Mahakaleshwar Temple
Jyotirlinga famous for its Bhasma Aarti at dawn, using ash from a cremation pyre. Only south-facing Jyotirlinga.
Photos of Mahakaleshwar Temple
- Presiding Deity
- Shiva
- Established
- Present form 18th century
- Architecture
- Bhumija / Chalukya
- Address
- Jaisinghpura, Ujjain 456006
- Timings
- 03:00–23:00
History of Mahakaleshwar Temple
The temple was destroyed by Iltutmish in 1234 CE and rebuilt by the Maratha Ranoji Shinde in 1734. Ujjain is one of the seven sacred cities of Hinduism.
Festivals Celebrated at Mahakaleshwar Temple
- Maha Shivaratri
- Nag Panchami
- Kumbh Mela (Simhastha)
How to Reach Mahakaleshwar Temple
Ujjain is 50 km from Indore airport and has direct trains from Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mahakaleshwar Temple
Where is Mahakaleshwar Temple located?
- Mahakaleshwar Temple is located at Jaisinghpura, Ujjain 456006, in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Mahakaleshwar Temple?
- The presiding deity at Mahakaleshwar Temple is Shiva (also known as Mahadev, Bholenath), worshipped in the Shaiva tradition.
What are the timings of Mahakaleshwar Temple?
- Mahakaleshwar Temple is generally open 03:00–23:00. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Mahakaleshwar Temple built?
- Mahakaleshwar Temple was established Present form 18th century. Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Mahakaleshwar Temple?
- Mahakaleshwar Temple is built in the Bhumija / Chalukya style, characteristic of Shiva shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Mahakaleshwar Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Mahakaleshwar Temple include Maha Shivaratri, Nag Panchami, Kumbh Mela (Simhastha). These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Madhya Pradesh and beyond.
How can I reach Mahakaleshwar Temple?
- Ujjain is 50 km from Indore airport and has direct trains from Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad.
Why is Mahakaleshwar Temple significant?
- Jyotirlinga famous for its Bhasma Aarti at dawn, using ash from a cremation pyre. Only south-facing Jyotirlinga.
Is there an entry fee at Mahakaleshwar Temple?
- Entry to the main shrine of Mahakaleshwar Temple is generally free for darshan. Special sevas, abhishekams and priority queues may carry a nominal fee — check with the temple office on arrival.
What is the dress code at Mahakaleshwar Temple?
- Mahakaleshwar Temple follows the traditional dress code observed at Madhya Pradesh temples — modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Many shrines in the region also expect men to remove upper garments before entering the sanctum.