How to Reach Ujjain from Indore, Bhopal, Delhi & Mumbai (Train, Bus, Flight)
Ujjain is an important place for people who believe in God. It is home to the Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga. Lots of people from Delhi, Mumbai, Indore, Bhopal, Ahmedabad, Surat and many other cities visit Ujjain every day. For people who are visiting for the time the biggest question is not which temple to visit but how to get to Ujjain without wasting a day traveling or missing the early morning prayer.
This guide will help you figure out how to get to Ujjain from cities in India by flight, train, bus and taxi. It will also compare the time it takes to travel and the cost so you can choose the cheapest way to get to Ujjain depending on where you are starting from. Whether you are flying into Indore taking a train from Delhi or Mumbai or driving from Bhopal or Gujarat this guide will help you plan a smoother trip to Ujjain and the Mahakal Temple.
Nearest Airport, Railway Station and Highways. Quick Answer
Nearest Airport to Ujjain
Ujjain does not have its airport. The nearest airport is Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport in Indore which’s about 55 km away. This airport is connected to big cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Jaipur.
Ujjain Railway Station Overview
Ujjain Junction is a railway station on the Western Railway network. It has trains to Delhi, Mumbai, Bhopal, Ahmedabad and many other big cities.
Major Highways Connecting Ujjain
Ujjain is connected to a road network. The highways connect Ujjain to Indore, Bhopal and other cities in Gujarat and northern India. This makes it easy to travel by road from cities.
Distance from Airport and Railway Station to Mahakal Temple
The Ujjain Railway Station is about 1.5 to 2 km from the Mahakaleshwar Temple. You can take an auto-rickshaw. Walk to the temple. The Indore Airport is 55 km away which is a 1 to 1.5-hour drive.
Important Information
. Nearest Airport: Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport, Indore ( 55 km away)
. Nearest Railway Station: Ujjain Junction, right in the city
. Distance to Mahakaleshwar Temple: about 1.5 to 2 km from Ujjain Junction
. Way to Travel: Take a train to Ujjain Junction directly or fly to Indore and then take a taxi
From Indore (55 km): Taxi, Bus and Train Options with Prices
Indore Airport to Ujjain Taxi
A taxi from Indore Airport to Ujjain takes about 1 to 1.5 hours and costs around 1,200 to 2,500 rupees one way depending on the type of vehicle and the time of day.
Indore to Ujjain Bus Services
There are bus services from Indore to Ujjain throughout the day. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Costs less than a taxi.
Indore to Ujjain Train Options
Trains also run between Indore Junction and Ujjain Junction. The journey takes an hour making it a quick and affordable option if you are already in Indore city.
Travel Time and Estimated Cost
Overall you should plan to spend 1 to 2 hours and around a hundred rupees (by bus or train) to a couple of thousand rupees (by taxi) depending on how you travel.
Best Option for Mahakal Visitors
For an hassle-free transfer after a flight a taxi is the most convenient option. If you are on a budget or already in Indore city the train or bus is a good alternative.
From Bhopal (190 km): Best Trains and Road Route
Bhopal to Ujjain Train
There are trains from Bhopal to Ujjain. The journey time varies depending on the type of train so it is an idea to compare options before booking.
Bus and Taxi Options
There are bus services from Bhopal to Ujjain and taxis are also available for a more direct and flexible journey by road.
Travel Duration
The journey from Bhopal to Ujjain generally takes around 4 to 5 hours depending on the train or road route you take.
Approximate Travel Cost
Train fares are usually the affordable option while a private taxi costs more but offers door-to-door convenience, which is useful if you are traveling with family or heavy luggage.
From Bhopal to Ujjain Transport Mode
| Transport Mode | Train/Flight Name & Number | Departure Time (Bhopal) | Arrival Time (Ujjain) | Travel Duration |
| Train | 19304 Bhopal – Indore Express | 05:00 PM | 08:25 PM | ~3 hrs 25 mins |
| Train | 12920 Malwa Express | 07:30 AM | 11:20 AM | ~3 hrs 50 mins |
| Train | 19324 Bhopal – Dahod Intercity | 05:00 PM | 08:45 PM | ~3 hrs 45 mins |
| Bus | Chartered Bus / MP Intercity | Every 30–60 mins (e.g., 10:30 AM, 03:00 PM, 07:30 PM) | ~3.5 hours post-departure | ~3.5 hrs |
| Flight | N/A (Distance is only ~180 km) | – | – | Road/Rail recommended |
From Delhi: Trains and Flight + Taxi Combo
Delhi to Ujjain Direct Trains
There are several trains that run directly from Delhi to Ujjain Junction. The journey takes around 10 to 15 hours depending on the train so it is a good idea to compare options before booking.
Delhi to Indore Flight
Flying from Delhi to Indore takes an over 1.5 hours. From Indore you can take a taxi, bus or train to Ujjain.
