Baijnath Mahadev Temple

Getting there

• By air

  Devi Ahilyabai Holkar International Airport in Indore is the nearest airport, about 126 km away.

• By train

  Ujjain is the nearest railway station, about 68 km away.

• By road

  Hire a cab or catch a bus from Ujjain (68 km), Indore (126 km), Bhopal (184 km) or Kota (195 km).

Why devotees come here

Baijnath Mahadev Temple is a Shiva temple in Agar Malwa district, Madhya Pradesh. It stands on the banks of the River Banganga, on Susner Road, the Ujjain-Kota Road (National Highway 27).

Local residents have great faith in Baijnath Mahadev Temple, and large gatherings come to the temple during festivals. One of these is the Shahi Sawari, a royal procession of the deity held on the last Monday of Shravan. Baba Baijnath Mahadev rides in a chariot in the procession, and devotees come from hundreds of villages and towns to take part.

Agar Malwa district was formed in 2013, carved out of Shajapur district. The temple lies in the district, on the banks of the River Banganga. Construction began in 1528 and was completed in 1536. The peak of the temple is about 50 feet tall.

Accounts of who built the temple differ. One says it is the only temple in India built by the British. Another says a British officer is believed to have built it.

Festivals

• Last Monday of ShravanShahi Sawari

  A royal procession of Baba Baijnath Mahadev, with the deity riding in a chariot. About one lakh devotees from hundreds of villages and towns take part.

Tips for your visit

• Shahi Sawari falls on the last Monday of Shravan, so confirm that date for the year you plan to travel.
• The festival draws about one lakh devotees, so expect a large crowd on that day.

Questions people ask