Ujjain city is situated on the right bank of river Shipra. This is holy city for Hindus and in ancient times was called as Ujjayini. The city exists from the early days of the Indian civilization and it once was also the capital of Avanti and a great center of learning. Ujjain lay on the main trade route between North India and Deccan. Sculptures and monasteries have been found sprinkled around Ujjain, leading to the fact that Buddhism flourished here in the 4th century. Ujjain's relevance is not only confined to a religious place but it also was a haven of great poets and astronomers. Ujjain was ruled over by many greatest rulers, including that of Gupta dynasty kings whose reign is considered as the golden rule of India.
Mahakaleshwar or the Mahakal shrine is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. The lingam at the Mahakala is believed to be swayambhu (born of itself) deriving currents of power shakti from within itself as against the other images and lingams which are ritually established and invested with mantra shakti. The shrine is a famed and respected temple which is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The Bhasm Aarti is the first ritual conducted everyday at the temple and this Aarti is one of its kind in the world.
Sri Sri Radha Madan Mohan Temple has been established by the ISKCON and the shrine is regarded as a milestone of the Hare Krishna Campaign. The mandir is home to a guesthouse and eating place and is a top draw for travelers. Its beautiful idols and architect is a major attraction for tourists. A well maintained goshala is present just behind the temple
According to the Saivite culture, the veneration of the eight Bhairavas is an integral feature of the Hindu customs and the main among these Bhairavas is the Kal Bhairava. It is assumed to be constructed by the monarch Bhadresen on the banks of river Shipra. This ancient temple dedicated to Kal Bhairava, has been cited in the Avanti Khanda of Skanda Purana. The striking feature of the Kal Bhairava Temple is its exquisite paintings in Malwa style.
The Bhartrihari caves on the banks of river Shipra near the Gadkalika mandir, is the area where Bhartrihari assumed as the half-brother of Vikramaditya stayed and engaged in spiritual contemplation once he gave up his material life. It is a Siva temple belonging to 11th century and the site of archeological excavations from where the remains of ancient Ujjain were unearthed. Caves are named after the famous sage 'Bhatrihari' and stand as testimony to the traditional wealth of India.
Population: 515,215
Average Climate:
| Summer: | 22° C – 42° C |
| Winter: | 10° C – 25° C |
Best time to visit: October to March