Located on the banks of River Gomti, the sacred place of Naimisharanya is linked to Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, Goddess Sati and Lord Shiva. The word 'nemi' refers to the outer surface of the Sudarshana chakra (Lord Vishnu's weapon), and it is said that the place where it fell came to be known as Naimisharanya, the boundary of which includes the surrounding forest area. The spot where the chakra struck the earth, a water spring came out. It is believed to be the first and the most sacred of all the pilgrim centres for Hindus, and devotees visit this place to take a dip in the holy water. It has been said that Rama Charitha Manas was written here by poet Tulsidas. Another belief associated with Naimisharanya says that if you perform penance here for 12 years, you will be granted entrance to Brahmaloka (heaven).
Major attractions in Naimisharanya include Chakratirth, which marks the spot where Brahma’s chakra fell; Dashashwamedha Ghat, where Lord Rama performed the tenth Ashwamedha Yagna; Hanuman Garhi, where Lord Hanuman is said to have emerged after his victory over Ahiravana in Patal Lok; Lalita Devi Temple, dedicated to the presiding deity of Naimisharanya; NardanandSaraswati Ashram, a centre for spiritual education; Pandal Kila, the fort of king Virat from the epic Mahabharata; Sita Kund, where Goddess Sita is said to have bathed before going into exile, and many other significant spots.
Places to Visit In Naimisharanya
Chakratirth
Chakratirth is one of the most popular Hindu pilgrimage sites in Uttar Pradesh. It is believed to be the place where 8000 sages worshipped god and performed penance at the same time. According to a mythological tale, it is the same place where the wheel (chakra) of Lord Brahma made an opening in the earth, thereby resulting in the creation of an enormous body of weather. A holy dip in the water of this pond is believed to sanctify one’s mind, body and soul. Around the complex of Chakratirth, there are other sacred sites which also happen to be the top tourist attractions in Uttar Pradesh.
Hanuman Garhi
Devoted to Lord Hanuman, it is an ancient sacred site in Naimisharanya that possesses a rich mythological significance. The theme of this temple is a mythological event which depicts the emergence of Lord Hanuman from Patal Lok (underworld).
Lalita Devi Temple
Dedicated to Lalita Devi - the presiding deity of Naimisharanya, it is counted amongst the Shakti Peethas, thus making it a highly revered Hindu shrine in Uttar Pradesh. The architecture of this temple draws a lot of admiration from devotees. It is beautifully built with a balanced cantilever. Besides, the entrance of this renowned pilgrimage site in Naimisharanya is flanked by elephant statues on both sides.
Vyas Gaddi
Vyas Gaddi is very unique and holy place in Naimisharanya. It is an ancient religious place to worship Saint Vyas and other deities. As per the beliefs, it is the same place where Saint Veda Vyasa divided the Vedas into four parts and wrote the Puranas. Inside the main abode, Vyas Gaddi has a splendid idol of Vyasa Deva.
