Ujjain is primarily a spiritual destination in India. However, architectural monuments and observatories are of interest to the tourist.
Situated on the eastern bank of the Kshipra River, Ujjain is amongst the seven sacred cities for Hindu pilgrimage. The famous Kumbh Mela held every 12 years commences here. It has been the Prime Meridian for Indian geographers since the 4th century B.C. Other points of interest include an observatory, palace, caves, and art gallery.
History of Ujjain
With the advent of the Aryan settlers, Ujjain acquired eminence. The first historical evidence of the city, mentioned in Buddhist literature in the 6th century B.C. defines the city among the four great powers including Vatsa, Kosala, and Magadha. In the 8th century A.D., it became the center of Sanskrit learning. Captured by the Mughals in 1235, several temples were destroyed. However, it was not until 1750 when it became part of Gwalior under Akbar’s reign, was Ujjain restored to Hindu control. It was home to many Indian historical figures like Ashoka and Chandragupta II.
Kalidasa in his poem Meghdoot conjures up a vivid image of a civilized society with a deep philosophical and religious outlook yet intensely practical and leisurely.
Today, Ujjain is a modern town with a textile and agricultural market, and home to the prestigious Vikram University.
Tourism in Ujjain
What does a tour to Ujjain offer? Tourists seeking a spiritual revival should visit the most sought-after temple of Mahakaleshwar. Other famous temples include Chintaman Ganesh Temple, Dakshinmukhi Temple, Harsiddhi Durga Temple, and Shani Temple of Triveni.
The recently built ISKCON temple is a huge crowd-puller, while Sai Baba Ashram and Prashanti Dham offer spiritual healing. Tourists who are bewitched by the concept of black magic can visit the Kal Bhairav Temple, known for tantric worship.
Are there archeological structures or palaces and gardens to visit? Kailash Palace reflects exquisite Persian architecture through its dome. Durgadas Ki Chhatri is a shrine built on the funeral site of the famous Rajput warrior Durgadas. Visit the ancient caves of Bharthari Gufa, the mediating and resting place of the famous King Vikramaditya’s brother.
Tourists who are inspired by Indian astronomy should pay a visit to the Vedha Shala Observatory renowned for its state-of-the-art astronomy instruments like Samrat Yantra. Maharaja Jai Singh built the observatory in the 1700s.
Every travel itinerary has space for shopping! Ujjain is renowned for handicrafts. Shopaholics can visit the local bazaar and splurge on tribal jewelry, paper-mâché items, tribal metal wares, lacquer ware, bamboo items, exquisite beadwork, and pottery. Jawahar Marg, Mahakaleshwar Marg, and Gopal Mandir Marg are the recommended shopping areas. For more modern shops and restaurants, you should head towards Free Ganj.
Another popular tourist destination for a weekend visit is Sailana. A former princely state located 130 km away from Ujjain houses over 1200 species of cactus, a 13sq km bird sanctuary, and two Kedareswar temples.
Tour to Ujjain has burned your calories and your stomach growls for food. The big question plagues your brain - Where to eat? Most hotels and restaurants offer decent vegetarian meals including traditional snacks. Bite in Bhutte Ki Kees is made from grated corn roasted in ghee and cooked in milk. Baati, traditional bread, dipped in ghee and consumed with pulses. If seeking fast food head towards the clock tower without a flinch.
Facts
- Area: 6100 km2 (236 sq mi)
- Elevation/Altitude: 492 m (1,611 ft)
- Geography: North Latitudes: 23.17° East Longitudes: 77.21°
- Climate: Tropical Monsoon. Summer Temperature: 42°C Max 20°C Min, Winter Temperature: 28°C Max 10°C Min.
- Population: 429,933
- Languages: Hindi, English
- Best Season: September-March
- Tourist Attraction: Temples, Ancient Monuments, Observatories,
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