Temple
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Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir

4.7
·671 reviews·Ujjain, India

Home to a colossal 18-foot Ganesha idol, this ancient temple is a crucial spiritual stop before visiting Mahakal.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
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Temple

Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir

Best Time

Early mornings

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Home to a colossal 18-foot Ganesha idol, this ancient temple is a crucial spiritual stop before visiting Mahakal.

4.7
(671 reviews)

"The idol of Lord Ganesha is really huge and impressive. You can feel a peaceful vibe the moment you enter."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Essential Pre-Mahakal Stop

Don't miss this temple before Mahakal darshan; it's considered a vital part of the pilgrimage.

👟 Footwear Management

Be prepared for slightly unorganized footwear collection, especially during peak hours.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Gigantic Ganesha Idol

The Gigantic Ganesha Idol

Temple Entrance

Marvel at the colossal 18-foot-high, 10-foot-wide idol of Lord Ganesha, a truly awe-inspiring sight.

Spiritual Significance

Spiritual Significance

Main Sanctum

Experience the deep spiritual vibe and historical importance of this ancient temple, a key stop before Mahakal darshan.

Clockwise Trunk

Clockwise Trunk

Ganesha Idol

Observe the unique clockwise trunk of the Ganesha idol, adorned with a trident and swastika on its head.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Peace

To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for early mornings or late evenings. Redditors suggest that visiting before or after the main Mahakal Temple rush can offer a more serene experience. Plan your visit around the temple's Aarti timings for a spiritually charged atmosphere.

Proximity to Mahakal Temple

Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir is conveniently located opposite Mahakal Temple's Gate No. 4. Many pilgrims consider a visit here essential before or after their Mahakal darshan, making it a natural part of your Ujjain spiritual itinerary.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Beat the crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings before Aarti
Why
Spiritual ambiance
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Before you meet Mahakal, you meet the Vighnaharta. 🕉️ At the entrance of Ujjain’s sacred path stands Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir! Not by chance, but by divine design.. 🔮 No darshan of Mahakal is considered complete without first bowing before Lord Ganesha, the One who clears obstacles, calms the mind, and prepares the soul. Because before you stand before the Lord of Time, ⏳ you seek blessings from ...
sewakanchi
54 likes • 522 views

🎯 Essential Pre-Mahakal Stop

Don't miss this temple before Mahakal darshan; it's considered a vital part of the pilgrimage. Instagram

👟 Footwear Management

Be prepared for slightly unorganized footwear collection, especially during peak hours. Reddit

Day 3: Indore to Ujjain Arrival In the morning, after breakfast, we left for Ujjain. we checked into the hotel and took some rest. Afterwards, we embarked on a Ujjain sightseeing tour, visiting notable attractions such as: - Kal Bhairav Temple - Harsiddhi Temple - Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir - Chintaman Ganesh Temple - Mangalnath Temple We explored these iconic sites, immersing ourselves in the ric...
chini_crackerjacks_
27 likes • 515 views
reddit.com

I want to visit mahakal. Need help

📸 Capture the Grandeur

The sheer size of the Ganesha idol is a must-photograph moment. TikTok

⏳ Quick Visit

Most visitors find it takes 15 minutes or less to see the main temple area. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Essential Pre-Mahakal Stop

Don't miss this temple before Mahakal darshan; it's considered a vital part of the pilgrimage. Instagram

👟 Footwear Management

Be prepared for slightly unorganized footwear collection, especially during peak hours. Reddit

📸 Capture the Grandeur

The sheer size of the Ganesha idol is a must-photograph moment. TikTok

⏳ Quick Visit

Most visitors find it takes 15 minutes or less to see the main temple area. Reddit

🅿️ Parking Challenges

Limited parking is available, so consider arriving early or using alternative transport. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(671 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the immense size and spiritual significance of the Ganesha idol at Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir, often considering it a vital part of their Ujjain pilgrimage. While the temple's historical importance and peaceful vibe are appreciated, some reviews note that cleanliness and maintenance could be enhanced, and footwear management can be a bit chaotic during busy periods.

"This place is near Mahakal Temple, you can directly view Mahakal Temple in front of this place. Bade Ganeshji Temple is very old and historical place. You can read the history written over there. Ganpati Bappa Morya. Must visit this Temple. 🛕"

INDIA FaNtaSTicFooDLoG

"Visited Shree Bada Ganesh Mandir recently.
The temple has great spiritual importance in Ujjain.
The idol of Lord Ganesha is really huge and impressive.
You can feel a peaceful vibe the moment you enter.
Architecture is traditional and holds cultural value.

The location is central and easy to find via Google Maps.
However, the surrounding area feels a bit congested.
There’s limited parking space, especially during rush hours.
Cleanliness could be improved, especially around the entrance.
Footwear management is a bit unorganized.

