Thingalur Chandran Temple, located near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu, is a significant Navagraha (nine planets) temple dedicated to Chandra (the Moon God). It is part of the Navagraha circuit and is believed to bless devotees with mental peace, relief from planetary afflictions, and prosperity. The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Kailasanathar (a form of Shiva), with Goddess Periyanayaki as his consort. The temple has historical and architectural significance, showcasing Dravidian-style construction. Devotees visit especially on full moon days and Mondays to perform rituals seeking Chandra’s blessings.
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- History/Legend of the Temple Thingalur Chandran Temple, also known as Kailasanathar Temple, is a famous Navagraha (Nine Planets) temple dedicated to Chandran (the Moon) in Thingalur, near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. The temple has deep historical and religious significance, with roots dating back to the Chola period. It is believed to have been built by the early Chola kings, with later renovations by the Nayak rulers. The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Shiva, worshiped as Kailasanathar, with Goddess Periyanayaki as his consort. The temple is particularly famous for its association with Chandran, one of the Navagrahas, and devotees visit here to seek relief from Chandra Dosha (afflictions caused by the Moon in astrology). The temple's architecture follows the Dravidian style, featuring intricate carvings and a sacred tank. According to legend, the temple is where sage Appothi Adigal, a devout follower of Saint Thirunavukkarasar, lived and contributed to the spread of Shaivism. The Thingalur Chandran Temple continues to attract devotees, especially on full moon days, when special poojas and rituals are performed.
- Name of the Deities Lord Kailasanathar (Shiva). Goddess Periyanayaki (Parvati). Lord Chandran (Moon).
- Nearby Cities and Distance Kumbakonam (34.5 km). Thanjavur (16.1 km). Mayiladuthurai (70.7 km).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Car. Bus. Auto.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Kumbakonam 57 min.
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... Bus - Rs.30 to Rs.50 (Kumbakonam to Thiruvaiyaru). Auto - Rs.100 to Rs.150 (Thiruvaiyaru to Thingalur). Car - Rs.1500 to Rs.2500 (Kumbakonam to Thingalur).
- Temple Instructions Traditional attire is recommended. Avoid carrying leather items inside the temple. Do not consume alcohol or non-vegetarian food before visiting. Avoid loud talking or taking photos inside the sanctum.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Pournami (Full Moon Days). Chandra Darshan (First sighting of the Moon after Amavasya). Somavara Pooja (Mondays). Mahashivaratri. Navagraha Dosha Parihara Pooja. Thai Poosam (January–February). Panguni Uthiram (March–April). Aadi Amavasya (July–August). Karthigai Deepam (November–December). Chandran Peyarchi (Transit of the Moon).
- Rituals Available Not Available.
- Offerings Devotees offer prayers and special poojas to seek blessings for mental peace, prosperity, and relief from planetary afflictions. Offerings typically include white-colored items such as raw rice, white flowers, sugar, and milk, as they are believed to be dear to Chandra. Many devotees also perform abhishekam with milk and sandalwood paste, lighting lamps and reciting hymns to appease the Moon God. Worshiping at this temple is especially beneficial for those facing Chandra Dosha in their horoscope, helping to bring emotional stability, good health, and success in life.
- Prasadham The most common prasadham provided at the temple includes white rice with curd (thayir sadam), which symbolizes the cool and calming nature of the Moon. Other offerings may include sweet pongal, coconut-based sweets, and milk-based dishes, all of which align with the soothing and nourishing qualities associated with Chandran. Devotees believe that consuming this prasadham brings mental peace, emotional stability, and relief from the malefic effects of the Moon in their astrological charts.
- Benefits of Visiting Visiting the Thingalur Chandran Temple, dedicated to Lord Chandran (Moon God), offers several spiritual, cultural, and personal benefits. Located in Tamil Nadu, this Navagraha Sthalam is believed to reduce the ill effects of Chandra dosha in one's horoscope, bringing peace, emotional stability, and prosperity. Devotees seek blessings for mental clarity, calmness, and relief from stress or anxiety. The temple's historical and architectural significance makes it a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the rich traditions of South India. The serene atmosphere provides a perfect space for meditation and spiritual rejuvenation, making the journey truly fulfilling.
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? Yes
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year Appar, Sundarar, and Thirugnanasambandar | Tevaram | 7th century CE.
