Ujjain Mahakal Mandir Darshan, Timing, Bhasma Aarti Online Booking Details
Ujjain Mahakal Mandir is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva, in India. It is located in the ancient city of Ujjain, on the banks of the holy river Shipra, in the state of Madhya Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to Mahakaleshwar, the presiding deity of Ujjain, who is believed to be self-manifested and facing south, a unique feature among the Jyotirlingas.
The Ujjain Mahakal Mandir is also famous for its Bhasma Aarti, a ritual in which the idol of Mahakaleshwar is adorned with the ashes of the dead. Ujjain Mahakal Mandir is a popular pilgrimage site for Hindus, who believe that visiting this temple can grant them salvation and fulfill their wishes.
In this blog post, we will look at Ujjain Mahakal Mandir Darshan, Timing, Bhasma Aarti Online Booking Details, Nearby places to visit, and other key details.
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Ujjain Mahakal Mandir timings
Ujjain Mahakal Mandir, a revered Hindu temple, welcomes devotees daily from 4:00 AM to 11:00 PM. The temple’s schedule encompasses various rituals and poojas, each with specific timings:
- Bhasma Aarti: Held early morning from 4:00 AM to 6:00 AM, this ritual is a unique and spiritually significant ceremony.
- Jalabhishek: Devotees can participate in Jalabhishek from 3:15 AM to 4:00 AM and again from 6:00 AM to 7:00 AM.
- Darshan Hours: The temple doors are open for darshan from 4:00 AM, allowing devotees to visit and offer prayers until 11:00 PM.
- Garbh Graha Darshan: The inner sanctum is accessible from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM and then from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM for a more intimate darshan experience.
- Shringar Darshan: This special viewing takes place from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
- Evening Aarti: An important ritual, the Evening Aarti, is performed from 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
- Shayan Aarti: The day concludes with the Shayan Aarti from 10:30 PM to 11:00 PM.
Ujjain Mahakal Mandir tickets
Visiting Ujjain Mahakal Mandir, a revered shrine, requires tickets for a complete spiritual experience. Here’s a detailed guide for devotees:
- Types of Tickets:
- Regular Darshan: Access to view Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga.
- Garbh Graha Entry: Permits entry into the inner sanctum.
- Sheeghra Darshan: A fast-track option for quicker darshan.
- Ticket Booking and Costs:
- Regular Darshan Ticket: Rs. 10 per person.
- Garbh Graha Ticket: Rs. 250 per person.
- Sheeghra Darshan Ticket: Rs. 100 per person, available at the temple.
- Online Booking:
- Advance Booking: Tickets can be booked 30 days in advance.
- Limit: Maximum of 5 tickets per booking.
- Website: Book through the official temple website.
- ID Proof: A photo ID is required for booking.
- Dress Code Compliance:
- Men: Must wear dhoti or sola, no shirts or vests.
- Women: Required to wear sarees.
- Sheeghra Darshan:
- Availability: Limited, subject to availability.
- Benefit: Allows skipping long queues for a quicker darshan.
Ujjain Mahakal Mandir offers various ticket options for darshan, including entry into the inner sanctum and a fast-track darshan. Devotees must adhere to the dress code and provide a photo ID during booking. Online booking is recommended due to limited availability, especially for Sheeghra Darshan tickets.
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Ujjain Mahakal Mandir Bhasma Aarti Online Booking Details
The Bhasma Aarti at Ujjain Mahakal Mandir, conducted every morning at 4:00 am, is a deeply revered and unique ritual dedicated to Lord Shiva, also known as Mahakala. This ritual holds great spiritual significance, involving the application of bhasma (sacred ash) on the Mahakaleshwar lingam. The bhasma, sourced from cremation grounds, symbolizes the eternal cycle of life and death and Lord Shiva’s dominion over it.
