Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, Ujjain

Sthala Puranam

King Chandrasena of Ujjain was a devoted worshipper of Shiva. When rivals attacked the kingdom, Shiva appeared as Mahakala and destroyed the enemies.

At the request of the devotees Shrikhar and Vridhi, Shiva agreed to stay in the city as its chief deity.

Speciality

• The lingam is held to be self-formed (swayambhu) and faces south (Dakshinamurti). The source says this is unique among the twelve Jyotirlingas.
• The temple has five levels, one of them underground.
• Prasada offered here can be offered again, unlike at other shrines.
• The Nagchandreshwar image on the third storey is open for darshan only on Nag Panchami.
• Kalidasa mentions the temple's rituals in the Meghaduta.
• The temple was destroyed in 1234–35 and was rebuilt in the 18th century under Maratha rule.

Festivals

• Maha Shivaratri, with a big fair and all-night worship
• Mahakal ki Sawari in Shravan and Bhadrapada, a procession to Shipra Ghat
• Nag Panchami

How to reach

Before you go

• Dress modestly. Leave footwear outside the temple.
• Timings, ticket rules and dress codes change. Check the temple's own notice or website before you travel.
• Book darshan, rooms and special poojas only at the official counter or website, not through agents.
• Special aartis and early-morning darshans need advance booking. Use only the official temple site or counters.

Prayers for this temple

• Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra
• Shiva Gayatri (Rudra)
• Shiva Tandava Stotram