Naimisharanya: The Sacred Forest of Mythology

Naimisharanya, located in Uttar Pradesh, is a prominent pilgrimage destination for Hindus. It is believed to be one of the most ancient sacred forests, mentioned in various Hindu scriptures like the Mahabharata and Puranas. According to mythology, this is where sages performed penance and narrated the Puranas to humanity.

Top Attractions in Naimisharanya

• Chakra Tirth – The holiest site in Naimisharanya, where Lord Vishnu’s Sudarshan Chakra is believed to have fallen.

• Vyas Gaddi – The spot where Sage Veda Vyasa is said to have composed the Mahabharata.

• Hanuman Garhi – A temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located on a hill.

• Panch Prayag – Five sacred water bodies for ritual baths.

• Lalita Devi Temple – A revered Shakti Peeth dedicated to Goddess Lalita.

• Soot Gaddi – The place where Suta Maharishi narrated the Puranas to other sages.

• Dadhichi Kund – A sacred tank associated with Sage Dadhichi, who donated his bones to make weapons for the gods.

Naimisharanya is especially popular among devotees and scholars during festivals and special religious occasions.

Distance from Varanasi to Naimisharanya

Naimisharanya is approximately 300 km from Varanasi. The travel time is around 6-7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

How to Reach Naimisharanya from Varanasi

1. By Road (Car/Taxi/Bus) 🚗

• By Car/Taxi: You can hire a private taxi or drive via NH27. The journey takes around 6-7 hours.

• By Bus: Uttar Pradesh State Transport and private buses frequently operate between Varanasi and Naimisharanya. The travel time is approximately 7-8 hours.

2. By Train 🚆

• Nearest Railway Station: Naimisharanya Station (NMNR), located close to the pilgrimage site.

• Direct and connecting trains from Varanasi are available, with a travel time of 6-7 hours.

3. By Air ✈️

• Nearest Airport to Naimisharanya: Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport, Lucknow (LKO), located about 90 km from Naimisharanya.

• From Lucknow, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Naimisharanya, which takes around 2-3 hours.