Bhartrihari Gufa

Bhartrihari is remembered in Sanskrit literature as the author of the Shatakatraya, which includes the Vairagya Shatak, Niti Shatak and Shringar Shatak. According to tradition he was a king of Ujjain and the elder brother of Vikramaditya, and he spent his later years in meditation in these caves.

Historians differ on the exact details of his life. The caves are small and low, and they stand next to older Nath tradition shrines. The accounts here are best read as tradition.

The place speaks of vairagya, the spirit of detachment, and attracts those interested in yoga and the Nath tradition. Many visitors come for quiet and to read a verse or two from Bhartrihari’s works.

It does not need a ritual or a special pujan; a short, silent visit is sufficient.

Generally open during the daytime until the evening. The cave passages are narrow, so entry may be controlled when it is crowded.

Timings change on festivals and in different seasons. Please check the official sources before you travel.

Simple, modest clothing. Footwear is left outside.

• About 3 to 4 km from the Mahakaleshwar temple, near Gadkalika, on the bank of the Kshipra.
• About 3 km from Ujjain Junction railway station by auto, e-rickshaw or cab.
• Combine it with Gadkalika on the same trip.