Shree Mahakaleshwar Temple of Ujjain

Ujjain, a city in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh is known for its rich history and culture and of course, the famous Mahakal temple. One of the most popular destinations in Ujjain, the Mahakal Temple is considered to be one of the most important shrines in Hinduism. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism, and is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus from all over India.

The Mahakaleshwar Temple is located in the heart of Ujjain and is surrounded by a bustling market area. The temple complex is quite large and consists of several buildings and structures, including the main temple, a courtyard, and various other smaller shrines. The architecture of the temple is stunning, with intricate carvings and sculptures adorning the walls and pillars.

The main attraction of the Mahakal Temple is the lingam of Lord Shiva, which is considered one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India. According to Hindu mythology, a Jyotirlinga is a divine light or flame that represents Lord Shiva's presence on Earth. The lingam at Mahakal Temple is believed to be self-manifested, which means that it was not created by human hands.

The temple is open to visitors throughout the day, but the best time to visit is during the early morning hours when the temple opens for darshan. The atmosphere during this time is charged with energy and devotion, and it is a truly awe-inspiring experience to witness the morning aarti ceremony. The priests perform elaborate rituals, accompanied by the sound of bells and chanting, as devotees offer flowers and incense to the lingam. A visit to this holy temple is recommended because it is truly a life changing experience.

Interesting fact:

Mahakal temple is the only jyotirlinga that faces the south direction, while all the other jyotirlingas face east.