Ujjain Mahakal

Ujjain Mahakal, located in the city of Ujjain in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga, considered the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva. The Ujjain Mahakal holds immense religious and spiritual significance and attracts millions of devotees from around the world.

The Mahakaleshwar Temple, housing the Jyotirlinga, is a marvel of ancient Indian architecture. The temple complex has five levels, with the spire rising considerably. The intricate carvings and sculptures on the temple walls depict Hindu mythology scenes and add to the spiritual ambiance of the place.

Ujjain Mahakal Mandir

The sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses the sacred lingam of Mahakaleshwar, representing the eternal and formless aspect of Lord Shiva. The lingam is adorned with flowers, bilva leaves, and other offerings by the devotees. The temple complex also includes smaller shrines dedicated to various deities, contributing to the overall spiritual aura of the place.

Mahakaleshwar Temple is a site of intense religious activity, and several rituals are performed daily to appease the divine. The Bhasma Aarti, where the lingam is adorned with ash which is bhasma, is a unique and spiritually enriching experience for the devotees. The temple is also known for its elaborate Rudrabhishek and ritualistic bathing of the lingam with various sacred items.

One of the significant festivals celebrated at Mahakaleshwar is Maha Shivaratri, the night dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees throng the temple in large numbers during this auspicious occasion, engaging in prayers, rituals, and spiritual activities throughout the night.

Ujjain Mahakal has been a center of pilgrimage for centuries, drawing devotees, saints, and scholars from across the country. The pilgrimage to Mahakaleshwar is considered highly auspicious and is believed to cleanse the soul of sins. The city of Ujjain itself holds immense historical and cultural significance, with its association with ancient Indian astronomy, mathematics, and literature.

The pilgrimage to Mahakaleshwar is a religious journey and a cultural experience. The city of Ujjain, with its ancient temples, ghats, and vibrant markets, offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Indian heritage. The religious and cultural impact of Mahakaleshwar extends beyond the temple premises, influencing the way of life in Ujjain and the surrounding regions.

While Ujjain Mahakal stands as a symbol of religious and cultural heritage, it faces challenges related to conservation and preservation. The sheer number of pilgrims and tourists, coupled with time, has led to wear and tear of the temple complex. Efforts by government authorities, local communities, and religious organizations are crucial to ensure the longevity of this sacred site.

Mahakaleskwar Jyotirlinga Temple History

Mahakaleshwar Temple Ujjain has a fascinating and engaging history. King Chandrasen is said to have governed the city of Ujjain in earlier days. Lord Shiva was a devout follower of the monarch. Shrikhar who was a young man, was inspired by his dedication and wanted to participate in his prayers.

Sadly, the royal cavalry turned him down. Incidentally, several neighboring kings were preparing an attack on Ujjain at the time. When Shrikhar and the village priest, Vridhi, got to know of it, they began praying fervently. Lord Shiva heard their pleas and opted to protect the city as a lingam for all time. The Ujjain Mahakal Temple was then built by the reigning king and his Successors.

The Mahakal Temple was attacked several times and was eventually damaged and demolished. However, in the 19th century, the Scindia family assumed control of its repair.

Lord Shiva who is also known as Maheshwara, is the primary deity worshipped at the Mahakaleshwar temple. The Hindu trinity consists of Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheshwara, with Lord Shiva being mentioned here as Maheshwara. The term Mahakaleshwar means the Lord of Time, and it is believed that Lord Shiva is the God of Time in Hinduism. Mahakal is another name for Lord Shiva. People living in the city believe in two tales about Lord Shiva, who is known as Mahakaleshwar.

According to the legends, Sati stepped into the flames when her father, Daksha, opposed her marriage to Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva was enraged when he heard about it and conducted the Dance of Death, or Tandava, as a result of which he was given the name Mahakal or Mahakaleshwar and was also referred to as the God ahead of time.

According to another mythology mentioned in the books when the demon Dushan wronged Shiva’s worshippers, he became enraged and split the world in half, earning him the name Mahakaleshwar.

