Tamil Nadu Temples

Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple of Sri Darbaraneswarar in Tamil Nadu is one of the Navagrahas. The main deities of the shrine are Lord Shiva, his consort Goddess Parvati, and Lord Shani Bhagawan. In the Thirunallar Temple, Lord Shiva is Darbaraneswara while Goddess Parvati is popular as Pranamambika or Bogamartha Poon Mulayal (Poonmulalammal).

Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple – Facts

Deity	Lord Shani (Saneeswaran)
Location	Thirunallar, Tamil Nadu
Significance	Navagraha
Tours	Navagraha Temple Tour
Darshan Timings	6:00 AM to 12:30 PM; 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Entry Fee	General Darshan: Free; VIP Darshan: Rs. 150 per person.
Poojas	Til Pooja
Dress Code	Traditional wear
Best Time to Visit	September to February
Festivals	Sanipeyarchi

What are the timings of Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple?

Here are the darshan timings of Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple:

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

What are the sevas and poojas at Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple?

The devotees believe that they can get rid of their curses and spells of bad luck if they pray in this temple. Hence, pilgrims take a dip in the Nala Theertha and offer worship at the temple. The worship here also includes lighting holy lamps with til (gingelly) seeds and oil. After prayers, balls of cooked rice are offered to the Crow, the mount of Saniswara.

Apply Gingelly oil on the head before the bath an leave the clothes there. After dressing up, visit the nearby Kali Theertha Vinayakar shrine and offer prayers and break coconuts.

Devotees can also donate for the poojas to the temple. Also, there are two ways to do poojas. One is the devotees themselves should collect all the materials for the pooja and handover to the concerned temple authorities. One can also send the money directly to temple authorities

What is the significance of Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple?

The significance of the Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple is that offering prayers at this temple are believed to reduce the ill effects of Lord Shani and increase the positive effects. Also, for over thousand years Hindus have visited this temple and have found their misfortunes and bad luck to decrease as this is the only temple in the world where Lord Shani lost his power to Lord Shiva.

Saturn is popular as the Celestial Taskmaster and the Grand Teacher. Worshipping of Lord Shani helps people to develop a positive mindset even during the harshest of Shani periods. It will help us benefit from great difficulties, challenges and limitations. While it is true that offering worship here decreases the difficult effects and increases the positive effects of Saturn it does not completely eliminate the hardships we will face due to Shani Bhagawan.

Since the principal Deity Lord Dharbaranyeswara and his consort “Bhogamartha Poon Mulayal” have the power to offer benediction to the devotees, hundreds of people visit this temple daily. The other deities of the shrine are Swarna Vinayaka, Lord Subramaneswara Swamy and Thyagaraja. The image of Lord Saneeswara is there in a graceful standing pose in Niche on the left side of the Lord Dharbaranyeswara.

There is also an additional attraction in the shape of holy tanks which exists here possess healing powers literally and metaphorically. Also, the place was originally a forest of Dharba grass and it is stated that the Shiva Lingam even now has impressions left by the Dharba weeds within which it was situated.

What is the history of Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple?

According to the history of the Thirunallar temple, the famous King Nala and the Queen Damayanthi liked each other and got married. However, Devas wanted to marry the queen Damayanthi. So after this marriage, Devas got angry and jealous of Nala. Devas reached out Saneeswaran and asked him to help them out.

But after seeing the couple, he decided to make devas understand the Nala’s true love for his queen. Saneeswaran gave a lot of troubles to King Nala and finally, the King reached Thirunallaru. The King worshipped the Lord Dharpaneswara at this temple and hence the lord made him free from curses and doshas.

Nala stayed in place for some time and built the temple. After Nala got back his kingdom. The world Thirunallar is derived from two words – “Nala” means King Nala and “Aru” means “to heel” which means Nala’s place.

Another popular legend states that once, one of the wives of Surya Deva, Usha, couldn’t tolerate the heat of the sun. Hence, she converted her shadow as another woman in the name of “Saya Devi” and lived in that name. Saneeswaran was born to Saya Devi and Surya Deva.

