Ujjain, the ancient city
Ujjain or “Ujjayini”, as it was once known, is an ancient city of Malwa in central India. Located some 56 km from Indore, this holiest of Hindu cities sits on the eastern bank of the sacred Kshipra river in Madhya Pradesh state in India.
History
Ujjain, once capital of the Avanti kingdom is steeped in history, dating as far back as the time of the Buddha. During later times Ujjain was home to some of the world’s most renowned mathematicians, responsible for spreading the modern day number system, as we know it today. It is said that the first meridian of the earth passes through Ujjain, making “Ujjain time” the universal time of the world. For centuries Ujjain enjoyed much prosperity and was a vital part of the ancient trading route. However, in 1235 Ujjain was invaded by the Delhi sultanate who, amongst other things, ordered the systematic desecration of its temples. During the centuries that followed, Ujjain changed hands many times until, in the late 18th century, it became part of Gwalior. It was not until after Indian independence that Ujjain became a part of the Madhya Pradesh state. During its long and somewhat restless past, Ujjain has been vulnerable to the influence of many different cultures, religions and rulers. Yet quite remarkably, this ancient city retains the very essence of the Hindu faith.
Boasting a reputation of being one of, if not the, most holy ancient city on the Indian subcontinent, Ujjain, a venerated pilgrimage for so many Hindu’s, will inspire even the most seasoned traveler. Nearly all of the sacred Hindu festivals or rituals take place here so visitors are truly spoilt for choice.
The biggest and certainly the most remarkable ritual taking place in the city is a mass Hindu pilgrimage known as “Kumbha Mela” where millions of people make the pilgrimage to the river for a bathing ritual. The Kumbha Mela ritual takes place four times every twelve years, rotating between the four holy cities of Prayag, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik. Every twelve years when the ritual returns to Prayag, it is known as “Maha Kumbha Mela” and is attended by an unimaginable 70 million people or more, the largest single gathering on the planet. Witnessing an event such as this is something which no words could ever explain.
While there are hundreds of awe inspiring temples scattered all over the city, the famous Mahakal temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, is the most venerated of all the Shiva temples and no visit to Ujjain is complete without paying respects at this holiest of temples.
Ujjain, for the religiously inclined traveler, is a city which needs to be enjoyed slowly, absorbing the magic of its ancient past.
In and around Ujjain
Many of the interesting attractions are some distance from the city but traveling to these will not go unrewarded. Local operators will always be more than happy to provide their services and after it all, you will come away with memories which can be cherished for life.
Indore airport, 55 km from Ujjain is connected to all the main Indian airports and quick convenient transport is available to take travelers from Indore to Ujjain city.
Arriving by rail is often a favorite with travelers as it allows for a richer more rewarding travel experience. Ujjain is connected by rail to all major cities.
Another unique way to reach Ujjain is by road. Cars can be hired at major airports. Roads to Ujjain are good, providing travelers with a relaxed sightseeing opportunity.
History
Ujjain, once capital of the Avanti kingdom is steeped in history, dating as far back as the time of the Buddha. During later times Ujjain was home to some of the world’s most renowned mathematicians, responsible for spreading the modern day number system, as we know it today. It is said that the first meridian of the earth passes through Ujjain, making “Ujjain time” the universal time of the world. For centuries Ujjain enjoyed much prosperity and was a vital part of the ancient trading route. However, in 1235 Ujjain was invaded by the Delhi sultanate who, amongst other things, ordered the systematic desecration of its temples. During the centuries that followed, Ujjain changed hands many times until, in the late 18th century, it became part of Gwalior. It was not until after Indian independence that Ujjain became a part of the Madhya Pradesh state. During its long and somewhat restless past, Ujjain has been vulnerable to the influence of many different cultures, religions and rulers. Yet quite remarkably, this ancient city retains the very essence of the Hindu faith.
Boasting a reputation of being one of, if not the, most holy ancient city on the Indian subcontinent, Ujjain, a venerated pilgrimage for so many Hindu’s, will inspire even the most seasoned traveler. Nearly all of the sacred Hindu festivals or rituals take place here so visitors are truly spoilt for choice.
The biggest and certainly the most remarkable ritual taking place in the city is a mass Hindu pilgrimage known as “Kumbha Mela” where millions of people make the pilgrimage to the river for a bathing ritual. The Kumbha Mela ritual takes place four times every twelve years, rotating between the four holy cities of Prayag, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik. Every twelve years when the ritual returns to Prayag, it is known as “Maha Kumbha Mela” and is attended by an unimaginable 70 million people or more, the largest single gathering on the planet. Witnessing an event such as this is something which no words could ever explain.
While there are hundreds of awe inspiring temples scattered all over the city, the famous Mahakal temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, is the most venerated of all the Shiva temples and no visit to Ujjain is complete without paying respects at this holiest of temples.
Ujjain, for the religiously inclined traveler, is a city which needs to be enjoyed slowly, absorbing the magic of its ancient past.
In and around Ujjain
Many of the interesting attractions are some distance from the city but traveling to these will not go unrewarded. Local operators will always be more than happy to provide their services and after it all, you will come away with memories which can be cherished for life.
Indore airport, 55 km from Ujjain is connected to all the main Indian airports and quick convenient transport is available to take travelers from Indore to Ujjain city.
Arriving by rail is often a favorite with travelers as it allows for a richer more rewarding travel experience. Ujjain is connected by rail to all major cities.
Another unique way to reach Ujjain is by road. Cars can be hired at major airports. Roads to Ujjain are good, providing travelers with a relaxed sightseeing opportunity.
