The Kal Bhairav Temple in Ujjain is one of the most mysterious and sacred temples in India, drawing thousands of devotees and curious travelers each year. Dedicated to Lord Kal Bhairav, the fierce guardian deity of Ujjain, the temple stands out for its ancient rituals, especially the offering of liquor as part of the worship. Deeply rooted in Tantric practices, the temple holds spiritual, historical, and cultural importance in central India.
Temple About Kal Bhairav Temple is one of the most revered temples in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, dedicated to Lord Kal Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva.The temple is deeply associated with the Tantric tradition and is known for its unique rituals.
Temple Description
The Kal Bhairav Temple is an ancient shrine believed to be built during the Paramara dynasty and later renovated by Marathas. It is known for its striking idol of Lord Kal Bhairav adorned with a garland of skulls. A unique feature of the temple is the offering of alcohol (liquor) to the deity, which is accepted as prasadam by devotees.
Temple Specialty
The only temple in India where liquor is offered as naivedya to the deity.
Associated with Aghori and Tantric worship practices.
It is one of the Ashta Bhairava shrines of Ujjain.
Believed to protect the city of Ujjain.
Temple Address
Kal Bhairav Temple, Bhairavgarh Road, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh 456001, India
Temple Location (Longitude and Latitude)
23.1939° N, 75.7684° E
Temple Timings
Open daily: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Special poojas and darshan on Kalashtami and Mahashivratri
Temple Sevas
Liquor offering (daily)
Special pooja on Kalashtami
Aarti and Abhishekam
Rudrabhishek
Tantric rituals (by special arrangement)
Traveling Facilities
Well connected by road, rail, and air
Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses available locally
Food Facilities
Many vegetarian hotels and dhabas near the temple
Prasadam is distributed in the temple during festivals
Stay Facilities
Budget hotels, lodges, and guest houses available
Dharamshalas run by various communities
Luxury hotels available in Ujjain city
Nearby Railway Station
Ujjain Junction Railway Station – 7 km
Nearby Airport
Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport, Indore – ~60 km
Nearby Bus Station
Ujjain Bus Stand (Nanakheda Bus Stand) – 6 km
Bus Routes to Temple
Direct buses from Indore, Bhopal, Dewas, and other Madhya Pradesh cities
City buses and shared autos available from Ujjain city to the temple
Train Routes to Temple
Trains from Indore, Bhopal, Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Jaipur
Ujjain Junction is a major rail hub
Airways to Temple
Fly to Indore Airport, then travel 60 km by taxi or bus to Ujjain
Nearby Cities to Temple
Indore (60 km)
Bhopal (190 km)
Dewas (40 km)
Ratlam (110 km)
Nearby Visiting Temples & Other Places
Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga
Harsiddhi Temple
Mangalnath Temple
Ram Ghat (on Shipra river)
Sandipani Ashram
Vikramaditya Palace (Raja Bhoj monument)
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March (pleasant weather)
Kumbh Mela and Mahashivratri are very auspicious times to visit
Shopping – Famous For
Rudraksha malas, brass idols, puja items
Handicrafts, Bhairav-related souvenirs, and spiritual literature
Local snacks and sweets like mawa bati and poha
The Kal Bhairav Temple in Ujjain is not just a spiritual center but also a cultural and mystical hub that reflects the richness of Hindu Tantric traditions. Whether you're a devotee, a history lover, or a curious traveler, the experience here is both divine and unforgettable. With excellent connectivity and nearby attractions like the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, your visit to this sacred city will be both comfortable and spiritually fulfilling.