Kal Bhairav Temple

Kal Bhairav Temple is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Kal Bhairav, regarded as the guardian deity of Ujjain, located in Bhairavgarh about 6 km from Ujjain city centre in Madhya Pradesh. Situated on the banks of the Shipra River, it is one of the Ashta Bhairav temples and is famous for the unique tradition of offering liquor to the deity. The temple exhibits Malwa-style architecture and attracts devotees and tourists throughout the year.

Visitors can expect a compact temple complex with a central shrine housing the idol of Kal Bhairav, surrounded by smaller shrines, deep-stambhas (lamp pillars) and open courtyards. The approach is lined with shops selling flowers, coconuts and liquor for offering. Inside, priests offer liquor to the deity which is seen to disappear, a ritual that draws crowds. The surroundings are busy with devotees, bells and chanting, with views of the Shipra River nearby.

The temple is considered ancient with references in the Skanda Purana and Avanti Khanda. The present structure is believed to have been built on an older site and renovated during the Maratha period. It is associated with King Bhadrasen and has long been regarded as the protector shrine of the ancient city of Avanti (Ujjain). The deep-stambhas and architectural elements reflect Malwa style influences.

Kal Bhairav is worshipped as the Kotwal of Ujjain and as a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. The temple is one of the most revered Shakti-Bhairav centres in central India. The tradition of offering liquor, later returned as prasad, is unique and linked to Tantric worship. Many devotees visit Kal Bhairav Temple before offering prayers at Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga.