Gadkalika Temple – Madhya Pradesh

Gadkalika Temple is one of the most sacred and spiritually vibrant temples located in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. Dedicated to Goddess Kalika, a fierce form of Goddess Durga, the temple draws thousands of devotees, especially during Navratri and other auspicious occasions. It is not only a spiritual center but also a place of literary and historical significance, as it is closely associated with the legendary Sanskrit poet Kalidasa. This guide provides all the essential information about the temple for visitors, pilgrims, and tourists.

Temple About

Gadkalika Temple is one of the ancient and most revered temples in Ujjain, dedicated to Goddess Kalika, a fierce form of Goddess Durga. It is considered spiritually significant for students and scholars, especially due to its connection with the great poet Kalidasa, who is believed to have worshipped here.

Temple Description

The temple features a classic Hindu architecture with a sanctum housing the idol of Goddess Kalika. The idol is believed to be swayambhu (self-manifested) and ancient, whereas the temple structure has been renovated in modern times. The temple surroundings are serene, making it ideal for prayer and meditation.

Temple Specialty

Associated with the legendary poet Kalidasa, who is said to have gained divine inspiration from the goddess here.

Powerful Shakti Peeth location where Goddess Kali is believed to fulfill the wishes of her devotees.

Special importance during Navratri festival and Kartik month.

Tantric rituals are also occasionally observed.

Temple Address

Gadkalika Temple, Near Bhairavgarh, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh 456006, India

Temple Location Longitude and Latitude (Single Line)

23.1506° N, 75.7862° E

Temple Timings

Opening Time: 4:00 AM

Closing Time: 10:00 PM

Aarti Timings:

Morning Aarti – 5:00 AM

Evening Aarti – 7:00 PM

Temple Sevas

Daily Aarti and Alankar

Special Poojas during Navratri

Kalika Homam

Offering Prasad and Red Chunri to the Goddess

Tantric Vidya Sevas (occasionally by sadhaks)

Traveling Facilities

Easily reachable by auto-rickshaws, taxis, and local buses from Ujjain city center.

Available parking facilities near the temple.

Good road connectivity with national highways.

Food Facilities

Local eateries and small hotels offer vegetarian food near the temple.

Prasadam distribution available during festivals.

Ujjain city has a range of restaurants offering North Indian cuisine.

Stay Facilities

Budget and mid-range hotels available in Ujjain (within 2–5 km radius).

Dharamshalas and guest houses run by religious trusts are available.

Luxury hotels are also available in central Ujjain.

Nearby Railway Station

Ujjain Junction (UJN) – approximately 4 km from the temple.

Nearby Airport

Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport, Indore (IDR) – approximately 60 km away.

Nearby Bus Station

Ujjain Bus Stand – about 3.5 km from the temple.

Bus Routes to Temple

Regular buses run from Indore, Bhopal, Ratlam, and Dewas to Ujjain.

From Ujjain Bus Stand, take local transport to Gadkalika Mandir.

Train Routes to Temple

Trains from Delhi, Mumbai, Bhopal, Indore, Ahmedabad, and other major cities halt at Ujjain Junction.

From the station, autos/taxis go directly to the temple.

Airways to Temple

Fly to Indore Airport, then take a taxi/bus to Ujjain (1.5-hour journey).

Shared cabs and buses available from Indore to Ujjain frequently.

Nearby Cities to Temple

Indore – 55 km

Bhopal – 190 km

Ratlam – 120 km

Dewas – 40 km

Nearby Visiting Temples and Other Places

Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga

Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir

Sandipani Ashram

Kaliadeh Palace

Ram Ghat (on the banks of Shipra River)

Preferable Visiting Season

October to March – Pleasant weather for travel and pilgrimage.

Navratri and Mahashivratri – Peak spiritual season with special events and rituals.

Shopping Famous For?

Religious items, Rudraksha, idols, incense

Bhairavgarh prints and traditional handlooms

Ayurvedic herbs and puja samagri

Gadkalika Temple stands as a vibrant spiritual hub in the holy city of Ujjain, reflecting centuries of devotion, legend, and cultural heritage. Whether you are a pilgrim seeking divine blessings, a student hoping for wisdom, or a tourist exploring India's ancient treasures, the temple offers a soul-stirring experience. With good connectivity, nearby attractions, and comfortable amenities, a visit to Gadkalika Temple is sure to be spiritually enriching and culturally fulfilling.