Navagraha Temples

Kailasanathar Temple is one of the Navagraha temples and is at Thingaloor, Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu.The presiding deity is Soma (moon). However, the main idol in the temple is that of “Kailasanathar” or Shiva. The main deities here are Kailasanathar (Lord Shiva) and Periyanayagi (Goddess Parvati).

Further, it is here that Chandran prayed to Lord Siva and got his blessings. Chandran is the Lord of Kadaga Rasi and he faces the South-East direction. Also, Thingaloor Temple has Dravidian architectural style, with a five tiered gopuram over the shrine which has carvings. The sanctum enshrines main deity, the glorious Lingam of Kailasanathan.

What is the history of Thingaloor?

According to history, Rajasimma Pallavan constructed Thingaloor around 7th century. This is built similar to the Dravidian architecture. “Appothiyadigal” one of the Nayanmar out of 63 Nayanmars is from this town Thingalur. Due to the affection towards the Lord Shiva he kept his sons name as “Mootha Thirunavukarasu” and Ilaya Thirunavukarasu.”

He was doing lot of charity work for Shiva devotees in the name of Thirunavukarasu. One day by hearing that Thirunavukarasar has arrived to Thingalur, Appothiyadigal went to meet him. Latest he has asked to Thirunavukarasar to visit his home and have food. Appothiyadigal send his son to cut and bring banana leaves to serve the food for Thirunavukarasar.

There was a snake in the backyard of his home and that bite his son. If he tells that his son is dead, Thirunavukarasar won’t eat the food at his home so he wanted to hide that sad news. When Thirunavukarasar came to know the news he carried the body of Appothiyadigal’s son and worshipped to the god. The son also came back alive is the story of this temple.

Another legend

According to another legend the Devas and asuras were churning the Paarkadal using Mandhira Malai and the snake Vasuki. The asuras held the head portion of the snake and the Devas, the tail portion. When Lord Vishnu was distributing the Amrutham amongst the Devas, at the behest of Shukracharya, one of the asuras in the guise of a deva consumed the nectar.

Suryan and Chandran noticed this and complained to Lord Vishnu.  An angry Vishnu used his chakrayudham (discus) to cut the Asura into two and threw them away. The head joined with a snake’s body to become Rahu Bhagavan. The body portion kept growing because the Asura had consumed Amrutham.  This later joined with the head of a snake and became Kethu Bhagavan.

Now, Rahu and Ketu did not forgive Suryan and Chandran.  Rahu went after Chandran and started consuming him.  It is here that Chandran prayed to Lord Shiva and got his blessings.

Shiva blessed Chandran with the power to grow back to full size in 15 days after being consumed by Rahu.  That is why we have the waxing and waning moon.  Shiva also blessed Chandran by adorning Chandran on his forehead so that anyone who prays Shiva will have to pray Chandran.

What is the significance of the Thingaloor Temple?

Here’s the significance of Thingaloor Temple:

• Thingalur Kailasanathar temple is important for first rice feeding of the infant child known as Anna Prasanam. Kailasanathar Temple is one of the Navagraha temples  in honour ofMoon god.

• Before feeding the child with rice (Annaprasana) the priest shows the child moon and a cow, thus bringing the blessings of Jaladevadha (water God) and Oushadhi Devadha (God of medicines).  Devotees also believe that Jaladevadha would protect the child from cold, fever etc.

• Mental retardation, skin and nerve problems, jaundice, and fluid accumulation are the diseases that occur because of Chandra dosham. By praying to Lord Chandran, one an overcome the above afflictions. He provides his devotees with wealth, mother’s/wife’s happiness, Govt’s help, ownership of vehicle, marriage, offspring’s, prosperity, and foreign travel.

• The special offerings to moon god are Oleander flowers, cloths of white color, and raw rice with jiggery and paddy.

What are the timins ofThingaloor Temple?

Here are the timings of Thingaloor Temple:

Timings	From	To
Morning Darshan	7:00 AM	1:00 PM
Evening Darshan	4:00 PM	8:00 PM

What are the festivals celebrated at Thingaloor Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Thingaloor temple are:

• Pournami Festival: A full moon in the Tamil month of Chitra (month of April and May), and an exalted Sun in the sign Aries mark the day of Chitra Poornima. This auspicious day is also for Lord Indra, the God of Devas. Chithra pournami is famous for Meenakshi amman and Kallazhagar also. 
• Mahashivarathri Festival: The festival is celebrated on the new moon day in the month of Maagha according to the Hindu calendar. Devotees also believe that the one who performs sincere worship of Lord Shiva on the auspicious day of Shivratri attains moksha. Married women pray for the well being of their husbands and sons, while unmarried women pray for an ideal husband like Shiva, who is the spouse of Kali Ma, Parvati and Durga.
• Margazhi Tiruvadhirai Festival: Tiruvathirai, or Thiruvathirai festival, in Tamil culture is observed on the day when Lord Shiva performed the Tandava. The festival is also a commemoration of Shiva’s Nakshatra (Birthday Star) Ardra.
• Panguni Uthiram Festival: It falls on the day the moon transits in the asterism of Uttara-phalguni or Uthiram in the twelfth month of the Tamil solar calendar i.e. Panguni (March-April). Devotees of Lord Muruga  even pierce their bodies with needles and spikes as a sign of their devotion to the Lord.

