Ram Ghat

Ram Ghat is where Ujjain meets its sacred river. The Shipra is revered as one of India's holiest rivers, and bathing here is believed to wash away sins and bring blessings. For pilgrims arriving in the city, a dip at Ram Ghat before darshan at Mahakal is a cherished tradition.

The ghat is also at the centre of the Simhastha, Ujjain's Kumbh Mela, when the principal bathing days draw sadhus, akharas and pilgrims in vast numbers. Even on an ordinary day, the evening Shipra aarti, with its lamps, bells and chanting reflected on the water, is one of the most moving experiences Ujjain has to offer.

According to tradition, the ghat takes its name from Lord Rama, who is said to have performed rites for his father, King Dasharatha, on the banks of the Shipra here during his exile. Whatever its origins, Ram Ghat has been the city's principal bathing ghat for generations.

The ghats along the Shipra were renovated during the Scindia period, and have been extended and improved in preparation for successive Simhasthas, when they must hold enormous crowds. The Kartik Mela is also held on the river.

By day, Ram Ghat is a lively, unhurried place: pilgrims bathing, priests performing rituals for families, flower and diya sellers along the steps, and small shrines lining the riverbank. Boats are sometimes available for a short trip on the river.

As evening falls, crowds gather for the Shipra aarti. Priests perform the ritual with large brass lamps while bells ring and devotees float diyas on the water. Arrive a little early to find a good spot on the steps. During festivals and the Simhastha, the ghat becomes extremely crowded and police manage access, so follow their directions closely.

• ✓Arrive early for the evening aarti to find a comfortable place on the steps.
• ✓If you bathe, stay within the marked or shallow areas and keep an eye on children; the steps can be slippery.
• ✓Carry a change of clothes and a small bag for wet items; changing facilities are basic.
• ✓Buy diyas from the vendors on the ghat and avoid plastic offerings in the river.
• ✓Keep valuables secure in crowds, and follow police instructions during festivals and Simhastha.

Ram Ghat is on the Shipra in the old city, approximately a short walk from Harsiddhi and Mahakaleshwar. Take an auto-rickshaw, e-rickshaw or cab from Ujjain Junction to the Mahakal or Harsiddhi area and walk down to the river.

Coming from outside the city? See our guide on how to reach Ujjain by rail, air and road, and the local transport guide for getting around once you arrive.

Key details about Ram Ghat. Arrangements can change on festival days, so check locally or ask our team when you plan your visit.

Kartik Mela

A fair is traditionally held on the Shipra in the Hindu month of Kartik; check the district administration for current dates.

Why the Ujjain Kumbh is called Simhastha

It is held when Jupiter is in Leo (Simha) and the Sun is in Aries; Ujjain is one of the four Kumbh sites, with Haridwar, Prayagraj and Nashik.