Ujjain is a city with a rich cultural heritage, located in the heart of Madhya Pradesh. Known for its spiritual significance and ancient temples, Ujjain is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus. However, this city has much more to offer beyond its religious sites. With a history dating back to the Mauryan era, Ujjain is home to several historical monuments, museums, and wildlife sanctuaries that offer a glimpse into its glorious past. From scenic spots to adventure activities, Ujjain has something for every kind of traveler. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a journey beyond temples and showcase the top 20 places to visit in Ujjain. So, get ready to explore the hidden gems of Ujjain and create unforgettable memories!
Alluring Places to Visit in Ujjain
1. Kaliadeh Palace
Located on an island in the Shipra river, this 18th-century palace is a popular spot for picnics and boating. It offers scenic views of the river and the surrounding hills.
- Location: Near Triveni Ghat, Ujjain
- Entry Fee: INR 20 per person
- Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 8 km
- Accommodation: Hotels in Ujjain
2. Bhartrihari Caves
These ancient caves are named after the poet-saint Bhartrihari, who is said to have meditated here. The caves offer a serene and spiritual atmosphere, with a panoramic view of the city.
- Location: Near Gadkalika Temple, Ujjain
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 3 km
3. Vedh Shala Observatory
Built-in the 17th century by Maharaja Jai Singh, this astronomical observatory is one of the oldest in India. It has a collection of ancient astronomical instruments used for scientific observations. It is a great spot for science enthusiasts and families.
- Location: Near Tower Chowk, Ujjain
- Entry Fee: INR 5 per person
- Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 1 km
4. Sandipani Ashram
This ancient ashram is said to be the place where Lord Krishna and Sudama studied under the sage Sandipani. It offers a glimpse into the traditional Indian education system.
- Location: In the suburbs of Ujjain
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 10 km
5. Rumi ka Mazaar
This mausoleum is dedicated to the famous Sufi saint Rumi, who is believed to have visited Ujjain in the 13th century. It has a beautiful garden and a peaceful atmosphere.
- Location: Near Hanuman Temple, Ujjain
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 3 km
6. Kal Bhairav Temple
Dedicated to Lord Bhairav, this temple is known for its unique architecture and spiritual significance. It is believed to be one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India.
- Location: Near Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 5 AM to 11 PM
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 1 km
7. Harsiddhi Temple
This ancient temple is dedicated to the goddess Harsiddhi, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India. It is known for its intricate carvings and spiritual energy.
- Location: Near Ram Ghat, Ujjain
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6 AM to 10 PM
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 2 km
8. Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir
This temple is famous for its huge idol of Lord Ganesha, which is believed to be one of the largest in the world. It attracts a large number of devotees and tourists.
- Location: Near Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 5 AM to 10 PM
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 1 km
9. Chintaman Ganesh Temple
This temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, and is believed to be one of the oldest in Ujjain. It has a serene and peaceful atmosphere, and is a popular spot for meditation.
- Location: Near Chintaman Road, Ujjain
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 5 AM to 11 PM
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 4 km
10. Siddhavat
This ancient banyan tree is said to be more than 2000 years old, and is believed to have magical powers. It is a popular spot for pilgrims and travelers seeking blessings.
- Location: Near Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 1 km
11. Gopal Mandir
This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings. It has a peaceful and serene atmosphere and is a must-visit for art lovers.
- Location: Near Chintaman Road, Ujjain
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 4 km
12. Mangalnath Temple
This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and is believed to be the birthplace of the planet Mars according to Hindu mythology. It offers a panoramic view of the city. This is the source of the Shipra river, and is believed to be one of the most sacred spots in Ujjain. It is a popular spot for meditation and seeking blessings.
- Location: Near Harsiddhi Temple, Ujjain
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 5 AM to 11 PM
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 2 km
13. Gomti Kund
This holy water tank is believed to have been created by the goddess Gomti. It is a popular spot for bathing and seeking blessings, especially during the Kumbh Mela.
- Location: Near Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 1 km
14. Ram Janardhan Mandir
This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama, and is known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual energy. It has a serene and peaceful atmosphere.
- Location: Near Ram Ghat, Ujjain
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6 AM to 10 PM
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 2 km
15. Bhairavgarh Sanctuary
This wildlife sanctuary is located in the Ratlam district near Ujjain, and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. It is a popular spot for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
- Location: Near Ratlam, Madhya Pradesh (80 km from Ujjain)
- Entry Fee: INR 30 per person
- Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 77 km
16. Kalidasa Academy
This museum is dedicated to the famous Sanskrit poet Kalidasa, and showcases his life and works. It is a must-visit for history and literature enthusiasts.
- Location: Near Tower Chowk, Ujjain
- Entry Fee: INR 20 per person
- Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 1 km
17. Bherugarh Wildlife Sanctuary
This wildlife sanctuary is located near Ujjain, and is home to a variety of animals like leopards, hyenas, and sloth bears. It offers a unique wildlife experience.
- Location: Near Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh (25 km from Ujjain)
- Entry Fee: INR 30 per person
- Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 25 km
18. Ram Ghat
Located on the banks of the Shipra River, Ram Ghat is a popular spot for taking a dip in the holy river and attending the evening aarti. It offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
- Location: Near Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 5 AM to 8 PM
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 2 km
19. Vikram Kirti Mandir
This museum is dedicated to the memory of King Vikramaditya, a legendary king of Ujjain. It houses a collection of ancient artifacts, paintings, and sculptures.
- Location: Near Tower Chowk, Ujjain
- Entry Fee: INR 5 per person
- Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
- Distance from Ujjain railway station: 1 km
20. Kshipra River
This holy river is believed to have spiritual significance in Hindu mythology, and is a popular spot for taking a dip and seeking blessings. It offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere.
- Location: Near Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: 1 km
Ujjain is a city that is steeped in history and culture, and has a lot to offer for travelers seeking unique experiences. While the temples and shrines are the main attractions, there are several other places to visit in Ujjain that are equally interesting and worth exploring. From historical sites to scenic spots, wildlife sanctuaries to planetariums, there is something for everyone in Ujjain. With our comprehensive guide, you can plan your trip to Ujjain and explore the best of what this city has to offer.
FAQs:
Q. What are the best places to visit in Ujjain other than temples?
A. Some of the best places to visit in Ujjain other than temples are Kaliadeh Palace, Vedh Shala Observatory, Bhartrihari Caves, and Sandipani Ashram.
Q. What are the top 5 places to visit in Ujjain?
A. The top 5 places to visit in Ujjain are Mahakaleshwar Temple, Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir, Harsiddhi Temple, Kal Bhairav Temple, and Mangalnath Temple.
Q. What are the nearby places to visit in Ujjain?
A. Some of the nearby places to visit in Ujjain are Omkareshwar, Mandu, and Indore.
Q. What are the best places to visit in Ujjain for couples?
A. Some of the best places to visit in Ujjain for couples are Ram Ghat, Kshipra River, and the observatory at Vedh Shala.
Q. What are the best places to visit in Ujjain in one day?
A. If you are visiting Ujjain for one day, some of the must-visit places are Mahakaleshwar Temple, Harsiddhi Temple, Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir, and Kal Bhairav Temple.
Q. What are the famous places to visit in Ujjain and nearby?
A. Some of the famous places to visit in Ujjain and nearby are Omkareshwar, Mandu, Indore, and Maheshwar.