What are the Poojas and Rituals at Thingaloor temple?

Puja at this temple is recommended for those in whose horoscope the position of Moon is weak. Chandra graha also controls the five senses of human life. Moon is the ruler of the mind and all the senses that it controls. Oblations to the Moon God at this temple helps keep all these factors on a balanced note.

How to Reach the Thingaloor Temple?

Here’s how to reach the Thingaloor Temple:

• Air: The nearest domestic airport is Tiruchirapalli Airport or Trichy Airport, 90 km east of Kumbakonam. T
• Train: The nearest railway station is Ariyalur railway station which is 29 Km from the temple.  
• Road: Thingaloor Temple is about 36 km from Kumbakonam, on the way to Tiruvaiyaru. 

Where to stay near Thingaloor temple?

Some of the places to stay near the temple are:

• Sri Hari Residency Contact: 99, West Raja Street, Near Sri Kumara Kottam Temple, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
• M.M.Hotels Contact: No. 65/65, Nellukara Street, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631502
• Hotel Ramco Residency Contact: SH58, Ennaikaran, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631501
• Sree Sakthi Residency Contact: 71, Nellukara St, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631502

Where to eat near Thingaloor Temple?

Tamilian’s staple diet is rice and most of their food consists of grains, lentils and vegetables. ‘Sadhams’ (rice dishes) with different flavours are their specialty. Spices give a distinctive taste to dishes. Tamil Nadu Food is very different from the food of other regions like Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. There are many restaurants near the temple that offers delicious food.

• Cascade Restaurant Salem Contact: Junction Main Road 5/315 Devi Chit Funds Complex
• Tandooriwala Salem Contact: Junction Main Road
• Sri Saravana Bhavan Contact: Omalur Main Road State Bank Colony
• Selvi Mess Contact: Arthanari Nagar Opp New Bus Stand

What are some temples near Thingaloor Temple?

Some of the temples near Thingaloor Temple are:

Brihadeeswarar Temple: Thanjavur Brihadeeswara temple is one of the most ancient temple, in the city of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu, India. Also, a long prakaram surrounds the great temple (500 feet/250 feet), and the walls surrounding the prakaram again go back to Raja Raja Cholan’s period. The walls house long pillared corridors, which abound in murals, Shiva Lingams and Nandis.

Naganathaswamy Temple: Thirunageshwaram Sri Naganathaswamy Temple is another temple, 6 kms away from Kumbakonam on the southern banks of Cauvery in Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu. Also, the presiding deity of Thirunageswaram Rahu Temple is Lord Naganathaswamy (Lord Shiva) and his consort Giri Gujambika (Goddess Parvathi) who is enshrined with Goddess Lakshmi and Goddess Saraswati by her side.

Apatsahayesvarar Temple: Apatsahayesvarar Temple, Alangudi is one of the Navagraha (nine planets) temples dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the village of Alangudi in the Valangaiman taluka of Tiruvarur district. Further, the uniqueness of this place is that it has Dakshinabhimukh Avatsak of Lord Shiva.

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Vaitheeswaran Kovil is a holy place near Mayiladuthurai in Nagapattinam District. It is famous for the Shiva temple in honor of Vaidyanatheeswarar, the healer of all diseases and his consort Thaiyalnayaki. Jatayu, Rig Veda, Muruga and Surya worshipped the Lord here. This temple consist of several Mandapam and Gopuram 

What is the history of Vaitheeswaran Kovil?

According to history of Vaitheeswaran Kovil, Chevvai is son of shiva. Once Shiva was in deep meditation, perspiration from his third eye fell on earth. From that sweat a child was born and later on known asangaragan (chevvai). Chevvai Bhagavan is worshipped in the town of Vaitheeswarankoil or Pullirukkuvelur.

Angarakan (Mars) was one of the Navagraha in 9 planets. One day, he suffered a lot from Skin diseases (Leprosy). He prayed Lord Vaidyanatha Swamy in Vaitheeswaran Koil. Lord Shiva blessed him and cured his diseases. So he stayed in this temple and caleed as “Vaitheewaran” and cure all the diseases by whom praying him.

Thirunavukkarasar was suffering from severe stomach pain. At time, his sister told him to pray Lord Vaidyanatha Swamy. Then he prayed and got cured by Lord Shiva. He also became a great devotee of Lord Shiva and sung many songs for Lord Shiva.

Lord Shiva is a swayambumurthi in the temple. The five towers – Gopurams of the temple are on a straight line. The Maragatha Linga (Emerald Linga) is very famous. There are two flag posts-Kodimaram before the presiding deity made of silver and gold. Navagrahas the nine planets are generally in the front side of the sanctum facing different directions in Shiva temples.

What is the significance of the Vaitheeswaran Kovil?

Here’s the significance of Vaitheeswaran Kovil:

• There is a widespread believe that when one visits here, it would remove obstacles of the delayed marriage(Chevvai dosham). In chevvai temple the Prasadam (Food) offered by the name of tiruchendur urundai and it is considered to be a panacea capable of many elements it is made of ashes taken out from the homa kundam in front of Subramaniya strain.

