The Navagraha temples are a set of nine highly powerful Hindu shrines dedicated to the planetary deities of Vedic astrology. While Navagraha shrines exist within most major Shiva temples, this specific, ancient circuit refers to nine distinct, independent temples clustered around Kumbakonam and Mayiladuthurai in Tamil Nadu.
Millions of devotees visit these specific shrines to perform Pariharams (remedies) to mitigate severe astrological afflictions (Doshas), overcome the grueling Sade Sati (Saturn transit), and seek blessings for marriage, health, and supreme wealth.
The 9 Navagraha Temples Directory
Click on any temple name below to read the complete guide, discover exact pooja timings, and learn the step-by-step Pariharam rules for that specific planet.
| Planet (Graha) | Cosmic Role | Temple Name | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sun (Surya) | Health & Leadership | Suryanar Koil | Suriyampalayam |
| Moon (Chandra) | Mind & Emotions | Kailasanathar Temple | Thingalur |
| Mars (Angaraka) | Courage & Strength | Vaitheeswaran Koil | Vaitheeswarankoil |
| Mercury (Budha) | Intellect & Wisdom | Swetharanyeswarar | Thiruvenkadu |
| Jupiter (Guru) | Knowledge & Fortune | Apatsahayesvarar | Alangudi |
| Venus (Shukra) | Wealth & Arts | Agniswarar Temple | Kanjanur |
| Saturn (Shani) | Discipline & Karma | Dharbaranyeswarar | Thirunallar |
| North Node (Rahu) | Worldly Desires | Naganathar Temple | Thirunageswaram |
| South Node (Ketu) | Spiritual Liberation | Naganathaswamy | Keezhperumpallam |
The Ultimate 2-Day Navagraha Itinerary
Because these temples are scattered across several villages and strictly close between 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM every day, attempting to visit all nine in a single day is nearly impossible and highly exhausting. The most efficient way to complete the circuit is to split it over two days using two different basecamps.
Day 1: The Kumbakonam Cluster
Start your journey in Kumbakonam, which serves as the perfect central hub for the southern and western temples.
- Morning: Suriyanar Kovil (Sun), Kanjanoor (Venus), and Thirunageswaram (Rahu).
- Evening: Alangudi (Jupiter) and Thingalur (Moon).
- Secure your Day 1 Basecamp: Check current hotel availability and book your room in Kumbakonam on MakeMyTrip here
Day 2: The Mayiladuthurai Cluster
Shift your base north toward Mayiladuthurai to tackle the remaining heavy-hitters.
- Morning: Keezhaperumpallam (Ketu) and Thiruvenkadu (Mercury).
- Evening: Vaitheeswaran Koil (Mars) and finally, Thirunallar (Saturn) to complete the circuit.
- Secure your Day 2 Basecamp: Book your hotel in Mayiladuthurai on MakeMyTrip here.
Important Travel Logistics & Rules
- The Dress Code: Traditional Tamil Nadu temple attire is strictly enforced across the circuit. Men must wear a dhoti (veshti) and may be asked to remove their shirts before entering the inner sanctums. Women should wear sarees or conservative salwar kameez.
- Astrological Order: While some purists insist on visiting the temples in the exact order of the weekdays (starting with the Sun on Sunday and ending with Rahu/Ketu), it is not strictly mandatory for standard darshan. Visiting them based on geographical routing (as outlined above) is the most practical approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, hiring a dedicated cab from Kumbakonam for a 2-day package is the most popular and stress-free way to complete the Yatra. The local drivers are highly experienced with the exact closing timings and fastest village routes.
Devotees performing specific dosha pariharams (like the Sade Sati bath at Thirunallar) are advised to consume strictly vegetarian food and avoid alcohol for the entire duration of the pilgrimage.