The Navgrah Shani Mandir of Ujjain is not just an ordinary religious site — it is an astrological and spiritual center where devotees come with the hope of freeing themselves from planetary afflictions. Situated on the sacred banks of the Triveni Sangam, this temple feels like a meeting point of heaven and earth. Here, all nine celestial deities — Surya (Sun), Chandra (Moon), Mangal (Mars), Budh (Mercury), Guru (Jupiter), Shukra (Venus), Rahu, Ketu, and Shani (Saturn) — are worshipped together, but its most unique feature is that Shani Dev is worshipped here in the form of Lord Shiva, a tradition that is rare and perhaps found nowhere else in India.
As you enter, the fragrance of oil and incense, the chants of devotees, and the resonating mantras in the temple premises make you feel as if time has come to a standstill. The idol of Shani Dev in the sanctum sanctorum stands as a symbol of gravity, justice, and power.
History — The Legacy of Vikramaditya and a 2,000-Year-Old Tale
The foundation of the Navgrah Shani Mandir is rooted in an ancient historical and mythological tale, which makes it even more special. It is believed that King Vikramaditya, the famed and justice-loving ruler of Ujjain, built this temple almost 2,000 years ago.
It is said that King Vikramaditya understood the influence of Shani and constructed this temple to protect his kingdom and subjects from planetary afflictions. He dedicated separate shrines to all nine planets so that anyone troubled by unfavorable planetary positions or periods in their horoscope could come here for relief.
The location was chosen at Triveni Sangam — where the Shipra, Gandaki, and Saraswati rivers converge — because it is believed to be a unique confluence of sacred waters, mantras, and planetary energies.
The temple also has an underground chamber where an ancient Shani Yantra is installed. Made from copper plates and gemstones, this yantra is considered extremely powerful. In earlier times, special planetary peace rituals were conducted here by kings and learned astrologers.
Daily Aartis and Timings
Several aartis take place at the Navgrah Shani Mandir throughout the day, each being a special spiritual experience for devotees:
- Mangal Aarti — 5:30 AM
Performed before sunrise, this aarti brings a surge of positive energy to start the day. - Bhog Aarti — 12:00 PM
Conducted after offering food to the deity. - Sandhya Aarti — 6:30 PM
At sunset, the glow of lamps combined with the sound of conch shells and bells creates a divine atmosphere. - Shayan Aarti — 8:30 PM
The final aarti of the day before putting the deity to rest.
On special occasions such as Shani Amavasya, Shani Jayanti, Mahashivratri, and other astrologically significant days, these aartis are accompanied by special bhajan evenings and extended mantra chanting sessions.
Worship, Aarti, and Rituals
Oil Offering (Tel Abhishek): There is a tradition here of performing abhishek with mustard or sesame oil, especially for Lord Shani, to seek relief from planetary afflictions and to pray for prosperity.
Special worship programs like Shani Aradhana, Shanti Puja, Maha Shivratri, and Shani Amavasya involve grand rituals and ceremonies.
Visiting Hours and Temple Timings
Darshan Timings: The temple remains open from 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
However, some sources also mention timings from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
WWF Water Park & Resort, Ujjain
Address and Accessibility
Address: Motibagh Colony, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh 456006, India
How to Reach:
- Distance from Ujjain Railway Station: Around 8–9 km
- Nearest Airport: Indore (~53 km)
Nearby Attractions and Stay Options
Nearby, you can find several famous pilgrimage spots of Ujjain, such as Mahakaleshwar Temple and Nagchandreshwar Temple.
For accommodation, Ujjain offers a variety of good hotels and ashrams—especially around Mahadev Road and the city center. For specific recommendations, you can check with local guides or booking services.
Best Time to Visit and Special Experiences
Shani Amavasya and Saturdays are considered especially auspicious, as Lord Shani is regarded as the deity of justice.
Maha Shivratri and other astrologically favorable dates are also ideal for performing special worship.
Mandu or Mandavgad Forts Indore
Interesting Astrological Ritual – The Lamp Lighting Rule
During the worship of Lord Shani, it is considered auspicious to light a lamp using mustard or sesame oil with a black or blue wick, while lighting a ghee lamp is prohibited.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| Method | Worship of all nine planets at one place, Shani in the form of Lord Shiva |
| History | Around 2,000 years old, established by King Vikramaditya |
| Main Rituals | Oil Abhishek, Shanti Puja, Shani Amavasya, Maha Shivratri |
| Visiting Hours | 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM (some sources say up to 9:00 PM) |
| Address | Motibagh Colony, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh |
Address and Google map of Navgrah Shanti Mandir, Ujjain
Address: Motibagh Colony, Ujjain, Dhediya, Madhya Pradesh 456006
Images of Navgrah Shanti Mandir, Ujjain
Other tourist places near Navgrah Shani Mandir Ujjain
Shri Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
Shri Kaal Bhairav Mandir, Ujjain
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
Bhartrihari caves
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
WWF Waterpark Ujjain
2
20
20
