebrations. During the Kumbh Mela, lakhs of fortune-seekers gather the city from all corners of India. It is believed that those people who took a holy dip in Ram Mandir Ghat will attain the much-awaited salvation. During the time of Kumbh Mela, this oldest bathing Ghat in Ujjain will be crowded with devotees. Apart from its religious significance, Ram Mandir Ghat is a fascinating place for a leisurely walk especially a walk in the early morning and at sunset is quite enchanting.

Sandipani Ashram

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The Ancient Indian Tradition of gurukul imparts education to students irrespective of their wealth or poverty. Besides a variety of subjects and ancient scriptures, in gurukul, students were taught battle techniques and spiritualism. From the vedic period itself, Ujjain was a reputed center of learning. Sandipani Ashram is a famous hermitage situated in Ujjain, where Lord Krishna spent his formative years until adolescence. Sandipani, the saint in the hermitage, taught Krishna and Balarama, here in this Ashram. The Ashram situates adjacent to so many remarkable spots, which are closely associated with lord Krishna. Another important feature of this ashram is that the supporters of Vallabha sect regard this place as the 73rd seat of Vallabhacharya where he conveyed his speeches throughout India. Sandipani Ashram and its serene surroundings provides a divine feeling to all those who wish to be in tranquil ambience.

Ankapata
From Vedic period onwards, Ujjain has assigned with the status of a great learning centre. Sandeepani Ashram is that legendary place where Lord Krishna and his best friend Sudhama were imparted knowledge under the great sage Sandeepani. Nearby surroundings of this famous learning center is known, as Ankapata. It is popularly believed that, Lord Krishna had used this place for washing his writing tablet. Besides this, Ankapata houses a stone imprinted with the numerals 1 to 100, and it is believed that Guru Sandipani himself did this inscription. A holy place, which is closely, associated with the blue God allures the tourists with amazing folklores.

Bhairogarh
A tiny locale in Ujjain, Bhairogarh is situated near to Siddhavat. This beautiful hamlet is famous for its ancient technique in cloth printing. Clothes of Bhairogarh with its marvelous tie and dye paintings were very popular among people for centuries. In olden times when trade with other countries prospered, delicately printed fabric from Bhairogarh used to find a good market in far away places. Fabulously painted fabrics of Bhairogarh still lures people and posses a unique place even in the modern trends.

Chintaman Ganesh Temple

Built around 11th century, this Ganesh stone temple is located in the middle of the market. A marvelous shrine in white, the deity in this temple is believed to be Swayamabhu. The temple displays finely-carved stone pillars in the assembly hall which proves its age-old inviolability. Believed to be the hinderer of all obstacles, Lord Ganesh is the first to be worshipped God in the Hindu pantheon. The deity who is flanked by his consorts, Ridhhi and Siddhi on either side, imposes a feeling of peace and tranquility to the devotee. Devotees crammed to this holy place because the deity here is conventionally known as Chintaharan Ganesh meaning "the redeemer from worldly anxieties".

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Dewas
A former capital of two princely states, Dewas is Located in the Malwa plateau at the foot of the Chamunda Hill. Founded in the first half of the 18th century, Dewas is the administrative center of Dewas District in Madhya Pradesh. The term, Dewas, literally means the abode of god, and the city holds a marvelous shrine of Devi Chamunda on the majestic Devi Vaishini hill. The town is placed in the plains of the Malwa plateau, and towards the south, the land undulate gently to the Vindhya Range, which is the source of the beautiful Chambal and Kali Sindh rivers that flow north through the district on their way to the Ganges. Nemawar, with a wide variety of wild animals and Nagara, which is home to Jain and Hindu temple ruins, are the nearby tourist attractions. Dewas today is well known as an industrial town, with companies like Ranbaxy and Tata International being prominent players. Tekri, a hillock, which is in the center of the town, houses a panoramic view of the entire city.

Gadkalika Temple
Situated on the suburban of Ujjain, Gadkalika temple is dedicated to goddess Kalika. This pretty shrine holds an amazing legend which states that, Kalidasa, the great poet had acquired his literary skills by his sincere devotion to this deity. During 7th century, Harshavardhana renovated the temple. The erstwhile Gwalior rulers rebuilt this holy shrine to its former glory. Excavations held near the temple premises unearthed bricks, a part of the plinth and other sculptures that were belonged to various periods.

Gonikoppal
A must see place in Coorg district is the hilly agricultural region of Gonikoppal. This place is famous for the best coffee ground. It is a well known place for producing high quality coffee seeds. One can also see oranges and pepper growing along with the coffee. The mixed tall trees that grow within the coffee served as a shade for coffee plants. Some places of interest close to the town of Gonikoppal include an old fort and a Buddhist temple. The best time for visiting Gonikoppal is during the months of October to May.