Indore Airport to Ujjain Taxi
As mentioned earlier the taxi ride from Indore Airport to Ujjain takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Which Option Saves Time?
If you are short on time flying to Indore and taking a taxi to Ujjain is usually faster than taking a train from Delhi. If cost matters more than speed the direct train is a choice.
From Delhi to Ujjain Transport Mode
| Transport Mode | Train/Flight Name & Number | Departure Time (Delhi) | Arrival Time (Ujjain) | Travel Duration |
| Train | 20156 / 12416 New Delhi – Indore Superfast Express | 10:25 PM | 08:20 AM | ~10 hrs |
| Train | 12920 Malwa Express | 08:30 PM | 11:20 AM | ~14 hrs 50 mins |
| Train | 14310 / 14318 Ujjaini Express | 01:50 PM | 03:55 AM (Next day) | ~14 hrs |
| Bus | Private AC Sleeper Buses (from ISBT / Dhaula Kuan) | 06:00 PM – 08:00 PM | 08:00 AM – 10:00 AM | ~14–15 hrs |
| Flight | Delhi (DEL) to Indore Airport (IDR)* (then 55 km by bus/cab) | Daily flights (e.g., 08:00 AM / 05:00 PM) | Indore arrival: 09:30 AM / 06:30 PM | ~1.5 hrs flight time |
From Mumbai: Trains and What They Cost
Mumbai to Ujjain Train Options
There are direct trains like the Avantika Express that connect Mumbai to Ujjain. The journey takes around 10 to 13 hours depending on the train.
Travel Time
You can expect a journey on most direct trains, which works well if you want to arrive in Ujjain in the morning.
Ticket Price Range
Fares vary depending on the class from budget sleeper class to AC options. It is an idea to check current prices on IRCTC or a trusted booking platform closer to your travel date.
Flight via Indore Alternative
Flying from Mumbai to Indore and then taking a taxi is a faster though slightly costlier, alternative to the train.
From Mumbai to Ujjain Transport Mode
| Transport Mode | Train/Flight Name & Number | Departure Time (Mumbai) | Arrival Time (Ujjain) | Travel Duration |
| Train | 12961 Avantika Express | 08:55 PM (MMCT) / 09:24 PM (BVI) | 07:30 AM | ~10 hrs 30 mins |
| Train | 12227 Mumbai Duronto Express | 11:10 PM | 08:40 AM | ~9 hrs 30 mins |
| Train | 22943 Daund Indore Express | 07:50 PM (Vasai Road) | 06:25 AM | ~10 hrs 35 mins |
| Bus | Multi-Axle AC Sleeper Buses (Borivali / Andheri / Thane) | 03:00 PM – 06:00 PM | 05:00 AM – 08:00 AM | ~14–16 hrs |
| Flight | Mumbai (BOM) to Indore Airport (IDR)* (then 55 km by bus/cab) | Daily flights (e.g., 06:00 AM / 07:00 PM) | Indore arrival: 07:15 AM / 08:15 PM | ~1 hr 15 mins flight time |
From Ahmedabad / Surat: Routes Gujarati Pilgrims Use
Ahmedabad to Ujjain by Train
There are direct and connecting trains from Ahmedabad to Ujjain making rail a popular and comfortable option for Gujarati pilgrims.
Surat to Ujjain by Train
Surat has train connectivity to Ujjain usually via Ahmedabad or Vadodara depending on the specific train.
Bus and Road Routes
Given the well-connected highway network between Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, bus and private taxi options are also commonly used, especially for families traveling together.
Best Travel Option for Families
For families those with elderly members an overnight train is often more comfortable than a long daytime road journey. It is an idea to plan around a train that arrives in the morning so you are not rushing straight to the temple after a long trip.
From Ahmedabad to Ujjain Transport Mode
| Transport Mode | Train/Flight Name & Number | Departure Time (Ahmedabad) | Arrival Time (Ujjain) | Travel Duration |
| Train | 19309 Shanti Express | 07:10 PM | 03:45 AM | ~8 hrs 35 mins |
| Train | 19167 Sabarmati Express | 11:10 PM | 06:50 AM | ~7 hrs 40 mins |
| Train | 11463 Somnath – Jabalpur Express | 06:35 PM | 02:30 AM | ~7 hrs 55 mins |
| Bus | GSRTC / Private Sleeper Buses | 09:00 PM – 11:00 PM | 05:00 AM – 07:00 AM | ~8–9 hrs |
| Flight | Ahmedabad (AMD) to Indore Airport (IDR)* | Direct flights available | – | ~1 hr 10 mins flight time |
Getting Around Ujjain: Auto, E-Rickshaw and Temple Distances
Auto-Rickshaw Services
Auto-rickshaws are readily available at the railway station, bus stand and around the city. They are the common way to reach the temple from your stay.
E-Rickshaw Availability
E-rickshaws also operate widely within Ujjain. Are a cheap convenient way to cover short distances, including to and from the temple area.
