Ujjain is an extremely popular religious and historical town in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. For the followers of Hinduism, the place ranks among the seven most significant pilgrimages. Lying on the banks of River Shipra, it prides for a rich past that gives it distinct identity beyond religion. Its erstwhile ascendancy over other kingdoms has been lucidly described in the texts of 6th century.
For ages, Ujjain has enjoyed great eminence in the sphere of religion and education, often called the great center of learning. The once-in-twelve-year fair of Kumbh Mela elevates its stature beyond description, in the process, attracting millions of devotees from all across the world. The great epic Mahabharata mentions it as a great capital, and further legends ascribes it naming after the Lord Shiva.
The fame of Ujjain and the Shipra River emerges from a mythological tale involving the ocean churning duel between the Gods and Demons. As the tussle ensued, a few drops of nectar fell upon the earth on four separate places, this town features among them. The Kumbh Mela is in fact a grand religious celebration to mark of the holiness of the ‘nectar place’.
The legendary status of Ujjain is not only due to the religious significance alone, as the town has witnessed a rich past to have seen the rise and fall of many dynasties. That apart, it has been the ‘abode’ of many a great people, including Kalidasa, Ashoka, Brahmagupta and so on. The 'Mahakaleshwar Temple' houses one of twelve 'jyotirlingas' making it a town of great impact.
Ujjain has the distinction to own the only five-faced idol of lord Hanumana, and the Harsiddhi Temple features among few ‘Shaktipeeths’ in the country. The town’s richness in astronomy is best exemplified via its observatory, blending perfectly with the fabric of divinity and purity. Major tourist attraction here include Bhartrihari Caves, Mahakaleshwar Temple, Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir, Kaliadeh Palace, Harsiddhi Temple and Gadkalika Temple.
Ujjain does not have direct air connectivity to rest of India. The nearest airport is at Indore, 55 km away, where regular domestic flights are available for key cities of the country.
By Rail
The city is a major railhead on the western railway network and receives major trains to different parts of the country.
By Road
A good network of road connects Ujjain to rest of India. Buses, cabs and taxis are available on all times to reach places of choice.