• The Lord Vaidyanatha and Thaiyal Nayagi are the family God (Kula Dheivam) for Kshatriya Community (Vanniyakula Kshatriyas) of South India. This temple is also Navagraha Sthalas of Lord Angarakan. Moreover, it is a famous tourist spot in Nagapattinam District.

• Lord Bhairava protects the temple in the east, by Lord Veerabadra in the west, Lord Vinayaka in the south and Ma Kali in the north. Also, with its five tier Rajagopuram, the temple is facing west. The temple belongs to Darumapuram Aadheenam of Tiru Kayilaya Parambara – descendants of Kailash dynasty.

What are the timings of Vaitheeswaran Kovil Temple?

Here are the timings of Vaitheeswaran Kovil Temple:

Timings	From	To
Morning Darshan	6.00 AM	11.00 AM
Evening Darshan	4.00 PM	8.30 PM

What are the festivals celebrated at the Vaitheeswaran Kovil?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Vaitheeswaran Kovil are:

• Skanda shashti: Kanda Sashti occurs in the Tamil Month Aippasi. Skanda Shasti celebrates the victory of Lord Skanda over demon Surapadma. In many places the festival commences six days before the Sashti day and concludes on the day of the Sashti. During these days, devotees recite inspiring hymns, read stories of Subramanya, and enact the exploits of the Lord on stage.
• Aadipooram: Aadi Pooram, also called as ‘Aandal Jayanti’ is a prime festival of Tamilians. This festival is for Goddess Andal, an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi. The day also holds immense significance in Goddess Shakti temples scattered all over the country. In the event, priests offer glass bangles to Goddess Andal and then distribute them among all devotees.
• Karthigai: Karthigai Deepam is a festival of lights, celebrated in the Tamil month of Karthigai. Accordin gto beliefs, Lord Muruga, the divine light of Lord Shiva, took his form during this month. On this day, all his six forms were united by Parvathi(his mother) and this way, he had six faces.
• Panguni Uthiram: The Panguni Uthiram festival falls in the month ‘Panguni’ (March-April). This is also teh wedding day of Gods and Goddesses such as Parvati and Shiva, Devasena and Murugan, Andal and Ranganath and Sita and Rama. Devotees of Lord Muruga pierce their bodies with needles and spikes as a sign of their devotion to the Lord.

What are the Poojas and Rituals of Vaitheeswaran Kovil?

The poojas and rituals of Vaitheeswaran Kovil are:

• At the midnight Pooja the priests worship Lord Selva Muthukumaraswamy with special prayers. This is famous as ‘Punugu Kappu Dharshan’
• Chevvai related dosha are rectified by performing pariharam(remedies) poojas to this deity. It is traditional to perform navagraha pooja to get rid of financial crisis, property dealing, productivity of agriculture and milk. It also solvess any problem between brothers and sisters. Chevvai also heels cut wounds.
• The devotees as soon as entering the temple, they first go to Sithamirtha tank (Sithamirtha tank consist of 18 wells) filled with holy water and mix with medicines in form of leaves. The water has curative properties for various skin elements.
• The person’s diseases even that could not get cured by mani, mandra, aushatha, after coming to this temple they got cured at this place. Therefore, here Shiva is Vaithiyanathan (doctor).
• Devotees also undertake tonsuring.  Ear boring ceremony also takes place in the temple.  They also light Maa Vilakku made of rice flour and ghee, offer mangal sutras and god symbols as a prayer commitment.  They also place salt, pepper and mustard and eye symbols made of silver in the Ambica shrine. 

How to reach Vaitheeswaran Kovil?

Here’s how to reach Vaitheeswaran Kovil:

• Air: No direct connectivity to flight between Nagapattinam and Chennai is available.
• Road: It is between Sirkazhi and Mayiladurai in the route of Chidambaram-Mayiladuthurai. This temple is 15 KM from Mayiladurai or 24 KM from Chidambaram.
• Rail: The Nearest station is Mayiladuthurai. Direct train between Nagapattinam and Chennai is available.

Where to stay in Vaitheeswaran Kovil?

Some of the places where one can stay in Vaitheeswaran Kovil are:

• Hotek Sadhabishegam Contact: Vaitheeswarankovil,Tamil Nadu 609117.
• Hotel Sri Akshardham Contact: SH 64,Vaitheeswarankovil, Tamil Nadu 609117
• Chola Inn Contact: 105, Pidari South Street,Thenpathi,Sirkazhi,Tamil Nadu 609111
• Ayarpadi Hotel Contact: Old NH,Thenpathi,Sirkazhi,Tamil Nadu 609110
• Hotel Aryabhavan Contact: Old NH,Thiruvalluvar Nagar,Thenpathi,Sirkazhi,Tamil Nadu 609111

Where to eat in Vaitheeswaran Kovil?

Some of the places where one can eat in Vaitheeswaran Kovil are:

• Samboorna Restaurtant Contact: Old NH,Thenpathi,Sirkazhi, Tamil Nadu 609110
• Garden Restaurant Contact: Thenpathi,Sirkazhi, Tamil Nadu 609110

 What are some temples near Vaitheeswaran Kovil temple?

