The Mangalnath Temple is a Hindu temple at Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. It is a special place of worship dedicated to Mahadeva. The temple is situated on the banks of the Shipra River. It is the birthplace of Mars (Mangala). In ancient times, it was quite popular for a clear view of the planet Mars and hence suitable for astronomical studies. Lord Mahadev or Shiva is the deity worshipped in the temple of Mangalnath. The temple on Tuesdays, which is considered to be the day of Lord Mangal, also celebrates the festivals Navratri and Shivratri.
History of Mangalnath Temple, Ujjain
Mangalnath temple is on the banks of the Shipra River in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. It is known as a mokshadayani temple. Hundreds of devotees visit every day. It is one of the most active temples in Ujjain. According to the Matsya Purana, it is the birthplace of Mars. The temple is also famous for its clear view of the planet Mars. Mangalnath temple is dedicated to Lord Mahadev. Mythology says that when Mahadev fought a demon, a drop of his sweat fell here. From that, a Shivlinga appeared. The Mangal planet was also born here. That is why Ujjain is called the city of Mahadev. The temple is also important for Bhat Puja. It is believed that rays of Mars fall here. The Tropic of Cancer also passes through this place. Bhat Puja is done here to remove Horoscope Doshas related to Mars. This gives the temple great astrological importance.
Importance of Puja at Mangalnath Temple
Most Hindus come to Mangalnath Mandir for Mangal Shanti. It is believed to be the birthplace of Mars. According to Hindu Dharma, there is an ancient Shivlinga here. This means the presence of Lord Shiva is at this place. It is the only temple in the world where Bhat Puja is performed. Bhat Puja is believed to end all problems of a person. It is also said that the first meridian of the Earth passes through this place. The temple is away from the busy town. It can be reached by a winding road. From here, one can see the wide waters of the Shipra. The calm view brings great peace to the heart. According to the Matsya Purana, Mangalnath is the birthplace of Mars. In ancient times, the temple was known for a clear view of the planet. It was also used for astronomical studies. Lord Shiva, also known as Mahadev, is worshipped here.
Mangalnath Temple Guide – Ujjain
Location of Mangalnath Temple
- A little distance from the holy city of Ujjain, on the banks of the sacred Shipra River, sits the Mangalnath Temple.
Temple Path to Visit
- From Ujjain city, a winding path leads to the shrine.
- Before arriving at the main sanctuary, devotees pass by smaller shrines as they pass through the gate.
- The garbhagriha (sanctum) houses Lord Mahadev's primary Shivlinga.
- On the temple grounds, special Bhat Puja and Mangal Shanti Puja are conducted.
Deities in the Mangalnath Mandir
- The primary Shivlinga is the manifestation of Lord Shiva (Mahadev).
- The temple is said to be the birthplace of Lord Mangal (Mars Planet).
- The temple is surrounded by little shrines of Goddess Parvati, Hanuman Ji, and Ganesh Ji.
Rules for Devotees
- Take off your shoes before you enter the temple.
- Every one have to wear formal and modest cloths.
- Photography is strictly restricted inside the temple.
- Maintain silence and behave respectful, When doing darshan.
- Observe the priest's instructions when performing Bhat Puja or other rites.
Facilities for Visitors
- There are sitting options and drinking water available.
- The temple has a shoe stand and cloakroom outside.
- The restrooms are kept up for guests.
- Devotees are guided to pujas by priests and temple staff.
Bhojanalay (Dining Hall)
- Devotees can get food in a basic bhojanalay next to the temple.
- On festivals and other occasions, anna-prasadam is given for free.Prasadam
Prasadam
- Prasadam, such as dried fruits, peda, and laddoos, is available for purchase by devotees outside the temple.
- The temple also offers mangal yantras and sacred rudraksha malas as blessings.
How to Reach Mangalnath Temple
The temple can be reached with different modes of transport. Some of the ways are given below
By Rail
The nearest railway station is Ujjain Junction at a disntance of 6 km from the temple, where trains from various major cities arrive regularly. Thus, one can easily reach the temple through the rail. From the station, one can hire a taxi or take public transport to reach the temple.
By Road
The city is easily accessible by road. The temple can be reached easily by taking public transport or private taxis from the nearby cities. Thus, one can easily take the taxi directly to the temple. You can easily reach the temple by road.
By Air
The nearest airport is Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar International Airport at a nearby distance of 66 km from the temple. One can easily reach the temple through the airways, as there are regular flights to the airport directly from various major cities. You can get the taxi or even the public transport to reach the temple.
Best Time to Visit Mangalnath Mandir Ujjain
The best time to visit this temple is from October to March. It is the ideal time to visit the temple; even you do the sight-seeing in the best possible way.