Ram Ghat, situated on the sacred banks of the Shipra River in Ujjain, is one of India’s most prominent pilgrimage destinations. Every morning and evening here comes alive with chants, the melodious sound of temple bells, and the glow of oil lamps. This ghat is not only famous for holy bathing and worship but also for the peace and tranquility it offers to every visitor. It is believed that bathing here washes away all sins and paves the way to salvation.
History of Ram Ghat
The history of Ram Ghat dates back thousands of years. According to legend, during the Treta Yuga, Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, and Lakshman visited this place during their exile. They took a holy dip in the Shipra River and offered prayers to Lord Mahakaleshwar. This is how the ghat got its name Ram Ghat. Over time, it became a central point of Ujjain’s religious and cultural life. During the Simhastha Kumbh Mela, the ghat transforms into a spiritual hub for millions of devotees and saints from across the world.
WWF Water Park & Resort, Ujjain
Special Features of Ram Ghat
- Entirely built with stone, giving it a grand and historical look.
- Wide and safe bathing areas for devotees.
- A series of temples along the ghat with bells that fill the air with sacred sounds.
- Mesmerizing sunrise and sunset views over the Shipra River.
What Makes Ram Ghat Special
- During the Simhastha Kumbh Mela, millions of devotees take the holy dip here together, creating a once-in-a-lifetime sight.
- The evening Shipra Aarti, similar to the Ganga Aarti in Varanasi, is a major attraction for visitors.
- Akharas (monastic camps) of saints and venues for religious discussions along the ghat.
Aarti at Ram Ghat
Every evening at sunset, the Shipra Aarti is performed here. Priests in saffron attire hold lit oil lamps, conch shells are blown, and temple bells ring in unison, with the reflections dancing on the river’s surface. Being part of this ceremony is a deeply divine experience.
Major Festivals and Events at Ram Ghat
- Simhastha Kumbh Mela – Held once every 12 years, attracting devotees from across the globe.
- Maha Shivratri – Devotees bathe in the river before offering prayers at the Mahakaleshwar temple.
- Kartik Purnima – Thousands of lamps are floated in the river, creating a breathtaking view.
- Chhath Puja – A grand celebration dedicated to Sun worship.
Places to See at Ram Ghat
- The vast, sacred stretch of the Shipra River.
- Various small and large temples along the ghat.
- The evening Aarti site.
- Traditional bathing steps and sacred kunds.
Boat Ride at Ram Ghat
At Ram Ghat, Ujjain, devotees and tourists can enjoy a peaceful and scenic boat ride on the holy Shipra River. The experience is especially magical during sunrise and sunset when the sky reflects its golden hues on the gentle ripples of the river.
Types of Boats Available
- Traditional Wooden Boats – Rowed manually by boatmen, offering a slow and peaceful ride perfect for soaking in the spiritual atmosphere.
- Motorboats – Faster rides ideal for covering a larger stretch of the river in less time.
Best Time for Boat Ride
- Morning – Witness the calm and serene Shipra River with the rising sun.
- Evening – The most popular time, especially during the Shipra Aarti, when hundreds of lit lamps float on the river creating a mesmerizing view.
Duration & Price (Approx.)
- Short Ride (15–20 minutes) – ₹50 to ₹100 per person
- Long Ride (30–40 minutes) – ₹150 to ₹200 per person
- Special Aarti View Ride – ₹200 to ₹300 per person (available during evening aarti)
Additional Tips
- Life jackets are usually provided, especially in motorboats.
- During the monsoon or high-water levels, boat rides may be temporarily suspended for safety reasons.
- Early morning rides are less crowded and more peaceful.
Nearby Attractions
- Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple – About 1 km away.
- Kal Bhairav Temple – Around 5 km away.
- Harsiddhi Mata Temple – About 1.5 km away.
- Sandipani Ashram – Around 2 km away.
- Gopal Temple – Walking distance from the ghat.
Hotels and Ashrams Near Ram Ghat
If you are planning to stay near Ram Ghat, Ujjain, you will find a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget hotels and dharamshalas to comfortable ashrams with spiritual ambiance. Staying close to the ghat allows you to easily attend the evening Shipra Aarti and take an early morning holy dip.
Popular Hotels Near Ram Ghat
- Hotel Shipra Avenue – Located within walking distance from Ram Ghat, offers comfortable rooms with modern facilities.
- Hotel Atharva – A mid-range option near Mahakaleshwar Temple, perfect for pilgrims.
- Hotel Mittal Avenue – Spacious rooms, in-house dining, and convenient access to major attractions.
- Hotel Abika Elite – Offers premium amenities, suitable for families and groups.
Ashrams and Dharamshalas Near Ram Ghat
- Mahakal Dharamshala – Affordable rooms for devotees, basic facilities, and close to Mahakaleshwar Temple.
- Rudra Sagar Ashram – Overlooking Rudra Sagar Lake, peaceful environment ideal for spiritual seekers.
- Gopal Mandir Ashram – Provides simple accommodations with a devotional atmosphere.
- Kalidas Ashram – Known for its serene surroundings and proximity to both Ram Ghat and the temple.
Tip: During peak festival seasons like Maha Shivratri or Kumbh Mela, it is advisable to book your accommodation in advance as hotels and ashrams get fully occupied quickly.
How to Reach
- By Train – From Ujjain Junction, take an auto or taxi to the ghat.
- By Road – Local buses, autos, and cabs are available in Ujjain city.
- By Air – The nearest airport is Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport, Indore (about 55 km away).
Best Time to Visit
- October to March is the best season.
- Special crowds can be seen during Maha Shivratri, Kartik Purnima, and the Simhastha Kumbh Mela.
Address Google map of Ram Ghat, Ujjain
Address: Ram Ghat, Banks of Shipra River, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh – 456006, India
Images of Ram Ghat, Ujjain
Other tourist places near Ram Ghat, Ujjain
Shri Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga Temple
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Shree Harsiddhi Mata Shaktipeeth Temple
Maharishi Sandipani Ashram
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Gopal Mandir
Navgrah Shani Mandir Ujjain
Ram Janardan Temple
Kalidas Academy
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