The ancient city of Ujjain is situated along the banks of the Kshipra River in the state of Madhya Pradesh. The city has witnessed 5000 years of rich Indian history. Right from the mention of Ujjain in Buddhist literature to witnessing the 1658 battle between Mughal princes, to being ruled by the Maratha empire and to finally witnessing the British rule, Ujjain has seen it all. Ujjain has gained significant recognition today for its Hindu temples and it plays a pivotal role as one of the hosts of the Kumbh Mela, which takes place every 12 years. Besides its temples, Ujjain is known for its picturesque caves, observatory, delicious cuisine, and amazing architectural marvels that draw thousands of visitors.
1. Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple:
The Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga temple is a prominent attraction in the city of Ujjain. Devotees from all over India visit this temple as it is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas (Sign of Lord Shiva) in Hindu mythology. This is one of the most sacred Shiva temples and is the best place to start exploring the city of Ujjain.
Constructed in the Maratha and Chalukya style of architecture, the Mahakal temple stands near a lake and consists of five levels. According to legend, the Shiva lingam (Shiva’s idol) is self-manifested and truly marvellous to behold. The most attractive part of this visit to the temple is the Bhasma aarti of Mahakal.
The walls of this temple have various inscriptions carved into them, praising the Lord Shiva. The temple architecture is magnificent, and it has stood the test of time. An extension to the temple complex is now connected with the recently inaugurated Mahakal corridor.
2. Mahakal Corridor:
To revive the glory of the ancient city of Ujjain, the Mahakal Lok offers a magnificent experience of the Hindu culture and mythology. The 900-meter-long corridor, which covers an area of 2.5 hectares, spreads around the Rudrasagar lake and connects the Mahakaleshwar temple. The corridor has currently completed Phase 1 and further construction is in process.
With two majestic gateways and a grand colonnade made up of 108 intricately carved sandstone pillars, the Mahakal corridor extends a warm welcome to visitors. A panel of 50 murals depicting stories from Shivpuran and beautiful fountains are the highlight of this place.
The pillars are made of sandstones sourced from Rajasthan, and the intricate carvings are hand-done by local artisans of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Orissa. The entire corridor is outstanding and the detailing of every column, wall, and floor is explicit.
The provision of electric cars and universal accessibility is considered in the planning of the Mahakal corridor. 50 panels depicting Shivpurans are also available in audio formats and the words are in Hindi and English languages. It is an architectural marvel and a must-visit place in Ujjain.
3. Ram Ghat:
Hindus regard the ghats along rivers as the most sacred source of water. Situated on the banks of the Kshipra River, Ujjain’s Ram Ghat is a bustling place for tourists, locals, priests, and vendors setting up shop in the narrow streets. When visiting Ujjain, it is a must-go-to location to witness and take in the captivating ambience.
The Ram Ghat gained its importance because of the Kumbha Mela, which takes place here once in 12 years. The steps lead to the river and are built parallel to the river’s flow. The Ghat is surrounded by the vibrant Shikhars of the temples, with their dharmashalas and high walls lining the banks of the river behind them.
The most picturesque time of day to visit the Ram Ghat is the dawn when waves of worshippers are present and the sounds of bells and priests’ chanting fill the air. It provides an overview of the different actions that the ghat sees throughout the day.
4. Mangalnath Temple:
The Mangalnath temple is believed to be the centre of the world because the Tropic of Cancer passes through Ujjain. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is situated on the banks of the Kshipra River. The temple in ancient days was even used for astronomical observations since the planet Mars is visible from here.
The exact year of the temple’s foundation is unknown however, it is believed that the royal family of Scindia rebuilt this temple. The entire temple complex is built in red stone whereas the main temple of Mangalnath is in white. Devotees from everywhere visit this temple on a trip to Ujjain.
5. Ram Janardan Temple:
Ram Janardhan Temple at Ujjain dates back to the 17th century built by Mirza Raja Jaisingh and later developed by the Marathas in the 18th century. The Marathas built the fortifications around the temple and developed a Kund(pond).
A depiction of the Maratha architecture is seen with its intricate carvings, use of stone, and the grandeur of the temple. The temple is home to the idols of Shri Ram and Vishnu, along with the paintings of other Hindu deities, namely Krishna, Bramha, Vishu and Mahesh.
The Marathas brought about various changes architecturally during their reign. It was during their reign that Ujjain was known as the meeting point for painters of the Poona and Malwa regions.
6. Jantar Mantar:
The Jantar Mantar in Ujjain is the first observatory to have been built by Raja Jai Singh in the 17th century, among the others located in Delhi, Jaipur, Mathura and Varanasi. Raja built this observatory to help Hindu astrologers with the study of astronomy.
The observatory in Ujjain is an architectural marvel considering the time it was built without any help from technology. It is the only observatory in India among the five which still carries out astronomical observations and is a must-visit during a trip to Ujjain.
