Navagraha Tourism

Navagraha Temples and Their Tourism in Tamil Nadu

The Navagraha Temples in Tamil Nadu are a set of nine temples dedicated to the nine celestial planets (Navagrahas) as per Hindu astrology. These temples are primarily located in and around Kumbakonam, a sacred town known for its rich cultural and spiritual heritage. The pilgrimage to these temples is believed to remove planetary doshas (afflictions) and bring prosperity, health, and success.

Navagraha Temples in and Around Kumbakonam: A Complete Guide for Devotees

Kumbakonam, often referred to as the "Temple Town of Tamil Nadu," is the perfect starting point for a pilgrimage to the Navagraha Temples—a group of nine temples dedicated to the nine celestial bodies (Navagrahas) in Hindu astrology. These temples, located across the districts of Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, and Nagapattinam, are significant for those seeking planetary blessings and relief from astrological doshas.

Each temple is dedicated to a particular graha (planet) and has a unique significance in Hindu belief systems. Below is a detailed guide on their locations, distances from Kumbakonam, and the best ways to visit them.

1. Suriyanar Koil (Sun - Surya Bhagavan)

Located in Suriyanar Kovil, about 15 km from Kumbakonam, this temple is dedicated to Lord Surya, the Sun God. Devotees believe that worshipping here can bring health, prosperity, and authority. The temple is well connected by roads, and local buses and taxis are available from Kumbakonam.

2. Thingalur Chandran Temple (Moon - Chandra Bhagavan)

Situated in Thingalur, approximately 35 km from Kumbakonam, this temple is devoted to Chandra (Moon God). People visit this temple to strengthen their emotional well-being and seek relief from mental distress. Buses and private cabs from Kumbakonam make the journey convenient.

3. Vaitheeswaran Koil (Mars - Angaraka/Sevvai Bhagavan)

The Vaitheeswaran Temple, located 50 km from Kumbakonam, is famous not just as a Navagraha temple but also for its association with healing and medicinal properties. This temple is easily accessible via buses and taxis. Many pilgrims combine this visit with nearby temples in Mayiladuthurai.

4. Thiruvenkadu Budhan Temple (Mercury - Budhan Bhagavan)

Found in Thiruvenkadu, 60 km from Kumbakonam, this temple is associated with Lord Budhan (Mercury), known for wisdom and communication skills. Devotees visit to improve intellect and remove obstacles in education and business. Frequent buses run from Kumbakonam to Thiruvenkadu, or one can hire a private vehicle for a more flexible trip.

5. Alangudi Guru Temple (Jupiter - Guru Bhagavan)

Situated in Alangudi, just 17 km from Kumbakonam, this temple is one of the most visited Navagraha temples. Guru Bhagavan (Jupiter) is worshipped for wisdom, wealth, and good fortune. This temple is well connected by buses and is a short drive from Kumbakonam.

6. Kanjanur Sukran Temple (Venus - Sukran Bhagavan)

Located in Kanjanur, about 20 km from Kumbakonam, this temple is dedicated to Sukran (Venus). Worshippers believe visiting this temple blesses them with wealth and marital harmony. Local buses and auto-rickshaws make the journey easy.

7. Thirunallar Sani Temple (Saturn - Sani Bhagavan)

One of the most significant Navagraha temples, the Thirunallar Sani Temple is around 60 km from Kumbakonam in the Karaikal district of Puducherry. Lord Sani (Saturn) is worshipped here to mitigate the malefic effects of Shani dosha. The temple attracts thousands of devotees, especially on Saturdays. There are direct buses from Kumbakonam, but a taxi or private vehicle is more convenient due to the large crowds.

8. Thirunageswaram Rahu Temple (Rahu Bhagavan)

Only 7 km from Kumbakonam, the Thirunageswaram Temple is dedicated to Rahu, a shadow planet. The temple is known for its unique milk abhishekam, where the milk poured on the idol changes color. This temple is among the most accessible from Kumbakonam, with buses, taxis, and even auto-rickshaws frequently available.

9. Keezhaperumpallam Kethu Temple (Kethu Bhagavan)

Located in Keezhaperumpallam, about 55 km from Kumbakonam, this temple is dedicated to Ketu, another shadow planet. Devotees come here to remove negative influences and karmic afflictions. While there are buses to Poompuhar (the nearest major stop), hiring a private cab is the most convenient way to visit. 

Best Time to Visit Navagraha Temples

The temples are open throughout the year, but the ideal time for a peaceful and comfortable visit is:

• Early mornings (before 9 AM) or late evenings (after 5 PM) to avoid crowds.

• Winter months (November to February) when the weather is pleasant.

• Special pooja days like Saturdays for Sani Temple and Guru Peyarchi for Alangudi Temple.

Plan Your Navagraha Pilgrimage Efficiently

If you wish to cover all Navagraha temples in a single trip, consider this efficient route starting from Kumbakonam:

1. Thirunageswaram (Rahu - 7 km)

2. Suriyanar Koil (Surya - 15 km)

3. Kanjanur (Sukran - 20 km)

4. Alangudi (Guru - 17 km)

5. Thingalur (Chandran - 35 km)

6. Vaitheeswaran Koil (Mars - 50 km)

7. Thiruvenkadu (Budhan - 60 km)

8. Keezhaperumpallam (Ketu - 55 km)

9. Thirunallar (Sani - 60 km)

   
   

Completing this circuit takes one to two days, depending on the time spent at each temple. Devotees often plan their trip during auspicious planetary transitions for maximum spiritual benefits.