Ujjain Travel Guide

Discover the top things to do, places to see, and useful travel tips to plan your perfect trip to Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, India.


Introduction to Ujjain

Nestled in the Western part of Madhya Pradesh, Ujjain is an ancient city with a rich history and culture that dates back to the pre-Mauryan period. The city was once the power center of Central India and has played a significant role in shaping the religious, cultural, and political landscape of the region.

Ujjain is also known as the city of temples, with various religious sites and pilgrimage centers attracting thousands of devotees every year. The city is home to some of the most notable Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Goddess Mahakali, and other deities. Apart from its spiritual significance, Ujjain is also a great place to experience the local food, shopping, and outdoor adventures.

List of Places to Visit in Ujjain

There are numerous places to explore in Ujjain, and the following is a list of must-visit attractions that every tourist should add to their itinerary.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga: Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India, and also one of the most important temples in Ujjain. The temple is known for its unique architecture and holy water (Jal Abhishek).
  2. Kal Bhairav Temple: Kal Bhairav is a temple dedicated to Lord Bhairav, a Hindu deity known for his fierce form. The temple is located near the Mahakaleshwar Temple and is visited by devotees throughout the year.
  3. Vikram Kirti Mandir Museum: The museum is named after the legendary King Vikramaditya and houses a collection of artifacts related to the culture, history, and economy of the region.
  4. Kaliadeh Palace: Believed to be one of the oldest palaces in Ujjain, Kaliadeh Palace was once the summer residence of the Scindia rulers. The palace is known for its stunning architecture and the beautiful view of the river Shipra.

Natural Attractions of Ujjain: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Ram Ghat: Ram Ghat is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike for its serene ambiance and breathtaking sunset views. The place is also considered to be holy, and devotees take a dip in the river Shipra to cleanse their sins.
  2. Mangalnath Temple: Another famous temple in Ujjain, Mangalnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Mangal, the planet Mars. The temple is built on a hill and offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding hills.
  3. Chintaman Ganesh Temple: The Chintaman Ganesh Temple is a popular pilgrimage site and is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the God of wisdom. The temple is located on the bank of the Shipra river, and one can enjoy a boat ride to reach the temple.
  4. Pipliya Mandir: The Pipliya Mandir is a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is located on a small hill near Ujjain. The temple offers an excellent view of the city and the sunset.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ujjain

Ujjain is surrounded by hills and lush green forests, making it an excellent spot for hiking and trekking enthusiasts. One of the most popular trekking routes is the one that leads to the top of the hill that houses the Mangalnath Temple. The trek is easy and takes around 30 minutes to reach the top, from where one can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape.

Another popular route is the one that goes around the Kaliadeh Palace, along the river Shipra. The trek offers a peaceful and serene environment and is perfect for nature lovers.

Best Things to Do in Ujjain: Activities and Tours

Apart from visiting temples and historical sites, there are plenty of other activities to do in Ujjain. Some of the best things to do in Ujjain are:

  1. Attend the evening aarti ceremony at Mahakaleshwar Temple.
  2. Explore the local bazaars and shop for handicrafts, traditional textiles, and other souvenirs.
  3. Take a boat ride on the river Shipra and enjoy the scenic beauty of Ujjain.
  4. Indulge in the local cuisine and taste some of the famous dishes like Poha, Jalebi, and Samosa.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ujjain

A week-long itinerary for Ujjain could look like this:

  • Day 1: Visit Mahakaleshwar Temple, Kal Bhairav Temple, and Ram Ghat in the evening.
  • Day 2: Explore the local bazaars and shop for souvenirs.
  • Day 3: Hike to the top of the Mangalnath Temple hill and enjoy the panoramic view of the city.
  • Day 4: Visit Vikram Kirti Mandir Museum and learn about the history and culture of the region.
  • Day 5: Take a boat ride on the river Shipra and visit Chintaman Ganesh Temple.
  • Day 6: Discover the culinary delights of Ujjain and taste some of the local dishes.
  • Day 7: Visit the Kaliadeh Palace and indulge in some leisurely activities.

