Thirunageswaram Temple, also known as Sri Naganathaswamy Temple, is a revered Hindu pilgrimage center located near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu. This ancient temple is part of the celebrated Navagraha temples of South India and is uniquely associated with Rahu, one of the nine celestial planets (Navagrahas). Devotees from across India visit this sacred shrine to seek relief from astrological afflictions and spiritual blessings. The temple is also famed for its architectural beauty, rich traditions, and mystical rituals. Temple About
Thirunageswaram Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is known for the worship of Rahu Bhagavan. It is one of the Navagraha Sthalams, attracting pilgrims seeking relief from planetary doshas.
Temple Description
The temple showcases stunning Dravidian architecture, large courtyards, majestic towers, and intricately sculpted pillars. Lord Shiva is enshrined here as Naganathaswamy, while Goddess Parvati is worshipped as Giri Gujambika. A distinct feature is the human-faced idol of Rahu, a rarity in Hindu temples.
Temple Speciality
Famous for Rahu milk abhishekam where milk changes color during the ritual
Believed to cure sarpa dosha, marriage delays, and health issues
One of the most powerful Rahu temples in India
Temple Address
Sri Naganathaswamy Temple, Thirunageswaram, Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu – 612204
Temple Location (Latitude & Longitude)
10.9622° N, 79.4674° E
Temple Timings
Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Temple Sevas / Pujas
Rahu Kaal Abhishekam (especially popular on Sundays)
Daily abhishekams and archanas to main deities
Special pujas during Graha transit days and festivals
Traveling Facilities
Well connected by road from Kumbakonam and Thanjavur
Autos, cabs, and town buses easily available
Ample parking space near temple
Food Facilities
Tiffin centers and veg hotels near temple
More restaurants and South Indian cuisine options in Kumbakonam
Stay Facilities
Budget hotels and temple guest houses available nearby
Many accommodation options in Kumbakonam, from budget to luxury
Nearby Railway Station
Kumbakonam Railway Station (~6 km)
Nearby Airport
Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ) (~100 km)
Nearby Bus Station
Thirunageswaram Bus Stop – close to the temple
Kumbakonam Bus Stand – frequent buses to major cities
Bus Routes to Temple
Buses from Kumbakonam to Thirunageswaram every 15–30 minutes
Also accessible from Thanjavur, Mayiladuthurai, and Tiruvarur
Train Routes to Temple
Trains to Kumbakonam from Chennai, Trichy, Rameswaram, Madurai
Short ride from Kumbakonam to temple by road
Airways to Temple
Fly to Trichy Airport, then take a taxi or bus to Kumbakonam
Approx. 2.5 to 3 hours by road from Trichy
Nearby Cities to Temple
Kumbakonam – 6 km
Thanjavur – 36 km
Mayiladuthurai – 34 km
Trichy – 100 km
Nearby Visiting Temples and Places
Airavatesvara Temple, Darasuram (UNESCO Heritage Site)
Adi Kumbeswarar Temple, Sarangapani Temple – Kumbakonam
Swamimalai Murugan Temple – 10 km
Other Navagraha temples in the region
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March – Pleasant climate and festival time
Ideal for comfortable darshan and exploration
Shopping Famous For
Kumbakonam bronze/brass idols
Puja items and copper vessels
Kumbakonam Degree Coffee powder
Traditional silk sarees and handicrafts
Thirunageswaram Temple stands as a powerful spiritual center in Tamil Nadu, where faith and astrology meet devotion. Whether you're seeking relief from planetary issues, admiring ancient temple architecture, or experiencing Tamil Nadu's cultural richness, a visit to this temple offers peace, divine blessings, and an unforgettable spiritual experience. Coupled with nearby historical sites, traditional shopping, and local flavors, Thirunageswaram makes for a wholesome pilgrimage and travel destination.
