04Night / 05Days
Package Price :₹16,700.00/-Per Person
Booking Price :₹ 16,700.00/- Per Person
Overview of the Navagraha Temple Tour
1. Suryanar Kovil (Sun Temple):
Located near Kumbakonam, Suryanar Kovil is dedicated to Surya, the Sun God. The temple’s architecture and rituals are centered around worshiping the Sun, believed to bestow health, prosperity, and overall well-being.
2. Chandran Temple (Moon Temple):
The Chandran temple in Thingalur near Kumbakonam is dedicated to Chandra, the Moon God. Devotees visit this temple seeking relief from mental stress and to enhance their emotional well-being.
3. Angarakan Temple (Mars Temple):
The Angarakan temple in Vaitheeswaran Koil is dedicated to Angaraka, the planet Mars. This temple is believed to offer remedies for those afflicted by Mars-related astrological issues and promotes courage and victory.
4. Budhan Temple (Mercury Temple):
Located in Thiruvenkadu near Kumbakonam, the Budhan temple is dedicated to Budha, the planet Mercury. Devotees visit this temple to seek intellectual growth, communication skills, and business success.
5. Guru Temple (Jupiter Temple):
The Guru temple in Alangudi is dedicated to Brihaspati, the planet Jupiter. It is believed to offer solutions to problems related to education, marriage, and career growth.
6. Sukra Temple (Venus Temple):
The Sukra temple in Kanjanur near Kumbakonam is dedicated to Sukra, the planet Venus. Devotees visit this temple seeking marital bliss, fertility, and artistic talents.
7. Shani Temple (Saturn Temple):
The Shani temple in Thirunallar is dedicated to Shani, the planet Saturn. It is believed to alleviate the adverse effects of Saturn in one’s horoscope and bring prosperity and longevity.
8. Rahu Temple:
There isn’t a specific temple dedicated solely to Rahu, but the Rahu Kethu Sthalam near Kumbakonam is considered significant. It’s believed to alleviate the negative impacts of Rahu in one’s astrological chart.
9. Ketu Temple:
Similar to Rahu, there isn’t a dedicated temple for Ketu. However, Ketu sthalams are considered significant in Kalahasthi near Chennai, where devotees seek relief from Ketu-related afflictions.
Daywise Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Chennai – Vaitheeswaran – Thiruvengadu – Keezhaperumpallam – Kumbakonam
Day 2: Kumbakonam – Tirunallar – Alangudi – Thingalur – Suryanar Kovil – Kumbakonam
Day 3: Kumbakonam – Swamimalai – Thirunageshwaram – Kanjanur – Kumbakonam
Day 4: Kumbakonam – Chidambaram – Pondicherry
Day 5: Pondicherry – Mahabalipuram – Chennai
Package Includes:-
Package Excludes:-
Day 1: Chennai – Vaitheeswaran – Thiruvengadu – Keezhaperumpallam – Kumbakonam
Board your flight from Delhi. Arrive at Chennai. Meet our representative and proceed for your Navagraha Temple Tour Package from Chennai.
Our representative takes you to Vaitheeswaran Kovil (about 259 km), where the temple dedicated to Mangala/Angaraka (Mars) is located. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshiped here as Vaitheeswaran (god of healing), the temple has a sacred pond containing sacred nectar. It is believed that worshiping Shiva and taking bath in the pond cures all diseases. Mars was also freed from Brahma’s curse of leprosy in this temple. Pray and admire the architecture and centuries-old inscriptions. This place is also popular for Nadi (palm leaf) astrology.
Later, drive to Thiruvengadu (about 15 km), where there is the Swetaraneeswarar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and a temple of Buddha (Mercury). Legends say that Shiva incarnated as Agora Murthy to kill a wicked named Maruthuvasuran, who misused his powers to harm the people of the area. It is believed that apart from Buddha, Surya, Moon and many others worshiped Shiva here. Explore the huge temple and pray.
From here, we drive to Keezhaperumpallam (about 8 km), home to the Naganath Swamy Temple. While Lord Shiva is the main deity worshiped here in the form of Nagnath, the temple also has a shrine dedicated to Ketu. It is believed that by praying here one gets relief from the troubles caused by Chandra Dosh. Pray and explore the temple. Later, we will take you to Kumbakonam (about 60 km) for overnight stay.
