Early flight to Indore (closest major airport to Ujjain) to maximize time in Ujjain; flight ~1h15m. Book morning flights so you can reach Ujjain before afternoon darshan.
Visit Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga (temple open through the day; evening aarti later). Midday is less crowded than peak evenings; plan for security checks and queues.
Visit nearby shrines — Harsiddhi Temple and Kal Bhairav — and take a walk along Ramghat for local life and river views; these sites are open in the afternoon.
Unique pre-dawn Bhasma Aarti (timing varies ~4:00–5:30am). It's very special but crowded; prepare for early start and follow temple instructions for entry and dress code.
Darshan of Khatu Shyamji — a highly revered deity with a devoted following. Expect crowds on weekends/festivals; morning darshan is best for shorter waits.