Nanisharang – The Abode of 88,000 Sages

Naimisharanya, often called Nanisharang locally, is an ancient forest retreat mentioned in the Puranas as a site where 88,000 sages performed penance. It is considered a “Swayamvyakta Kshetras,” a self-manifested holy site. The most significant point is the Chakra Tirth, a holy pond created when Lord Vishnu’s wheel (Chakra) fell to earth. Devotees perform a parikrama (circumambulation) of this sacred water body. Other must-visit spots include the Vyas Gaddi, where Sage Vyasa divided the Vedas, and the Lalita Devi Temple, one of the Shakti Peethas. This destination is perfect for those seeking a quiet, meditative atmosphere away from the bustling city crowds, offering deep insights into Vedic traditions and ancient mythology.

Naimisharanya is one of the most ancient spiritual centers of India, mentioned in the Vedas, Puranas, Mahabharata, and Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Vishnu stopped the wheel (chakra) here, making it eternally sacred.

Chakra Tirth (Chakra Kund): Chakra Tirth is the spiritual nucleus of Naimisharanya. According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Vishnu released his Sudarshan Chakra to determine the most sacred place on earth, and it stopped here. The circular water body marks that divine moment. Sages performed intense penance around this kund, and it is believed that all pilgrimages are incomplete without a dip here. The water constantly flows in a circular motion, symbolizing eternity and cosmic balance. Chakra Tirth is especially significant during Amavasya, Purnima, and solar eclipses when thousands gather for ritual bathing.
Entry Time: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free

Lalita Devi Temple (Shakti Peetha): Lalita Devi Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, where the heart of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen. This makes it an extremely powerful spiritual center of Shakti worship. Mentioned in ancient Puranas, the temple attracts devotees seeking strength, protection, and fulfillment of wishes. The goddess is worshipped in a fierce yet benevolent form. Navratri celebrations here are grand and deeply devotional. The temple represents divine feminine energy and balance.
Entry Time: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free

Vyasa Gaddi: Vyasa Gaddi marks the sacred seat where Maharishi Ved Vyasa composed the Mahabharata and 18 Puranas. It is believed that sages gathered here to listen to discourses that later became sacred texts. The site symbolizes India’s spiritual and intellectual heritage. Even today, scholars and saints meditate here. Vyasa Gaddi represents the transmission of divine knowledge to humanity.
Entry Time: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free

Hanuman Garhi (Naimisharanya): This temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, revered here as the protector of sages and devotees. According to belief, Hanuman guarded Naimisharanya during periods of intense penance. The temple is a center of devotion, strength, and fearlessness. Tuesdays and Saturdays witness large crowds. The peaceful forest surroundings enhance spiritual concentration.
Entry Time: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free

Dadhichi Kund: Dadhichi Kund commemorates Rishi Dadhichi, who sacrificed his bones to create Indra’s Vajra weapon to defeat demon Vritrasura. This ultimate act of selflessness symbolizes supreme sacrifice for dharma. The kund is revered as a place of courage, renunciation, and duty. Devotees take holy dips seeking moral strength and clarity in life.
Entry Time: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free

Vyas Ashram: Vyas Ashram is believed to be the meditation and teaching place of Maharishi Ved Vyasa. Ancient scriptures were recited and preserved here orally. The ashram represents guru-shishya tradition and spiritual discipline. Surrounded by tranquility, it attracts seekers and scholars.
Entry Time: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free

Mishrikh (Nearby Pilgrimage Spot): Mishrikh is closely linked with Naimisharanya and is believed to be the place where Rishi Dadhichi lived. It is associated with Lord Shiva and sacred rituals. Pilgrims often visit Mishrikh after Naimisharanya as part of a spiritual circuit.
Entry Time: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free

Sita Kund: Sita Kund is believed to be visited by Goddess Sita during her travels. The kund symbolizes purity, patience, and feminine divinity. Devotees believe bathing here removes emotional and spiritual burdens.
Entry Time: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free

Parikrama Path: The Naimisharanya Parikrama is considered highly auspicious. Saints and devotees walk barefoot chanting mantras, believing it grants liberation. The path passes through ancient temples, forests, and holy spots mentioned in scriptures.
Entry Time: Sunrise – Sunset
Entry Fee: Free

Ashram of Suta Ji: This site is associated with Suta Maharishi, who narrated the Puranas to sages gathered at Naimisharanya. It symbolizes oral tradition and preservation of dharma. The ashram reflects India’s ancient storytelling culture and spiritual wisdom.
Entry Time: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free

A sacred forest destination mentioned in the Puranas.

Trip Info: Destination: Naimisharanya | Guide: One Person | Language: Hindi, English
Trip Type: Outstation Taxi Booking
Free Cancellation: Yes