Day 2: Kumbakonam – Tirunallar – Alangudi – Thingalur – Suryanar Kovil – Kumbakonam
After breakfast, start the day by visiting Shaniswaran Temple (also known as Dharabaranyeswarar Temple) at Tirunallar (about 52 km). The main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, while Shani is also worshiped here. It is also counted among the greatest temples of Lord Shiva, 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams. It is believed that by worshiping Shani in this temple, the problems caused due to Shani dasha go away. Pray at the temple and later drive to Alangudi (approx. 171 km).
Home to the Apatsahayeshwar temple dedicated to Guru/Brihaspati (Jupiter), Alangudi is the place where Shiva consumed deadly poison to save the world and hence he is worshiped as Apatsahayeshwar (Lord and protector during difficulties). The temple has a beautiful gopuram with mesmerizing carvings. Offer prayers and visit the temple and then proceed towards Thingalur (approx. 79 km).
Dedicated to Chandra/Soma (Moon), the Kailasanthar temple at Thingalur also has Lord Shiva as its main deity. It was here that Appar, one of the most famous Shaiva saints, brought the son of one of his devotees back to life after he was bitten by a snake. Pray at the temple and explore the rich carvings and magnificent architecture. From here we proceed towards Suryanar Kovil (about 45 km).
The village hosts the Suryanar Temple dedicated to the Sun God. Interestingly, the temple has the main shrine of Surya as well as shrines dedicated to all the other 8 Navagrahas where the Lord is worshiped along with his consorts. Displaying captivating Dravidian architecture, this masonry temple is popular not only for its religious value but also for its architectural brilliance. Drive back to Kumbakonam (about 15 km) for overnight stay.
Day 3: Kumbakonam – Swamimalai – Thirunageshwaram – Kanjanur – Kumbakonam
After breakfast, drive from Kumbakonam to Swamimalai (approx. 8 km), one of the 6 sacred abodes of Lord Murugan. It was here that Murugan explained the meaning of the Pranava mantra ‘Om’ to his father Lord Shiva, who praised him as Swaminatha Swami (Teacher of Shiva). Find the beautiful gopuram (gateway tower) and offer prayers at the temple. Drive further to reach Thirunageshwaram (about 14 km).
This place is home to Rahu Sthalama or a temple dedicated to the lunar node Rahu. Lord Shiva is worshiped in the form of Nagnathar who was worshiped here by a snake named Adisesha. Shiva blessed the snake with the title of King of Snakes. This place is also famous as the abode of Goddess Girigujambal. Offer prayers at the temple situated on the banks of river Kaveri and proceed towards Kanjanur (about 13 km).
At Kanjanur, you will visit the Agniswarar Temple, the abode of Venus. Lord Shiva is worshiped in the form of Agnishwar and it is believed that Venus resides in the stomach of the idol of Shiva here. It was here that Lord Shiva performed the cosmic dance and blessed sage Parashara. Pray and drive back to Kumbakonam (about 17 km) for night stay.
Day 4: Kumbakonam – Chidambaram – Pondicherry
After breakfast, drive from Kumbakonam to Pondicherry (approx. 129 km) with a stopover at Chidambaram (approx. 73 km) en route. The sacred temple town is home to several Hindu temples, the most popular of which is the Nataraja Temple, which is one of the five Panch Bhoota sites (the sacred Shiva temple represents the various elements of nature called air, water, fire, earth and sky). Represents where Shiva represents Lingam. Element sky (space). It was here that Shiva took the form of Nataraja (god of dancers) and performed the Tandava dance on the back of a demon.
Offer prayers at the temple and spend some time at Pichavaram, popular for its lush mangrove forests and pristine backwaters. Continue towards Pondicherry, a erstwhile French colony that has influences of European and Indian cultures and check in to the booked hotel on arrival.
Afterwards, join us on a sightseeing tour and visit top attractions like beaches, churches, temples and the famous Aurobindo Ashram. Overnight stay in Pondicherry.
Day 5: Pondicherry – Mahabalipuram – Chennai
After breakfast depart for Chennai (approx. 170 km) and stop at Mahabalipuram (approx. 100 km) on the way.
This coastal city hosts World Heritage sites of unique rock-cut architecture adorned with incredible carvings. Visit top highlights like the Shore Temple, Pancha Rathas (five chariot-shaped temples dedicated to the Pandavas) and Arjuna’s Penance (a giant open-bass relief).
Continue drive to Chennai. Arrive at Chennai Airport. Take your flight for Delhi. Tour ends.
