About Kal Bhairav Temple, Ujjain
The Kal Bhairav Temple stands near the Shipra river in the old city of Ujjain, a few kilometres from the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga. Kal Bhairav, a fierce form of Lord Shiva, is regarded as the guardian (kotwal) and commander of Ujjain, and many pilgrims believe that a visit to Ujjain is complete only after seeking his blessings. The temple is busy every day and especially crowded on Sundays and on Bhairav Ashtami.
The temple is mentioned in the Avanti Khanda of the Skanda Purana, and sculptures from the Paramara period have been found at the site, showing that worship here is very old. The present structure shows Maratha influence. Local tradition says that the Maratha general Mahadaji Shinde offered his turban to the deity while praying for success after the battle of Panipat, and later restored the temple; a Maratha-style turban is still placed on the deity's head. Ujjain was once a centre of Kapalika and other tantric traditions, in which Bhairav worship was important.
The image of Kal Bhairav is a face formed in stone and covered with vermilion. In keeping with old tantric practice, liquor is offered to the deity: the priest pours it into a saucer and holds it to the deity's lips, and devotees watch with faith as it is accepted. Part of the offering is returned as prasad. The temple has a walled courtyard, steps leading to the shrine and traces of old Malwa wall paintings. Stalls outside sell flowers, coconuts and offerings. Devotees pray here for protection from fear, enemies and misfortune, and for many local families a visit to Kal Bhairav is a regular part of worship in Ujjain.
Kal Bhairav Temple, Ujjain timings & aarti
Usually open from early morning (about 5:00 AM) to late evening (about 10:00 PM). Times may vary; check locally before visiting.
| Aarti / ritual | Time |
|---|---|
| Morning aarti | Early morning (approx.) |
| Evening aarti | Around sunset (approx.) |
Timings change on festivals, eclipses and special days. Please confirm locally before you travel.
How to reach Kal Bhairav Temple, Ujjain
By air
Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport, Indore, is about 55 km away.
By train
Ujjain Junction is about 6 km away.
By road
Autorickshaws and e-rickshaws run from Ujjain station and Mahakaleshwar. Ujjain is well connected by road with Indore and Bhopal.
Festivals at Kal Bhairav Temple, Ujjain
- Kalabhairav AshtamiNov/Dec
- Maha ShivaratriFeb/Mar
- NavaratriSep/Oct
- Simhastha Kumbh (every 12 years)Apr/May
Visitor tips
- Dress code
- Modest clothing is recommended.
- Entry
- Free darshan.
- Combine the visit with Mahakaleshwar, Gadkalika and Mangalnath temples, as most pilgrims do.
- Sundays and festival days are crowded; go early in the morning.
- Liquor offerings are optional; flowers and coconuts are equally accepted.
- Beware of touts near the entrance and buy offerings only from regular stalls.
Places to visit near Kal Bhairav Temple, Ujjain
- Gadkalika TempleAncient goddess temple, about 2 km away
- SiddhavatSacred banyan tree on the Shipra, about 3 km away
- Mangalnath TempleShiva temple linked with the planet Mars, about 4 km away
- Mahakaleshwar JyotirlingaOne of the twelve Jyotirlingas, about 5 km away
Frequently asked questions
Why is liquor offered at Kal Bhairav temple?
Offering liquor comes from old tantric worship of Bhairav. It is a long-standing tradition here, and devotees believe the deity accepts it.
What are the Kal Bhairav temple timings?
The temple is usually open from early morning to late evening. Times may vary, so check locally before visiting.
How far is Kal Bhairav from Mahakaleshwar?
It is about 5 km from the Mahakaleshwar temple, a short autorickshaw ride.
Who is Kal Bhairav?
Kal Bhairav is a fierce form of Lord Shiva, worshipped in Ujjain as the guardian and commander of the city.
What is the aarti time at Kal Bhairav Temple, Ujjain?
Morning aarti: Early morning (approx.); Evening aarti: Around sunset (approx.). Times can change on festivals and special days, so please confirm locally before you go.
Is there a dress code at Kal Bhairav Temple, Ujjain?
Modest clothing is recommended.
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