Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Agneeswarar temple, Kanjanur is an important Hindu temple inTamil Nadu. Here, Lord Shiva and Parvati are revered as Karpagam Amman and Sivan Agneeswarar. It also holds a special place in the Navagraha line of temples because one of the nine celestial deities that are worshipped at this temple is Shukra. It is because Lord Shiva himself is worshipped as Sukran that there is no Navagraha shrine for Sukra. An interesting aspect of the Linga of Agneeshwarar is that it absorbs all the oil that is poured on it when the abishekam is performed.
Quick Details About Kanjanur Temple
Kanjanur Temple Address: Agneeswarar Temple, Kanjanur, Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu
Kanjanur Temple Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 8:30 PM
Entry Fee: None
Nearest Airport: Tiruchirappalli International Airport (110 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Kumbakonam Railway Station (18 km)
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Agniswarar temple is situated in Kanjanur near Kuthalam, Tamil Nadu, around 18 km away from Kumbakonam. It is located off the Kumbakonam-Mayiladuthurai Road and can be reached via the road to Kanjanur from Suryanar Kovil Junction.
How To Reach
Photo: Deepak / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport, which is about 110 km from here. Taxi and bus facilities are available from the airport to Kumbakonam and then local cabs or autorickshaws to Kanjanur.
By Train: The nearest railhead is the one in Kumbakonam, 18 km away. Taxis and autorickshaws are numerous, which can take you directly to the temple from the station.
By Road: The place is well connected through roads and can be approached either directly or by bus from various cities in Tamil Nadu and a short ride in the local buses from Kumbakonam. Private and shared cabs are also convenient for those coming from adjoining cities.
Places To Visit Near Agneeswarar Temple
After visiting Agneeswarar Temple, take time to visit other temples, sacred sites, and cultural attractions nearby.
1. Suryanar Kovil
Photo: PJeganathan / Wikimedia Commons
Suryanar Kovil is one of the sacred worship places, which is also among the Navagraha temples and has special importance to devotees in pursuit of the divine favour linked with health, strength, and wealth. This temple was constructed in the 12th century during the Chola dynasty and boasted exquisite stone sculptures and festivals, particularly Rathasapthami, when devotees visit to worship Surya.
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 8:30 PM
Distance: 4 km from Kanjanur Temple
2. Thiruvidaimaruthur Mahalinga Swamy Temple
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Thiruvidaimaruthur Mahalinga Swamy Temple is one of the oldest and most sacred temples of Lord Shiva, and it is visited by thousands of devotees. A temple of this magnitude has sculptures and shrines of many deities, giving it a rich cultural feel. Devotees say the sacred tank of the temple holds some special significance since many people take ritual dips within it. The temple is an abode of serenity and spiritual energy, attracting pilgrims.
Timings: 5:30 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 8:30 PM
Distance: 10 km from Kanjanur Temple
3. Adi Kumbeswarar Temple
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Kumbakonam towers above the place with its celebrated and oldest Shiva temple, Adi Kumbeswarar Temple. In the gopurams and stone carvings, this architectural wonder gives testimony to a very elaborate portrayal of Dravidian civilization. The festival Mahamaham attracts many pilgrims to attend the grand occasion hosted within its temple grounds. By knowing historical significance along with the religious aspect, insight into Tamil culture and religious practices can be understood.
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
Distance: 18 km from Kanjanur Temple
4. Sarangapani Temple
Photo: Adam Jones / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sarangapani Temple in Kumbakonam is a highly popular Vaishnavite shrine devoted to Lord Vishnu. The sanctum is shaped like a chariot with beautiful stone carvings and is the epitome of Chola architecture. This temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams and is sacred in Vaishnavism, attracting devotees throughout the year. It is also one of the five Pancharanga Kshetrams along the Kaveri River. The temple attracts tourists with its intricate craftsmanship and spiritual ambience.
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
Distance: 18 km from Kanjanur Temple
5. Airavatesvara Temple
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
This is the UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Darasuram. It is an architectural wonder from the Chola period, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is among one of the four major temples of the Chola Dynasty. It is known for its 80-foot vimana and 5-tier gateway, Raja Gopuram, and the artistry of the era, with stone carvings adorning the walls, pillars, and statues depicting detailed myths and legends. It is a deep heritage destination for history lovers and spiritual seekers, so stepping into Airavatesvara Temple is stepping into ancient Tamil civilization.
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 8:30 PM
Distance: 22 km from Kanjanur Temple
Where To Stay
Photo: maxfranke / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Kumbakonam has an adequate number of options for lodging near Agneeswarar Kanjanur Temple for different budgets. Among the favourites of tourists is Hotel Raya’s Grand, which offers modern facilities with two Navagraha temples close by. Hotel Le Garden is another marvellous mid-range option where you can appreciate a clean, cosy room with easy access to some of Kumbakonam’s most famous temples. There’s Poppy’s S.E.T Hotel, an inexpensive option for budget-conscious tourists where comfortable rooms with the most essential amenities have not been compromised.
Where To Eat
Photo: Rakesh Origanti / Wikimedia Commons
Kumbakonam is famous for its traditional South Indian vegetarian cuisine, and there’s no shortage of great places to eat. If you’re in the mood for some local breakfast staples, head over to Mangalambiga Coffee and Tiffin Center. Their dosas, idlis, and pongal are known among the locals and tourists alike. For a spicy twist, visit Hotel Gowri or Vasantha Bhavan, both known for their delicious Chettinad dishes.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Ravi Mittal / Pexels /Image For Representation Only
Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit Kanjanur Temple is from October to March when the weather is cool and comfortable enough to explore the temple and its surroundings. In these months, the pleasant climate makes the tour of the temple’s intricate architecture and participation in religious rituals even more enjoyable.
Tip For Travellers: Wear comfortable clothes and dress modestly to maintain the sanctity of the temple. Wear proper and easy-to-remove footwear. Carry water along, especially during the warmer months. Photography is normally restricted in certain areas; hence, ask permission from the temple authority first before taking Kanjanur temple photos.
With its historical importance and elaborate design, the Kanjanur Agneeswarar Temple is an interesting place for both worshippers as well as history seekers. This historical place helps one understand the divine aura surrounding Lord Agneeswarar and his consort. Be it a pilgrimage or enjoyment of the sights of Tamil Nadu, the Kanjanur Temple has a significant purposiveness in the itinerary. Plan your trip with TripXL !
Cover Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