Performed by the Aghori Baba, a practitioner of the tantric Shiva tradition, the ritual includes chanting mantras and offering bhasma to the deity. Devotees, in deep reverence, attend this ceremony, believed to bring salvation and fulfill wishes.
To attend the Bhasma Aarti, devotees must book tickets online in advance via the temple’s official website. The ticket is priced at Rs. 550 per person. There’s also a specific dress code: men should wear dhoti or sola, without shirts or vests, while women should wear sarees. Participants are required to arrive before 1:00 am and partake in jalabhishek prior to the Bhasma Aarti.
Seating for the aarti is arranged in different mandapams (halls). The Nandi Mandapam, nearest to the deity, is typically reserved for VIPs. The Ganapati Mandapam offers seating on stairs, while the Kartikey Mandapam serves as another option for devotees.
Ujjain Mahakal Mandir Key Details
Ujjain Mahakal Mandir, a distinguished and ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, stands in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. Renowned for being one of the Jyotirlingas, it has a profound spiritual significance in Hindu mythology. The temple’s inception, as described in the Puranas, traces back to Lord Brahma, who established it during a penance for Lord Shiva. Historical references in the Mahabharata and works of the poet Kalidasa add to its cultural depth.
Despite facing invasions and destructions, the temple has been continually restored, showcasing architectural elements from various eras. Its main shrine, a three-tiered structure, houses the revered idols of Mahakaleshwar, Omkareshwar, and Nagchandreshwar on successive floors. The Mahakaleshwar idol, a south-facing lingam, embodies the divine energy of Shiva. This swayambhu (self-manifested) lingam is adorned with symbols of Shiva’s power – a silver snake, trident, and rudraksha garland.
The temple complex, enriched with multiple shrines, halls, and sculptures, forms a microcosm of religious artistry and history. It also includes idols of deities like Ganesh, Parvati, Kartikeya, and Nandi, each adding to the spiritual ambiance. The temple is particularly famous for its Bhasma Aarti, an elaborate and unique ritual.
What to expect at Ujjain Mahakal Mandir
The Ujjain Mahakal Mandir stands as a pinnacle of spirituality and devotion, beckoning millions of Lord Shiva’s followers annually. This temple, esteemed as one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas, holds a profound place in Hindu tradition. Revered as Mahakaleshwar, the deity symbolizes time and eternity. Located in one of the Sapta Puri, Ujjain, the temple’s historical significance is further magnified as the host of the revered Kumbh Mela every 12 years.
Visitors to Ujjain Mahakal Mandir can anticipate a spiritually enriching journey:
- Darshan of Mahakaleshwar: Experience a divine connection with the self-manifested Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga. Adorned with a silver snake, trident, and rudraksha, the deity’s aura is captivating within the temple’s inner sanctum.
- Participation in Aartis: Engage in the temple’s unique spiritual ceremonies, including the famed Bhasma Aarti, an offering of sacred ashes. Note the necessity of advance booking for these ceremonies and adherence to the temple’s dress code.
- Exploration of the Temple Complex: Discover the architectural marvels within the complex, including various shrines, halls, and sacred ponds, each telling a story of devotion and history.
- Ujjain – A City Steeped in History: Beyond the temple, Ujjain itself is a treasure trove of culture, history, and spirituality. From the legends of King Vikramaditya to the celestial observations of Varahamihira, the city is a testament to India’s rich past.
Ujjain Mahakal Mandir, a focal point of faith in Lord Shiva as Mahakaleshwar, is not just a temple but a journey through time and spirituality. As one of the Jyotirlingas and Sapta Puri, it’s a beacon for pilgrims and history enthusiasts. Its significance is amplified by the Kumbh Mela, making it a must-visit for those seeking a profound cultural and spiritual experience.