There are usually many visitors, which creates long queues.
Despite the crowd, darshan was smooth after a short wait.
Local shops outside the temple add to the charm but create noise.
The temple premises are not very well-maintained.
Some walls and areas look old and need restoration.

Priests were available, but a few seemed in a hurry.
It would be nice if there were signboards with historical info.
Lighting inside the mandir was decent but could be better.
Aarti experience was good but not very memorable.
Not much seating area available for elderly people.

Overall, it’s a good place to visit once for spiritual reasons.
With better cleanliness and management, it could be great.
It holds sentimental and religious value for many."

Arviind Kuntal

"The Ganesh idol at the Bade Ganesh Ji ka Mandir is about 18 feet high and 10 feet wide and the trunk of Lord Ganesh in this statue is clockwise. There are a trident and swastika on the head of the statue & the third eye in the middle."

Vyom

What People Like

Gigantic Ganesha idol
Spiritual importance
Proximity to Mahakal

What People Dislike

Cleanliness concerns
Footwear management
Congested surroundings

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir is conveniently located directly opposite Gate No. 4 of the Mahakal Temple in Ujjain. You can easily reach it by auto-rickshaw or taxi from anywhere in the city. Many pilgrims visit it as part of their Mahakal Temple itinerary. InstagramReddit

Parking at Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir can be challenging, especially during peak hours and festival times. The surrounding area is often congested, and dedicated parking space is limited. It's advisable to arrive early or consider using local transport like auto-rickshaws. Reddit

Since Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir is directly opposite Mahakal Temple, you can simply walk across the road. It's a very short distance, making it easy to combine your visits. Reddit

Traffic in Ujjain, especially around the Mahakal Temple area, can be heavy. It's best to rely on local navigation apps or ask your driver for the most current traffic conditions. Early morning or late evening visits usually have less traffic. Reddit

Yes, Ujjain has a local bus service, and auto-rickshaws are readily available. You can ask any auto-rickshaw driver to take you to Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir, and they will know the location, especially in relation to Mahakal Temple. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is typically no entry fee to visit Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir. It is a public temple, and entry is free for all devotees and visitors. Reddit

The temple is generally open throughout the day, from early morning until late evening. However, specific timings can vary, especially around Aarti ceremonies. It's best to visit during daylight hours for the best experience. Reddit

No advance booking is required for Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir as there is no entry fee. You can visit anytime during its operating hours. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed inside the temple premises, but it's always respectful to avoid using flash photography directly at the idols or during Aarti. Always be mindful of other devotees and follow any specific signage. TikTok

To avoid long queues, it's recommended to visit Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir early in the morning, shortly after it opens, or late in the evening. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The primary attraction is the massive idol of Lord Ganesha, which stands about 18 feet high and 10 feet wide. The idol is unique with its clockwise trunk, trident, and swastika on its head. Reddit

Most visitors find that a visit to Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir takes around 15 minutes to half an hour to fully experience the main idol and the temple atmosphere. Reddit

Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir holds significant spiritual importance in Ujjain. It is believed that a visit here is essential before proceeding to Mahakal Temple, as Lord Ganesha is the remover of obstacles. Instagram

The temple premises might be challenging for the elderly or those with mobility issues due to the traditional architecture and potential crowds. There is limited seating available. It's advisable to visit during less crowded times. Reddit

While the spiritual ambiance is strong, reviews suggest that cleanliness, especially around the entrance and in some older areas, could be improved. Footwear management can also be a bit unorganized. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the area around Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir and Mahakal Temple is bustling with local eateries and street food vendors. You can find various Indian snacks and meals. Reddit

You can find traditional Ujjain street food, sweets, and simple vegetarian meals. Look for local specialties like poha, jalebi, and chaat. Reddit

While specific restaurant recommendations vary, the vicinity of Mahakal Temple offers numerous small eateries. It's best to explore the local options for an authentic experience. Reddit

Eating street food can be a great way to experience local flavors, but it's always wise to choose vendors who appear clean and have a good turnover of customers. Reddit

Absolutely. Ujjain is a holy city, and most food establishments around temples primarily serve pure vegetarian fare. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The most striking photo opportunity is the colossal Ganesha idol itself. Capturing its scale and unique features is a must. The temple architecture and the general spiritual ambiance also make for great shots. TikTok

Generally, photography is permitted, but avoid using flash directly at the deities or during religious ceremonies like Aarti. Always be respectful of the sanctity of the place and other devotees. TikTok

The lighting inside the temple is decent, but it can be somewhat dim in certain areas. Natural light from the entrance helps, but for capturing details of the idol, good camera settings are important. Reddit

