Kal Bhairav temple

Kal Bhairav Mandir is a Hindu temple standing beside the Kshipra River in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. Stone pillars support the roof above the main shrine, while carvings on the walls show scenes from Hindu mythology and surround the inner space with figurative work.

Archaeologists found images of Shiva, Parvati, Vishnu and Ganesha from the Paramara period between the 9th and 13th centuries at this site. These finds show that the location served as a center of worship in medieval times and underwent rebuilding over the centuries.

Worshippers pour alcohol directly before the shrine as an offering to Bhairav, a practice tied to releasing attachment to worldly concerns. This tradition connects to tantric rituals still followed in Ujjain and draws pilgrims from across the country who come to participate.

The temple opens at sunrise and closes around sunset each day, with hours shifting slightly through the seasons. Religious festivals bring larger groups, so early morning or late afternoon can offer quieter moments to walk through the grounds.

Traces of Malwa wall paintings remain visible on some walls, though most of the color has faded over time. These remnants offer a glimpse into the artistic tradition that once decorated the interior and is now rarely documented.