The Jantar Mantar consists of four yantras which constitute the observations namely,
- Shanku Yantra.
- Nadivalaya Yantra.
- Samrat Yantra (Sundial).
- Digyansh Yantra.
7. Kaliadeh Palace:
Kaliadeh Palace in Ujjain was built in the 15th century by the Sultans of Mandu. The Palace looks like an island from afar because of the artificial tanks and water bodies surrounding it along with a lush landscape.
The Palace is an example of Persian architecture with a central dome and wall inscriptions. The central hall of the palace is surrounded by numerous galleries depicting the Persian architectural style.
The palace was once known as the temple for the Sun God along the banks of the Kshipra River with two water bodies, Surya Kund and Brahma Kund. Kaliadeh Palace has lost its beauty with time, but it is worth visiting to imagine what it looked like in its days of glory.
8. Omkareshwar:
Omkareshwar is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas situated on the banks of the Narmada River. The temple is set on an island known as Mandhata and the aerial view of the island is shaped as Om (ॐ). Omkareshwar and Mamleshwar are often visited together.
The Omkareshwar Temple is an architectural marvel in the Peshwa style of architecture, with intricate carvings. The magnificent Narmada River, the Ghats, and the hills surrounding it greet one.
Image 20_Gopal Temple_© Trawell
9. Gopal Mandir:
Situated in the centre of the main market, Gopal Mandir is the second largest temple in Ujjain after Mahakaleshwar. It was built in the mid-19th century by Bayaji Bai Shinde and features a classic Maratha style of architecture.
The temple is a marble-towered structure surrounded by high compound walls and a Bangaldar roof. The doors are silver-plated and the idol of Shri Krishna is two feet tall and gilded in silver. The temple offers a glimpse into the beautiful Maratha architecture and takes one back in time.
Image 21_Har Siddhi Mata Temple_© Bernard Gagnon
10. Harsiddhi Temple:
Harsiddhi is one of the major temples visited in Ujjain which adds to the beauty of Ujjain. It is considered to be one of the Shaktipeeths (shrines dedicated to AdiShakti). The temple can be seen in its full glory during the festival of Navratri when the whole campus is lit up with candles.
The temple built by King Vikramaditya is said to have been restored during the Maratha reign. Styles of Maratha architecture are seen in the temple, the two pillars adorned with lamps being the highlight of the style. The temple has four entrances in four directions, the eastern entrance being the main.
Reference list:
Connecting Traveller. (n.d.). Ujjain Tourism | Ujjain Travel Places | Places to visit in Ujjain | Thing to do in Ujjain. [online] Available at: https://www.connectingtraveller.com/city/ujjain [Accessed 13 Jan. 2024].
Don’t hold your breath. (2018). Ram ghat of Ujjain. [online] Available at: https://anotherglobaleater.wordpress.com/2018/08/24/ram-ghat-of-ujjain/ [Accessed 13 Jan. 2024].
Facts about Omkareshwar Temple that will leave you stunned! (n.d.). The Times of India. [online] Available at: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/travel/destinations/facts-about-omkareshwar-temple-that-will-leave-you-stunned/articleshow/104630070.cms [Accessed 13 Jan. 2024].
India (2022). Grand gateways, heritage architecture: Many facets of ‘Mahakal Lok’. [online] @bsindia. Available at: https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/grand-gateways-heritage-architecture-many-facets-of-mahakal-lok-122100900513_1.html [Accessed 13 Jan. 2024].
Lonely Planet. (n.d.). Ram Ghat | Madhya Pradesh & Chhattisgarh, India | Attractions. [online] Available at: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/india/madhya-pradesh-and-chhattisgarh/ujjain/attractions/ram-ghat/a/poi-sig/1294541/356384 [Accessed 13 Jan. 2024].
Staff, O.T. (2023). 8 Things To See In Ujjain Over A Weekend. [online] Outlook Traveller. Available at: https://www.outlooktraveller.com/explore/weekend-breaks/8-things-to-see-in-ujjain-over-a-weekend [Accessed 13 Jan. 2024].
Trawell.in. (n.d.). Ram Janardhan Temple, Ujjain – Timings, History, Pooja & Aarti schedule,. [online] Available at: https://www.trawell.in/madhya-pradesh/ujjain/ram-janardhan-temple [Accessed 13 Jan. 2024].
www.ujjainonline.in. (n.d.). Kaliadeh Palace in Ujjain, History of Kaliadeh Palace. [online] Available at: https://www.ujjainonline.in/city-guide/kaliadeh-palace-in-ujjain [Accessed 13 Jan. 2024].
www.ujjainonline.in. (n.d.). Ujjain Tourism, Travel to Ujjain, Travel and Tourism in Ujjain. [online] Available at: https://www.ujjainonline.in/city-guide/ujjain-tourism [Accessed 13 Jan. 2024].
