Best Tourism Places to Visit in Ujjain – A Spiritual Journey to India’s Sacred City
Ujjain, one of the seven holiest cities in India (Sapta Puri), is a spiritually rich and historic destination in Madhya Pradesh. Located on the banks of the sacred Shipra River, Ujjain is not only a religious city but also a vibrant mix of temples, ghats, ancient architecture, and cultural heritage.
Famous for the grand Kumbh Mela and the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, Ujjain attracts millions of worshippers and tourists each year. Whether you are a pilgrim, a history buff, or a curious traveler, Ujjain promises a transformative experience.
Let’s discover the best things to do in Ujjain.
1. Mahakaleshwar Temple – The Soul of Ujjain
- Type: Religious
- Ideal for: Pilgrims, spiritual seekers
The Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple is the most revered and symbolic destination in Ujjain. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva and is distinguished by its south-facing lingam (Dakshinamukhi Shiva).
The morning Bhasma Aarti is one of the main attractions. During this ritual, the lingam is worshipped with sacred ash, a ritual unparalleled in the world.
2. Ram Ghat – Sacred Bathing Spot on Shipra River
- Type: Religious, Scenic
- Ideal for: Devotees, photographers, spiritual tourists
- Best time to visit: During Kumbh Mela or Kartik Purnima
Located near the Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ram Ghat is a peaceful riverside spot where thousands of people take a holy dip in the Shipra River, especially during the Simhastha Kumbh Mela, one of the world’s largest spiritual gatherings.
The evening aarti at Ram Ghat is a spiritually inspiring experience.
3. Kal Bhairav Temple – Guardian of Ujjain
- Type: Religious
- Ideal for: Devotees, cultural tourists
- Interesting fact: Devotees offer liquor as prasad
This temple is dedicated to Kal Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of the god Shiva, and is known for its unique tradition: devotees offer alcohol to the deity, who mysteriously disappears during the ritual. Kal Bhairav is considered the patron god of Ujjain.
4. Harsiddhi Temple – Shaktipeeth of Devi
- Type: Religious
- Significance: One of the 51 Shakti Peethas
The Harsiddhi Mata Temple is one of the oldest and most sacred shrines dedicated to the goddess Durga. It is considered one of the Shakti Peethas, where the goddess Sati struck with her elbow.
The two tall lamps (with deep stambhs), lit during Navratri, enhance the spiritual grandeur of this temple.
5. Sandipani Ashram – Lord Krishna’s Learning Place
- Type: Historical, Religious
- Ideal for: Families, spiritual seekers, students
This ancient gurukul is said to have been the place where Lord Krishna, Balram, and Sudama studied with Guru Sandipani. The ashram still houses a sacred pond called Gomti Kund, which is said to contain water from all of India’s holy rivers.
6. Bhartrihari Caves – Meditation Spot with Legends
- Type: Historical, Mythological
- Ideal for: Explorers, history buffs
These mystical caves are named after Bhartrihari, the half-brother of King Vikramaditya, who left his kingdom to meditate here. The caves are carved into sandstone cliffs and are steeped in legend and tranquillity.
7. Chintaman Ganesh Temple – Ancient Temple of Lord Ganesha
- Type: Religious
- Unique feature: The idol is swayambhu (self-manifested)
Located on the banks of the Shipra River, this temple is dedicated to the god Ganesha, worshipped as Chintaman (the reliever of worries). This idol is ancient and is believed to grant the wishes of devotees.
8. Vedh Shala (Jantar Mantar) – Ancient Observatory
- Type: Scientific, Historical
- Built by: Maharaja Jai Singh II
Ujjain is one of the five cities home to the Jantar Mantar (an ancient astronomical observatory). The Vedh Shala was built here in 1725 and is still used today to calculate time, planetary movements, and eclipses.
9. ISKCON Temple Ujjain – A Modern Spiritual Retreat
- Type: Religious
- Ideal for: All age groups
A beautifully constructed ISKCON temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha, it is known for its clean environment, spiritual programs, and serene atmosphere.
Travel Tips for Visiting Ujjain
- Best time to visit: October to March; or during Mahashivratri, Kumbh Mela, and Navratri
- How to reach Ujjain:
- By Air: Closest airport is Indore (55 km)
- By Train: Ujjain Junction is well-connected to all major cities
- By Road: Regular buses and taxis from Indore, Bhopal, and other parts of Madhya Pradesh
- Local delicacies to try:
- Poha-Jalebi
- Kachori
- Malpua
- Bhutte ka kees