Later when Surya Deva came to know this, he got angry with Usha and he didn’t accept Saneeswaran as part of his family. Saneeswaran then went to Kashi (Varanasi), worshipped Lord Viswanath (Shiva) and become part of one of the Navagrahas.

What are the festivals celebrated at Thirunallar Saneeswaram Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Thirunallar Temple are:

• Soorasamharam festival: The popular belief is that Lord Muruga killed Soorapadman with his ‘Vel’ and this divine act is known as Soorasamharam. Then, the next day is Thirukalyanam – the divine marriage of Muruga and Devasena.
• Sanipeyarchi festival: On this day Sri Saneeswara Bhagawan transits from Thulam (Libra) to Vrischika (Scorpio). Also, poojas and rituals take place on the day for Shani Dosha Parihara. The day on which Lord Shani transits is Sanipeyarchi Festival in Thirunallar Temple.
• Thiruvathirai festival: It is considered to worship Lord Shiva, and the devotees go early morning to temples. Unmarried women observe a partial fast on this day to get good husbands and married women take a fast from the preceding day (Makayiram Nakshatra) and on the day of Thiruvathira for the well being of their husband and family.
• Adi Pooram festival: 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 begins with the making of huge kolams (rangoli) in front of the home. Dakshinayana Punyakalam, the night of the Devas, begins on the first day of the month Aadi. 

How to reach Thirunallar?

Here’s how to reach Thirunallar:

• Air: The nearest airport is Tiruchirapalli which is 168 Km.
• Road: This temple is 5 KM from the Karaikkal bus stand and 22 KM away from Nagapattinam bus stand.
• Rail: The nearest station is Karaikkal. The easiest route is from Chennai to Thirunallar is via Tindivanam, Pondicherry, Chidambaram, Tranquebar, Karaikal.

Where to stay at Thirunallar?

Some of the places where one can stay at Thirunallar are:

• Holiday Farms & Resorts: Main Road, Akkaraivattam, Karaikal
• Kumaran Guest House: 160, Thirunallar Road, Karaikal
• Hotel Arya Bhavan: Thirunallar Road, Karaikal, Pondicherry
• Government Tourist Home: Near Bus Stand, Koilpathu, Karaikal, Tamil Nadu
• Thirunallar Devasthanam Tourist Home: Thirunallar, Karaikal
• Hotel Nandha: 207, Kamaraj Salai, Karaikal
• Hotel City Plaza: Bharathiar Road, Karaikal
• PWD Guest House: Beach Road, Karaikal

Where to eat at Thirunallar?

Some of the places where one can eat at Thirunallar are:

• The Richmond: 12, Labourdonnais Street, Pondicherry
• Sarovar Hotel: 23, Goubert Avenue, Pondicherry
• Subasree Cottage: Near Nalathirtham, Thirunallar Rd
• Food Land: 15/3, Market Street, Karaikal – 609602
• New Husainiya Restaurant: 65/1, Church Street, Karaikal – 609602,

What are some temples near Thirunallar Temple?

Some of the temples near the Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple are:

• Kailasanathar Temple: The Kanchi Kailasanathar temple in Kanchipuram is a famous temple of Lord Shiva. Also. the Shiva Lingam in this temple is 10 feet high. Moreover, King Rajasimha, of the Pallava dynasty, built this Shiva temple in the early 8th century. It is an early structural temple and consists of sandstone.
• Bhadrakali Temple: The place was initially Ambara-harattur meaning victory over Ambaran, which subsequently became Ambagarathur. Goddess Bhadrakali is also the most efficient goddess in endowing blessings to the followers. It is a religious temple for the Hindus.
• Karaikal Ammaiyar Temple: Karaikal Ammaiyar is a small shrine, which is dedicated to Karaikal Ammaiyar, the only woman out of the sixty-three Nayanmars. Further, Malaiperumal Pillai constructed it in 1929. It is also famous for the huge idol of this lady saint. Also popular as Goddess Punithavati, this woman and the episodes of her supernatural powers are famous among natives of the region. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple

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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Kethu temple is the Navagraha Sthalam located at Keezhperumpallam in Thanjavur district of Tamil Nadu. The temple is dedicated to Lord Kethu. The main Idol of this temple is Lord Shiva as “Naganathaswamy” and Goddess Parvathi as “Soundaranayagi” in this temple. Devotees generally refer to Ketu as a “shadow” planet.

