UJJAIN DARSHAN- A City of Spiritual Charm
Posted by ujjain tourism on February 16th, 2019
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 time that were 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 Mahakal temple of Ujjain).
Beyond Ujjain temples the city has caves, shrines, palaces and lots of delicious food. Let’s dive straight into some of the the beautiful spots of the city.
- Mahakaleshwar jyotirling: Mahakal temple in Ujjain of Lord Shiva is the heart and soul of Ujjain and the most significant temple since eras. The jyotirling 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 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).
- 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 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 sacrified her life. The 3 Goddess Annapurna, Mahalakshmi and Mahasarswati 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.
- 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 few steps away from Mahakaleshwar temple. This temple is believed to have one of the biggest Ganesh idol 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 5am and closes at 7pm.
- Bhartrihari Caves: These caves are situated near to river Shipra and are one of the best natural caves to see. They are named after the step brother Vikramaditya who was once 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.