1. What are the Navagraha Temples in Kumbakonam?
The Navagraha Temples are dedicated to the nine celestial bodies (Grahas) that play a significant role in astrology and Hindu belief. The nine temples are spread across a few kilometers and are dedicated to:
Suryan (Sun) – Aditya Temple in Kanjanur.
Chandran (Moon) – Vailankanni Temple.
Mangala (Mars) – Karaikkal.
Budhan (Mercury) – Thirupullani Temple.
Guru (Jupiter) – Alangudi Temple.
Shukra (Venus) – Kanchanur Temple.
Shani (Saturn) – Tirunallar Temple.
Rahu (Ascending Node) – Thiruvenkadu Temple.
Ketu (Descending Node) – Keelaperumpallam Temple.
2. What is the significance of the Navagraha Temples?
The Navagraha Temples are important pilgrimage sites for people who seek remedies for planetary doshas (imbalances). Devotees believe visiting these temples will help alleviate the effects of malefic planetary positions in their horoscope, particularly during periods like Sade Sati or Dasa periods.
Each temple is dedicated to a specific planet, and prayers or offerings made at each one are thought to bring good fortune, health, prosperity, and spiritual well-being.
3. How do I travel to Kumbakonam and the Navagraha Temples?
By Road: Kumbakonam is well-connected by road, and you can easily drive or hire a taxi from nearby cities like Chennai, Madurai, or Trichy (around 250-300 km from Chennai).
By Train: Kumbakonam has a railway station with connections to major cities in Tamil Nadu.
By Air: The nearest airport is Trichy International Airport (around 90 km from Kumbakonam). You can also fly into Chennai International Airport and take a train or drive to Kumbakonam.
4. How much time should I allocate for the Navagraha Temple Tour?
1-2 Days: The Navagraha temples are located within a 20-30 km radius around Kumbakonam, making it feasible to visit all nine temples in one or two days, depending on your pace.
Additional Time for Kumbakonam: If you’re interested, you can spend additional time exploring other local attractions in Kumbakonam, such as the Brahma Temple, Airavatesvara Temple, and Sarangapani Temple.
5. What is the best time to visit Kumbakonam and the Navagraha Temples?
The best time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing. The summer months (April-June) can be hot and humid.
You might want to avoid peak pilgrimage times when the temples are crowded, such as during Amavasya (new moon) or Ekadashi.
6. What should I wear while visiting the temples?
Modest attire is required when visiting the temples. Men are expected to wear traditional dhotis or trousers, while women should wear sarees or salwar kameez.
Footwear: You will need to remove your footwear before entering the temple premises.
7. What are the customs and rituals at the Navagraha Temples?
Each temple has its specific rituals for worship, and devotees often offer coconuts, flowers, sandalwood, and prayers for the specific planet they are praying to.
The temples may also perform special poojas (prayers) to help devotees with astrological problems. Some temples offer special archana services to pacify malefic planetary influences.
It’s recommended to check with the temple authorities if you wish to perform any special prayers or rituals.
8. Can I visit the Navagraha Temples during a specific planetary phase?
Yes, many devotees choose to visit the temples during auspicious dates, such as during the Navagraha Sankashti (planetary alignment) or during Dasa periods for specific planets. The temples often experience a higher influx of devotees during such periods, so it’s wise to plan ahead.
9. Are there any special offerings at the Navagraha Temples?
Devotees often offer navagraha coins, sesame seeds, milk, coconut, and sweets at the temples as part of their worship. You can also purchase offerings from the temple shops.
For certain planets like Shani (Saturn), specific offerings like black sesame seeds and oil are common.
10. What should I carry with me during the temple visits?
Cash for offerings and donations (though some temples also accept digital payments).
Water and snacks, especially if you are visiting multiple temples.
A hat/sunscreen for protection from the sun (especially if visiting in the hotter months).
Identification for booking any special rituals or services.
11. What other attractions are there in Kumbakonam?
In addition to the Navagraha Temples, Kumbakonam is known for its historical temples like the Brahma Temple, Sarangapani Temple, and Airavatesvara Temple, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. You can also visit Kumbakonam’s famous Brassware Market for local handicrafts.
12. How do I book poojas or special prayers at the temples?
Online: Many temples allow you to book poojas and special prayers in advance through their official websites.
At the Temple: You can also visit the temple in person and inquire about booking poojas and rituals. It’s advisable to check for availability and any specific guidelines.
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