Start your Ujjain adventure by exploring the ancient city's rich cultural heritage. In the morning, visit the famous Mahakaleshwar Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. Experience the spiritual atmosphere and witness the captivating rituals performed by the priests. Afterward, head to the nearby Ram Ghat on the banks of the Shipra River. Take a serene boat ride and witness the beautiful aarti (prayer ceremony) in the evening.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the scenic Kaliadeh Palace. This historic palace is situated on an island in the Shipra River and offers panoramic views of the surroundings. Enjoy a picnic with your family amidst the lush gardens and relax in the peaceful ambiance. In the evening, visit the Bhartrihari Caves, a place of historical and mythological significance. Marvel at the rock-cut caves and soak in the tranquility of the surroundings.
Shree Hari Sweets: Indulge in a delicious breakfast at Shree Hari Sweets, known for their mouthwatering traditional Indian sweets and savory snacks. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
Hotel Shiv Sagar: For a satisfying lunch, head to Hotel Shiv Sagar and enjoy their wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Chotiwala Restaurant: Experience a delightful dinner at Chotiwala Restaurant, offering a mix of North Indian, South Indian, and Chinese cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Hotel Midland, located near Mahakaleshwar Temple. They offer a variety of Indian breakfast options like poha, samosa, and jalebi. The average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Shree Vishnu Hotel, conveniently located near Ram Ghat. They serve authentic vegetarian thali meals that include a variety of Indian dishes like dal, vegetables, roti, and rice. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, try Mughal Darbar, a popular restaurant near the Shipra River. They specialize in Mughlai cuisine and offer a range of dishes like biryani, kebabs, and curries. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Day 2: Saturday, August 5, 2023
Embark on a cultural journey through Ujjain's art and history on the second day of your trip. Start your morning by visiting the Sandipani Ashram, a renowned educational and cultural center. Learn about ancient Indian scriptures, participate in yoga and meditation sessions, and witness the traditional Gurukul system of education.
Mishra's Sweets and Snacks: Enjoy a delicious breakfast of traditional Indian snacks like samosas, kachoris, and jalebis at Mishra's Sweets and Snacks. The average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
Gauri Shankar: For a satisfying lunch, head to Gauri Shankar restaurant which offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Try their mouthwatering thali, a combination of different curries, rice, bread, and sweets. The average cost for a meal is about ₹250 per person.
The Crown Rooftop Restaurant: End your day with a delightful dinner at The Crown Rooftop Restaurant, known for its panoramic views of Ujjain. Indulge in a range of Indian and continental cuisines along with refreshing drinks. The average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
In the afternoon, explore the Vedh Shala Observatory, an ancient astronomical observatory built by Maharaja Jai Singh II. Discover the fascinating astronomical instruments and gain insights into ancient Indian astronomy. Afterward, take a short drive to the Harsiddhi Temple, dedicated to the Goddess Annapurna. Seek blessings and admire the marvelous architecture of this sacred temple.
In the evening, enjoy a pleasant walk along the beautiful Siddhavat, a sacred banyan tree located near the Mahakaleshwar Temple. The tree is believed to be a wish-fulfilling tree and holds great religious significance. Spend some peaceful moments amidst the serene surroundings and soak in the positive energy.
Siddhavat: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
When in Ujjain, don't miss the opportunity to explore the tranquil beauty of the Mangalnath Temple. Located on the banks of the Shipra River, this temple offers breathtaking views of the river and the city. Experience the serenity and witness the enchanting sunset from this hidden gem.
Another local favorite is the Vikram Kirti Mandir Museum, dedicated to the life and achievements of King Vikramaditya. Explore the museum's galleries, which showcase artifacts, sculptures, and paintings depicting the illustrious history of Ujjain.
For a unique experience, take your family to the Kalidas Academy, where you can witness various cultural performances, including classical music and dance. Immerse yourself in the rich artistic traditions of Ujjain and appreciate the talent of local artists.
For more travel options, you can check hotel and flight prices on Kayak.