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The Navagraha temples in Kumbakonam are an extraordinary collection of nine temples, one each by nine celestial bodies, in Hindu astrology. Situated in and around the town of Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu, the temples hold great religious significance and are architectural marvels that attract both pilgrims and tourists. People believe visiting these temples can nullify negative dosha influences from the planets in their respective horoscopes. This circuit is also popular among devotees seeking to alleviate any dosha influences affecting their horoscopes. Additionally, it attracts those interested in exploring Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural heritage.
Navagraha Temples In Kumbakonam
Here is a list of the 9 Navagraha Temples in Kumbakonam that will make your trip memorable.
1. Suriyanar Kovil (Sun Temple)
Photo: PJeganathan / Wikimedia Commons
Suriyanar Kovil, located in Tamil Nadu, is a revered temple dedicated to Surya, the Sun God. Built in the 9th century, it showcases stunning Dravidian architecture with intricate carvings and vibrant sculptures. The temple is particularly significant during the summer solstice when devotees gather to witness the sun’s rays illuminate the sanctum. It is believed that worshipping at Suriyanar Kovil grants health, prosperity, and success. The temple’s unique rituals include offering water and flowers to the sun, symbolising the importance of the Sun in Hindu cosmology. The annual festival of Chithirai is celebrated with grandeur, attracting numerous pilgrims.
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Location: Suriyanar Kovil, Kumbakonam
2. Kailasanathar Kovil (Moon Temple)
Photo: Ahammed Shahz / Wikimedia Commons
Kailasanathar Kovil, in Kanchipuram, is a huge temple and is credited to Lord Shiva, the god of the Moon. The temple was constructed in the 7th century by the Pallava dynasty. It is famous for its fabulous architecture, which consists of granite carvings and stone sculptures. The peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful design of the temple make it a sacred place for pilgrimage. Devotees believe that they receive relief from mental disturbances after worshipping here and hence gain peace. The temple also performs different festivals such as Maha Shivaratri, and draws thousands of visitors.
Ideal Duration: 45 minutes
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Thingalur, Kumbakonam
3. Vaitheeswaran Kovil (Mars Temple)
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
Vaitheeswaran Kovil, located in Tamil Nadu, is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Shiva as Vaitheeswaran, the God of healing. Revered as a Mars temple, it attracts devotees seeking relief from ailments and spiritual guidance. The temple boasts stunning architecture, with intricate carvings depicting various deities and mythological scenes. Pilgrims often visit to perform rituals for good health and to alleviate the malefic effects of Mars in their horoscopes. A unique feature is the sacred pond, known as “Vaidheega Theertham,” where devotees take a holy dip. The annual festival of Aadi Vettai is celebrated with fervour and devotion.
Ideal Duration: 1.5 hours
Entry Fee: N/A
Timings: 6 AM – 1 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
Location: Vaitheeswaran Kovil, Kumbakonam
4. Swetharanyeswarar Kovil (Mercury Temple)
Photo: Chandan Parihar / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Swetharanyeswarar Kovil, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Swetharanyeswarar, is found in Tamil Nadu and is associated with the planet Mercury. The architectural style of the temple features intricate carvings and beautiful sculptures speaking of the rich cultural background of the area. The people believe that worshipping here maximises their ability to think and communicate better. The temple is especially of very great importance to those born under the influence of Mercury as it assures removal of all obstacles related to education and knowledge.
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Entry Fee: N/A
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
Location: Thiruvenkadu, Kumbakonam
5. Apatsahayesvarar Temple (Jupiter Temple)
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
The Apatsahayesvarar Temple, located in Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to Lord Shiva, known as Apatsahayesvarar, and is associated with the planet Jupiter. The temple is a significant pilgrimage site for devotees seeking spiritual guidance and prosperity. It features exquisite Dravidian architecture, intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various deities and stories from Hindu mythology. Visitors believe that worshipping here can bestow blessings of wealth, wisdom, and good fortune. The temple’s annual festivals, especially during the month of Puratasi, attract many pilgrims, reinforcing its reputation as a powerful centre for spiritual growth and divine blessings.
Ideal Duration: 45 minutes
Entry Fee: N/A
Timings: 6 AM – 1 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
Location: Alangudi, Kumbakonam
6. Agneeswarar Kovil (Venus Temple)
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
The temple to Lord Shiva as Agneeswarar is Agneeswarar Kovil. It is one in Tamil Nadu related to Venus and known for its brilliant architecture with intricate sculptures, which popularise the excellent artistic ability of the ancient Tamil culture. Devotees pray here for marital harmony and prosperity because Venus relates to love and beauty. Rituals performed here improve relationships and attract benign energy. The temple has colourful festivals that have been more concentrated during the month of Thai. Agneeswarar Kovil is a place of sanctity for introspection, worship, and pursuit of love and harmony.
Ideal Duration: 1 hour
Entry Fee: N/A
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Location: Kanjanoor, Kumbakonam
7. Thirunageswaram Temple (Rahu Temple)
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
Thirunageswaram Temple, located near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu, is a revered site dedicated to Lord Shiva as Nageswarar. This temple is significant for its association with Naga worship, where devotees seek blessings to alleviate ancestral curses and gain spiritual relief. The architectural grandeur, adorned with intricate carvings, reflects the temple’s historical significance. A unique feature of this temple is the presence of Naga idols, where devotees perform rituals to honour their ancestors. The temple hosts various festivals, with special significance during the month of Aadi, attracting pilgrims who come to seek blessings for prosperity and protection.
Ideal Duration: 1.5 hours
Entry Fee: N/A
Timings: 6 AM – 1 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Location: Thirunageswaram, Kumbakonam
8. Naganathaswamy Kovil (Ketu Temple)
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
Naganathaswamy Kovil, situated in Tamil Nadu, is a prominent temple dedicated to Lord Shiva as Naganathaswamy, associated with the planet Ketu. This temple is significant for devotees seeking spiritual liberation and relief from the malefic influences of Ketu in their horoscopes. The temple’s architecture features elaborate sculptures and intricate carvings that depict various mythological stories. Pilgrims come here to perform rituals and offer prayers for ancestral blessings and spiritual well-being. The annual Ketu festival attracts numerous devotees who believe that worshipping at Naganathaswamy Kovil can bestow wisdom, clarity, and protection from negative influences.
Ideal Duration: 45 minutes
Entry Fee: Free
Timings: 6 AM – 1 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Location: Keezhaperumpallam, Kumbakonam
9. Tirunallar Temple (Saturn Temple)
Photo: Rsmn / Wikimedia Commons
The Tirunallar Temple, located in Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Dharbaranyeswarar. This temple is particularly significant for those seeking relief from the malefic influences of Saturn (Shani) in their lives, making it an important pilgrimage site for many. The temple’s exquisite architecture is showcased through its intricate carvings and beautiful sculptures, reflecting the artistry of the region. Devotees flock to this sacred space, believing that their prayers here can alleviate difficulties and bring prosperity and success.
Ideal Duration: 1.5 hours
Entry Fee: N/A
Timings: 6 AM to 12:30 PM and from 4 PM – 8 PM
Location: Tirunallar, Kumbakonam
The Navagraha temples in Kumbakonam offer a profound spiritual journey for devotees seeking relief from planetary influences and personal transformation. Each temple’s significance is intertwined with its unique architectural beauty and religious importance. Whether you’re looking to resolve astrological doshas or simply to explore Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural heritage, visiting these temples offers a deeply enriching experience. Plan your trip with TripXL to embark on this journey and explore Kumbakonam.
Cover Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
