Travel Tips for Ujjain

Book the Mahakaleshwar Bhasma Aarti only through the temple's official website, as early as booking opens; slots sell out quickly and unofficial agents are a common scam.

• Stay near the Mahakal Temple area if you have a Bhasma Aarti booking, as you need to arrive in the early hours.
• General darshan is free. Paid quick-darshan options exist on some days; buy them only at official temple counters or on the official website.
• Phones, bags and leather items may have to be deposited before darshan. Carry as little as possible.
• Weekends, Mondays, Mahashivratri, Shravan and public holidays bring the longest queues; weekday mornings are calmest.
• Kal Bhairav receives liquor as an offering; this is an old tradition, and you can simply offer flowers or prasad instead.
• Agree auto fares before the ride and keep small change for offerings and shoe stands.