Some of the temples near Vaiteheswaran Kovil Temple are:

• Nellukadai Mariamman Koil: Nellukadai Mariamman Temple is at Nagapattinam. Interestingly, Mariamman appeared in the dream of a rice trader and asked him to build a shrine for him. He then constructed a beautiful temple in Nagapattinam and started offering prayers.
• Sri Mullaivananathar temple: The fame of this temple rests largely upon the Goddess Shri Garbharakshambika (an avatar of Goddess Parvati) who offers protection to, the human embryo. And it is no wonder that this temple draws worshippers from all sects. Also, Lord Shiva in this Sthalam is famous as Mullaivananathar and the Ambika as Karparakshambigai. Another presiding deity is Lord Mullaivana Nathar. 
• Sikkal Singaravelan Temple: Sikkal Singara Velan Temple is one of the most popular Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Muruga and a contender for the unofficial seventh Padaiveedu of Muruga, along with the popular Arupadaiveedu (six abodes of Lord Muruga). Devotees also belive that Lord Murugan had got his Vel (weapon) from his divine mother at Sikkal, to kill the asura.

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Sooriyanar Kovil is the first of the 9 Navagraha Temples in Tamil Nadu, about 1 km from Tirumangalakkudi.  The presiding deity is Suriyanar, the Sun and his consorts Usha Devi and Pradyusha Devi. Sooriyanar Kovil Temple also has separate shrines for the other eight planetary deities.

Sooriyanar Kovil is one of the few historic temples in honor to Sun god and is also the only temple in Tamil Nadu which has shrines for all the planetary deities.

What is the history of Sooriyanar Kovil?

According to history  Kulothunga Chola I built Sooriyanar Kovil Temple in 1100 AD. It features a huge tower with three tiers and five domes at the top. The sanctum and the ardhamandapam consist of stone. This is the only Navagraha temple where all the nine grahas are in separate Sanctums.

Once upon a time a great sage called Kaalava rishi was living in Himalayas region. He realized he will get a deadly disease of leprosy in the future and he worried about it. His fellow sages advised him to worship all the navagrahas (nine gods for each planet).

Kaalava rishi also did a very dedicated penance towards the navagrahas and they appeared as he wished. He told his concerns about leprosy and he prayed that the navagrahas should help him to get out of the deadly disease. The navagrahas granted the boon the rishi won’t get the disease.

Later the God of creator, Brahma came to know this and called upon all the nine devas (navagrahas). He told them, the human beings have to face all the happy and sad incidents in their life and nobody can change it. As navagrahas awarded the kaalava rishi navagrahas will get the disease on behalf of him and they should do a twelve weeks penance at south part of India.

Based on this curse all the navagrahas arrived to south India and did a penance to get rid of Brahma’s curse. Then, as god of Sun (Sooriyan) was heading this penance he was at the center in this temple and the other eight planet gods were surrounded by him at this temple.

What is the significance of the Sooriyanar Kovil?

Here’s the significance of the Sooriyanar Kovil:

• Those who suffer the ill effects of Kalathara Dosham, Vivaha Paribandha Dosham, Puthra Dosham, Puthra Paribandha Dosham, Vidhya Paribandha Dosham, Udyoga Padhibandha Dosham, Surya dasai, Surya bukthi would benefit from worshipping at this temple. Also, Father, Athma, physical strength, right eye, governmental largesse are the beneficial aspects of this planet.

• Devotees also believe that if one bathes in the nine ghats in this place continuously for 12 Sundays, they will be has a peaceful and prosperous life.

• There are shrines of Kasi Vishwanath, Visalakshi and Brihaspati(Guru) within the sanctum while shrines for the other celestial bodies are outside. The Kol Theertha Vinayakar shrine is very important. Malefic effects due to Dasa bukthi and gochara will be nullified by worshipping here.

• The peculiarity of this temple is that the eight other planets here, faces towards the Surya god. The Vahanam (vehicle) of Lord Suryanar is horse, which is called by the name “Saptha”, which refers to number “seven” in Sanskrit. Several horses draw the chariot of Lord Suryanar.

• Sree Surya Puranam is the first Puranam when the world came into existence, the first sound that reverberated was ‘Ohm’. Surya was born from this ‘Omkhara naadham’. Sree Markandeya Puranam has explained this factor. Suryan was the son of Sage Kashyapa and was the grandson of Sage Maarisi. Surya married Soorvarsala, the daughter of Vishwakarma. Vaivasvatha Manu and Yamadharmaraja were his sons and Yamuna, his daughter.

What are the timings of Sooriyanar Kovil Temple?

Here are the timings of Sooriyanar Kovil Temple:

Timings	From	To
Morning Darshan	6:00 AM	12:30 PM
Evening Darshan	4:00 PM	8:00 PM

What are the festivals celebrated at the Sooriyanar Kovil?

Some of the festivals celebrated at the Sooriyanar Kovil are:

• Ratha Saptami: Ratha Saptami is dedicated to Lord Surya, the Hindu Sun God. As per the tradition in Hinduism, Lord Surya rides a chariot driven by seven horses – devotees worship this form during Rathasaptami puja and festival. 
• Vijaya Dashami: It is celebrated in the lunar month of Ashwin (usually in September or October). Vijayadashami is the victory of Lord Rama over Demon Ravana and also triumph of Goddess Durga over the buffalo Demon Mahishasura. In the southern part of India Vijaya Dashami is includes the worship of Chamundeshwari or Durga. 
• Brahmotsavam festival: The Brahmothsavam is performed in the month of Asweeja (according to the hindu calendar) when the Sun is in the Kanya Rashi. The festival commences with ceremony- the Dhwajarohanam or the hoisting of the flag. Further, in the center of the outer court of the temple stands a huge stone-pillar called the flag-stand (Dhwajasthamba). 

