One of the holiest pilgrimage centres, Ujjain is the modern name for Ujjayini. Legend has it that the God-like king Shiva of Avanti commemorated his victory over the demon ruler of Tripura on the banks of river Narmada by changing the name of his capital, Avantipura to Ujjayini. Modern Ujjain is situated on the banks of the river Shipra, regarded since time immemorial as sacred.

Ujjain abound in temples, with hoary old traditions. Though most have been built upon ancient sites, none have survived in their original splendour. Desecrated and despoiled time and time again, the structures that stand today are of a more recent date, renovated or rebuilt over the years. And yet, the temples form an integral part of the city and contribute to the continuity of Ujjain's tradition of greatness.