Written by Kshitij Kumawat · Ujjain local, documenting Mahakaleshwar since 2018
Independent guide — kept up to date and verified against the official temple portal www.shrimahakaleshwar.mp.gov.in
Sawan (Shravan) is the holiest month for Lord Shiva worship. The 4 Mondays of Sawan 2026 see lakhs of devotees at Mahakaleshwar Ujjain. Each Monday hosts a Shahi Sawari procession where Lord Mahakal is taken in a royal palki around the city. This guide covers all 2026 dates, booking tips, and crowd management.
Sawan 2026 dates
| Sawan Somvar | Date 2026 | Special |
|---|---|---|
| Sawan begins | 10 July 2026 | Adhik Maas this year |
| 1st Sawan Monday | 13 July 2026 | 1st Shahi Sawari |
| 2nd Sawan Monday | 20 July 2026 | 2nd Shahi Sawari |
| 3rd Sawan Monday | 27 July 2026 | 3rd Shahi Sawari (largest) |
| 4th Sawan Monday | 3 Aug 2026 | 4th Shahi Sawari |
| Final Shahi Sawari | 10 Aug 2026 | Last royal procession before Sawan ends |
Shahi Sawari procession
Shahi Sawari starts at 4 PM from the Mahakal Temple. The deity is taken in 5 different forms (Manmahesh, Chandramoulishwar, Shri Umamaheshwar, Shri Shivtandav, Shri Holkar) on a silver palki around the old city, ending at Ram Ghat for arati and back to the temple by 10 PM.
Booking for Sawan Mondays
- Bhasma Aarti slots open 60 days ahead. For 13 July, slots open 14 May 2026 at 12 AM
- VIP Shighra Darshan slots fill 1 to 2 days before Sawan Monday
- Free queue takes 6 to 8 hours. Reach Gate 1 by 4 AM
Where to watch the Shahi Sawari
- Mahakal Temple Gate 1: starting point, 4 PM
- Tower Square: 5 PM, big crowd
- Ram Ghat: 7 PM, evening aarti at the river
- Shipra bridge: 8 PM, return route
Frequently asked questions
When is Sawan 2026?
Sawan starts 10 July 2026. The 4 Sawan Mondays are 13 July, 20 July, 27 July, and 3 August 2026.
What time is Shahi Sawari on Sawan Monday?
Starts 4 PM from Mahakal Temple. Returns by 10 PM. Watch at Ram Ghat for evening aarti.
How crowded is Mahakal on Sawan Monday?
Very crowded. Expect 5 to 7 lakh devotees per Monday. Free queue takes 6 to 8 hours.
Can I book Bhasma Aarti for Sawan Monday?
Yes, but slots open exactly 60 days before and fill within 60 seconds. Set a reminder for the booking date.