Vikrant Bhairav Temple, Ujjain

The visit to this holy temple of God Vikrant Bhairav is very enlightening as the temple is situated in Ujjain, known as the center of Earth. This temple is dedicated to Kaal Bhairav or Vikrant Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. This Temple is one of Ujjain's most unique and intriguing temples and is known for its unusual rituals like offering liquor to God Vikrant Bhairav.

Table of Contents:

1. About Vikrant Bhairav Temple
2. History of Vikrant Bhairav Temple
3. Story of Vikrant Bhairav Temple
4. Prasad and offering for Vikrant Bhairav
5. How to reach Vikrant Bhairav Temple
6. Best Time to visit the Vikrant Bhairav Temple
7. Things to know before visiting the Temple

About Vikrant Bhairav Temple

Vikrant Bhairav or Kaal Bhairav Temple is a very famous temple located on the banks of the Shipra River in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. This temple is dedicated to Kaal Bhairav or Vikrant Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. God Vikrant Bhairav is the guardian deity of the city. Lord Kaal Bhairav is known as a Protector of Ujjain City.

History of Vikrant Bhairav Temple

According to Hindu Scriptures, the land of Ujjain was plagued by dark forces that disrupted the peace of its people's lives. For the safety and protection of the people, they worshipped Lord Shiva and prayed for his protection. By seeing their devotion, Lord Shiva was moved and manifested in the form of Kaal Bhairav who is fierce and powerful with eyes blazing like fire. He is also known as the God of Time and he defeated the evil forces and restored the people’s peace. Also won the people’s trust and devotion.

Prasad and offering for Vikrant Bhairav

The prasad and offer to God Vikrant Bhairav is very unique and bizarre as the most known offering to him is Liquor like whiskey and rum. This liquor which was offered to Kaal Bhairav is also considered as a prasad. Many believe that God drinks the liquor that's why priests offer a small amount of liquor to kaal Bhairav ji. Other than this, people also offer flowers, vermillion, coconut, sweets, betel leaves, incense sticks and camphor.

How to reach Vikrant Bhairav temple

Vikrant Bhairav temple is a popular shrine in Ujjain dedicated to Kaal Bhairav. There are many ways to reach the temple:

1. By Road
You can use local transport such as buses, rickshaws, and taxis or book taxis to reach the temple without any issues.
2. By train
Ujjain railway station is one of the main stations in Ujjain and it is connected to all the major cities in India. After reaching Ujjain, you can take local transport to the temple.
3. By Air
Reaching Ujjain by air is also available and the closest airport to Ujjain is Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport in Indore which is about 60 km away. From Indore, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Ujjain.
Direction from Ujjain City Center
The Vikrant Bhairav temple is around 10-12 km away from the city. The temple is very popular in Ujjain, so you will not have any difficulty finding the temple.

Best Time to visit the Vikrant Bhairav Temple

The best time to visit the Vikrant Bhairav Temple is between October to March as this month offers cool and mild weather which makes it easy to travel anywhere. Most devotees draw to the temple during the Maha Shivratri festival as the festival is very auspicious. Kalabhairava Ashtami is also considered a very auspicious and special day to visit the temple as this festival is related to Lord Vikrant Bhairav or Kaal Bhairav.

Things to know before visiting the temple

There are several things one should know before visiting the temple:
The unique offering of liquor to Lord Vikrant Bhairav. Devotees can buy the liquor from the shops near the temple and it will be offered by the priest of the temple.
The temple is usually open from 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM. You should try to visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid any crowds. Aarti timing is generally 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM, which is a very special time to visit the temple.
Clicking pictures might be restricted in certain parts of the temple, you should check with the authorities before taking any pictures.
Visitors are expected to dress modestly before visiting the temple. They should respect the Hindu culture at the temple and shoes must be removed before entering the temple.