Places To Visit In Ujjain To Explore The Temples, Ghats and Legends

Looking to experience the ancient culture and spirituality of India? Look no further than Ujjain!

Nestled in the heart of Madhya Pradesh, Ujjain is one of India’s most ancient and sacred cities. With a history that stretches back over 2,500 years, this vibrant metropolis is steeped in myth and legend, and is home to some of the most awe-inspiring temples, shrines, and monuments in the country.

From the towering Mahakaleshwar Temple, where devotees gather to offer prayers and seek blessings from Lord Shiva, to the serene calm of the Ram Ghat, where the faithful come to bathe in the holy waters of the Shipra River, Ujjain is a city that will capture your heart and your imagination.

But it’s not just the spiritual side of Ujjain that makes it such a unique and fascinating destination. With its bustling markets, mouth-watering street food, and colorful festivals and celebrations, Ujjain is a city that is alive with energy and excitement all year round.

Whether you’re a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply looking for an adventure, Ujjain has something for everyone. So why wait? Book your trip today and discover the magic of this ancient city for yourself!

About Ujjain

Ujjain is an ancient city located in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. It is situated on the banks of the Kshipra River and is one of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism. The city is also known as Ujjayini and Avanti, and is steeped in myth and legend.

According to Hindu mythology, Ujjain is one of the holiest cities in India and is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva lived and taught his disciples. The city has been mentioned in many ancient texts, including the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and the Puranas.

Historically, Ujjain was a center of learning and culture, and was ruled by various dynasties, including the Maurya, Gupta, and Mughal empires. The city also served as the capital of the powerful Avanti kingdom during the 6th century BCE. It was during this time that the great Indian astronomer and mathematician, Aryabhata, lived and worked in Ujjain.

Ujjain was also an important trading center during the medieval period, and its strategic location on trade routes made it a coveted prize for various dynasties. The city was ruled by the Marathas during the 17th and 18th centuries, and later became part of British India in the 19th century.

Today, Ujjain is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. It is famous for its ancient temples, including the Mahakaleshwar Temple, which is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (sacred abodes of Lord Shiva) in India. The city is also home to the Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, which takes place every 12 years on the banks of the Kshipra River. Ujjain continues to be a center of learning and culture, and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus from all over the world.

Architecture of Ujjain

Ujjain has a rich architectural heritage that reflects its long and illustrious history. The city has been ruled by various dynasties over the centuries, and each dynasty has left its mark on the city’s architecture.

Some of the most notable architectural landmarks in Ujjain include:

1. Mahakaleshwar Temple – This is one of the most famous temples in Ujjain, and is renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (sacred abodes of Lord Shiva) in India.
2. Kalideh Palace – This beautiful palace was built during the 15th century, and is known for its intricate carvings and stunning architecture. The palace is now a popular tourist attraction, and is known for its beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the city.
3. Harsiddhi Temple – This temple is dedicated to the goddess Harsiddhi, and is renowned for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. The temple is also famous for its beautiful idols and stunning sculptures.
4. Vedh Shala Observatory – This observatory was built during the 18th century, and is one of the oldest observatories in India. The observatory is known for its stunning architecture and intricate instruments, and is a popular destination for science enthusiasts and history buffs.
5. Kaliadeh Palace – This beautiful palace was built during the 15th century, and is known for its intricate carvings and stunning architecture. The palace is now a popular tourist attraction, and is known for its beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the city.

Overall, Ujjain’s architecture is a blend of different styles and influences, including Hindu, Islamic, and European. The city’s buildings are renowned for their intricate carvings, stunning sculptures, and beautiful gardens, and reflect the city’s long and illustrious history.

35 Places to Visit in Ujjain

Ujjain, located in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, is a city steeped in history, culture, and spirituality. Here is a list of 35 must-visit places in Ujjain:

1. Mahakaleshwar Temple
2. Kal Bhairav Temple
3. Harsiddhi Temple
4. Chintaman Ganesh Temple
5. Mangalnath Temple
6. Ram Ghat
7. Siddhavat
8. Bhartrihari Caves
9. Vedh Shala Observatory
10. Kaliadeh Palace
11. Gadkalika Temple
12. Vikram Kirti Mandir Museum
13. Sandipani Ashram
14. Gopal Mandir
15. Iskcon Temple
16. Chaubis Khamba Temple
17. Navgraha Mandir
18. Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir
19. Chausath Yogini Temple
20. Siddheshwar Temple
21. Shree Guru Gorakhnath Temple
22. Gomti Kund
23. Patal Bhairav Temple
24. Chintaman Ganesh Mandir
25. Annapurna Temple
26. Kshipra River
27. Pashupatinath Temple
28. Kala Bhairava Mandir
29. Bhukhi Mata Temple
30. Ram Janardhan Temple
31. Jantar Mantar
32. Maa Chamunda Temple
33. Shri Avantika Parvatam
34. Triveni Museum
35. Durgadas Ki Chhatri

