Gadkalika Temple - History, Timings & Entry Fee

At a distance of 5 km from Ujjain Junction, Gadhkalika is a sacred Hindu temple located in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. Situated near Bhartrihari Caves, it is one of the must include places in Ujjain tour, and among the famous places to visit in Ujjain.

Gadkalika Temple is an ancient Hindu shrine dedicated to Goddess Kali that dates back to the period of the Mahabharata war. However, the idol of Goddess Kalika is said to be even older than the temple as it is claimed to be of the era of Satyuga. The temple was renovated in the 7th century by King Harshvardhan. The temple has been rebuilt in modern times by the erstwhile Gwalior State. Due to its location near the village of Gad, this temple got the name of Gadkalika Mandir.

Popularly called Ujjain Mahakali, the temple is one of the eighteen Shakti Peethas where the upper lip of goddess Sati fell here. The Gadkalika Temple holds tremendous religious significance, especially among students as it is believed to be the place where Kalidas worshipped Maa Gadkalika, and gained knowledge. The legend goes that the great poet Kalidasa was originally uneducated, but with his great devotion to the goddess Kalika, he acquired unparalleled literary skills. Though it is not a Shakti Peetha and due to its location in the region of Harsiddhi, it holds equal importance to that of a Shakti Peetha.

The walls of the temples are carved with lovely curvatures of various gods and holy signs. Regular prayers and aartis are conducted in the evening hours. Staring into the glory of the immaculately sculpted idol of Goddess Kalika is a divine experience, just like attending the soul-cleansing morning and evening aarti. Navratri is the major festival celebrated here with much fervor that draws thousands of devotees.

Timings: 6 AM - 9 PM

Entry: Free