Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple, located in the ancient city of Ujjain on the banks of the Shipra River, is one of the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva. It is revered as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and is the only one that is 'Dakshinamurti', meaning it faces south. The temple is most famous for its 'Bhasma Aarti', a unique and powerful daily ritual where the lingam is anointed with fresh ash before dawn. The temple complex has been recently expanded with the magnificent 'Mahakal Lok' corridor, enhancing the spiritual experience for the millions of pilgrims who visit to seek the blessings of Mahakal, the Lord of Time and Death.
Darshan & Daily Rituals
Temple opens and preparations for Bhasma Aarti begin.
Bhasma Aarti. Access is strictly for pre-booked devotees.
General darshan is open to the public.
Midday Bhog Aarti.
General darshan continues.
Evening Pooja.
Sandhya Aarti.
Evening darshan continues.
Shayan Aarti, the final prayer of the day.
General Darshan
Free entry for all devotees through the general queue system.
Bhasma Aarti Darshan
Free participation in the 4 AM Bhasma Aarti, but requires mandatory advance online booking due to limited capacity.
Sheeghra Darshan
A paid pass for a separate, faster-moving queue to reduce waiting time significantly.
Omkareshwar Mahadev
Deity on the first floor
Nagchandreshwar
Deity on the third floor, darshan only on Nag Panchami
Parvati
Consort of Lord Shiva
Mahashivratri
The grandest festival, celebrated with night-long prayers and festivities. The temple remains open continuously for several days, attracting millions.
Shravan Mahotsav
The entire month of Shravan (Sawan) is a festival. Every Monday, a grand procession ('Sawari') of Lord Mahakal is taken through the city.