Introduction
If you are in the holy city of Ujjain or planning a visit, you must take the time to visit the Shri Kaal Bhairav Mandir. This temple is not just a place of worship; it is one of the most fascinating and mysterious temples in all of India.
This temple is dedicated to Lord Kaal Bhairav, the fierce guardian deity of Ujjain. What makes this temple unique worldwide is its ancient Tantric tradition of offering liquor (Madira) to the main deity, which devotees witness being miraculously accepted.
This blog will help you learn everything-from temple timings and location to its history, the famous liquor mystery, and how to reach-all in easy-to-understand language.
Who is Lord Kaal Bhairav?
Lord Kaal Bhairav, or Kala Bhairava, is a fierce and powerful manifestation of Lord Shiva. He is known as the “Kotwal” or the guardian senapati (Commander-in-Chief) of Ujjain. It is a popular belief that any pilgrimage to Ujjain is incomplete without visiting this temple.
He is the chief of the eight Bhairavas (Ashta Bhairavas) and is worshipped by Tantrics and the Aghora sect, as well as by common householders. Devotees believe that worshipping him removes all fears, obstacles, and negative energies.
The Unsolved Mystery – The Liquor Offering
The most famous aspect of the Kaal Bhairav Mandir is its unique prasad. Here, devotees offer liquor-both country-made and foreign brands-to the deity.
Devotees buy sealed bottles of liquor from the shops outside the temple. They hand these bottles to the priest, who pours the liquor into a shallow plate (saucer). He then places the plate near the slit in the deity’s lips and chants mantras. In a few moments, the liquor in the plate starts to disappear, and the plate is emptied.
This “miracle” happens in plain sight, and no one has been able to explain where the liquor goes. It is believed that Lord Kaal Bhairav himself consumes the offering.
The priest then returns a small portion of the remaining liquor from the bottle to the devotee as ‘prasad’.
Kaal Bhairav Mandir Ujjain Location & Address
The temple is located in the Bhairavgarh area of Ujjain, slightly on the outskirts of the main city, on the banks of the holy Shipra River.
- Full Address: Jail Road, Bhairavgarh, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh 456003
- Google Maps Link: [Insert Google Maps Link to Kaal Bhairav Temple]
Kaal Bhairav Mandir Ujjain Timings
The temple is open for darshan every day of the week. The timings can be busy, especially during festivals.
- Morning Darshan: 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Evening Darshan: 2:00 PM to 9:30 PM
Aarti Timings:
- Morning Aarti: Approximately 7:00 AM
- Evening Aarti (Shayan Aarti): Approximately 8:00 PM
Note: Timings may change during special festivals like Bhairav Ashtami or Mahashivratri. It’s always good to check locally.
A Bit of History – When Was the Temple Built?
The original temple’s exact origins are lost to time, but it is mentioned in ancient texts like the Skanda Purana. It is believed that the original temple was built by a king named Bhadrasen.
The current temple structure showcases a strong Maratha influence. It is said that after the Third Battle of Panipat, the Maratha general Mahadaji Shinde offered his pagri (turban) to the deity, praying for his victory.
After he regained power, he had the temple restored. The deity’s idol is still adorned with a Maratha-style turban.
Why Visit Kaal Bhairav Mandir in Ujjain?
- To Witness the Miracle: Seeing the deity accept the liquor offering is a unique spiritual experience that defies explanation.
- For Protection: As the guardian of the city, devotees pray to him for protection from all evils, dangers, and ‘Kaal’ (untimely death).
- To Overcome Vices: Many devotees offer liquor as a symbol of surrendering their own vices and bad habits at the feet of the Lord.
- Tantric Significance: The temple is a major center for Tantra and holds immense power for sadhaks (spiritual seekers).
Hotels Near Kaal Bhairav Mandir Ujjain
Since the temple is a bit outside the main city center (where Mahakaleshwar Temple is), most devotees prefer to stay in the main Ujjain city area. You can find a wide range of hotels, dharamshalas, and guest houses near the Mahakaleshwar Temple or Ujjain Railway Station, which are only a 15-20 minute drive away.
- Budget Stays: Many dharamshalas and lodges are available near Ram Ghat and the railway station.
- Mid-Range & Luxury: Hotels like Anjushree, Hotel Mittal Paradise, and Rudraksh Club & Resort are popular options.
Kaal Bhairav Mandir Photos – What to Expect
- The imposing temple gate and structure.
- A large courtyard with a prominent Deepstambh (tower of lamps), which is lit up during festivals.
- The silver-faced, striking idol of Lord Kaal Bhairav in the main sanctum.
- Long queues of devotees patiently waiting with their offerings.
- Shops lining the path to the temple selling puja items, flowers, coconuts, and liquor.
How to Reach the Temple?
The temple is well-connected by road within Ujjain.
- From Ujjain Railway Station: The station is about 5-6 km away. You can easily get an auto-rickshaw or a local taxi. It takes about 15-20 minutes.
- From Mahakaleshwar Temple: The distance is approximately 5 km. Auto-rickshaws are readily available.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport in Indore (IDA), about 60 km away. You can hire a taxi from the airport directly to the temple or to your hotel in Ujjain.
- Parking: Limited parking space is available near the temple.
Best Time to Visit
While the temple is visited by thousands daily, the best time to experience its full glory is during:
- Bhairav Ashtami: This is the main festival celebrating the birth of Lord Bhairav, which usually falls in November or December. The temple is decorated, and special pujas are held.
- Mahashivratri: As a form of Shiva, Kaal Bhairav is extensively worshipped during this great festival.
- Tuesdays and Sundays: These days are considered especially auspicious for worshipping Lord Bhairav.
Things to Buy & Do Nearby
- Prasad: You can buy the complete puja thali (plate) from the shops outside. This includes flowers, coconut, incense, and a bottle of liquor.
- Religious Items: Many shops sell photos of Lord Kaal Bhairav, rudraksha malas, and other holy items.
- Visit Shipra River: The temple is on the banks of the Shipra. You can walk down to the ghats for a peaceful moment.
- Other Temples: Ujjain is the “City of Temples.” Don’t miss the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, Harsiddhi Shakti Peeth, Ram Ghat, and Sandipani Ashram.
Final Thoughts
The Kaal Bhairav Mandir in Ujjain is more than just a temple; it’s a living example of faith that transcends modern logic. Whether you are a devout follower, a curious traveler, or a spiritual seeker, the energy and mystery of this place are undeniable.
Come with an open mind and a heart full of faith, and you will surely leave with the divine blessings of the Guardian of Ujjain. Jai Kaal Bhairav!
Since the temple is a bit outside the main city center (where Mahakaleshwar Temple is), most devotees prefer to stay in the main Ujjain city area. You can find a wide range of hotels, dharamshalas, and guest houses near the Mahakaleshwar Temple or Ujjain Railway Station, which are only a 15-20 minute drive away.
- Budget Stays: Many dharamshalas and lodges are available near Ram Ghat and the railway station.
- Mid-Range & Luxury: Hotels like Anjushree, Hotel Mittal Paradise, and Rudraksh Club & Resort are popular options.
Also Read: Tulja Bhavani Mandir Thane