Guardian Deity of Ujjain

Kal Bhairav Temple

The fierce protector of Ujjain, where unique traditions and powerful blessings await devotees

About Kal Bhairav

Kal Bhairav is the guardian deity (Kotwal) of Ujjain, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. The temple holds a unique position in Hindu spirituality as Bhairav is considered the protector of all 64 Shaktipeeths across India.

What makes this temple extraordinary is its unique tradition of offering liquor (alcohol) to the deity - one of the few temples in India where this is practiced. Devotees believe that Kal Bhairav is a form of Shiva in his most fierce and protective aspect, and offerings of liquor, along with coconuts and flowers, please him immensely.

The deity is self-manifested (Swayambhu) and faces south (Dakshinamukhi). According to legend, when Goddess Sati's body was cut into 51 pieces by Lord Vishnu's Sudarshan Chakra, her forehead fell here, making Ujjain a Shaktipeeth. Kal Bhairav guards this sacred site.

The temple is located near the banks of the Shipra River and is an essential stop for every pilgrim visiting Ujjain. It is believed that no pilgrimage to Ujjain is complete without seeking blessings from Kal Bhairav first.

Swayambhu
Self-Manifested
Dakshinamukhi
South-Facing
Unique
Liquor Offering
Kotwal
Guardian of Ujjain
Kal Bhairav Temple
Location

Kal Bhairav Marg, Near Shipra River, Ujjain

Unique Traditions & Offerings

Liquor Offering

Devotees offer country liquor (desi daru) to please Lord Bhairav. This unique tradition symbolizes surrendering ego and worldly attachments.

Ring the Bell

Devotees ring the temple bell and make a wish. It is believed that sincere prayers are answered swiftly by Kal Bhairav.

Feed the Dogs

Dogs are considered sacred here as they are believed to be Kal Bhairav's vehicle (vahana). Feeding dogs brings blessings.

Recommended Offerings

  • Country liquor (available near temple)
  • Coconut
  • Red flowers (hibiscus preferred)
  • Incense sticks and lamps
  • Sweet offerings (ladoos)
  • Red cloth (chunari)

Temple Information

Timings & Details

Opening Time: 5:00 AM
Closing Time: 10:00 PM
Aarti Timings: 5:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 7:00 PM
Best Time to Visit: Early morning (5-7 AM) or evening (6-8 PM)
Darshan Duration: 30-45 minutes (normal days)

Special Note: Tuesdays and Saturdays are considered especially auspicious for Kal Bhairav darshan. Expect larger crowds on these days.

Temple Gallery

Main Temple
Main Temple
Liquor Offering
Traditional Offering
Temple Courtyard
Temple Courtyard

Visit Other Sacred Sites

Mahakaleshwar

Mahakaleshwar

Jyotirlinga Temple

 Harsiddhi

Harsiddhi

Ancient Shaktipeeth

 Ram Ghat

Ram Ghat

Holy River Bank

Seek Blessings of Kal Bhairav

Include this powerful temple in your Ujjain pilgrimage package

Book Kal Bhairav Darshan