- Other things to do / places of interest Saraswathi Mahal Library, Thanjavur (Approx. 18 km). Thanjavur Royal Palace & Art Gallery (Approx. 18 km). Brihadeeswarar Temple (Big Temple), Thanjavur (Approx. 18 km).
- Nearby Temples Thirunageswaram Rahu Temple. Kanjanoor Sukran Temple. Thiruvenkadu Budhan Temple. Suriyanar Koil. Vaitheeswaran Koil.
- Nearby Eateries Annapoorna Hotel (Approx. 14 km, Kumbakonam). Aishwarya Bhavan (Approx. 6 km, Kumbakonam Road). Sri Balaji Bhavan (Approx. 8 km, Thiruvaiyaru). Vasantha Bhavan (Approx. 10 km, Thanjavur).
- Hotels / Home stays: Srirangam Homestay. Hotel Amutham. Uthamar Illam. RAK Residency. Arangan Kudil.
- Standard Weather The weather in this region typically follows the climate pattern of Tamil Nadu, which has a tropical climate..The best time to visit Thingalur Chandran Temple is during the winter months (December – February) when the weather is comfortable for temple visits and outdoor activities.
- For the best experience / Must know It is one of the nine temples associated with the Navagrahas (nine celestial bodies in Hindu astrology) and is particularly significant for those seeking relief from Chandra dosha (afflictions related to the Moon). The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Kailasanathar (a form of Shiva), while Chandra is worshipped as a secondary deity. Devotees believe that offering prayers here can enhance mental peace, emotional stability, and overall well-being. The temple, with its rich history and Dravidian-style architecture, attracts pilgrims, especially on Mondays and during full moon days, which are considered auspicious for Chandra worship.
- Not to miss Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Thingalur Chandran Temple, a revered pilgrimage site dedicated to Chandra (the Moon God). Located near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, this ancient temple is part of the Navagraha (Nine Planets) Temples and is believed to bless devotees with mental peace, prosperity, and relief from Chandra Dosha (lunar afflictions). The temple’s serene ambiance, intricate Dravidian architecture, and spiritual significance make it a must-visit for those seeking divine grace and astrological remedies. Whether you're a devotee or a traveler exploring Tamil Nadu's rich heritage, Thingalur Chandran Temple promises a spiritually enriching experience.
- Note for Travelers Travelers can reach the temple easily by road, as it is about 18 km from Thanjavur and 35 km from Kumbakonam. The nearest railway station is in Thanjavur, well connected to major cities. For those traveling by air, Tiruchirappalli International Airport (approximately 90 km away) is the closest option. Local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws are available from nearby towns to reach the temple. It is advisable to visit in the early morning or evening to avoid the midday heat.
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FAQ's
What is Thingalur Chandran Temple?
Thingalur Chandran Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Chandra (the Moon God). It is one of the Navagraha (nine planetary) temples in Tamil Nadu, specifically associated with Chandra (Moon).
Where is Thingalur Chandran Temple located?
The temple is located in Thingalur, Tamil Nadu, India, near Kumbakonam. It is about 33 km from Kumbakonam and 18 km from Thanjavur.
What is the significance of this temple?
It is believed that worshiping Chandra Bhagavan here can help overcome mental stress, emotional instability, and health issues. The temple is associated with people having Chandra dosha (lunar afflictions) in their horoscope. Devotees seek blessings for prosperity, peace, and a calm mind.
What is the history of the temple?
The temple is said to have been built by the Cholas. It is primarily dedicated to Lord Shiva (Sri Kailasanathar) and his consort Sri Periyanayagi Amman, with a shrine for Chandra Bhagavan.
What is the architecture of the temple?
The temple follows Dravidian architecture, featuring a towering entrance (Rajagopuram), a main sanctum for Shiva, and a separate shrine for Chandra Bhagavan.
How to reach Thingalur Chandran Temple?
By Road: Easily accessible from Kumbakonam and Thanjavur. By Train: The nearest railway stations are Thanjavur and Kumbakonam. By Air: The closest airport is Trichy (Tiruchirappalli) Airport, around 70 km away.
Is Thingalur Chandran Temple only for people with Chandra Dosha?
No, anyone can visit the temple for blessings of Lord Shiva and Chandra Bhagavan, not just those with Chandra Dosha.
Is there any accommodation near the temple?
There are many hotels and lodges available in Kumbakonam and Thanjavur. Pilgrims can stay in these nearby towns.
