Thiruvenkadu Swethaaranyeshwarar Temple, located near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu, is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The presiding deity, Swethaaranyeshwarar (Shiva), is worshipped along with His consort Brahmavidyambal (Parvati). This temple is particularly significant for being one of the Navagraha Sthalams, associated with Budhan (Mercury).
Thiruvenkadu, meaning “sacred white forest,” is known for its rich spiritual and mythological significance. It is believed that Lord Shiva performed His cosmic dance, known as Thiripura Tandavam, here. The temple boasts a vast structure with intricate carvings, a large temple tank, and three separate shrines for Shiva, Budhan, and the fierce manifestation of Shiva, Aghora Murthy.
Devotees visit this temple to seek relief from planetary afflictions, particularly those related to Budhan, and to attain wisdom and prosperity. The temple also hosts grand festivals, including Maha Shivaratri and Budhan Pooja.
Maps
Hightlight
-
Bus Facility
-
Car Parking
More Information
- History/Legend of the Temple Thiruvenkadu Swethaaranyeshwarar Temple, located near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu, is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple has a rich history and is associated with the legend of Budhan (Mercury), making it one of the Navagraha Sthalams (temples dedicated to the nine planetary deities). The presiding deity, Swethaaranyeshwarar (meaning "Lord of the White Forest"), is worshipped in the form of a lingam, along with His consort Brahma Vidya Nayaki. The temple is believed to be over a thousand years old and is mentioned in Tamil Saivaite hymns by Appar, Sundarar, and Sambandar. According to legend, Lord Shiva performed His cosmic dance, the Ananda Tandava, here to bless a devotee named Swetaketu. The temple is also significant for being the birthplace of the sage Pattinathar. It is renowned for its three sacred tanks—Surya, Chandra, and Agni Theertham—which are believed to have purifying powers. With its intricate Dravidian-style architecture, historical significance, and religious importance, Thiruvenkadu remains a major pilgrimage site for devotees seeking relief from planetary afflictions, particularly those associated with Mercury (Budhan).
- Name of the Deities Swethaaranyeshwarar (also known as Aghoramurthi)(Lord Shiva) & Goddess Brahma Vidya Nayaki.
- Nearby Cities and Distance Kumbakonam (58.8 km). Sirkazhi (13.8 km). Mayiladuthurai (24.3 km).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Bus. Car. Train. Auto.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Kumbakonam 1 hr 30 min.
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... Bus - Rs.30 - Rs.50 (Kumbakonam to Sirkazhi) | Rs.10 to Rs.20 (Sirkazhi to Thiruvenkadu). Train - Rs.30 - Rs.100 (Kumbakonam to Sirkazhi) | Rs.10 to Rs.50 (Sirkazhi to Thiruvenkadu). Car - Rs.1500 to Rs.2500 (Kumbakonam to Thiruvenkadu). Auto - Rs.500 to Rs.800 (Kumbakonam to Thiruvenkadu).
- Temple Instructions Traditional attire is recommended. Maintain silence and respect temple sanctity. Do not take photos inside the sanctum. Avoid touching the deities or the sanctum sanctorum.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Budhan (Mercury) Pooja (Every Wednesday & Special Days). Masi Magam (February - March). Arudra Darshan (December - January). Maha Shivaratri (February - March). Panguni Uthiram (March - April). Aadi Pooram (July - August). Navaratri (September - October). Karthigai Deepam (November - December).
- Rituals Available The temple is considered an auspicious place for marriage, as it is believed to remove planetary doshas (Budhan dosham) and bring harmony to the couple's life. It is also known for its divine connection to Lord Shiva and Parvati, symbolizing the ideal marital bond.
- Offerings Offerings include abhishekam (sacred bath) with milk, honey, and sandalwood paste, as well as archana with vilva leaves and flowers. Devotees also perform special poojas and light deepam (lamps) to remove planetary doshas and seek prosperity. Many offer prayers and homams (fire rituals) to Lord Aghora Veerabhadrar for protection from negative forces. Chanting Rudram and Budhan mantras, donating green-colored items, and feeding the needy are also considered auspicious offerings in this sacred temple. Offering green gram (pachai payaru) and lighting lamps with ghee is considered auspicious.
- Prasadham The prasadam typically includes offerings such as Puliyodarai (tamarind rice), Curd Rice, Pongal, and Sundal, along with sweet offerings like Sarkarai Pongal and Laddu. These prasadams are distributed to devotees, especially during special poojas and festivals. As this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva (Swethaaranyeshwarar) and Lord Bhudan (Mercury/Navagraha deity), special herbal offerings and holy ash (Vibhuti) are also considered sacred prasadam here. The temple authorities may also provide Annadanam (free meals) to devotees on auspicious occasions.