These are just a few of the many fascinating places to visit in Ujjain. Whether you are interested in history, spirituality, or just want to experience the unique culture of this beautiful city, there is something for everyone in Ujjain.

Weather and Best time to visit Ujjain

Ujjain experiences a tropical climate, with hot summers and cool winters. The best time to visit Ujjain is during the winter months from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable.

Here is a breakdown of the different seasons in Ujjain:

1. Summer (March to June): Ujjain experiences hot and dry summers, with temperatures ranging from 35°C to 45°C. The heat can be intense, making it uncomfortable for outdoor activities.
2. Monsoon (July to September): Ujjain experiences moderate to heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which can make it difficult to explore the city. However, the lush green surroundings and cooler temperatures can be a refreshing change.
3. Winter (October to February): This is the best time to visit Ujjain, as the weather is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. The cool breeze makes it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Overall, the best time to visit Ujjain is during the winter months, as the weather is comfortable, and you can enjoy all the outdoor activities and sightseeing without any discomfort due to extreme temperatures.

How To Reach Ujjain

Ujjain is a popular destination in Madhya Pradesh, and is well-connected to various cities in India by road, rail, and air. Here are the different ways to reach Ujjain:

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Ujjain is Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport in Indore, which is approximately 55 km away. The airport is well-connected to major cities in India such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Ujjain.
2. By Train: Ujjain Junction is a major railway station and is well-connected to various cities in India. The city is connected to major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, and Jaipur. Several trains run daily between Ujjain and other cities, making it a convenient mode of transportation.
3. By Road: Ujjain is well-connected to various cities in Madhya Pradesh and neighboring states by road. The city is located on National Highway 52, which connects it to major cities such as Indore, Bhopal, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. Several buses run daily between Ujjain and other cities, making it a convenient and affordable mode of transportation.

Once you reach Ujjain, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to explore the city and its attractions. The city is relatively small, making it easy to get around and explore on foot as well.

Accommodation options in Ujjain

Ujjain is a popular tourist destination and offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the accommodation options in Ujjain:

1. Luxury Hotels: Ujjain has several luxury hotels that offer top-notch amenities and services. Some of the popular luxury hotels in Ujjain are Anjushree Ujjain, Rudraksh Club & Resort, and Hotel Imperial Ujjain.
2. Mid-Range Hotels: There are several mid-range hotels in Ujjain that offer comfortable and affordable accommodation options. Some of the popular mid-range hotels in Ujjain are Hotel Shanti Palace, Hotel Atharva, and Hotel Mittal Avenue.
3. Budget Hotels: Ujjain also has several budget hotels and guesthouses that offer basic accommodation options at affordable prices. Some of the popular budget hotels in Ujjain are Hotel Ashray, Hotel Maheshwari Avenue, and Hotel Mittal Paradise.
4. Homestays: For those looking for a more authentic experience, Ujjain also has several homestay options. These are typically family-run accommodations that offer comfortable rooms and home-cooked meals. Some popular homestays in Ujjain are Hari Om Homestay and Shivkripa Homestay.

Overall, Ujjain offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, making it a comfortable and convenient destination for travelers.

Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Ujjain as per user Reviews

Here are the top 10 hotels to stay in Ujjain, as per user reviews:

1. Anjushree Ujjain – A Treehouse Resort – This luxury hotel offers spacious and comfortable rooms, top-notch amenities, and a beautiful pool area. It has an excellent rating and is highly recommended by users.
2. Rudraksh Club & Resort – This resort offers a serene and peaceful environment, comfortable rooms, and great food. The staff is friendly and helpful, making it a popular choice among travelers.
3. Hotel Atharva – This mid-range hotel offers comfortable and well-appointed rooms, friendly staff, and a great location. It is a popular choice among families and business travelers.
4. Hotel Imperial Ujjain – This luxury hotel offers spacious rooms, modern amenities, and a great location. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the hotel is highly recommended by users.
5. Hotel Shanti Palace – This mid-range hotel offers comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and a good location. It is a popular choice among budget-conscious travelers.
6. Hotel Maheshwari Avenue – This budget hotel offers basic but clean and comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and a convenient location. It is a popular choice among backpackers and budget travelers.
7. Hotel Mittal Avenue – This mid-range hotel offers comfortable rooms, good food, and a convenient location. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the hotel is highly recommended by users.
8. Hotel Mittal Paradise – This budget hotel offers basic but clean and comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and a convenient location. It is a popular choice among budget-conscious travelers.
9. Hotel Ashray – This budget hotel offers basic but clean and comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and a convenient location. It is a popular choice among backpackers and budget travelers.
10. Shree Radhe Krishna Resort – This resort offers comfortable rooms, good food, and a beautiful pool area. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the resort is highly recommended by users.

Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Ujjain

If you’re planning a trip to Ujjain, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:

1. Best time to visit: Ujjain can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and cool.
2. Clothing: Ujjain is a religious city, and it is important to dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious places. It is advisable to wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees.
3. Language: Hindi is the main language spoken in Ujjain, but many people also speak English. It is a good idea to learn a few basic Hindi phrases before your trip.
4. Currency: The Indian Rupee (INR) is the local currency in Ujjain. Make sure you carry enough cash, as not all places accept credit cards.
5. Local transportation: Ujjain has a good network of local transportation, including buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. Make sure to negotiate the fare before boarding a taxi or auto-rickshaw.
6. Food: Ujjain is known for its street food, but it is important to be cautious when trying street food. Stick to clean and hygienic places, and avoid eating anything that looks unhygienic or is not cooked properly.
7. Temple etiquette: When visiting temples, it is important to remove your shoes and cover your head. It is also important to be respectful and avoid loud conversations or actions that could disturb others.
8. Safety: Ujjain is a safe city for travelers, but it is important to take basic safety precautions, such as not carrying too much cash or valuables, and avoiding isolated areas at night.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Ujjain.

Best Places for Shopping in Ujjain

Ujjain is a popular shopping destination in Madhya Pradesh, and there are several places where you can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and other local items. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Ujjain:

1. Mahakaleshwar Market – Located near the Mahakaleshwar Temple, this market is known for its religious items, including Rudraksha beads, idols, and puja items.
2. Freeganj Market – This market is a popular shopping destination for clothes, jewelry, and handicrafts. You can find traditional sarees, lehengas, and salwar kameez, as well as silver and gold jewelry.
3. Topkhana Market – This market is known for its handicrafts and artifacts, including pottery, paintings, and sculptures. You can also find traditional musical instruments and books on Indian culture and religion.
4. Gopal Mandir Bazaar – This market is located near the Gopal Mandir and is known for its colorful bangles, handcrafted bags, and footwear. You can also find traditional clothes and accessories.
5. Jantar Mantar Market – This market is located near the Jantar Mantar and is known for its wooden toys, brassware, and souvenirs. You can also find textiles, including handloom sarees and dress materials.
6. Tower Chowk Market – This market is a popular destination for clothes, jewelry, and handicrafts. You can find traditional clothes, including bandhani and batik sarees, as well as silver and gold jewelry.
7. Mangalnath Market – Located near the Mangalnath Temple, this market is known for its wooden toys, traditional clothes, and brassware. You can also find paintings and handicrafts.
8. Dhaba Road Market – This market is a popular destination for clothes, including traditional sarees and dress materials. You can also find jewelry, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
9. Chintaman Road Market – This market is known for its handicrafts and artifacts, including pottery, paintings, and sculptures. You can also find traditional clothes and accessories.
10. Bhairavgarh Market – This market is located near the Bhairavgarh Temple and is known for its wooden toys, textiles, and handicrafts. You can also find jewelry and souvenirs.

These are some of the best places for shopping in Ujjain, where you can find a variety of local items and souvenirs to take back home.