What is the history of Keezhperumpallam?

According to history, Keezhperumpallam was famous as Vanagiri. Kethu and Rahu, popular as ‘Chaaya Grahangal’, associate with the legend of the churning of the milky ocean. When Devas and Asuras churned the ocean of milk with Manthira Mountain as churning stick and snake Vasuki as the rope, the amirtham emerged.

An asura who disguised himself as a Deva consumed it. Hence, Lord Narayana hit the asura on the head with the spoon in his hand. Then the cut off head fell on the ground. As the asura had consumed amirtham, his head and body continued to live.

Also, the head portion of the asura attached itself to a snake body and became Rahu Bhagavan. The body portion fell in Pothigai mountain region and a Brahmin preserved it. The asura body attacked the head of snake to become Kethu.

What is the significance of Keezhperumpallam Temple?

Here’s the significance of Keezhperumpallam temple:

• The center icon of the temple Kethu is a shadow planet. Also number 7 is the number denoting Ketu God. Further, Ketu God here has a divine posture with a five-head serpent as his head and folded hands worshiping Lord Shiva (Lord Naganatha swamy).

• Devotees also believe that they will get rid of Naga dhosham, Kethu dhosham, and form issues of marriage by worshiping in this temple. According to astrology, Ketu’s effects are that of similar to Mars but this is only one way of describing the malefic effect and power of Ketu.

• Ketu can be more destructive if it is inauspiciously positioned in the horoscope. Ketu destroys the potency of the planet with which it is conjunct, making the planet behave in an uncontrollable manner. All days are special in the Ketu temple at Keezhaperumpallam.

• Rahu and Ketu were the twins and universe planets than other planets. Lord Ketu is red in colour and has decorations of red lilly flower and red dresses. The effect of Ketu will create hindrance in one’s effort, poverty, enemy, ill health, devil spirits, loss of property, loss of face etc.

What are the timings of Keezhaperumpallam Temple Temple?

Here are the timings of Keezhaperumpallam Temple:

Timings	From	To
Morning Darshan	6.00AM	12.00PM
Evening Darshan	3.30PM	8.30PM

What are the festivals of Keezhperumpallam Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Keezhperumpallam Temple are:

Mahashivarathri: The day before the Amavasya (new moon) of each lunar month is called Shivarathri. The observance of the Vratha also secures the devotee’s immunity from the effects of sin. 

Panguni Vasuki Utsav: It falls in the month of Panguni (also known as Phalguni) when Nakshatram (Star) Uthiram or Uttara Phalguni prevails. Devotees also believe that Goddess Parvati in the form of Gowri married Lord Shiva in Kanchipuram and because of this belief this day is also Gowri Kalyanam day.

Karthigai Festival: Kaarthigai Deepam is a festival of lights, celebrated in the Tamil month of Kaarthigai. It occurs on the full moon day of the Kaarthigai month which coincides with Krithikai star. Also, in some houses, they double the number of lamps every day from the day of Deepavali and this way, they end up with a number of lamps on the day of Kaarthigai Deepam. 

Navaratri Festival: Navratri, literally interpreted as ‘nine nights’ is the most celebrated Hindu festival devoted to Goddess Durga symbolizing purity as well as power or ‘shakti’. Navratri in India follows the hindu calendar and occurs in March/April as Chaitra Navratri and in September/October as Sharad Navratri. Also, there is worship of Goddess Durga for the first three days of Navratri and of Goddess Laxmi for the next three days.