Harsiddhi Temple
One among the shaktipeeths of Hindu Mythology, Harsiddhi Temple, in Ujjain is the abode of numerous Goddesses of Hindu Pantheon. One among the fascinating aspect of this shrine is the structure which is made up of a rock smeared with turmeric paste and vermilion .The temple turns magnificient on the eve of the Navaratri festival, when hundreds of lamps on the 15 feet lamp stand being lit together. Yet another characteristic feature of the marvelous shrine is the presence of Sri Yantra, or nine triangles that represent nine names of Goddess Durga. This lovely shrine also houses images of other goddess also. The famous dark vermilion image of Annapurna, the Goddess of Nourishment, and the idol of Mahasaraswati, the Goddess of Wisdom and Knowledge are significant for their typical Maratha architecture.

Jantar Mantar (Vedh Shala Observatory)

Ujjain was the hub of all activities of Hindu astronomers and astrologers from ancient times, which paved the way for establishment of an observatory in the 17th century. In local phraseology this observatory is called as Jantar Mantar, which is a plagiaristic form of Yantra and Mantra. Vedh Shala observatory lies to the southeast of the town and consists of four monuments. The first one is a 22 feet high Samrata Yantra, which was used to calculate the time. The Equinoctial days are calculated with the help of the second instrument by name Nadi Walaya Yantra. The position of stars and planets are calculated with the help of the third instrument, Dignasha Yantra. Bhitti Yantra helps to calculate the declination of the sun and the distance of the zenith. The observatory, which houses a planetarium and a telescope, is a hot spot for stargazers and curious public.

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Mangalnath Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Mangalnath Temple is a greatly respected holy place situated in Ujjain. As per the inscriptions in Matsya Purana, Mangalnath is said to be the birthplace of Mars. Mangalnath Temple is placed on a serene surroundings and it overlooks the vast stretch of water in the majestic Shipra River. A marvelous shrine located far away from the flurry of the city life, offers an unimaginable sense of tranquility to the tourists. The temple is situated at the place where the first meridian is said to pass the earth and so this place was a renowned spot for a clear view of the planet and consequently it turned to be an apt place for astronomical studies.

Nagarkot Ki Rani
An ancient temple in the south-western part of Ujjain, Nagarkot Ki Rani is considered as the guardian deity of ancient Ujjaiyini. Nagarkot Ki Rani literally means queen of the city wall. Situated on the mire fortifications, this place has got tremendous archaeological importance. Many popular tales of Vikramaditya and Bharthihari are associated with this place. The place is associated with the traditions of Natha Cult also. A tank, which date back to the Paramar period, and the two temples on its each sides are quite worth for a watch. One of the temples that houses Lord Karthikeya as the main deity belongs to Gupta period.

Siddhavat
Siddhavat a tiny locale at Ujjain is well known for the immortal Siddhavat Tree situated on the banks of the Shipra. Blessed with religious sanctity, Siddhavata as the Akashyavat in Prayag and Gaya, Vanshivat of Vrindavan and the Panchavata of Nasik. Thousands of pilgrims take a dip in the Shipra from the bathing ghat built here. According to one tradition, Parvati is believed to have performed her penance here. It used to be a place of worship for the followers of Natha sect. One legend has it that some Mughal rulers had cut off the Banyan tree and covered the site with iron sheets to prevent its roots from growing. But the tree pierced the iron sheets and grew and flourished.

Vikram Kirti Mandir

The Vikram Kirti Mandir in Ujjain has been established in order to jog the memory of the young generation about the glory of the Mauryan Age. A cultural centre, which is established on the occasion of the second millennium of the Vikram era, the Vikram Kirti Mandir holds the Scindia Oriental Research Institute, an archaeological museum, an art gallery and an auditorium. The Scindia Oriental Research Institute has a priceless assortment of 18,000 manuscripts on diverse subjects and runs a reference library of vital oriental publications. The Institutes manuscript collection, which covers a wide range of subjects, is really amazing. Besides the illustrated manuscript of Shrimad Bhagavata, this museum houses rare collection of Mugal and Rajput paintings, Palm leaf and bark leaf manuscripts, vast collection of coins, sculptures and inscriptions.

Vikrant Bhairav Shrine

Distances

Indore Bhopal Ahmedabad Jaipur Nagpur Bandhavgarh National Park Khajuraho Pune Mumbai Kanpur

55 km 195 km 447 km 519 km 572 km 586 km 633 km 636 km 639 km 694 km

1h 4h, 20m 7h 8h 9h, 50m 9h, 30m 9h 10h, 10m 10h 12h, 10m

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