It can be challenging to get unobstructed photos during peak hours due to the crowds. Visiting during off-peak times or being patient and strategic with your shots can help. Reddit

The sheer size of the Ganesha idol, its clockwise trunk, and the trident/swastika on its head are unique photographic elements. The temple's historical architecture also offers visual appeal. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir with children can be an awe-inspiring experience, primarily due to the massive Ganesha idol. Kids are often fascinated by its sheer size and unique features. The temple's proximity to Mahakal Temple makes it an easy addition to a family's Ujjain tour. TikTok

Tips for families: Visit during less crowded hours, ideally early morning, to allow children to explore without feeling overwhelmed. Be prepared for the footwear management system, which might require extra attention with little ones. While there isn't much in terms of dedicated play areas, the visual spectacle of the idol itself is usually enough to keep children engaged for a short visit. Reddit

🙏 Spiritual Seekers & Pilgrims

For those on a spiritual journey, Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir is a non-negotiable stop. Its role as the gateway to Mahakal darshan is paramount. The temple offers a powerful spiritual ambiance, amplified by the colossal idol and the traditional chants. Instagram

Recommendations: Plan your visit to coincide with the temple's Aarti timings for a more profound experience. Take time to absorb the spiritual energy and understand the significance of seeking Lord Ganesha's blessings before proceeding to Mahakal. Many find the experience deeply moving and essential to their pilgrimage. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Culture Enthusiasts

The unique and massive Ganesha idol is a dream subject for photographers. Its scale, the clockwise trunk, and the symbolic adornments offer distinct visual narratives. The temple's traditional architecture also provides a backdrop rich in cultural heritage. TikTok

Photography tips: Visit during the golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for softer light. Be mindful of crowds and respectful of the sanctity of the place when composing your shots. The surrounding area, with its local shops and bustling activity, also offers opportunities for capturing the local Ujjain culture. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Colossal Ganesha Idol

The most striking feature of Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir is undoubtedly its gigantic idol of Lord Ganesha. Standing at an impressive 18 feet high and 10 feet wide, it dwarfs visitors and commands immediate attention. The idol is not just large; it's also unique, featuring a clockwise trunk, a detail rarely seen. Adding to its divine iconography, the idol's head is adorned with a trident and a swastika, symbols of immense spiritual significance. This monumental sculpture is the heart of the temple and the primary reason many pilgrims visit. Reddit

The sheer scale of the idol creates a powerful visual impact, making it a memorable sight for all who enter. The craftsmanship, despite the age of the temple, is remarkable, conveying a sense of divine presence. Many visitors are awestruck by its size and the intricate details that are visible even from a distance. TikTok

When you visit, take a moment to appreciate the details: the serene expression, the powerful form, and the symbolic adornments. It's a testament to the devotion and artistry of its creators, embodying the essence of Lord Ganesha as the remover of obstacles and the god of beginnings. Reddit

Spiritual Significance and Pilgrimage Route

Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir is more than just a temple with a large idol; it holds profound spiritual significance within the Ujjain pilgrimage circuit. It is widely believed that no visit to the sacred Mahakal Temple is truly complete without first seeking the blessings of Lord Ganesha here. As the Vighnaharta (remover of obstacles), Lord Ganesha is invoked to clear the path for devotees before they face the formidable presence of Lord Shiva at Mahakal. Instagram

This tradition makes Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir an essential stop for pilgrims. Many travelers, like those discussing on Reddit, plan their Ujjain itinerary to include this temple either before or after their darshan at Mahakal. The temple's location, directly opposite Mahakal Temple's Gate No. 4, further reinforces this connection, making it a seamless part of the spiritual journey. Reddit

The atmosphere inside the temple is described as having a peaceful vibe, despite the potential for crowds. The chiming of bells and the chanting of mantras contribute to an immersive spiritual experience. It's a place where devotees come to prepare their minds and souls for the divine encounter at Mahakal, seeking blessings for a smooth and fulfilling pilgrimage. Reddit

Historical Context and Temple Condition

Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir is an ancient and historical place in Ujjain, deeply rooted in the city's religious heritage. While the exact age of the temple is not always explicitly stated, its traditional architecture and the reverence it commands suggest centuries of existence. The temple's history is intertwined with the broader narrative of Ujjain as a significant spiritual center in India. Reddit

However, reviews indicate that the temple's maintenance and upkeep could be improved. Some areas and walls appear old and in need of restoration. While the spiritual essence remains strong, the physical condition of some parts of the premises, including cleanliness around the entrance, has been noted as an area for potential enhancement. Reddit

Despite these observations, the temple's historical value and the grandeur of its main idol continue to draw devotees and tourists alike. The local shops outside the temple add to the vibrant, albeit sometimes noisy, charm of the area. It's a place where history, spirituality, and local life converge. Reddit

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