Aippasi Abhishekam: The full moon day in the Tamil month Aippasi / Kartik Pournami is an auspicious day to perform Annabhishekam to Lord Shiva. In most of the Shiva temples Mahakala Puja, Abhishekam, and Maha Mangala Harathi take place for the Lord.

Poojas and Rituals of Keezhperumpallam Temple

The poojas and rituals of Keezhperumpallam temple are:

There are special offerings like Lilly flowers, horse gram (Kollu), and multi color cloths. Also, Abhishekam to Lord Ketu takes place daily by 8.30am. Prodhoshams are very special occasions. Six worship services also take place at the Ketu temple. One can also worship Matsyavathara Purusha to appease Ketu graha. 

How to reach Keezhperumpallam temple?

Here’s how to reach Keezhperumpallam Temple:

• Air: Nearest airport Thanjavur airport, 23 Km away from the temple.
• Train: Nearest railway station is Mayiladuthurai railway station which is 24 Km away from the temple. 
• Road:There are regular bus services plying to Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruchirapalli, Karaikal, Pudukkottai, Madurai, Tirunelveli, Kumbakonam, Pattukkottai, Bangalore, Ernakulam, Ooty and Mysore.

Where to stay in Keezhperumpallam?

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

• Hotel Gnanam Contact: Anna Salai Market Road, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613001
• Lakshmi Hotel Contact: 44P, 45P VOC Nagar, Marys Corner, Trichy Main Road, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613007
• Tanjore Hi Hotel Contact: 464, East Main Street, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613001
• Sangam Hotel Contact: Trichy Road, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613007
• Hotel Star Residency Contact: 20/1 A, SM Road, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613007
• Hotel Parisutham Contact: 55, G.A.Canal Road, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613001

Where to eat in Keezhperumpallam?

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

• Vasantha Bhavan Contact:  S Rampart Rd, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613001
• Sathars Restaurant Contact: No. 167, Gandhiji Road, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613001
• Chennai Dharbar Restaurant Contact:  H.I.G – 15, Kurinji Street,, New Bus Stand, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613005
• Sangam Hotel Contact: State Highway 99A, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613007
• Thillana Contact: Sangam Hotel, SH 99A, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613007

What are some temples near Keezhperumpallam temple?

Some of the temples near Keezhperumpallam temple are:

Brihadishwara Temple: The Brihadishwara Temple, also popular as Rajarajeswaram built by the Chola Kings a thousand years ago, is one of the oldest and greatest Shiva Temple of all times. The temple is also  the standing example for the power and glory of its builder, Rajaraja Chola, an erstwhile King.  Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is a 16 storey temple with a 66 m high monumental tower or vimana over the inner sanctum which can be visible for miles around.

Thirunallar Temple: Sri Darbaraneswarar Temple is the abode of Lord Shani(Lord Saturn). The Temple is also most famous to Lord Shaneeswarar(Saneeswaran in Tamil). Moreover, it is one of the 9 Navagrahas(Nine Planets). Also, the main deities of the shrine are Lord Shiva and his consort Goddess Paravathi Devi and Lord Shani Bhagawan. 

Naganathaswamy Temple: Sri Naganathaswamy Temple or Rahu Sthalam is one of the 9 Navagraha Temples in Tamil Nadu and is associated to Lord Rahu (Raaghu Bhagvan). Also, it is one where Rahu (Raghu) worshipped lord shiva. A unique feature of Naganatha Swamy temple is that Lord Rahu has human face. 

Apatsahayesvarar Temple: Alangudi (Guru stalam) has been located at a distance of 17.5 km from Kumbakonam,Thanjavur.  Also, the presiding deity Aabathsahayeswarar is a Swayambulinga Murthy in the temple. Lord Dakshinamurthy as Guru Baghwan (teacher of Dharma and Yoga sastras) has special importance in the temple and therefore, the place is popular as Dakshinamurthy Sthala. Guru gives luck,richness,health in one’s life.

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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