In ancient Ujjain, a ruthless demon named Dushan tormented devotees and polluted sacred spaces. In response to their cries, Shiv manifested as Mahakaal, an unstoppable force of destruction, and burned Dushan to ashes.
From that moment, Shiva chose to reside there as Mahakaleshwar, the protector beyond death and time - one of the most powerful Jyotirlingas, uniquely facing south to symbolize his dominion over mortality.
Each dawn, the temple awakens with the iconic Bhasm Aarti, where Shiva is worshipped with ash - reminding us that everything must return to dust before the divine.

Best time to visit:
Months - October to March
festivals - Mahashivratri, Shravan Month