- Benefits of Visiting Devotees believe that worshiping here helps remove the malefic effects of Mercury and brings wisdom, prosperity, and good health. The temple's serene environment, rich history, and intricate architecture provide a deeply spiritual and meditative experience. Additionally, the presence of sacred theerthams (holy water tanks), such as Agnitheertham, Suriyapushkarani, and Chandra Theertham, is believed to purify one's soul. Visiting Thiruvenkadu also allows devotees to witness unique rituals and festivals, particularly those dedicated to Lord Shiva and Budhan Bhagavan. The temple's divine atmosphere, along with its historical and mythological significance, makes it a must-visit pilgrimage site for spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts alike.
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? Yes
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year Appar, Sundarar, and Thirugnanasambandar | Tevaram | 7th–9th centuries CE.
- Other things to do / places of interest Vaitheeswaran Koil (10 km). Poompuhar Beach (20 km). Mahamaham Tank (Kumbakonam, 30 km).
- Nearby Temples Kanjanur Sukran Temple. Thirumanancheri Temple. Sirkazhi Sattainathar Temple. Suryanar Koil. Vaitheeswaran Koil.
- Nearby Eateries Sri Balaji Bhavan (Kumbakonam). Sri Ganesh Bhavan (Kumbakonam). Hotel Sree Murari (Kumbakonam). Sathars Restaurant (Kumbakonam).
- Hotels / Home stays: Chola Inn (13.3 km from the temple). Ayarpadi Hotel (13.9 km from the temple). Hotel Aryabhavan (12.9 km from the temple). Mangala Vilas Hotel (13 km from the temple). Ganesan Hotel (14.2 km from the temple).
- Standard Weather The weather in Kanchipuram is generally hot and humid.
- For the best experience / Must know The presiding deity, Swethaaranyeshwarar (meaning "Lord of the White Forest"), is worshipped alongside Goddess Brahmavidyambal. This temple is particularly significant as one of the Navagraha Sthalams, representing Budhan (Mercury). The temple is known for its sacred Theerthams (holy water bodies), including the Surya Pushkarini, Chandra Pushkarini, and Agni Theertham. The temple's grandeur, with its intricate sculptures and Dravidian architecture, attracts devotees seeking relief from planetary doshas and spiritual enlightenment. Thiruvenkadu is also associated with Lord Shiva’s fierce form, Aghora Murthy, known for vanquishing evil forces.
- Not to miss This ancient and sacred temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is particularly famous for being one of the Navagraha Sthalas, representing Budhan (Mercury). The temple's unique features include three holy tanks (Agni Theertham, Surya Theertham, and Chandra Theertham), which are believed to have miraculous healing powers. The majestic Swethaaranyeshwarar (Lord Shiva) and Goddess Brahmavidyambigai bless devotees with knowledge, wisdom, and prosperity. The temple's intricate architecture, spiritual significance, and the powerful Budhan Homam performed here make it a must-visit for anyone seeking divine blessings and astrological remedies.
- Note for Travelers Thiruvenkadu Swethaaranyeshwarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located near Sirkazhi in Tamil Nadu, approximately 60 km from Kumbakonam. Travelers can reach the temple by road via buses or taxis from Kumbakonam, Chidambaram, or Mayiladuthurai. The nearest railway station is in Sirkazhi, about 15 km away, while the closest airport is in Trichy, around 150 km from the temple. The temple is famous for its association with Budhan (Mercury) and is a significant Navagraha Sthalam. It is recommended to visit in the early morning or evening for a peaceful darshan.
Opening Hours
FAQ's
What is the significance of Thiruvenkadu Temple?
The temple is one of the Navagraha temples, specifically dedicated to Budhan (Mercury). It is a famous Parihara Sthalam (remedial temple) for those having Budhan Dosha in their horoscope. Lord Shiva is worshipped as Swethaaranyeshwarar, meaning Lord of the White Forest. The temple has three holy tanks: Surya Theertham, Chandra Theertham, and Agni Theertham.
Who is the presiding deity of the temple?
Main deity: Lord Shiva as Swethaaranyeshwarar (also known as Aghoramurthi). Goddess: Brahma Vidya Nayaki / Tripurasundari. Navagraha deity: Budhan (Mercury).
What is special about Aghoramurthi in this temple?
Aghoramurthi is a fierce form of Lord Shiva, who is believed to have destroyed the demon Marutwasura here. Devotees worship Aghoramurthi to remove evil influences and obstacles in life.
How to reach Thiruvenkadu Temple?
By Road: Connected via bus from Kumbakonam, Mayiladuthurai, Sirkazhi, and Chidambaram. By Train: Nearest railway stations are Sirkazhi (15 km) and Mayiladuthurai (25 km). By Air: The nearest airport is Trichy (150 km) or Puducherry (90 km).
What is the benefit of visiting Thiruvenkadu Temple?
Worshipping here is believed to bring good education, intelligence, communication skills, and success in business. Budhan Dosha Nivarthi – Removes the negative effects of Mercury in one’s horoscope. Those facing obstacles in marriage, career, or health issues related to the nervous system and speech defects seek blessings here.
Are there any accommodation facilities near the temple?
Yes, Mayiladuthurai, Sirkazhi, and Vaitheeswaran Koil have hotels, lodges, and guest houses for pilgrims. Kumbakonam also offers good accommodation options.
