Maharishi Sandipani Ashram

Sandipani Ashram is where, according to tradition, the young Krishna came to Ujjain with his brother Balarama to study under the sage Sandipani. Here, too, Krishna is said to have met Sudama, whose lifelong friendship with him became one of the most loved stories in Indian devotion.

For families, the ashram offers something different from the city's great temples: a place to tell children about the value of learning, respect for one's teacher and true friendship. The guru-shishya tradition it represents remains deeply important across India, and many visitors come specifically to honour their own teachers.

Legend says Krishna mastered the sixty-four arts and the scriptures in a remarkably short time here, and that as guru dakshina he restored to Sandipani his lost son. The area around the ashram is known as Ankpat, a name that local tradition links to the place where Krishna washed his writing tablet.

The Gomti Kund at the ashram is associated with another legend: that Krishna called the waters of the sacred rivers here so that his guru would not have to travel to bathe in them. The shrines and buildings on the site have been developed and renovated over the years.

The ashram is a quiet complex with a small temple to Guru Sandipani and images of Krishna, Balarama and Sudama in the attire of students. Paintings and panels tell the stories associated with the site, and the Gomti Kund lies within the grounds. There is also a Shiva shrine, as Ujjain's religious life is never far from Mahakal.

The visit is relaxed and unhurried, usually taking well under an hour. It is often paired with Mangalnath, which is on the same route, making it an easy half-day outing from the city.

• ✓Combine your visit with Mangalnath Temple, which lies on the same route.
• ✓It is a good stop for children; share the stories of Krishna and Sudama before you go.
• ✓Dress modestly and remove footwear before entering the shrines.
• ✓Visit in the morning or late afternoon in summer, and carry water.
• ✓Respect any rules on photography inside the shrines.

Sandipani Ashram is on the northern side of the city along the Ankpat route, on the way to Mangalnath. Take an auto-rickshaw, e-rickshaw or cab from Ujjain Junction or the Mahakal area.

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 Sandipani Ashram. Arrangements can change on festival days, so check locally or ask our team when you plan your visit.

Sandipani Ashram tradition

Tradition holds that Krishna and Sudama studied at Guru Sandipani's ashram. The nearby area, Ankpat, is believed to be where Krishna washed his writing tablets, and the Gomti Kund once supplied the ashram's water.