Explore the Navagraha Temples
What are the Navagraha Temples?
The Navagraha Temples are a group of nine sacred temples located in Tamil Nadu, dedicated to the nine celestial bodies or planets in Hindu astrology: Surya (Sun), Chandra (Moon), Angaraka (Mars), Budha (Mercury), Brihaspati (Jupiter), Shukra (Venus), Shani (Saturn), Rahu, and Ketu. Each temple is believed to hold unique powers and blessings for devotees.
Significance of Navagraha Worship
Worshipping at the Navagraha Temples is believed to mitigate the negative effects of planetary positions in one's horoscope. Devotees visit these temples to seek blessings for health, prosperity, and success, particularly during significant astrological events.
Key Temples in the Navagraha Circuit
The Navagraha Temples consist of the following key sites:
- Surya (Sun) Temple: Located in Tiruvengadu, dedicated to the Sun God.
- Chandra (Moon) Temple: Found in Kumbakonam, dedicated to the Moon God.
- Angaraka (Mars) Temple: Located in Vaithisvarankoil, dedicated to Mars.
- Budha (Mercury) Temple: Situated in Tirunallar, dedicated to Mercury.
- Brihaspati (Jupiter) Temple: Located in Kanchanoor, dedicated to Jupiter.
- Shukra (Venus) Temple: Found in Kanjirath, dedicated to Venus.
- Shani (Saturn) Temple: Located in Thirunallar, dedicated to Saturn.
- Rahu Temple: Situated in Kethu, dedicated to Rahu.
- Ketu Temple: Found in Kethu, dedicated to Ketu.
Navagraha Temples Near Thirukkadaiyur
1. Thirunallar - Shri Darbaraneswarar Temple
Lord Saneeswara (Saturn)
Situated 20 kilometers southwest of Thirukkadaiyur, Thirunallaru Sri Darbaraneswarar Temple houses Lord Saneeswara, the paramount deity among Navagrahas, in a dedicated shrine. Pilgrims travel this distance seeking divine intervention and relief from the influence of Saturn.
2. Keezhaperumpallam - Shri Naganatha Swamy Temple
Lord Ketu
Located 15 kilometers northeast of Thirukkadaiyur, the Sri Naganatha Swamy temple at Keezhaperumpallam is home to Lord Ketu, one of the Navagraha planets, housed in a distinct shrine. Devotees cover this distance to seek blessings for harmony and spiritual well-being.
3. Thirvengadu - Shri Swetharanyeswarar Temple
Lord Mercury
Found 17 kilometers northwest of Thirukkadaiyur, the Sri Swetharanyeswarar temple in Thiruvengadu features Lord Mercury, one of the Navagrahas, enshrined in a separate sanctum. Pilgrims make the journey to experience the spiritual ambiance and participate in the temple's vibrant festivals.
4. Vaitheswaran Koil - Shri Vaidyanatha Swamy Temple
Lord Mars
Located 22 kilometers northwest of Thirukkadaiyur, Vaitheswaran Koil Sri Vaidyanatha Swamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Mars, one of the Navagraha planets, residing in a distinct shrine. The pilgrimage to this temple is believed to bring relief from ailments and ensure overall well-being.
Visiting the Navagraha Temples
The Navagraha Temple tour is a spiritual journey that typically starts near Kumbakonam and covers all nine temples. The best time to visit is during the auspicious months of October to March. Tourists can explore the rich architecture, participate in rituals, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of these sacred sites.
Local Festivals and Celebrations
Each Navagraha Temple hosts various festivals throughout the year, attracting devotees from all over. Special pujas and rituals are performed during these events, making it a vibrant time to visit and experience the local culture.