Mahakaleshwar Temple is located at the banks of the River Kshipra, in the covered Mahakal forest in the Ujjain city, Madhya Pradesh. This Jyotirlinga in Madhya Pradesh is a significant pilgrimage region in Central India.

There are numerous mythologies associated with how this Jyotirlinga appeared and came into its presence. As per the Puranas, there existed a five-year-old boy named Shrikar who was fascinated by the affection of King Chandrasena of Ujjain towards Lord Shiva. Shrikar picked up a stone and began worshipping Shiva. Several people attempted to discourage him in numerous manners, but his dedication kept accumulating. Pleased by his affection, Lord Shiva determined the aspect of a Jyotirlinga and remained in the Mahakal forest.

The Mahakaleshwar Temple is deemed important by the Hindus for another justification. It is among one of those seven “Mukti-Sthal” – the spot that can extricate a human.