10 Places to Visit in Ujjain

Yes, you have to start your Ujjain sightseeing with a visit to this jyotirlinga. Yes, because it is one of the 12 holy jyotirlingas of India. But not just that! Among all the 12 jyotirlingas, Mahakaleshwar stands out because, unlike the rest of the jyotirlingas, this one is Dakshin-Mukhi (south-facing). If you ask believers, they will tell fascinating stories about how this jyotirlinga is self-manifested and holds the currents of power (shakti) in itself. All things considered, it is obvious that it is one of the most divine places of India and is a must-visit on your trip here. A reminder here, as per the months of the Hindu calendar, the timing of aarti at the mandir varies. But the temple complex remains open from 7 am to 11 pm.

The next stoppage on our list is the Kal Bhairava Temple. The stories (mythological) around this temple are quite fascinating. There are eight Bhairavas who are strong manifestations of Lord Shivas. Bhairav was the most important one among the eight Bhairavas. This temple is dedicated to him. Also, this temple has its connection to the Tantra Cult who worshipped and flourished with black magic. If not anything else, the stories behind this temple will surely draw you to this place.

Since Kumbh Mela attracts thousands of devotees to Ujjain, you have to see at least one of the four spots where the grand event is held, right? So, we present to you the Ram Mandir Ghat! This is actually one of the ancient bathing ghats in the city. And Kumbh Mela or not, whenever you visit this ghat, you will see people taking holy dips here. The holy dip, we will say is optional but watching the sunset from the ghat can’t be missed. The sun setting far away in the sky while it paints the surrounding in its warm yellow and orange shades is truly mesmerising!

In 1458 AD, on an island based on the Shipra river, a beautiful palace was built. The palace has such beauty and grandeur that emperors like Akbar and Jehangir had paid visits here. Two Persian inscriptions found on one of the corridors here hold witness to those visits. During the Pindaris’ reign, this palace was destroyed. But thanks to Madhavrao Scindia, who saw the true beauty of the palace, reconstruction took place! And now, even though it might look a little aged, it still holds its significance and has a proud spot on the list of best places to visit in Ujjain.

There are many ISKCON temples all over India and Ujjain has one too. The ISKON temple in Ujjain has similarities in terms of divinity and architecture with the rest of the ISKON temples. When you pay a visit to this white marble beauty, your eyes will thank you! As you step inside the temple, you will feel a divine and tranquil aura around you. And you will see the idols of Sri Krishna, Radha Madhana Mohan, Sri Gauri Nitai and Balram.

It is not a beautiful view or grand appearance that makes Pir Matsyendranath one among the must-visit places to see in Ujjain, it is rather the historical significance it holds. This monument was built in the reminiscences of the great leaders of Saivism-Matsyendranath’s Natha Sect. But that’s not it! During some excavations in this area, some antiques were found that date back to the 6th and 7th centuries. The history buff in you seems excited!

There are five Jantar Mantars located in five cities of India. The oldest among the five is the one in this city of Ujjain. It was 1719 when Maharaja Jai Singh started the construction of this architectural wonder. His aim behind building this monument was to help scholars and astrologers in their studies and research. Jantar Mantar did serve its purpose by helping many astrologers and researchers in ancient times. And as of now, it continues to be a place of great significance in terms of astronomy as well as tourism.

This Ujjain temple has its origin in the 9th century. And since its origin, it has remained to be one of the most important temples of the city. Upon entering, you will see Mahalaya and Mahamaya. Locals say Mahalaya and Mahamaya are the guardian goddess of Ujjain. Do offer your prayers in front of their images. Besides its religious importance, the ancient-style architecture of the temple and its 24 pillars is worth mentioning.

A little different from the other names on this list. But we think this should be on your Ujjain sightseeing tour. This educational institute spread over a large space has been connecting and reconnecting many with the ancient language of Sanskrit. If you pay a visit here, you will have a lot of interesting things to see, from the production of Kalidas’s poems to accurate translations of Sanskrit manuscripts. But major attractions are the festivals celebrated like the Kalidasa Festival and the Kalash-Yatra.

A place that celebrates divinity and architecture, the perfect ending to your Ujjain trip! Ram Mandir holds a special place in the heart of all devotees. Inside the temple resides Lord Ram with his wife Sita and brother Laxman. You can spend some time in front of the idols and offer your prayers. And then comes the time to explore the beautiful architecture of the temple. The exquisite sculptures, the intricate carvings, the elegant paintings, everything is simply a joy to the eyes!

Hoping you have added these places to your travel guide to Ujjain. Now, make your travel arrangements and also book the hotels in Ujjain a little in advance to ensure no inconvenience during your trip.