Local Taxi Options
App-based and local taxis are available for more comfort, particularly useful for families or those traveling with luggage.
Distance Between Major Temples
- Mahakaleshwar Temple is the jyotirlinga and central point of most pilgrim visits
- Kal Bhairav Temple is a short ride from Mahakaleshwar
- Harsiddhi Temple is close to the Mahakaleshwar area
- Ram Ghat is on the banks of the Shipra river a short distance from the temple
- Mangalnath Temple is a bit further out usually visited as a separate short trip
Arriving at Odd Hours? How Our Homestays Handle Check-in
Early Morning Check-in Support
Since many pilgrims arrive to attend the pre-dawn Bhasma Aarti, homestays near Mahakal Temple are generally set up to handle early morning check-ins without the hassle of a hotels shift timing.
Late Night Arrival Assistance
Trains and buses often arrive at hours and a homestay host familiar with these patterns can make late check-ins far smoother than an unfamiliar hotel front desk.
Pickup Guidance from Railway Station and Airport
hosts can usually guide you on the best way to reach the property from the railway station, bus stand or Indore Airport based on your actual arrival time.
Book Your Homestay Near Mahakal Temple
If your trip is built around a Bhasma Aarti visit book a homestay within walking distance of the temple so odd-hour arrivals and early mornings feel less stressful.
How far is Ujjain Railway Station from Mahakal Temple?
It is about 1.5 to 2 kilometer you can take an auto-rickshaw. It will take around 10 to 15 minutes or you can walk and it will take around 20 minutes.
No matter how you get to Ujjain whether you take a train or a flight to Indore or come by road from Bhopal or Gujarat it is not too hard to get to Ujjain once you figure out which way is best for you and your money and time. Trains are usually the most comfortable way to travel long distances but if you are coming from really far away it might be better to fly to Indore and then take a short taxi ride.
No matter which way you choose to get to Ujjain plan when you will arrive so you can visit the temple when you want especially if you want to see the morning Bhasma Aarti. It is an idea to book a homestay, near Mahakal Temple ahead of time so when you get to Ujjain you can just walk to the temple and not have to worry about finding a way to get there.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1.What is the nearest airport to Ujjain?
The nearest airport to Ujjain is Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Airport in Indore which’s about 55 km away. It is well connected to big cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad.
2.How far is Indore Airport from Ujjain?
It is 55 km, typically a 1 to 1.5-hour drive by taxi depending on traffic. The road is well connected, so cabs are easily available right outside the airport. Sharing a cab in a group can also work out cheaper.
3.Which is the railway station to Mahakal Temple?
Ujjain Junction is the railway station, only about 1.5 to 2 km from the temple. Since it sits right in the city, no long transfers are needed after your train arrives. Auto-rickshaws outside the station can get you there in about 10 to 15 minutes.
4.Is there a train from Delhi, to Ujjain?
Yes there are trains that run directly between Delhi and Ujjain Junction though journey times vary by train so it is a good idea to compare options before booking. The journey usually takes around 10 to 15 hours.
5.Which is the way to reach Ujjain?
Train and bus options are usually the way to travel especially when you are going a long way compared to taking a flight or a private taxi. If coming from a far off city, flying to Indore and taking a short taxi ride can also save time.
6.How much does a taxi from Indore Airport to Ujjain cost?
You will have to pay around ₹1,200 to ₹2,500 one way it depends on what kind of vehicle you take and how many people want a taxi at that time. Prices can go up slightly during festival seasons or late night hours.
7.Are buses available from Bhopal to Ujjain throughout the day?
Yes buses go from Bhopal to Ujjain all day you can also take a train or a taxi. The road journey generally takes around 4 to 5 hours, making buses a budget-friendly option.
8.How far is Ujjain Railway Station from Mahakal Temple?
It is about 1.5 to 2 kilometers you can take an auto-rickshaw. It will take around 10 to 15 minutes or you can walk and it will take around 20 minutes.
Conclusion
Getting to Ujjain is not that hard when you figure out where you are coming from and what you want to do. If you are coming from Delhi or Mumbai you can take a train or you can fly to Indore and then take a taxi, which is faster. People from Bhopal, Ahmedabad and Surat have a lot of options like trains, buses and roads to get to Ujjain.If you are flying Indore is the place to land. Then you can take a taxi to Ujjain, which is only 55 kilometers away. When you get to Ujjain you can use autos and e-rickshaws to get around the city and visit temples like Kal Bhairav, Harsiddhi and Ram Ghat. It is pretty cheap.
The important thing is to plan when you arrive so you can see the Bhasma Aarti and stay in a homestay near Mahakal Temple so you do not feel stressed when you get to Ujjain at a weird time. If you pick the way to travel from your city your trip to Ujjain will be easy, from the start whether you take a train, bus or flight to get there.
