Bhopal to Ujjain Complete Travel Guide 2026
Planning a trip from Bhopal to Ujjain? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the 190km journey. Watch the interactive route animation above to visualize your journey, then explore detailed information about travel options, costs, attractions along the way, and insider tips to make your trip memorable.
analytics Travel Comparison: Bhopal to Ujjain
| Mode | Duration | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|
| directions_car Private Car | 3h 30m | ₹1,815 Fuel & Tolls |
| train Train | 12h – 16h | ₹182 – ₹545 |
| bus Bus | 12h – 16h | ₹271 – ₹2,098 |
How to Travel: Bhopal to Ujjain
Compare different travel modes to find the best option for your budget, schedule, and preferences.
By Car
Flexibility, scenic stops, family trips
By Train
Comfort, scenic views, budget-friendly
By Bus
Budget travel, multiple stops
lightbulb Our Recommendation
For this 190km journey, driving is your best option. The 3h 30m drive gives you flexibility to stop at attractions along the way and explore at your own pace.
Before You Leave Bhopal
Fuel up with these authentic local dishes before hitting the road:
Local Specialties
- local_dining Bhopali Gosht Korma - A rich and flavorful mutton curry (try at Zam Zam Restaurant)
- local_dining Poha - Flattened rice dish, a popular breakfast item
- local_dining Biryani - Aromatic rice dish with meat and spices
Zam Zam Restaurant • Ibrahimpura
Worth Stopping: Cities Along Your Route
These cities are within 50km of your Bhopal to Ujjain route and offer excellent attractions worth a brief detour:
Sanchi
Sanchi is a small town in Madhya Pradesh, India, renowned for its Great Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient Buddhist complex dates back to the 3rd century BCE and offers a glimpse into India's rich Buddhist history and Mauryan art.
attractions Top Attractions
Great Stupa (Stupa No. 1)
The Great Stupa is the main attraction in Sanchi, commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE. It is a massive hemispherical brick structure built over relics of the Buddha.
Stupa No. 2
Stupa No. 2 is smaller than the Great Stupa but is significant for its elaborate carvings. It contains relics of Buddhist teachers.
Stupa No. 3
Stupa No. 3 is another significant stupa within the Sanchi complex. It contains relics of Sariputra and Mahamoggallana, two of Buddha's chief disciples.
restaurant Must Try Local Food
Dal Bafla - A traditional Madhya Pradesh dish consisting of wheat cakes and lentil soup (try at local restaurants).
Top Attractions in Ujjain: What to See and Do
Once you arrive in Ujjain, explore these must-visit attractions that showcase the best of the city:
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Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga
⏱ 2-3 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 03:00-23:00 dailyThis is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, considered the most sacred abodes of Lord Shiva. The temple houses a self-manifested (swayambhu) lingam.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late evening to avoid crowds
💡 Insider Tip: Book the Bhasma Aarti well in advance online to secure a spot. Arrive early for other darshans (viewings) to minimize waiting time.
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Kal Bhairav Temple
⏱ 1 hour • 💰 Free • 🕐 06:00-21:00 dailyDedicated to Kal Bhairav, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva, this temple is unique for its ritual offering of liquor to the deity.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or evening
💡 Insider Tip: Purchase liquor offerings from licensed vendors outside the temple to ensure authenticity and avoid scams.
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Harsiddhi Temple
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 05:00-21:00 dailyDedicated to Goddess Harsiddhi, this temple is one of the Shakti Peethas, significant pilgrimage sites for devotees of the goddess. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: Evening, to witness the lighting of lamps
💡 Insider Tip: Visit during Navratri for a particularly vibrant and festive experience, but be prepared for larger crowds.
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Ram Ghat
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 Open 24 hoursThis is a sacred bathing ghat on the banks of the Shipra River, where the Kumbh Mela takes place. It's a hub of religious activity and a serene place to observe local rituals.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening
💡 Insider Tip: Take a boat ride on the Shipra River for a different perspective of the ghat and the surrounding temples (₹100-₹200 per person).
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Jantar Mantar (Vedh Shala)
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 ₹40 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners) • 🕐 09:00-17:00 dailyThis is an astronomical observatory built by Raja Jai Singh II in the 18th century. It houses various instruments used for measuring time, tracking celestial bodies, and studying astronomical phenomena.
Best Time to Visit: Any time of day, but early morning or late afternoon offers better lighting for photography
💡 Insider Tip: Hire a local guide (₹100-₹200) to get a more in-depth understanding of the instruments and their significance.
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ISKCON Temple
⏱ 1-2 hours • 💰 Free • 🕐 04:30-13:00, 16:30-21:00 dailyThis temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is part of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). It is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit: During aarti (prayer ceremony)
💡 Insider Tip: Try the prasadam (vegetarian meal) offered at the temple for a delicious and affordable experience.
