Ujjain, one of India’s most sacred cities, is famous for its ancient temples, ghats, and mythological significance. Among its many wonders, the Bhartrihari Caves hold a special place. Located on the banks of the Shipra River, near the Ram Ghat, these caves are steeped in history, spirituality, and legends. Visitors are drawn here not only for religious devotion but also for the air of mystery that surrounds the place. The caves are associated with the legendary poet and philosopher Raja Bhartrihari, who renounced his throne to embrace meditation and spiritual knowledge.
History and Legends of Bhartrihari Caves
The story of Bhartrihari is deeply fascinating. He was the elder brother of King Vikramaditya, the ruler of Ujjain, and a great scholar, poet, and philosopher. Despite his royal position, Bhartrihari was known for his wisdom and detachment. According to legends, after being disillusioned with worldly attachments and betrayal in his personal life, he gave up his throne and retreated to these caves to seek peace through meditation and penance.
It is said that Bhartrihari spent many years here, absorbed in deep meditation, writing spiritual and philosophical works like Vairagya Shatak, Shringar Shatak, and Neeti Shatak, which are still celebrated in Indian literature. The cave complex, therefore, not only holds religious significance but also symbolizes renunciation, wisdom, and self-realization.
What to See Inside the Caves
The caves are carved into rocky terrain and present a simple yet powerful ambiance. Inside, you will find:
- Meditation chambers where Bhartrihari is believed to have practiced tapasya.
- Shiva temple within the caves, where devotees offer prayers.
- Sculptures, stone carvings, and ancient walls that narrate the history of this sacred space.
- The natural cave structure itself, which is cool and peaceful, offering a perfect environment for meditation.
- The nearby Gadkalika Temple, which adds to the religious atmosphere of the area.
WWF Water Park & Resort, Ujjain
Timings of Bhartrihari Caves
The caves remain open for visitors every day from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Early morning and evening visits are particularly serene, as the atmosphere is calm and devotional.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Bhartrihari Caves is during the winter season (October to March), when the weather is pleasant. Visiting during Mahashivratri or the Kumbh Mela in Ujjain adds a special spiritual charm, as the entire city comes alive with rituals and festivities.
How to Reach Bhartrihari Caves
- By Road: Ujjain is well-connected by road. Regular buses and taxis are available from Indore, Bhopal, and other nearby cities.
- By Rail: Ujjain Junction is the nearest railway station, located just about 3 km from the caves.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport, Indore, around 60 km away. From there, you can hire a cab or take a bus to Ujjain.
- Locally, auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws make it easy to reach the caves from anywhere in the city.
Click here to know about Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga located in Khandwa, Indore.
Nearby Attractions
While visiting Bhartrihari Caves, you can also explore:
- Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple – One of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva, just a few kilometers away.
- Kal Bhairav Temple – Known for its unique rituals.
- Ram Ghat – A sacred ghat on the Shipra River, famous during Kumbh Mela.
- Gadkalika Temple – Another historically significant temple close to the caves.
- Sandipani Ashram – Associated with Lord Krishna’s education under Guru Sandipani.
Click here for interesting information about Red Fort.
Full Address of Bhartrihari Caves
Bhartrihari Caves,
Near Ram Ghat, Shipra River,
Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh – 456006, India.
Vikram Kirti Mandir – A Cultural Pilgrimage and Treasure of History in Ujjain
Images of Bhartrihari Caves, Ujjain
Other tourist places near Bhartrihari Caves, Ujjain
Shri Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
Shri Kaal Bhairav Mandir, Ujjain
WWF Water Park and Resort
Shree Harsiddhi Mata Shaktipeeth Temple
Maharishi Sandipani Ashram
Jai Maa Gadhkalika Mata Shakti Peeth Mandir Ujjain
Shree Chintaman Ganesh Temple, Ujjain
ISKCON Temple, Ujjain
Shri Dwarkadhish Gopal Mandir Ujjain
Mahakal Lok
Kaliyadeh Palace
Gopal Mandir
Navgrah Shani Mandir Ujjain
Ram Janardan Temple
Kalidas Academy
Mahakal Mahadev Mandir
Shri Chaubis Khamba Mata Temple, Ujjain
Ram Ghat Marg
Shree Bada Ganesh Mandir
2
20
20
