Naganathar Temple – Rahu Sthalam

🛕 Lord Shiva | 📍 Thirunageswaram, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu

Temple Tags: Ancient Temple Chola Temple Famous Temple Navagraha Temple Nayanmar Temple Paadal Petra Sthalam Sambandar Temple South India Temple Tevaram Temple

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⏰ Darshan

Morning: 06:30 AM – 11:45 AM
Evening: 05:45 PM – 08:45 PM

📅 Best Time to Visit

October to March is generally comfortable for visiting.

📸 Photography

Not Allowed

🔱 Temple Significance

Thirunageswaram Naganathar Temple is an ancient Shiva temple traditionally recognised as the Rahu Sthalam among the nine Navagraha temples of Tamil Nadu. Lord Shiva is worshipped as Naganathar, while Goddess Parvati is worshipped in the forms of Piraisoodi Amman and Giri Gujambigai. The temple is also a Paadal Petra Sthalam, having been praised in the Tevaram hymns of the Nayanmar saints.

🏛 Temple History

Thirunageswaram is an ancient Shaiva temple town near Kumbakonam. According to temple tradition, serpent deities including Adisesha, Takshaka and Karkotaka worshipped Lord Shiva here. Adisesha is said to have performed penance at this place, after which Shiva appeared and granted him a boon. Since Shiva blessed the king of serpents, he came to be known as Naganathar. The temple displays Chola-style architecture and is traditionally associated with the Chola period. Later rulers made additions to the complex, including structures displaying Nayak architectural features. The temple has four gopurams and several important shrines, including those of Naganathar, Piraisoodi Amman, Giri Gujambigai and Rahu.

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Daily Poojas

Regular temple worship schedule

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No daily poojas available.

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Special Rituals

Sacred offerings and temple rituals

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No special rituals available currently.

🎉 Temple Festivals

No festivals available.

🧭 Pilgrim Travel Tips

Thirunageswaram is one of the principal temples associated with Rahu worship in the Navagraha pilgrimage circuit.
The temple is approximately 5–7 km from Kumbakonam.
Rahu Abhishekam is an important worship practice at the temple.
The temple is especially popular during Rahu Peyarchi and other important Rahu-related occasions.
Expect larger crowds during Navagraha-related festivals and special pooja days.
Visitors should confirm special-day timings before travelling.