Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain

The Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, shrines which are said to be the most sacred abodes of Shiva. It is located in the ancient city of Ujjain in the state of Madhya Pradesh, on the side of the holy river Shipra.

The presiding deity, Shiva in the lingam form is believed to be Swayambhu, deriving currents of power from within itself. The idol of Mahakaleshwar is known to be dakshinamurti, meaning that it is facing the south, a unique feature among the jyotirlingas.

The temple features a soaring shikhara with intricate sculptural motifs and houses a large tank known as Koti Teertha. The Bhasma Aarti, involving holy ash, is a key daily ritual.