3-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Ujjain in August 2023

1. Day 1: Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
   10 minutes (3.5 km) from Ujjain Junction Railway Station

   In the morning, visit Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India and a highly revered Hindu temple. Witness the Bhasma Aarti, a special holy ash ritual, performed every morning at 4 am. Afterward, explore the temple complex and admire the intricate architecture. For lunch, head to the nearby restaurants serving delicious local cuisine. In the afternoon, visit Kal Bhairav Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva's fierce manifestation. End the day with a visit to the Ram Ghat to witness the evening aarti.

2. Day 2: Kaliadeh Palace and Vedh Shala Observatory
   20 minutes (5.8 km) from Mahakaleshwar Temple

   Start the day by visiting Kaliadeh Palace, located on the banks of Shipra River. Enjoy a serene boat ride or take a stroll in the lush gardens surrounding the palace. Afterward, head to Vedh Shala Observatory, an ancient astronomical observatory built in the 17th century. Learn about the instruments used to observe astronomical phenomena. For lunch, head to the nearby street vendors serving lip-smacking chaat and other snacks. In the evening, visit Harsiddhi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Annapurna and witness the evening aarti.

3. Day 3: Sandipani Ashram and ISKCON Temple
   15 minutes (6.8 km) from Vedh Shala Observatory

   Start the day by visiting Sandipani Ashram, a renowned center for Vedic studies. Learn about the ancient texts, philosophy and culture of India. Afterward, head to ISKCON Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna and his consort Radha. Attend the morning aarti and enjoy a delicious breakfast prasad served at the temple. For lunch, head to the nearby restaurants serving international cuisine. In the evening, explore the local markets for souvenirs and handicrafts.

Recommendations

If time permits, visit the nearby Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga Temple, located around 80 km from Ujjain. You can also take a day trip to Indore, located around 55 km from Ujjain, to visit the Lalbagh Palace and the Patalpani Waterfall.

To maximize your fun, try the local street food such as poha, jalebi, and kachori. You can also participate in the Ganga Dussehra Festival, which is celebrated in June every year.

Other suggestions include visiting the Vikram Kirti Mandir Museum, dedicated to the life and achievements of King Vikramaditya, or taking a dip in the holy Kshipra River.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple (2-3 hours, free)
• Kal Bhairav Temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Kaliadeh Palace (2-3 hours, INR 20)
• Vedh Shala Observatory (1-2 hours, INR 10)
• Harsiddhi Temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Sandipani Ashram (2-3 hours, free)
• ISKCON Temple (2-3 hours, free)
• Local street food (INR 50-100 per person)
• Entrance fees and transportation costs (INR 100-200 per person per day)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 500-1000 per person for 3 days