What are the Poojas and Rituals of Sooriyanar Kovil?

Poojas and rituals of Sooriyanar Kovil are:

• To offer worship at Sooriyanar Temple, one has to reach the Rajagopuram (Main Entrance) and more towards North where Pushkarani of temple is present.

• One can take bath in the tank or sprinkle holy water in the head as purification. Next after the bath one has to offer prayers at the RajaGopuram before entering the temple. After entering the temple, one has to turn towards Southeren side where Koltheertha Vinayagar is there.

• One also has to do the Sankalpam and Archana as Hindus find Vinayagar as turnover of all obstacles. After worshipping Vinayagar, one has to climb steps to reach ‘Narthana Mandapam’ at Northern Side. And then more towards ‘Sabanayakar Mandapam’ where one can offer prayers to ‘Urchava Moorthi’.

• After Sabanayakar Mandapam one can reach ‘Main Mandapam’ and offer prayers to SriKasivisvanathar and Smt. Visalakshi. Also, next to Main Mandapam, there is Maha Mandapam where Sannathi to Sun-God, there is Guru Bhavan(lord Jupitee) stands there.

• People do the Archana for Guru and offer prayers to lord Sun. One has to move South wards to come out of Sanctum to reach the lord Saturn (Sani). Lord Kuja, lord Mars are present separately then more northwards to offer prayers to lord Moon and Kethu.

• Next movement would be towards west where lord Sukra and Raghu are present. Finally one has to offer prayers to Sandikeswarar. After finishing prayers at Sandikeswarar, one has to come clockwise to reach the vinayakar to give final prayers.

How to Reach Sooriyanar Kovil?

Here’s how to reach Sooriyanar Kovil:

• Air: The nearest airport is Trichy airport, 58km from Thanjavur. 
• Rail: The nearest railway station is the Aduthurai Railway Station. 
• Road: Suryanar Koil is about 21 km from Swamimalai and 15 km from Kumbakonam. It is about 20 km from Mayiladuthurai on the Kumbakonam – Aduthurai – Mayiladuthurai Road.

Where to stay near near Sooriyanar Kovil temple?

Some of the places where one can stay near Sooriyanar Kovil Temple are:

• Sivamurugan Hotels Contact: 60 Feet Main Road | Near New Bus Stand,, Kumbakonam 612001
• Mantra Veppathur Resort Contact: 536/537A,No.1, Bagavathapuram Main Road Extension, | Srii Sailapathipuram Village, Veppathur,, Kumbakonam 612103
• Hotel Le Garden Contact: Thiruvidaimaruthur Road, Kumbakonam 612001
• DSR Madhanam Inn Contact: 75/3 Asoor By Pass Nh 45c | near Karuppur By Pass,Kumbakonam 612002
• Hotel Riverside Resort & Spa Contact: 32 College Road, Kumbakonam 612001
• Quality Inn VIHA Contact: #2, New Railway Road | Kumbakonam, Tanjore Dist,Kumbakonam 612001

Where to eat near Sooriyanar Kovil temple?

Some of the places where one can eat near Sooriyanar Kovil Temple are:

• Thanmayi Restaurant Contact: New Railway Road, Kumbakonam, India
• Raya’s Restaurant Contact: 18,19 Head Post Office Rd, Kumbakonam 612001
• Habibi RestaurantContact: 29/921 Sarangapani East Street, Kumbakonam
• Dosa Plaza Kumbakonam Contact: 332 Nageshwaran North Street Kurinchi Metro Bazzar

What are some temples near Sooriyanar Kovil Temple?

Some of the temples near Sooriyanar kovil temple are:

Brihadeeswara Temple: The Brihadeeswara Temple or the Peruvudaiyar Kovil is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Moreover, Raja Raja Chola I had this temple constructed in 1010 AD. Also, the presiding deity is Shiva in the form of a Lingam,  Peruvudaiya, Rasjarajeshwaramudvya.

Neelamega Perumal Temple: Thiru Thanjaimaamani temple or Sri Neelamega Perumal Temple is situated in Vennathankarai village of Thanjavur district in Tamil Nadu, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and also one of the 108 Divya Desam Temples. Further, the Lord in this temple appears in sitting  posture as Veera SingaPerumal and Narashimar.  Sri Yoga Narasimha is also in the front Mandap. 

Sarangapani Temple: This is  an important divya desam of Vishnu and is also known as Tiru Kudanthai. This is also one of the  Pancha Ranga Khestras. Moreover, Sarangapani temple is the biggest Vishnu temple in Kumbakonam and  it belongs to 13th century. The temple sanctum also has design like a chariot with wheels which horses and elephants pull.

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Thiruvenkadu (Adhi Chidambaram) is in Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the nine Navagraha temples in South India. The presiding deity here is Lord Shiva, famous  as Venkaatunadar and Sri Swetaranyeswarar. His consort(Ambal) is Bhrama Vidya Nayaki. Nataraja’s dance here also popular as Hasti Natanam. 

What is the history of Thiruvenkadu?

