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Tamil Nadu Temples

Kanjanur

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Agneeswarar Temple at Kanjanur is one of the nine Navagraha Temples in Tamil Nadu. It is associated with Lord Sukran (Planet Venus), the sixth of Navagraha planets. Lord Agneeswarar in this temple is there in the form of a Lingam, an infinite nature of Lord Shiva, which depicts Shukra.

Also, the Thayaar of Agneeswarar Temple is Goddess Karpagambigai (Goddess Parvati). The other deities of the temple are Lord Karpaga Vinayagar, Lord Dhakshinamoorthy, Lord Natarajar as well as Pullunda Nandhi. Moreover, the special feature of this temple is that Lord shiva blessed the sage Parasara Muni with His divine cosmic dance. Also, according to Shaivites, followers of Lord Shiva, Shukra is within the stomach of Lord Shiva.

What is the history of Kanjanur?

According to history of Kanjanur, Sukracharya was the son of Brigu Maharishi.  During a war between devas and asuras, Brigu Maharishi’s wife, was accidentally beheaded by Vishnu’s chakram (discus).  An angry Sukracharya cursed Vishnu.  As a result of the curse, He was born as Sudarsanar to Vasudeva, a Vaishnava Brahmin.  

Sudarsanar was a staunch Shiva devotee and was popular as Haradatta Shivacharyar.  There are stories of the ordeals of Haradatta to prove his devotion for Shiva. Images pertaining to these are there in this temple and also in the Vishnu temple in the village. Haradatta used to spend much of his time meditating before the Dakshinamurthy.

The presiding deity Agneeswarar is the embodiment of Sukran. Sukran was the Guru of asuras. He had got the blessings from Lord Siva after severe penances. In the Vamana Avataram of Lord Vishnu, Vamana sought three footsteps of land from Mahabali, an asura king.

Realising Vamana to be no mere mortal, Sukrachariyar assumed the form of a bee and tried to block the flow of water from the kamandalam. Vamana picking up a pavithram blinds Sukracharya in one eye while trying to unclog the hole in the kamandalam.

Sukracharyar also has the prowess to bring the dead to living by virtue of his knowledge of Amirtha Sanjeevini Mantra. Using this mantra, in the asura war against the devas, he revived the slain asuras. Hence, this helped the asura army swell.

The devas prayed to Lord Siva for help, who swallowed up Sukracharya in a fit of rage. After residing in Lord Siva’s stomach in a siddha state, he emerged from Lord Siva’s stomach.

What is the significance of the Kanjanur Temple?

The significance of the Kanjanur Temple is that Lord Dakshinamurthy (Guru) is always seen with a demon being crushed under his feet. The demon signifies ignorance. It means that Dakshinamurthy leads us from ignorance to the knowledge of self. The image of Haradatta worshipping Dakshinamurthy is a unique feature.

Sukra endows those who pray to him will be blessed with wealth, pleasure, wife, prosperity as well as vehicles. He is alsothe next most beneficial planet after Guru. Moreover, if in a person’s horoscope, Sukra is well placed, then the person will enjoy pleasure, beautiful wife, wealth, house, vehicle, good food, fame, love, affection, marriage, siblings, governmental help, chance to govern the country/state and hold influential status.

What are the timings of Kanjanur Temple Temple?

Here are the timings of Kanjanur Temple:

Timings From To
Morning Darshan 6 AM 12.00 PM
Evening Darshan 4 PM 9 PM

 

What are the festivals celebrated at the Kanjanur Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Kanjanur Temple are:

Mahasivaratri: Mahashivratri is celebrated in honour of Lord Shiva or Shankara. Priests wash the Shivalinga every three hours that day with cow’s milk, curd ,honey , cow ghee ,water. Women pray for the well being of their husbands and children, girls keep fast so that they get good and understanding husband.

Aadi Pooram: Aadi Pooram, also called as ‘Aandal Jayanti’ is a prime festival of Tamilians. This festival is for  Goddess Andal, an incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi. Aadi Pooram is a 10-day festival in all Lord Vishnu temples in the state of Tamil Nadu. Of these, the last day (10th day) is ‘Aadi Pooram’ and a grand marriage ceremony of Goddess Andal and Sri Ranganathaswamy takes place.

Arudara Darshan: Arudara Darshan occurs in the Tamil month of Margazhi (December – January). It is essentially a Shaivite festival and hence celebrates the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva in the Nataraja form. Women keep fast for husband’s well being while girls for a good marriage. Also, Ardra darshan is in early morning and devotees decorate the temple with flowers and diyas.

Navaratri: The festival of Navratri is marked by the celebrations of nine days. On each day the worship of one of the nine incarnations of the Goddess Shakti takes place. Chaitra Navratri occurs after Holi and during Chaitra Shukla Paksha. This starts from the first day and ends on the ninth day which is also Ram Navmi. 

What are the poojas and Rituals of Kanjanur?

The poojas and rituals of Kanjanur are:

  • There are six worships for the Lord in Kanjanur. Lord Shukra’s worship usually takes place with white lotus, white cloth, diamond, ‘mochai’ powder and athi to ward off evil effects owing to the malefic planetary effects.
  • By praying to Lord Sukra one can solve these problems. Arts, sculpture, love, vehicles are the beneficial aspects of Sukra.
  • The temple offers Six worship services daily. Fridays are auspicious to pray Lord Sukra. Sukran, the next most beneficial planet after Guru (Brihaspati), bestows his devotees with wealth and prosperity. If in a person’s horoscope, Sukra is in a good position, then the person enjoys better life and wealth.
  • Kanjanur is the temple for performing “Kalathira Dosha Pariharam” for Lord Sukiran. Lord Shiva as Agneeswarar is the presiding deity while his consort is Goddess Karpagambal. Lord Agni one of the “AshtadhikBalakars”  worshipped Lord Shiva here and hence the name Agneeswarar

How to reach Kanjanur?

Here’s how to reach Kanjanur:

  • Air: Nearest airport to Agneeswarar Temple in Thanjavur airport, which is 46 Km away from the temple.
  • Rail: Nearest railway station to Agneeswarar Temple is Mayiladuthurai railway station which is 18 Km away.
  • Road: There are direct local bus services to Agneeswarar Temple from Mayavaram, Aduthurai, Thiruvidaimarudhur and Kumbakonam.

Where to stay in Kanjanur?

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

  • Mantra Veppathur Resort Contact: 536/537A,No.1, Bagavathapuram Main Road Extension, | Srii Sailapathipuram Village, Veppathur,, Kumbakonam 612103, India
  • Sivamurugan Hotels Contact: 60 Feet Main Road | Near New Bus Stand, Kumbakonam 612001, India
  • Sara Regency Contact: 45/1 Chennai Road, Kumbakonam 612002, India
  • Quality Inn VIHA Contact: #2, New Railway Road | Kumbakonam, Tanjore Dist, Kumbakonam 612001, India
  • Hotel Metro Contact: 19/11 Sarangapani Sannithi Street, Kumbakonam 612001, India

Where to eat in Kanjanur?

Some of the places where one can eat in Kanjanur are:

  • Dosa Plaza Kumbakonam Contact: 332 Nageshwaran North Street | Kurinchi Metro Bazz
  • Habibi Restaurant Contact: 29/921 Sarangapani East Street, Kumbakonam
  • Raya’s Restaurant Contact: 18,19 Head Post Office Rd, Kumbakonam 612001
  • Venkataramana Contact: near Municipal office, Kumbakonam, India
  • Sri Mangalambiga Vilas Contact: Adi Kumbeswarar Temple Complex, Kumbakonam

What are some temples near the Kanjanur Temple?

Some of the temples near the Kanjanur Temple are:

Suryanar Koil: Suryanar Temple is one of the Navagraha temples, which houses the Sun God (Surya god). further, 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 also take bath in the tank or sprinkle holy water in the head as purification. 

Sri Sarabeswarar Temple: Sri Kambaheswarar Temple (or) Sarabeswarar Temple has located at Thirubuvanam village of Kumbakonam taluk, Thanjavur district. The main God of this temple is Lord Shiva as  Kambaheswarar as well as Goddess Parvathi. The Chola King Kulothunga Chola had built this temple for his victory of North Indian battle. 

Sri Mahalinga Swami Temple: Mahalinga swamy temple has located at Thiruvidaimaruthur, Kumbakonam, Thanjavur district.The holy tree Marutham had found in this region like forest. Therefore, this place has known as Maruthur. This Temple was at the middle of the Maruthur so it was popular as Thiruvidaimaruthur. Appar, Sundarar and Thirugnana Sambandhar visited this temple. They sang many songs about Mahalinga Swamy.

Kalyanasundara Swamy Temple: It is believed that unmarried boy or girl will enter into wedlock if they propitiate the presiding deity Kalyanasundarar and his divine consort- Kokilambal. Parvathi Devi performed Tapas in this sthalam to marry Shiva Perumaan and finally married in this sthalam.

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Golden Temple Vellore

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Golden Temple Vellore is in Malaikodi at Vellore city in Tamil Nadu.The temple’s chief deity is ‘Sri Lakshmi Narayani’ where devotees from all religions are welcome to visit the temple and have darshan. The Sri Lakshmi Narayani temple inside Sripuram held its consecration (maha kumbhabhishekam) on 24 August 2007.

It is a sight to behold. Constructed by Sri Narayani Peedam and headed by Sri Sakthi Amma, a spiritual leader, the grand temple boasts of spectacular art work.

What is the history of Golden Temple Vellore?

According to history, Sripuram Golden Temple was built in 7 years which is a very short time. It was then inaugurated onAugust 24, 2007 . The golden temple has attracted thousands of devotees. The entire temple had a covering of 9 to 15 layers of gold foil.

The temple is decorated with sculptures of the human person, richly decorated with columns and a roof.

What is the significance of Golden Temple Vellore?

Here’s the significance of Golden Temple Vellore:

  • Temple of Mahalakshmi or temple of Lakshmi Narayan who is Ardha Mandapam and Vimanam has a coating pure gold including both interior as well as exterior.
  • Vellore-based Sri Narayani Peedam has designed the temple, advancing by religious head Sri Sakthi Amma also known as Narayani Amma. The forehead with gold protecting has complex designs and art forms in silver.
  • The illumination is organized in such a way that the forehead papers even during evening. The forehead consists of more than 1500 kg of gold.
  • There was individual creation of details, such as transforming the gold sections into gold foils and then increasing on the gold foils on birdwatcher.
  • Sripuram design symbolizes a star-shaped path(Sri chakra), in the center of the lushgreen surroundings, with a duration of over 1.8 km.
  • Sahasra deepam or 1008 lamps is a sacred installation here.
  • Messages by ‘Amma’ are there out along the path to the temple with messages from the Gita, Bible and Quran.

What are the timings of Golden Temple Vellore?

Here are the timings of Golden Temple Vellore:

Timings From To
Open 4.00 AM 8.00 PM
Abishekam 4.00 AM 8.00 AM
General Dharshan 8.00 AM 8.00 PM
Aarthi Seva 6.00 PM 7.00 PM

 

How to reach Golden Temple Vellore?

Here’s how to reach Golden Temple Vellore:

  • Air: airports of Bangalore and Chennai are the nearest airports with regular flights.
  • Rail: The nearest railway station is Vellore katpadi Jn railway station, which is only 12 km distance from Sripuram.
  • Road: there are many buses that run from Bangalore, Chennai, Tirupati and some other main cities.

Where to stay near Golden Temple Vellore?

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

  • Hotel Gold in the heart of the city on national highway no.1, is a famous hotel that has a promising atmosphere and well suited accommodations.
  • Hotel Khanna Fiesta at Anna Sallai , Vellore is another place to check in during your visit. It is rather popular for its complementing decor and accommodations.
  • Hotel Surabi at Officer’s Lane is also a great place to tuck in. It has great staff and room service that has received much praise.

What are some places to visit near Golden Temple Vellore?

Some of the places to visit near Golden Temple Vellore are:

  • Vellore Fort was built during the 16th century AD by the Aravindu Dynasty of the Vijaynagar Empire. Later the fort’s ownership passed through the various dynasties like the Marathas, Bijapur Sultans, the Carnatic Nawabs and the British. The massive ramparts and moats have made the fort a strategic location, it was also known to have Tipu Sultan’s family and the last king of Sri Lanka as prisoners during the time of the British. The fort complex contains a church, a temple and a mosque.
  • Jalakandeswarar Temple is within the Vellore fort complex and is for Lord Shiva. The Temple is also one of the amazing specimens of the Dravidian architecture and houses one of the most intricately carved stone pillars. The temple also has a huge 7 tiered gopuram and adorned with various intricate carvings.
  • Yelagiri is another small hill station in Vellore. The town is in the middle of flowery meadows, tea estates and orchards. The various lakes and waterfalls in Yelagiri attract a huge number of tourists.

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Ekambareswarar Temple Kanchipuram

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The Ekambareswarar Temple in the town of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu is one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalas. It is dedicated to the element of earth, or Prithvi.  Lord Shiva is Ekambareswarar or Ekambaranathar here represented byPrithvi lingam. Moreover, Devi Parvati is depicted as Gowridevi Amman.

The other four temples in this category are Thiruvanaikaval Jambukeswara (water), Chidambaram Natarajar (ether), Thiruvannamalai Arunachaleswara (fire) and Kalahasti Nathar (wind). Further, all of the four famous Shaivite Saints have sung the glories of this temple. Srikalahasti temple is famous for it’s Rahu Ketu Dosha Remedy.

What is the history of Ekambareswarar Temple?

History of Ekambeswarar temple says that Pallava Kings built a part of the temple. However, the rest of it was built in the 17 th century. This temple is one of the most ancient in India. Also, Second century AD Tamil poetry speaks of Kama kottam, and the Kumara kottam. 

Initially, Pallavas built the temple. The Vedantist Kachiyapper served as a priest at the temple. Then, the Chola Kings rebuilt the entire structure. Also, Adi Sankara, the 10th-century saint remodelled kanchipuram along with expansion of this temple.

The Vijayanagar kings also made a lot of contributions to the temple. Vallal Pachiyappa Mudaliar used to go regularly from Chennai to Kanchipuram to worship in this temple. He also spent a lot of money on the temple’s renovation. The temple pillar contains an image of Pachiyappa Mudaliar seated at horseback.

According the devotees, there is a legend around the temple. Some say that once while Lord Shiva was meditating Parvati mischievously covered his eyes with her fingers. It resulted in complete darkness on earth for many years. As a result, Parvati went to earth and created the earth linga and worshiped it under a mango tree in Kanchipuram giving birth to the temple.

What is the significance of Ekambareswarar Temple?

The significance of the Ekambeswarar Temple is that it is the 1st of the 32 Tevara Stalam built in the Tondai region. It is the largest Shiva temple in Kanchipuram. A Somaskanda panel featuring Shiva, Parvati and Skanda together adorn the back end of the main shrine.

In 1509, Krishna Deva Raja of the Vijayanagara kingdom built a 60 meter high Gopuram.

The temple premise also has a 540 pillar hall, beautifully designed and carved. The Vijayanagara Monarch constructed the pillared hall.

A 3500 years old mango tree adores the sanctum having four branches each dedicated to the four Vedas. Moreover, the Deity derives its name from the Mango tree from the words Eka-Amra-Natha, meaning the Lord of the Mango tree. The path to the tree also has a Shiva Lingam made of around 1008 small lingas.

What are the timings of Ekambareswarar Temple?

The timings of Ekambeswarar temple are:

Timings From To
Morning 6 AM 11 AM
Evening 5 PM 8 PM
Ushakkala Pooja 6 AM
Saayaraksha Pooja 6 PM
Arthajama Pooja 8PM

Which festivals are celebrated at Ekambareswarar Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Ekambeswarar temple are:

  • The month of July observes the important festival Ani Tirumanjanam .
  • Also, the month of August observes Adi Kritikai and Avani Moolam .
  • The Chitra Purnima and Vaisakhi In the months of May and June marks the temples annual calender. The Panguni is a festival of 13 days. During this period, the wedding of the presiding deity takes place.

How to reach Ekambareswarar Temple?

  • Air: Chennai is the nearest airport which is 75km away from Kanchipuram. Public and private transport facilities are available.
  • Rail: Connected on the southern part of railways Kanchipuram has few trains running through the town.
  • Road: The city is only a few kms away from the Quadrilateral National Highway.

Where to stay near Ekambareswarar Temple?

Some places to stay near Ekambeswarar temple are:

  • Sri Hari Residency at 99, West Raja Street, Near Sri Kumara Kottam Temple offers grand cosy accomodations. It is an excellent place to stay.
  • Also, M.Hotel, Kanchipuram of No. 65-66, Nellukara Street, Bus Stand is another great place to check in. It has well suited amenities and a blissful environment.

What are some temples near Ekambareswarar Temple?

Some of the temples near Ekambeswarar temple are:

  • Kailasnatha Temple- This temple worships Lord Shiva, the supreme Hindu God. His temples are present in every part of the country. However, many of these temples are not there in Tamil Nadu.
  • Kamakshi Amman Temple- This temple is for Goddess Kamakshi Amman. This huge temple spreads across 5 acres of land. The temple also houses a gallery, which presents the life history of Adisankaracharya.
  • Kanchi Kudil represents the life of the people of the city with a view to attract tourists and let them feel the essence of life as lived here. Kudil means house. Moreover,the house is over 90 year old and its architecture resembles the olden style.
  • Devarajaswami Temple- The temple is another place famous for its richness of exquisite sculptures. Vijayanagar Kings built this temple for lord Vishnu.

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Garbarakshambigai Temple – Timings, Sloka and History

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Garbarakshambigai Temple is an ancient temple in the Tanjore district of Tamil Nadu. Goddess Garbharakshambika is a form of shakti who cures infertility in women and also blesses pregnant women with a safe delivery. ‘Garbha’ means Pregnancy, ‘Raksha’ means ‘To protect’ and ‘Ambigai’ is a name of Parvati.

Garbarakshambigai Temple
Temple Timings 5:30 am to 12:30 pm, 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Location Tanjore, Tamil Nadu
Poojas Pregnancy Ghee, Delivery Castor Oil
Deity Garbarakshambika

What are the timings of Garbarakshambigai Temple?

Here are the timings of Garbarakshambigai Temple:

Ritual Timings
Morning Darshan 5:30 am to 12:30 pm
Evening Darshan 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm
Abhishekam 8:00 am to 8:30 am

What is the history of Garbarakshambigai Temple?

According to the history of Garbarakshambigai temple, sages Gowthama and Gargeya did penance in a garden of mullai flowers. Sage Nithuvar was living here with his wife Vedhika. Then, one day when Sage Nithuvar was away, sage Urdhvapada visited the garden. But Vedhika was asleep and didn’t show hospitality.

She was having pains due to pregnancy but Urdhvapada unaware of her difficulties got angry. He thought that she didn’t bother to wake up and hence, cursed her. The curse caused a lot of pain and she thought she would lose the child.

So, she prayed to Goddess Parvathi to help her. Goddess Parvati took the avatar of Garbarakshambigai and appeared before Vedhika. She protected the child in herwomb by holding it in a “kalasam ” – divine pot.  When Vedhika cried as she was not able to feed the baby with her milk, a sacred cow came in front of the temple and made a lake of sacred milk.

Vedhika prayed to Goddess Garbarakshambigai to remain in the temple forever and bless all women with their difficulties.

The temple is spread over a wide expanse with huge towering Gopurams and a beautiful water tank in front of it. The main sanctum of this temple has the Shiva lingam and Goddess Garbharakshambika is situated to the left of the Shiva temple. It is believed that the Nandi at this temple is in Swayambhu vigraham (Self manifested).

What is the significance of Garbarakshambigai Temple?

The significance of Garbarakshambigai temple is that the Shiva Lingam in the sanctum is  Swayambu, made up of ant hill mud. Therefore no water abhishekam is done for this idol. But, the Lingam is only pasted with Punugu. Devotees also believe that people with incurable diseases can offer “Punugu Chattam.”

Moreover, goddess Garbarakshambigai is the goddess of mercy to bless women with gift of childbirth and safe pregnancy. Hence, she is the supreme personality of Motherhood. Her beautiful idol is about 7 feet tall and has beautiful kanjeevaram sarees and exquisite jewellery.

What are the festivals celebrated at Garbarakshambigai Temple?