Ujjain Mahakal Darshan timing

The temple opens early in the morning. Morning Darshan: 4:00 AM to 7:00 AM. This is the time of the Bhasm Aarti which is one of the most significant rituals at the temple. Devotees gather to witness this sacred ceremony, which involves the application of sacred ash to the Shiva Lingam. After the Bhasm Aarti, the temple remains open for darshan of Mahakal and other rituals. Darshan: 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM During this time, devotees can have a more relaxed and peaceful darshan of Lord Shiva.

The evening darshan timings are followed as starting from Darshan: 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM (Varies with sunset time). The evening darshan offers another opportunity for devotees to visit the temple and seek Mahakal’s blessings. The temple remains open at night as well Darshan: 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM, This is the time for the evening Aarti, and it is usually less crowded than the morning Bhasm Aarti.

Ujjain Mahakal Mandir Bhasma aarti

The Bhasma Arti is performed from 4:00 AM to 6:00 AM The Bhasm Aarti is the most famous and significant ritual at the Mahakaleshwar Temple. During this ritual, the temple priests apply sacred ash bhasm to the Shiva Lingam while chanting mantras dedicated to Lord Shiva. Devotees from all over the world gather to witness this pure holy ceremony, and it is an unforgettable spiritual experience. Arriving well in advance is recommended for secure a good view.

Mahakaleshwar Temple VIP Darshan Fee

For VIP Darshan at Mahakaleshwar Temple, the fee for Darshan is Rs 250 per head.

Ujjain Mahakal Mandir Bhasma aarti

The Mahakaleshwar temple provides the service of offline ticket booking for devotees. There is a straightforward process for booking. To book the tickets offline you have to reach the counter by 7:00 PM before one day and book the ticket using the biometric system.

Devotees require Valid ID cards to book tickets. After booking tickets you have to wait till 7:00 PM to get the confirmation of your Bhasma Aarti. The confirmation is sent through SMS on the given Mobile number.

From 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM you can collect your confirmation tickets from the booking counter.

Ujjain Mahakal darshan online booking

To book online tickets for Bhasma Aarti at Mahakaleshwar temple there are easy and simple steps. You have to Visit the official website of Mahakaleshwar Temple www.shrimahakaleshwar.com then select the Bhasma Aarti page. After that, you have to select the date and you have to provide your name, phone number, email address, and address. Also, you have to submit your ID proof photo and pay the charges. Bhasma arti online or counter booking is not free anymore, a cost of 200/- per person is applicable for online and 100/- per person for offline registration.

Hotels Near Mahakaleshwar Temple Ujjain

1. Hotel Amar Palace:- This hotel is located in front of Mahakal Mandir Police Station, Near Bank of India, Back Side of APNA Sweets Road, Ujjain. It is a good choice for travelers looking for budget accommodation in Ujjain. The hotel provides amenities like free AC rooms, CCTV surveillance, free WIFI, and Smoking rooms. The price of the hotel starts from Rs 1,659.

2. Shivlok guest house:- This accommodation is located at Jaisinghpura, Ujjain which is 60 m from Ujjain Mahakal. Unmarried couples are not allowed. The hotel provides amenities like free AC rooms, CCTV surveillance, free WIFI and paid public Parking. The price of the Hotel Starts From Rs 949.

3. Hotel Kalpana Palace:- This accommodation is located at Jaisinghpura, Ujjain which is 750 m from Ujjain Mahakal. The hotel provides pick-up and drop-off facilities to make your stay more convenient. Unmarried couples are not allowed. This accomodation in Ujjain offers a banquet hall, dining area, Wi-Fi & tidy rooms. The price of the Hotel Starts From Rs 2,979.

There are many more hotels you can easily check out online from Booking.com, Make My Trip, or Goibigo.

How to Reach Ujjain Mahakal

Distance from Omkareshwar temple to Mahakaleshwar Temple

The Distance from Omkareshwar temple to Mahakaleshwar Temple is 139.5Km which takes around 3 Hours.

Distance from Indore to Mahakaleshwar Temple

The Distance from Indore to Mahakaleshwar Temple is 52 Kilometers

Frequently Asked Question