There is a legend that associates with the history of Thiruvenkadu. A demon Maruthuvan, received boons from Brahma and then tortured devas. The Devas went to Shiva for freedom from the demon. The Lord advised the Devas to go to Thiruvengadu and live there in disguise.

Shiva also sent his vehicle Nandhi and defeated the demon. The demon injured Nandhi with his trident.

Lord Shiva converted his anger into the Agoramurthy form. On seeing the Lord, the demon surrendered at his feet and begged his pardon. He also prayed that those worshiping Agoramurthy would not have enemies at all.

Achuthagapanar bathed in the three tanks, worshiped Thiruvengadar and hence, the lord blessed him with a child. This child came to be known as Meikandar and became the chief of Santhana Kuravars.

Vedarasi, a brahmin had placed his bundle of food in the hollow of a tree. A snake residing in the hollow spewed poison on the food.

Unaware of this, Vedarasi gave this food to a vedic priest, who died of the poison. This brahmin was absolved of his Brahmahathi Dhosham by worshipping Lord Siva of Thiruvengadu.

The legend continues:

When Thirugnanasambandar reached the borders of Thiruvengadu, the whole place looked like Sivaloka and the sands Sivalingas.He hesitated to place his legs on this holy land and cried Oh! Mother. On hearing his voice, Goddess Periyanayaki appeared there and took the child on her laps. Moreover, the idol of Periyanayaki with Thirugnanasambandar is majestically present in the temple.

Thiruvengadar, the son of Sivanesan and Gnanambigai, with the blessings of a Siva Muni received Siva Ditchai and a Siva Linga and hence became famous as Pattinathu Adigal.Indra having killed Virudhasuran, worshiped Lord Thiruvengadar and was absolved of his sins.

Also, Sage Durvasar gifted a mala to Indra. However, Indra in his vanity threw it on his white elephant Iravadam which stamped the mala under its feet. Durvasar cursed Indra. Afterwards, Indra realizing his folly formed a tank -Thadagam in Thiruvengadu and worshipped a Siva Linga. Lord Siva blessed him and he reached Indraloka again.

Suwedakedu on realizing that he was to die in his eighth year reached Thiruvengadu and performed Siva pooja. As soon as he saw Yama, he held on to the Siva Linga tightly. Yama on seeing Thiruvengadar, ran away in fear.

What is the significance of the Thiruvenkadu Temple?

Here’s the significance of Thiruvenkadu Temple:

• Lord Shiva possesses three eyes – Chandra, Surya and Agni. Since the eyes bless the tanks, the Theertham(tanks) are also famous as Soma Theertham ,Surya Theertham and Agni Theeertham. Bathing in these tanks and worshipping the Lord here for one “mandalam” (45 days) is also relieves couples from problems in relation with childbirth.

• One of the three deities is Aghoramurthy or Aghora Veerabhadramurthy the most fierce among the five representations of Lord Shiva. There are also several shrines of significance including those to Ma Durga and Ma Kali. The saints Appar,Sundarar,Sambandhar and Manikavasagar have sung in praise of this temple.

• Further, those who visit Thiruvengadu will find relief from puthira dosham, poor studies, mental instability, nervous disorders. Knowledge, music, astrology, maths, sculpting, medicine, language skills are the beneficial aspects of Budan.

What are the timings of Thiruvenkadu Temple Temple?

Here are the timings of Thiruvenkadu Temple:

Timings	From	To
Morning Darshan	6 AM	12 PM
Evening Darshan	5.30 PM	9.30 PM

What are the festivals celebrated at the Thiruvenkadu Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at the Thiruvenkadu Temple are:

• Indira Festival: The Indra Jatra festival honours the recently deceased and pays homage to Indra and Dagini for the coming harvests. 
• Gokulashtami: Janmashtami, the birthday of Lord Krishna is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm in India in the month of July or August.  All over India this day also includes devotional songs and dances, pujas, arti, blowing of the Conch and rocking the cradle of baby Sri Krishna.
• Ganesh Chaturthi: Ganesh Chaturthi also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi is one of the important Hindu festivals celebrated throughout India with a great devotion. This day is the birthday of Lord Ganesh, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. 
• Purattasi Viratham: Purattasi is an important Tamil month like Aadi, while Aadi month is for Amman Puratasi is for Perumal. Further, Lord Vishnu devotees consider Purattasi as the ideal month for thanking Lord Vishnu for preserving the Universe at the end of Kali Yuga. Hence, the devotees gather in large number at Lord Vishnu temples and offer special prayers.
• Skanda Shashti: Skanda Sashti is a six-day South Indian festival to Skanda, the Lord of Religious Striving, also known as Murugan or Karttikeya. It begins on the day after the new moon in the month of Karttika (October/November) with chariot processions and pujas invoking his protection and grace. 
• Pongal: Pongal is a harvest festival, celebrated by the people belonging to Hindu faith. On this occasion, people thank the Sun God for abundant agricultural crops. The festival is most popular in the state of Tamil Nadu. Pongal celebrations take place from January 13 to 16 every year.

How to reach Thiruvenkadu Temple?

