Ujjain
is located 55km away from Indore in the Malwa region and ruled by the Maurya
dynasty. This city is blessed with the treasure of ancient temples which makes
the city a Hindu pilgrimage spot attracting major tourist. The structures that
stand today have been renovated by the time that was once built by the Muslim
rulers. Ujjain Darshan best spiritual charm is one of the Sapta Puris, which means
the seven most revered pilgrimage centres of India. It is home to one of the
twelve Jyotirlingas also called the sacred abodes of Lord Shiva named
Mahakaleshwar Temple (Also known as Mahakaltemple of Ujjain).
Beyond Ujjain temples, the city
has caves, shrines, palaces and lots of delicious food. Let’s dive straight
into some of the beautiful spots of the city.
Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga: Mahakal
temple in
Ujjain of Lord Shiva is the heart and soul of Ujjain and the most significant
temple since eras. The jyotirlinga here is self-manifested and derives energy
on its own, unlike others where lingas are required hence called Dakshinmurti Swayambhu. The temple is located
near the Rudra sagar Jhil (lake) and is a 5-level structure. The temple has
been timely renovated in 18th century AD because of which it shows a mix of
the Paramara, Chalukya and Maratha styles of architecture.
If you are an early bird,
then don’t ever miss The most important and unique pooja at Mahakaleshwar
temple, the Bhasma Aarti.
This pooja takes place at 4 AM daily and is attended by huge masses around the
world. It is the law of nature that for every death on earth there is a new
birth. So, as Mahakal is the Lord of earth and death as well; this aarti is
started by applying bhasm (ash)
brought from the crematorium which is then applied on the lingam of Lord
Mahakaleshwar.
A major festival Mahashivaratri
(the Great Night of Shiva), is celebrated in honour of the god Shiva in the
month of February/March, as a huge fair and is held near the temple. The
worship goes on throughout the night and the Lord is worshipped with different
kinds of offerings, including bhang (prepared
with leaves and flowers of Cannabis plant).
1. Harsiddhi
Mata Temple: Harsiddhi
temple located near the river Kshipra is one of the most famous Shakti peeth
among all in our country. The temple is 350m away from Mahakaleshwar temple and
was built during the Maratha period. The story behind this temple is a goddess
Parvati took the avatar of Harsiddhi Mata to kill the two demons of Lord Shiva
and her elbow fell at this place when Shiva was trying to take her body from
the fire in which she sacrificed her life. The 3 Goddess Annapurna, Mahalakshmi
and Maha Saraswati are situated one on top of another in this beautiful temple.
The temple has special features like the presence of Shree Yantra and deep
stambh which when lit gives the temple a wonderful sight.
2. Bade Ganeshji kaa Mandir: As the name says this temple has a huge idol
of Ganeshji which is beautifully painted light pink and is situated a few steps
away from Mahakaleshwar temple. This temple is believed to have one of the
biggest Ganesh idols in the country. Along with Ganeshji, there are 2 idols of
Riddhi and Siddhi, the wives of Lord Ganesha. The temple has a peaceful
atmosphere and daily 2 aartis take place in the morning and evening. Also,
there is a rule to learn Sanskrit and astrology in this temple. The temple
opens at 5 am and closes at 7 pm.
3. Bhartrihari Caves: These caves are situated near to the
river Shipra and are one of the best natural caves to see. They are named after
the stepbrother Vikramaditya who was once the king of Ujjain. The king was
living a lavish life but after being cheated by his wife Pingala gave away his
kingdom and starting living in these caves. He has written Shringarshataka,
Vairagyashataka, and Nitishataka in these caves. The sculptures depicting
various ancient things prevalent in those times attract many tourists.
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