Dewas Chamunda Tekri Day Trip from Ujjain: Twin Swayambhu Goddesses, Ropeway & Hilltop Shakti

Executive summary

Thirty-five kilometres east of Ujjain, Dewas Tekri rises as a hilltop shrine to Maa Chamunda and Maa Tulja Bhavani — two self-manifested (Swayambhu) goddesses revered as Shakti Peethas. For pilgrims staying in Ujjain, this is the easiest half-day spiritual side-trip: a short drive, an operational ropeway to the summit, and twin temples with city views. It is the perfect counterpoint to Mahakaleshwar's Shiva energy — the fierce, protective Shakti of the region.

The twin goddesses of Dewas Tekri

Dewas Tekri is not a single temple but a hilltop complex housing two revered shrines:

Maa Chamunda (Badi Mata / elder mother) — The fierce form of Durga, associated with the destruction of evil and protection of devotees. Chamunda is one of the Matrikas and a central figure in Tantric and Shakta traditions.

Maa Tulja Bhavani (Chhoti Mata / younger mother) — The family deity (kuladevi) of many Maratha and Rajput lineages, revered as a warrior goddess who grants strength and victory.

Local tradition holds that Goddess Tulja Bhavani is Badi Mata and Goddess Chamunda is Chhoti Mata — the elder and younger mother watching over the region together. Wikipedia notes a folk belief in a secret tunnel connecting Mata Tekri to Bharthari Cave in Ujjain, said to have been used by King Bharthari.

Getting there from Ujjain

Dewas is approximately 35 km from Ujjain, about 45–50 minutes by road via State Highway 18. The road is smooth and well-maintained, making it an easy morning or afternoon excursion.

Hilltop access options:

• Ropeway / cable car: A modern ropeway operates up the hill, taking devotees directly to the temple complex in minutes. This is ideal for elderly pilgrims and families with children.
• Paved stairs: A pedestrian path for those who prefer to walk the ascent.
• Vehicle ramp: Motorable access up to designated points near the complex.

Dewas railway station is about 2 km from the temple, and the bus stand is directly in front of the temple, so public transport options are also available if you are not driving.

Temple timings and practicalities

Dewas Mata Mandir is generally open daily from roughly 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The ropeway operates during similar hours. Because this is an active Shakti temple, dress modestly, remove footwear before entering the sanctum, and carry water — the hilltop can be exposed.

Combine your visit with Meetha Talab and Pawar Palace in Dewas town if you have extra time. Many pilgrims make this a half-day trip: leave Ujjain after breakfast, spend two to three hours at Tekri, and return by lunchtime or early afternoon.

Why visit Dewas Tekri from Ujjain

Staying in Ujjain makes Dewas Tekri a relaxed half-day rather than a rushed day trip from Indore (which is also 35 km away but in the opposite direction, adding unnecessary backtracking). From your Ujjain base, you can attend Bhasma Aarti at Mahakaleshwar at dawn and still reach Dewas Tekri by mid-morning.

Source: Madhya Pradesh Tourism.