Where to Eat in Ujjain: Local Cuisine Guide
Must-Try Dishes in Ujjain
Don't leave Ujjain without tasting these local specialties:
- Poha - A flattened rice dish, often served with sev and onions (try at street stalls near Mahakaleshwar Temple)
- Dal Bafla - A traditional Madhya Pradesh dish consisting of baked wheat balls served with lentil soup (try at local restaurants)
- Jalebi - A sweet, deep-fried snack soaked in syrup (try at street stalls)
- Kachori - A spicy, deep-fried snack filled with lentils or potatoes (try at street stalls)
- Lassi - A yogurt-based drink, sweet or salty (try at local dairies)
Recommended Restaurants in Ujjain
Shree Ganga Restaurant
Indian • ₹₹ (₹400-₹600 for two)
Specialty: Thalis, North Indian dishes
A popular restaurant serving delicious and affordable Indian cuisine. The atmosphere is casual and family-friendly. Located near Mahakaleshwar Temple.
📍 Near Mahakaleshwar Temple
Damru Wala
Indian, Chinese • ₹₹ (₹500-₹700 for two)
Specialty: Variety of vegetarian dishes
A vegetarian restaurant offering a wide range of Indian and Chinese dishes. The quality is good and the prices are reasonable. Located in the city center.
📍 City Center
Maa Bharati Bhojnalaya
Indian • ₹ (₹200-₹300 for two)
Specialty: Budget-friendly thalis
A simple and affordable eatery serving traditional Indian thalis. A great option for budget travelers. Located near Ram Ghat.
📍 Near Ram Ghat
The Square - Sayaji Hotel
Multi-cuisine • ₹₹₹ (₹1200-₹1500 for two)
Specialty: Buffets, International cuisine
A fine-dining restaurant offering a wide range of cuisines in a sophisticated setting. Good for a special occasion. Located in Sayaji Hotel.
📍 Hotel Sayaji
Where to Stay in Ujjain: Accommodation Options
Budget Hotels (₹500-1500/night)
Hotel Ashray
Price: ₹800-₹1200/night
Location: Near Mahakaleshwar Temple
Basic but clean rooms, convenient location for temple visits. Good value for money.
Hotel Midland
Price: ₹900-₹1300/night
Location: City Center
Simple accommodation with essential amenities. Close to transport links and markets.
Mid-Range Hotels (₹2000-5000/night)
Hotel Anjushree
Price: ₹2000-₹3000/night
Location: Near Railway Station
Comfortable rooms with modern amenities. Offers a restaurant and room service.
Hotel Imperial
Price: ₹2500-₹3500/night
Location: Near Mahakaleshwar Temple
Well-maintained hotel with spacious rooms and a rooftop restaurant. Walking distance to the temple.
Luxury Hotels (₹8000+/night)
Hotel Shipra Residency
Price: ₹4000+/night
Location: Near Shipra River
Luxurious hotel with elegant rooms and excellent service. Features a swimming pool and a spa.
Ramada Encore by Wyndham Ujjain
Price: ₹4500+/night
Location: Indore Road
Modern hotel with well-appointed rooms and a range of amenities. Offers a restaurant, bar, and fitness center.
Best Time to Travel from Bhopal to Ujjain
Plan your trip according to the season for the best experience in Ujjain:
Best Time: October to March
Temperature: 15-30 degrees C
Weather: Pleasant and dry weather. Clear skies make it ideal for sightseeing and temple visits.
Why Visit: The weather is perfect for exploring the city's temples and historical sites without the discomfort of extreme heat. This is also the time when many festivals occur, offering a chance to witness local traditions. The cooler temperatures are great for walking along the Shipra river.
Important Note: This is peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodation. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
Shoulder Season: July to September
Temperature: 25-35 degrees C
Weather: Monsoon season with moderate to heavy rainfall. Humidity is high.
Why Visit: The landscape turns lush green, and the Shipra River is full. Fewer tourists visit during this time, so you can experience the city with less crowding.
Important Note: Heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans and make it difficult to visit some outdoor attractions.
Avoid: April to June
Temperature: 35-45 degrees C
Weather: Extremely hot and dry weather. The heat can be unbearable for outdoor activities.
Why Visit: Avoid visiting during these months due to the scorching heat, which makes it difficult to explore the city comfortably. Many temples and attractions are less crowded, but the heat exhaustion risk is significant.
Important Note: Some smaller temples might have restricted hours due to the extreme heat.
Practical Travel Tips for Ujjain
💰 Money & Budget
Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1000, Mid: ₹2500, Luxury: ₹5000+
ATMs: ATMs are available in the city center and near major hotels.
Payment Methods: Cash is widely accepted, but cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.
Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and with auto-rickshaw drivers.
🏥 Health & Safety
Water: Drink bottled water only. Avoid tap water and ice.
Food Safety: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from questionable vendors. Be cautious of spicy food if you're not used to it.
Common Health Issues: Heatstroke, dehydration, and stomach problems are common. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and carry necessary medications.
📱 Communication
SIM Cards: Airtel and Vodafone offer good coverage. A local SIM card costs around ₹200 with data plans.
WiFi Availability: WiFi is available at some hotels and restaurants, but connectivity can be unreliable.
👕 What to Wear
Dress modestly when visiting temples. Cover your shoulders and knees. Light cotton clothing is recommended during summer.
Frequently Asked Questions: Bhopal to Ujjain
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