Things You should buy as a Tourist and Handicrafts of Ujjain

Ujjain is a city in Madhya Pradesh that is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional handicrafts. As a tourist, there are several things that you can buy as souvenirs or gifts to take back home. Here are some of the things you should buy as a tourist in Ujjain:

1. Mahakaleshwar Prasad – The Mahakaleshwar Temple is a popular religious destination in Ujjain, and you can buy prasad (sacred food) as a souvenir. The prasad is made of pure ghee, sugar, and wheat flour, and has a unique flavor.
2. Rudraksha beads – Ujjain is known for its Rudraksha beads, which are considered sacred and are used in prayers and meditation. You can buy Rudraksha beads of different sizes and designs in the local markets.
3. Handloom sarees – Ujjain is famous for its handloom sarees, which are made of pure silk and cotton. You can find sarees in a range of colors and designs, including traditional bandhani and batik prints.
4. Silver jewelry – Ujjain is known for its silver jewelry, which is handmade by local artisans. You can find earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and other pieces of jewelry in the local markets.
5. Brassware – Ujjain is also known for its brassware, which includes statues, lamps, and other decorative items. You can find brassware in different designs and sizes, and they make great souvenirs.
6. Wooden toys – Ujjain is famous for its wooden toys, which are handmade by local artisans. You can find toys of different shapes and sizes, including animals, birds, and vehicles.
7. Paintings and sculptures – Ujjain is known for its paintings and sculptures, which depict Indian mythology and culture. You can find paintings and sculptures made of wood, stone, and other materials.
8. Handcrafted bags and footwear – Ujjain is also known for its handcrafted bags and footwear, which are made of leather and other materials. You can find bags and footwear in traditional designs and colors.

These are some of the things you should buy as a tourist in Ujjain, which will serve as great souvenirs and gifts for your loved ones.

Nightlife in Ujjain

Ujjain is a predominantly religious and cultural city, and therefore, the nightlife scene in Ujjain is limited. The city is known for its temples, ghats, and historical landmarks, and most of these places close by early evening. However, there are a few options for those looking to explore Ujjain at night. Here are some of the nightlife options in Ujjain:

1. Attend the Bhasma Aarti at Mahakaleshwar Temple – The Bhasma Aarti is a daily ritual that takes place at the Mahakaleshwar Temple at 4:00 AM. It is a unique and spiritual experience that is worth attending.
2. Visit the Ram Ghat and experience the evening aarti – The Ram Ghat is a popular spot for locals and tourists to gather in the evenings and attend the aarti (prayer) ceremony. It is a serene experience, and you can also take a boat ride on the river Shipra.
3. Visit the Night Market – Ujjain has a night market that operates till late at night. It is a great place to shop for souvenirs, clothes, and other items.
4. Explore the Food scene – Ujjain has a vibrant street food scene, and you can find several food stalls and eateries that stay open till late at night. You can try local delicacies like chaat, kachori, and samosas.
5. Visit the Kalidas Academy – The Kalidas Academy is a cultural center in Ujjain that organizes cultural programs and events. You can attend music and dance performances, theater shows, and other cultural events.

These are some of the options for nightlife in Ujjain. However, it is advisable to be cautious and respectful of the local culture and traditions while exploring the city at night.

Activities and Things to do in Ujjain

Ujjain is a city with a rich cultural and historical heritage, and there are several activities and things to do in Ujjain that will keep you engaged and entertained. Here are some of the top activities and things to do in Ujjain:

1. Visit the Mahakaleshwar Temple – The Mahakaleshwar Temple is one of the most popular religious destinations in Ujjain, and it is known for its unique lingam (a symbolic representation of Lord Shiva). You can attend the Bhasma Aarti, which is a daily ritual that takes place early in the morning.
2. Take a dip in the holy Kshipra River – The Kshipra River is considered sacred, and taking a dip in its waters is believed to cleanse one’s sins. You can visit the Ram Ghat or the Triveni Ghat to take a dip in the river.
3. Visit the Kal Bhairav Temple – The Kal Bhairav Temple is another popular religious destination in Ujjain, and it is known for its unique rituals and customs. You can witness the unique offerings made to Lord Kal Bhairav, including alcohol and meat.
4. Explore the ruins of the ancient city of Ujjaini – Ujjain was once a prominent city in ancient India, and there are several ruins and monuments that you can explore, including the Ashoka Pillar, Vikramaditya’s Palace, and the Observatory.
5. Attend the Simhastha Kumbh Mela – The Simhastha Kumbh Mela is a major religious festival that takes place once every 12 years in Ujjain. It is a unique and vibrant experience, and you can witness millions of devotees taking a dip in the holy Kshipra River.
6. Explore the local markets – Ujjain has several local markets where you can shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and other items. You can visit the Sarafa Bazaar, where you can find jewelry, or the Chintaman Ganesh Market, where you can find local handicrafts and textiles.
7. Enjoy the street food – Ujjain has a vibrant street food scene, and you can find several food stalls and eateries that serve local delicacies like poha, jalebi, and samosas.