Here’s how to reach Thiruvenkadu Temple:

• Air: The Trichy International airport is the nearest airport, 8 km away from Tanjavur. Bangalore and Chennai airports are also nearby. 
• Road: Buses are available from Sirkali and Mayiladuthurai. 
• Rail:  Trichy Junction is nearby, 58 km from Thanjavur. Regular trains are also available from Trichy to Chennai and Madurai.

Where to stay near Thiruvenkadu Temple?

Some of the places where one can stay near Thiruvenkadu Temple are:

• PAMS Contact: 30/B Town Extension Road, Mayiladuthurai, Tamil Nadu 609001
• Hotel Sadhabishegam Contact: 6/18A, Sannathi Street, Thirukadaiyur, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu 609311
• Seahorse Hotel Contact:  Opp Police Reserved Camp, Public Office Rd, Kadambadi, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu 611001
• Hotel VPN Residency Contact: Main Road, Maha Kulam Stop, Velankanni, Tamil Nadu 611111
• Grand Neyatt Hotel Contact: Manara North Street, Nagore, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu 611002
• Nagore Residency Contact: Kalmatu St, Nagore, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu 611002

Where to eat near Thiruvenkadu Temple?

Some of the places where one can eat near Thiruvenkadu Temple are:

• Murga Restaurant Contact: Nagapattinam District, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu
• Thiru Valluar Restaurant Contact: Nagapattinam District, Velankanni, Tamil Nadu
• Alfa Restaurant Contact: Nagapattinam District, Velankanni, Tamil Nadu
• Hotel Seagate Family Restaurant Contact: Nagapattinam District, Velankanni, Tamil Nadu

What are some temples near Thiruvenkadu Temple?

Some of the temples near Thiruvenkadu Temple are:

Sri Suvedharanyeswarar Swami Temple: Swetharanyeswarar Temple is a Hindu temple located in the town of Thiruvengadu near Sirkazhi. The main deity is Shiva – Swetharanyeswarar (lord of white forest) while the goddess is Brahma Vidya ambal. There is a separate Sannidhi for Bhudhan (mercury).

Sri Mullaivananathar temple: This is an ancient Siva temple about 20 kms East of Thanjavur dedicated to Sri Mullaivananathar as well as Sri Karparakshambigai. Moreover, it is a huge temple that spreads over a wide expanse with imposing Gopurams and a tank in front of it. Devotees also believe that childless people who worship here with devotion and faith get the blessing of pregnancy and pregnant women of safe deliveries. Unmarried women also pray here for their marriages. 

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The ancient temple of Dakshinamurthy temple is present in a tiny village of Alangudi in Thiruvarur district of Tamil Nadu. It is also popular as the Arulmigu Abathsagayeswarar temple. Here Lord Shiva is the main deity.  There is a separate sanctum for the special deity Sri Dakshinamurthi.

Lord Guru or Lord Dakshinamurthy is one of the “Navagrahas” and refers to the planet Jupiter. The Balipeeta for Nandi has a covering of copper plates. Also, devotees believe that ‘Amudogar’, devotee of Lord Shiva, constructed this temple. He was also the minister of the King Masukuntha Chakravarti. Further, in the inner corridor of the temple the shrines of Lord Ganesh, Murugan, Lakshmi, Sapthalingas, Kasi Viswanathar, Visalakshi and Sage Agasthya are present.

What is the history of Alangudi?

As per history of Alangudi, Devas and Asuras tried to churn the Cosmic Ocean to obtain Amrita. It was the nectar of immortal life. By the suggestion of Vishnu, the gods (devas) and demons (Asuras) churn the primeval ocean in order to obtain Amrita which will guarantee them immortality.

To churn the ocean they used the Serpent King, Vasuki, for their churning-string. For a churning pole they use Mount Mandara placed on the back of a Great Tortoise. It was the Kurma Avatar of Vishnu. As the gods and demons churned the sea, a terrible poison issued out of the sea which enveloped the universe.

The devas and asuras approach Shiva who took the poison into his throat and swallowed it. As Lord Shiva saved the world from the poison the Lord here is popular as ‘Abath Sagayeswarar’. This place also famous as Alangudi ( poison means Alam in tamil).

When the devas were churning the paarkadal for nectar, poisonous fumes from the snake Vasuki disturbed them and hence, they prayed to Lord Siva for deliverance. Lord Siva consumed the deadly poison (Ala Visham), thus giving rise to the name Alangudi

Devotees visit here to worship the planet Guru (Jupiter). Every year during the planet Jupiter’s movement from one house to another house is very auspicious and lakhs of devotees arrive to worship the Guru Bhagavan.

What is the significance of the Alangudi Temple?

Here’s the significance of Alangudi Temple:

• Devotees believe that worshipping Lord Jupiter in this temple will cure the Guru dosha. Also, all the skin diseases will cure after taking a bath in the holy tank of this temple. Here, Lord Ganesha even removes the devotee’s mental worries.

• Further, Guru gives luck,richness,health in one’s life. But if it is in a wrong position means they will get heart problems,education problems etc. To overcome these problems devotees going to Alangudi and do things to satisfy Lord Guru.

What are the timings of Alangudi Temple Temple?