Places to visit near Ujjain Mahakal Mandir
Ujjain Mahakal Mandir, a revered shrine, also serves as the starting point for a journey through Ujjain’s rich cultural tapestry. The area around the temple is dotted with fascinating sites, each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s spiritual and historical heritage. Here are some must-visit places near Ujjain Mahakal Mandir:
- Ram Ghat: A tranquil retreat on the banks of the Shipra River, Ram Ghat is not just a place for spiritual cleansing during the Kumbh Mela. It’s also where the renowned poet-saint Kabir sought enlightenment. The serene atmosphere and temple-lined riverbank offer a picturesque setting for contemplation and relaxation.
- Kal Bhairav Temple: Dedicated to the fierce form of Lord Shiva, Kal Bhairav, this temple is a symbol of protection against evil. Known for its unique ritual of offering liquor to the deity, the temple also houses an impressive collection of ancient artworks, making it a cultural treasure trove.
- Bhartrihari Caves: Immerse yourself in the legend of King-poet Bhartrihari, whose life of renunciation and wisdom is encapsulated in these caves. Near the revered Gadkalika Temple, these caves are a testament to Bhartrihari’s journey from royalty to sainthood.
- Vedh Shala (Jantar Mantar): A testament to India’s astronomical prowess, the Vedh Shala is an ancient observatory built by Raja Jai Singh II. Its array of astronomical instruments offers a fascinating insight into the traditional methods of celestial observation and timekeeping.
- Chintaman Ganesh Temple: One of the oldest Ganesh temples in India, this shrine is dedicated to the god of wisdom and remover of obstacles. The temple’s swayambhu (self-manifested) Ganesh idol and its historical significance make it a spiritually uplifting destination.
The Ujjain Mahakal Mandir not only offers spiritual solace but also acts as a gateway to the historical and cultural wonders of Ujjain. Sites like Ram Ghat, Kal Bhairav Temple, Bhartrihari Caves, Vedh Shala, and Chintaman Ganesh Temple enrich the visitor’s experience with their deep historical and spiritual significance.
Final Thoughts on Ujjain Mahakal Mandir Darshan, Timing, Bhasma Aarti Online Booking Details
Ujjain Mahakal Mandir is one of the most sacred and revered Hindu temples in India. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped as Mahakaleshwar, the lord of time and death. The temple is also one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, which are the most powerful manifestations of Shiva. The temple is located on the banks of the holy river Shipra, in the ancient city of Ujjain, which is also known as the city of temples.
Ujjain Mahakal Mandir is famous for its unique features, such as the south-facing idol of Shiva, the daily Bhasm Aarti, where the deity is adorned with the ashes of the dead, and the Kumbh Mela, which is held here every twelve years.
The temple attracts millions of devotees and tourists every year, who come to seek the blessings of Mahakal and experience the spiritual and cultural heritage of Ujjain. Ujjain Mahakal Mandir is not just a temple, but a living legend that showcases the glory and grace of Shiva.
FAQd on Ujjain Mahakal Mandir Darshan, Timing, Bhasma Aarti Online Booking Details
How to book Bhasma Aarti tickets online?
You can easily book tickets for the Bhasma Aarti at the Mahakaleshwar Temple by visiting www.mahakaleshwar.nic.in. Click on the ‘Bhasma Aarti Booking’ option on the website and follow the instructions to complete the booking process. This service is completely free of cost.
What is the fee for online booking of the Bhasma Aarti?
The fee for online booking of the Bhasma Aarti is 200 rupees. Devotees can participate in the Aarti by making this payment and receive the blessings of this sacred ritual.
Can we participate in the Bhasma Aarti without booking?
No, it is mandatory to make a prior booking to participate in the Bhasma Aarti at the Mahakal Temple in Ujjain. Entry without booking is not possible. You can obtain your tickets by booking online or at the temple’s ticket counter. Entry availability is subject to the temple’s rules and regulations.
How many days in advance can one book the Bhasma Aarti?
The booking for the Bhasma Aarti can be done at least one day in advance but the online slots gets booked as soon as they open so keep an eye on the online booking system. For quick and convenient booking, it is advisable for devotees to secure their spot in advance.