These are some of the top activities and things to do in Ujjain that you can explore and experience while visiting this historic city.

Food to eat in Ujjain

Ujjain is known for its delicious and unique cuisine, which is a blend of Rajasthani and Gujarati flavors. Here are some of the must-try foods to eat in Ujjain:

1. Poha – Poha is a popular breakfast dish in Ujjain, made from flattened rice flakes and flavored with spices like turmeric, mustard seeds, and green chilies.
2. Jalebi – Jalebi is a sweet and crispy dessert that is a popular street food in Ujjain. It is made from deep-fried batter soaked in sugar syrup.
3. Kachori – Kachori is a savory snack that is popular in Ujjain, and it is made from a crispy dough filled with spiced lentils and potatoes.
4. Daal Baati – Daal Baati is a traditional Rajasthani dish that is also popular in Ujjain. It consists of lentil soup (daal) and baked wheat dumplings (baati).
5. Bhutte ki Kees – Bhutte ki Kees is a unique and delicious street food in Ujjain made from grated corn, milk, and spices.
6. Sabudana Khichdi – Sabudana Khichdi is a popular snack in Ujjain made from tapioca pearls, potatoes, peanuts, and spices.
7. Malpua – Malpua is a sweet and indulgent dessert made from deep-fried batter soaked in sugar syrup.
8. Dahi Vada – Dahi Vada is a popular street food in Ujjain made from deep-fried lentil fritters soaked in yogurt and flavored with spices.

These are some of the must-try foods to eat in Ujjain that you can savor and relish while exploring this historic city.

Lesser Known facts about Ujjain

Ujjain is a city steeped in history and culture, and here are some lesser-known facts about this ancient city:

1. Ujjain is one of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism, and it is believed that a dip in the holy Shipra river here can wash away one’s sins.
2. Ujjain was known as Avantika in ancient times and was later renamed as Ujjain by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka.
3. The Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India and is believed to be the only one that faces south.
4. Ujjain was an important center of learning and scholarship in ancient India and was home to renowned scholars like Chanakya and Kalidasa.
5. The Kumbh Mela, one of the largest religious gatherings in the world, is held in Ujjain every 12 years.
6. Ujjain is known for its traditional handicrafts like brassware, terracotta, and handwoven textiles.
7. The observatory in Ujjain, called the Jantar Mantar, is one of the five observatories built by the Rajput king Sawai Jai Singh II and is still used for astronomical observations.
8. The Vikram University in Ujjain was founded in 1957 and is named after the legendary king Vikramaditya, who is said to have ruled from Ujjain.

These are some lesser-known facts about Ujjain that add to its rich history and cultural heritage.

FAQ about Ujjain

Here are some frequently asked questions about Ujjain:

What is Ujjain famous for?

1. Ujjain is famous for its rich history, culture, and religious significance. It is home to several ancient temples, including the Mahakaleshwar Temple, and is known as one of the seven sacred cities in Hinduism. Ujjain is also known for its traditional handicrafts and textiles.

How can I reach Ujjain?

2. Ujjain is well-connected to major cities in India by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport in Indore, which is about 55 km away. The city has its own railway station, and several trains run from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.

What is the best time to visit Ujjain?

3. The best time to visit Ujjain is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and favorable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

What are the popular tourist attractions in Ujjain?

4. Ujjain is home to several popular tourist attractions, including the Mahakaleshwar Temple, Kal Bhairav Temple, Vedha Shala Observatory, Ram Ghat, and Kaliadeh Palace.

What are the traditional handicrafts of Ujjain?

5. Ujjain is known for its traditional handicrafts like brassware, terracotta, and handwoven textiles. You can find several markets in the city where you can buy these handicrafts.

What are the popular festivals celebrated in Ujjain?

6. Ujjain is known for its vibrant and colorful festivals, including the Kumbh Mela, which is held every 12 years, the Mahashivratri festival, and the Navratri festival.

What are the popular food items to try in Ujjain?

7. Some of the popular food items to try in Ujjain include poha, jalebi, kachori, daal baati, bhutte ki kees, sabudana khichdi, malpua, and dahi vada.

These are some of the frequently asked questions about Ujjain that can help you plan your trip to this historic city.