Some of the festivals celebrated at Garbaratchambigai temple are:

  • Vaikasi Brahmotsavams: Vaikasi Brahmotsavam commenced in a grand manner at this temple. Amid Vedic chants and recitals of verses from scriptures, the priests perform the rituals in the temple. There are processions and large number of people participate in them.
  • Navratri: Navarathri is celebrated for 10 days in the month Purattasi. Every year the beginning of summer and the beginning of winter are the times when devotees worship the divine power during Navratri. The most important Navratri in a year is the Sharadiya Navratra.
  • Margazhi utsavam: Margazhi festival is celebrated at all temples in Tamil Nadu and India. Mainly the celebrations of this festival take place in all Vishnu temples and Shiva temples. Another importance of margazhi is that devotees read Tamil Holy Scriptures “Thiruppavai” and “Thiruvempavai” during this month.
  • Panguni Uthiram: Panguni Uthiram is a day of importance to Hindus especially those who belong to Tamil nadu. It falls on the day the moon transits in the asterism of Uttara-phalguni. The day connotes the wedding of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva, Lord Muruga and Devasena and other celestial couples. According to Ramayana, it is also on this day that Sita married Rama. 
  • Thirukkarthigai: Tamil Nadu celebrates Karthigai Deepam as the traditional festival. This festival of lights involves lighting lights almost anywhere to put an end to darkness. People believe that the light  will make people close with Lord Shiva on Karthigai Deepam. Lord Shiva will shed all his blessings during this special time of the year.

What are the Poojas and Rituals of Garbarakshambigai?

The poojas and rituals of Garbaratchambigai temple are:

  • Women who come here to pray for pregnancy and childbirth just offer flowers and do archana for goddess. 
  • Virgins who fail to find suitable grooms for a long time should come to this Garbarakshambigai temple in person. They should wash the steps with a little ghee draw ‘Kolam’ and perform Archana to the Goddess.
  • The childless couples offer ghee at the feet of the Goddess Garbarakshambigai. They should consume a little of the ghee as prasad at night daily for about 48 days and the woman will conceive. 
  • The women who are expecting deliveries should offer castor oil at the feet of Sri Garbarakshambigai. During labor pains, one should apply this oil on their abdomen and devotees believe that it removes all complications of deliveries.
  • Kattalai Archanai takes place on the particular date of the stars and the temple sends prasadams on monthly basis. Pregnant women consume it during their pregnancy period. 
  • Women light up eleven lamps and pray for the safe delivery. On performing the Garbarakshambigai Homa, childless couples attain parenthood and pregnant women undergo safe delivery.

How to reach Garbarakshambigai Temple?

Here’s how to reach Garbarakshambigai temple:

  • Air: The nearest airport is in Trichy.
  • Rail: The nearest railway station is the Papanasam railway station. 
  • Road: Thirukarukavur is present on Thanjavur-Kumbakonam main road. Several buses ply between Papanasam and Saliyamangalam at 30 minutes interval.Papanasam is 25 kms from Thanjavur and then to Thirukarukavur 6 kms from Papanasam.

Where to stay near temple?

Some of the places where one can stay near Garbarakshambigai temple are:

  • Hotel Simran Heritage Contact: Station Road, Moudhapara, Near Fafadih Chowk
  • Hotel Pace Contact: 217, Pace City I, Sector 10A, Near Hero Honda Chowk
  • Manyaa Hotels Contact: Khasra No. 500, Khandsa Chowk, Opposite Sector 10 A, Before Sector 37 Industrial Area
  • Motel Melfort Contact: Raj Nagar, Near Delhi Jaipur Highway, Raj Nagar Mod
  • Gautam Retreat Contact: M-200, South City I, Behind Unitech House

What are some temples nearby?

Some of the temples near Garbarakshambigai temple are:

  • Brihadeeswarar Temple: Thanjavur Brihadeeswara temple is one of the most ancient temple, situated in the city of Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu, India. The complex that houses the main sanctum is popular as the ‘Periya Kovil’. Thanjavur had the distinction of specifically being a religious city with the temple in the centre.
  • Gangaikonda Cholapuram: The presiding deity of this temple is Lord Shiva. The temple is famous for having the biggest Shivalingam, with a 4 meter Lingam in South India. The majestic entrance of the sanctum has beautiful image of Goddess Saraswathi. 
  • Darasuram Temple: Raja Raja Chola built this temple for Lord Siva, and it is either famous as Drasuram temple or Airavateswara Temple. The main mandapam of this temple is in the form of a chariot with horses. The steps are stones, which give different musical sounds when people tap them. 
  • Tirumanancheri Temple: This temple is quite famous among the devotees from the Hindu community who wish to find suitable life partners for marriage or in order to overcome. All times are auspicious since Lord Shiva and Parvathy are in a bliss here always. The shrine of Thirumananjeri is has close relation with legends that tell the story of Shiva’s marriage to Parvati.

Sooriyanar Kovil

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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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