Guide and overview
on Ujjain

With the Tropic of Cancer passing through it and immortal nectar drops from the heavens having once fallen onto it, Ujjain has been the city of both science and the gods. Mornings and evenings in Ujjain ring with the sound of mantras and prayers, often originating from the banks of River Shipra where holy men and women gather. Long queues of people carrying flowers and other offerings can also be seen outside temples at almost every corner of the city.

Situated on the banks of the Shipra, north of Indore in Madhya Pradesh, Ujjain is one of India’s holiest cities for the Hindus. According to legend, the city’s name was changed from Avantipura to Ujjaiyini (meaning “he who conquers with pride”) by King Shiva of Avanti after he defeated the demon king of Tripuri.

Apart from the sacred books Ujjain also finds mention in history books and Kalidasa’s famous poem Meghdutta. An ancient city, set in the heart of India, Ujjain witnessed a fair deal of conquests and rule. It served as residence and capital to the likes of Ashoka, King Chandragupta II and Akbar. Proof of its history can be found in the archaeological sites strewn about and the temple and monuments built here. At the same time mathematical and astronomical research has flourished in Ujjain since 6th-7th centuries.

Today, Ujjain is a modern town running its daily business while still celebrating its glorious past. The falling of the immortal nectar is still celebrated in the form of the ever more popular Kumbh Mela attracting millions of pilgrims and curious tourists alike. If you would like to experience the next mela in 2016, then it is advisable to already start making arrangements for stay.

Many government approved budget hotels which provide basic facilities along with hi-end hotels are available.

+ more about Ujjain

With the Tropic of Cancer passing through it and immortal nectar drops from the heavens having once fallen onto it, Ujjain has been the city of both science and the gods. Mornings and evenings in Ujjain ring with the sound of mantras and prayers, often originating from the banks of River Shipra where holy men and women gather. Long queues of people carrying flowers and other offerings can also be seen outside temples at almost every corner of the city.

Situated on the banks of the Shipra, north of Indore in Madhya Pradesh, Ujjain is one of India’s holiest cities for the Hindus. According to legend, the city’s name was changed from Avantipura to Ujjaiyini (meaning “he who conquers with pride”) by King Shiva of Avanti after he defeated the demon king of Tripuri.

Apart from the sacred books Ujjain also finds mention in history books and Kalidasa’s famous poem Meghdutta. An ancient city, set in the heart of India, Ujjain witnessed a fair deal of conquests and rule. It served as residence and capital to the likes of Ashoka, King Chandragupta II and Akbar. Proof of its history can be found in the archaeological sites strewn about and the temple and monuments built here. At the same time mathematical and astronomical research has flourished in Ujjain since 6th-7th centuries.

Today, Ujjain is a modern town running its daily business while still celebrating its glorious past. The falling of the immortal nectar is still celebrated in the form of the ever more popular Kumbh Mela attracting millions of pilgrims and curious tourists alike. If you would like to experience the next mela in 2016, then it is advisable to already start making arrangements for stay.

Many government approved budget hotels which provide basic facilities along with hi-end hotels are available.