Here are the timings of Alangudi Temple:

Timings	From	To
Morning Darshan	6:00 AM	1:00 PM
Evening Darshan	5:00 PM	9:00 PM
Kaala Santhi Pooja	08.00 AM	08.30 AM
Uchikala Pooja	12.30 PM	01.00 PM
Saayaratchi Pooja	05.00 PM	06.00 PM

What are the festivals celebrated at the Alangudi Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at the Alangudi Temple are:

• Skanda Sashti: Skanda Sashti festival is dedicated to Hindu God Muruga (Karikeya or Subrahmanya). Kanda Sashti occurs in the Tamil Month Aippasi. Son of Lord Shiva and Parvati, the divine incarnation of Skanda was to primarily annihilate the demons that had created anarchy on earth and restore Dharma. He was also the commander of the army of the Devas. Also, the fasting of Skanda Shasti begins on the Pradma Thithi after Deepavali in Tamil Nadu. 
• Aadi Puram: The story of Goddess Andal is famous throughout Tamil Nadu. She is also famous for her steadfast devotion for Sri Ranganatha (Lord Vishnu).There is a popular belief that Goddess Andal is an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi. Aadi Puram is of great significance in Lord Vishnu Temples in Tamil Nadu. Equally important is the day in Shakti Temples.
• Arudra Darisanam: Arudra Darshan is a Tamil festival and this day is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Arudra Nakshatram, which is also famous as Thiruvaathirai Nakshatram, during Maargazhi Masam is considered highly auspicious. Most of the temples around the world with Lord Nataraja and Shiva as deity perform the Arudhra Darshan.
• Kartikai Deepam: Karthigai Deepam comes on the tamil month Karthigai on Pournami day(Full moon day). Throughout the month, devotees light lamps in the front of the house in the evening. Special rituals also take place for Lord Muruga on this day.
• Thai Poosam: Thaipusam is an important festival dedicated to Lord Muruga or Kartikeya. Many devotees  also bear milk, water, fruits and floral tributes on pails hung from a yoke and carry them on their shoulders to various Murugan temples, far and near. Moreover, a wooden or bamboo structure- ‘Kavadi’ has a covering of cloth and decoration of feathers of peacock -vehicle of Lord Murugan.

What are the Poojas and Rituals of Alangudi?

The poojas and rituals of Alangudi are:

• The worshipper lights 24 lamps with ghee and circumambulates the Guru Bhagavan temple 24 times.
• Also, Kaala santhi takes place within 240 minutes or 4 hours of sunrise.
• Saayaratchai pooja starts  3/3-4 Nazhigai  90 minutes before sunset and end at sunset time of that day.
• Then, Arththa Yaama pooja takes place d after the Irandaam kaala pooja but 3/3-4 90 minutes before the closing of the temple. Finally, this pooja will come to an end with the closure of the temple for that day.

How to reach Alangudi?

Here’s how to reach Alangudi:

• Air: The nearest airport is Thanjavur, 28 Km from the temple.
• Train: Needamangalam Railway Station, on the Thanjavur – Thiruvarur rail route, is the nearest railhead. It is 7 km from Alangudi. 
• Bus: Alangudi is 40 km from Tiruvarur on the Mannarkudi route and it can be reached from Kumbakonam.

What are some places to stay in  Alangudi?

Some of the places where one can stay in Alangudi are:

• Sivamurugan Hotels Contact: 60 Feet Main Road, | Near New Bus Stand, Kumbakonam 612 001, India
• Sara Regency  Contact: 45/1 Chennai Road, Kumbakonam 612002, India
• Quality Inn VIHA  Contact: New Railway Road, Kumbakonam, Tanjore, Tamil Nadu 612001
• Hotel Green Park Contact: No. 10, Lakshmi Vilas Street, Kumbakonam, South India – 612001
• Hotel Vinayaga  Contact: 132C, Kamaraj Road, Kumbakonam- 612 001, Tamilnadu, India</li>

Where to eat in Alangudi?

Some places where one can eat in Alangudi are:

• Venkatramanaa Hotel Contact: No 40, TSR Big Street, Kumbakonam HO, Kumbakonam – 612001, Near Gandhi Park
• Sri Balaji Bhavan Contact: Sasthra College Road, Kumbakonam HO, Kumbakonam – 612001
• Hotel Shanmuga Bhavan Contact: 16, Kumbeswarar South Street, Kumbakonam HO, Kumbakonam – 612001
• Gowri Shankar Hotel Contact: No 47, John Selvaraj Nagar, Kumbakonam HO, Kumbakonam – 612001
• Rayas Garden Restaurant Contact: No 18 Rayas Hotel, Head Post Office Road, Kumbakonam HO, Kumbakonam – 612001

What are some temples near the Alangudi temple?

Some of the temples near Alangudi Temple are:

Sri Perungaraiyadi Meenda Ayyanar: Sri Perungaraiyadi Meenda Ayyanar Temple is one of the famous temples in Pudukkottai District, Tamil Nadu. Moreover, the temple’s history dates back to 18th century. The temple is in the bank of Villuni River. As per the researchers, there used to be a big Elephant idol facing opposite to the Horse idol in this Temple

Vasisteshwaran Temple: The temple dates from the 12th century AD and was built by the Cholas. Also, Maharshi Vasishta worshipped Jupiter as Raja Guru in this temple; hence the place has Guru importance. The Goddess here is also popular as Sugantha Kunthalambigai as a girl by name Sugantha Kunthala brought husband back to life after worshipping Ulaganayaki. 

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