A pilgrim’s guide to Ujjain

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Synopsis

The city of Ujjain, located on the banks of the Kshipra River in Madhya Pradesh, is one of the most ancient Indian cities. It is also known by the names Ujjaini, Avanti, Avantika and Avantikapuri. Ujjain is home to one of Lord Shiva's 12 Jyotirlingas and also happens to be one of the Saptapuris (seven Sacred Hindus Cities that are believed to grant Moksha). With all this resting on its shoulders, it is no surprise that Ujjain plays host to the Kumbh mela once every 12 years.

Ujjain has great historical and religious significance and features as an ancient seat of learning in the sacred Hindu texts. For those who are keen on retracing the footprints of Hindu mythology, Ujjain is a must visit with its multitude of grand temples. Among the thousands of Shiva temples, 84 specific temples and supposed to hold particular significance, especially in the month of Shravan. Ujjain is also steeped in history. It was the seat of power for kings such as Vikramaditya and Chandragupta II and home to the legendary poet Kalidasa. Here are some of the important places of interests which should not be missed when one travels in Ujjain.

Although Ujjain is one of the most sacred Hindu cities in India, but the true beauty of the place lies in the fact that the places to visit in Ujjain not only have a lot of religious significance, but it is also a place steeped in history that dates back a couple of centuries. As far as the Ujjain tourist places are concerned, the Ujjain sightseeing spots include a lot of temples, religious sites and other heritage spots in this city make for great places to visit for those travellers who are interested in the history and heritage of a place. Situated on the banks of the Shipra River, the ancient city of Ujjain dates back to as early as the 600 BC, a time when it was also the residence of Emperor Ashoka. It was also the political and commercial hub of central India and the capital of the ancient Avanti Kingdom. What sets apart Ujjain from its similar counterparts in other parts of the country is its undeniable spiritual charm which can impress even regular travellers who are otherwise non-believers or atheists.

The famous poet, Kalidas, described it as ‘The town fallen from Heaven to bring Heaven to Earth’. The many temples give you glimpses of a glorious past. This is one city that will take you back to your childhood history books. As far as sightseeing in Ujjain is concerned, some of the most popular places to visit in this city include the Mahakaleshwar Temple or the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, the ISKCON Temple and the Kaliadeh Palace among a lot of other places. Mahakaleshwar Jyotirling and Temple is the most important temple in Ujjain. The Jyotirling here is Dakshinmurti Swayambhu "self manifested" which derives power within itself unlike others where lingas are installed.

The Omkareshwar linga, on the first floor, is open for visitors round the year whereas the Nagchandreshwara linga, situated on the third floor is open only on the day of Nagpanchmi. The temple has over hundred small shrines of various deities. The ISKCON Temple, on the other hand, is also called Radha Madhana Mohan Temple and is located near the Nanakheda Bus stand. Ujjain has special significance for Krishna's followers since Krishna, Balaram and Sudama are believed to have received their education from Maharishi Sandipani in this city. The temple complex is made of white marble stone with lush green well maintained lawns. There are three sancta sanctorum in the temple housing the idols of Lord Krishna and Radha with Gopis, Balarama and Krishna and Nitaai Gaur (incarnations of Krishna and Balarama).