November, the 11th month of the English calendar, is considered one of the best months for travel across India. The weather stays pleasant — not too hot, not too cold — making it ideal for vacations. Some people chase snowfall in hill stations, others head towards peaceful beaches.
But many travellers prefer a spiritual journey, and for them, there is one destination that stands above all — Naimisharanya, the divine land where, according to ancient scriptures, the influence of Kalyug still cannot enter.

Located in Uttar Pradesh, this sacred place carries thousands of years of history, mythology, and spiritual energy. Visiting Naimisharanya is not just a trip — it is an experience that stays with you forever.

Where Exactly Is Naimisharanya?

Naimisharanya, also known as Naimish or Neemsar, is situated in Sitapur district of Uttar Pradesh, around 80 km from Lucknow, on the banks of the Gomti River.
The name comes from two Sanskrit words:

• “Naimish” / “Nimish” — meaning “a moment”

• “Aranya” — meaning “forest”

Together, they signify a sacred forest where divine moments unfold — a land protected from the dark influence of Kalyug.

The Divine Legend of Chakratirth

Naimisharanya’s most famous spot, Chakratirth, has a deeply symbolic and ancient origin.

According to mythology, 88,000 sages once approached Lord Brahma, seeking a place on earth to perform penance for the welfare of the world. They were also concerned about the arrival of Kalyug.

Brahma created a divine chakra (wheel) from his mind and instructed the sages:

“Follow this chakra. Wherever its center — the ‘Nemi’ — falls, consider that land the sacred centre of the earth. That place will remain untouched by Kalyug.”

The chakra fell at the exact spot now known as Chakratirth.
Thus the entire region came to be known as Naimisharanya — the land chosen by the divine.

It is also believed that Rishi Dadhichi sacrificed his bones here for Lord Indra’s Vajra weapon, symbolizing the ultimate act of selflessness.

The Tapobhumi of 88,000 Sages

Naimisharanya is one of the oldest pilgrimage sites in India.
It is said that:

• The Mahapuranas were composed here.

• During the Mahabharata era, Yudhishthira and Arjuna visited this sacred land.

• Lava and Kusha recited the Ramayana (composed by Valmiki) during Lord Ram’s Ashwamedha Yagya on the banks of the Gomti River.

• 88,000 sages performed intense meditation here, making it one of the greatest spiritual centers in Hindu tradition.

For this reason, Naimisharanya is also called Tapobhumi — the land of penance.

What to See in Naimisharanya

1. Chakratirth

Located about one mile from Naimisharanya station, Chakratirth is a massive circular pond where devotees take a holy dip and perform parikrama by walking along the water’s edge.
Around the water body are steps, temples, and the famous Bhootnath Mahadev Temple.
According to legends, this is where the sages once meditated.

2. 84-Kos Parikrama

A major pilgrimage ritual in Naimisharanya is the 84-Kos Parikrama, covering 252 km.
It begins on the Pratipada after the Falgun Amavasya and continues until Purnima.
Along the route lies Panch Prayag, a beautiful pond, and the sacred Akshayvat tree.

3. Lalita Devi Temple (Shakti Peeth)

This temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peeths, believed to be the place where Goddess Sati’s heart fell.
Naimisharanya is also the place where Ved Vyas compiled the Vedas and narrated the Puranas.

4. Hanuman Garhi

This temple features a stunning idol of Lord Hanuman carrying Lord Ram and Lakshman on his shoulders.
It is a powerful symbol of devotion and strength.

5. Other Must-Visit Sites

• Vyas Gaddi — where Vyas Ji taught his disciples

• Dashashwamedh Hill — with statues of Krishna and the Pandavas

• Char Dham Temples — replicas of Jagannath, Badrinath, Dwarkadheesh & Rameshwaram

• Trishakti Dham

• Sita Kund

• Pandav Kila

Each site has its own story, connecting the visitor to India’s ancient spiritual heritage.

Why You Must Visit Naimisharanya

Naimisharanya is not just a pilgrimage spot — it is a place where myths come alive, where peace flows in the air, and where history stands still.

Whether you’re a devotee, a history lover, or a traveller seeking calmness, this sacred land in Uttar Pradesh offers a breath of purity, spirituality, and eternal divinity.

A trip to Naimisharanya in November can truly become one of the most memorable journeys of your life.