Food and Drink Scene of Ujjain

Ujjain is famous for its vegetarian cuisine, which is an essential part of the local culture. Some of the must-try dishes in Ujjain are:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Poha: A breakfast dish made of flattened rice, onion, and spices.
  2. Jalebi: A sweet dish made of wheat flour, sugar, and ghee.
  3. Dal Bafla: A popular savory dish made of wheat, lentils, and spices.

Local Beverages

  1. Lassi: A refreshing drink made of yoghurt, sugar, and spices.
  2. Sugarcane Juice: A sweet drink made from sugarcane.

Where to Stay in Ujjain: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ujjain has several options for accommodation, catering to different budgets and needs. Here are some of the best places to stay in Ujjain:

  1. Hotel Ramakrishna: A budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of the city.
  2. Anjushree Inn: A boutique hotel offering luxury amenities and excellent service.
  3. Hotel Imperial: A mid-range hotel with a prime location and comfortable rooms.
  4. MPT Shipra Residency: A government-run hotel located near Ram Ghat, offering scenic views of the river.

What to Buy in Ujjain: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Ujjain is a shopper’s paradise, with an array of handicrafts, textiles, and other traditional products. Some of the best things to buy in Ujjain are:

  1. Maheshwari Sarees: A traditional saree made of silk and cotton, characterized by its lightweight fabric and vibrant colors.
  2. Handicrafts: A variety of handicrafts, including metalwork, woodwork, and pottery.
  3. Jewellery: Ujjain is known for its unique style of jewelry, which is handcrafted by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Ujjain

Ujjain has a rich cultural and spiritual heritage that is reflected in its customs and traditions. The city is known for its religious practices and is often referred to as the spiritual capital of India. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are expected to respect the local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Ujjain

The best time to visit Ujjain is between October to March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities. However, if you wish to attend the Kumbh Mela festival, which is held every 12 years, the best time to visit is between January to April.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ujjain

Do:

  1. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
  2. Respect the local customs and traditions.
  3. Bargain while shopping in local bazaars.

Don’t:

  1. Smoke or consume alcohol at religious sites.
  2. Wear shoes inside the temple premises.
  3. Disrespect the local culture and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ujjain

Ujjain is a relatively safe city, and tourists can explore the city without any major concerns. However, it is advisable to take common precautions like not carrying too much cash, being aware of pickpockets, and avoiding secluded areas at night.

Health in Ujjain

Tourists should avoid drinking tap water and stick to bottled water. It is also advisable to carry insect repellent and sunscreen to protect against insect bites and sunburns.

Getting to Ujjain: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ujjain

The nearest airport to Ujjain is Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport in Indore, which is around 55 km away from Ujjain. The airport is well-connected to major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Jaipur.

Bus Stations Near Ujjain

Ujjain has its own bus stand, which is well-connected to neighboring cities and towns like Indore, Bhopal, and Ahmedabad.

Other Options

Ujjain is also served by a railway station, which is well-connected to major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata.

How to Get Around in Ujjain

Ujjain is a small city, and most of the attractions are located within a reasonable distance from each other. Tourists can hire taxis or auto-rickshaws to get around the city, or they can rent a bike or a scooty to explore the city at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Ujjain: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ujjain is located in Central India and is surrounded by several tourist destinations, making it an excellent base to explore the region. Some of the nearby destinations and excursions from Ujjain are:

  1. Indore: The commercial capital of Madhya Pradesh, located around 55 km from Ujjain.
  2. Mandu: A historical city known for its ancient ruins and Islamic architecture, located around 150 km from Ujjain.
  3. Omkareshwar: A popular pilgrimage center known for the Omkareshwar Temple, located around 80 km from Ujjain.

Conclusion

Ujjain is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture, and there is something for everyone in this ancient city. From its magnificent temples and historical sites to its scenic beauty and outdoor adventures, Ujjain is a perfect destination for travelers looking for an authentic Indian experience.

Ujjain Ujjain Harsiddhi Temple Harsiddhi Temple Narmada river from Mahakaleshwar Temple Narmada river from Mahakaleshwar Temple