Sri Agniswarar Temple, located in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is part of the Navagraha temples and represents the planet Sukra (Venus). Lord Shiva is worshiped here as Agniswarar, symbolizing the fire element, while Goddess Parvati is revered as Karpagambal. The temple is known for its unique belief that praying here can remove obstacles, especially those related to marriage and planetary doshas. With its rich Dravidian architecture, intricate carvings, and spiritual significance, the temple attracts devotees seeking divine blessings and harmony in life.
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- History/Legend of the Temple According to legend, Siva performed a cosmic dance here to bless Parasara muni (sage). It is claimed that Shiva took on the shape of Sukra to propitiate himself against the Sukran dosha. The Agniswarar Temple in Kanjanur has a long history stretching back centuries. It is one of the most famous Navagraha temples, each linked with a celestial body in Hindu astronomy. The shrine is particularly associated with the planet Sukran (Venus). Ancient scriptures and tales related with the temple describe its significance in moderating Venus' malefic effects and delivering positive impacts into devotees' lives. The temple's architecture and inscriptions provide insight into the region's cultural and religious practices throughout history. Devotees visit the Agniswarar Temple to perform rituals, worship, and seek heavenly favors. The temple's historical and cultural background enhances its spiritual value for visitors and worshippers. The temple is one of the temples built along the northern banks of the Kaveri River.
- Name of the Deities Agneeswarar (Lord Shiva). Goddess Karpagambal (Parvati).
- Nearby Cities and Distance Thanjavur (40.0 km). Tiruvarur (45.0 km). Chidambaram (70.0 km). Trichy (Tiruchirappalli) (85.0 km).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Car. Bus. Bike. Train.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Thanjavur 58 min.
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... Car – Rs. 1500 to Rs. 2500 (Thanjavur to Kanjanur). Bus – Rs. 50 to Rs. 100 (Thanjavur to Kanjanur). Train - Rs. 50 to Rs. 300 (Thanjavur to Kumbakonam).
- Temple Instructions Photography: Photography may be prohibited in certain areas, particularly near the sanctum or during specified ceremonies. Always ask before snapping photos. Dress code: Traditional dress is preferred. Men are typically required to wear dhotis, but women should wear sarees or salwar kameez. Visitors are encouraged to maintain cleanliness and avoid trash on and around the temple grounds.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Pradosham. Maha Shivaratri. Aadi Month (July-August). Thai Poosam (January-February)
- Rituals Available Not Available
- Offerings Devotees frequently present flowers, fruits, and camphor.
- Prasadham Devotees will receive Vibhuti (Sacred Ash), Panchamritam, Vada, and Pongal.
- Benefits of Visiting Spiritual Significance: The temple is a major destination for pilgrims and is devoted to Lord Shiva. Worshiping here, according to devotees, promotes spiritual development, clears the path, and bestows heavenly benefits for harmony and wealth. Healing Powers: The temple is particularly helpful for people looking for solutions pertaining to marriage, relationships, and fertility because of its affinity with the planet Venus (Shukra). Peace and Calm: The tranquil setting, encircled by breathtaking scenery, provides guests with a tranquil haven for introspection and meditation.
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? Yes
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year Tevaram | Nayanmars | 7th and 8th centuries.
- Other things to do / places of interest Srinivasa ramanujan monument (17.7 Km). Mahamaham tank (23 Km). Sri Vittal rukmini samsthan (7.0 Km). Sri Mahalingaswami kovil (8.9 Km).
- Nearby Temples Adhi Agniswarar Temple (Kanjanur). Kethu Bhagwan Temple (Panchangudi). Suryanar Koil (Suryanar Koil). Thirunallar (Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple). Vaitheeswaran Koil (Vaitheeswaran Koil). Brihadeeswarar Temple (Kumbakonam).
- Nearby Eateries Aasai Restaurant. Hotel Kaveri. Kannan's Bhavan. Sathars Restaurant. Indian Imperial restaurant.
- Hotels / Home stays: Mantra Koodam Kumbakonam. Sai Ayush Homestay. GK Residency. Marudha Temple View. Quality Inn VIHA.
- For the best experience / Must know The temple is associated with Navagraha dosha remedies, notably for Surya, which assist devotees trying to enhance their horoscope relating to the Sun. People suffering from health ailments (particularly bone or vision problems), financial difficulties, or unpleasant planetary consequences frequently seek relief here. The temple has classic Dravidian architecture, with elaborate sculptures and tall gopurams (gateway towers). The sanctum sanctorum houses the major deity, Agniswarar, and the goddess, Agneshwari, is also ensconced there. The temple also features a sacred tank (theertham), which is thought to have purifying properties. Devotees take a ritual bath here to cleanse their sins.
- Not to miss The temple is devoted to Lord Shiva, also known as Agniswarar, who is said to have the power to protect people from the negative effects of Venus. Historical significance: It is an important Navagraha temple that is frequently visited by devotees looking to please Venus. Devotees pray for marital joy, prosperity, and success in creative disciplines such as music, painting, and literature, because Venus is associated with beauty, love, and creativity. The temple commemorates major Hindu festivals, such as Maha Shivaratri and other significant events linked with Lord Shiva.
- Note for Travelers The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) Airport, which is around 125 kilometers away. The closest railway station is Kumbakonam, which is around 18 kilometers from the temple. Buses and taxis run frequently between Kumbakonam, Mayiladuthurai, and other adjacent towns. The best months for good weather are October through March. Fridays and Sukra Hora (auspicious Venus periods) are designated for prayer.
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FAQ's
Where is Sri Agniswarar Temple located?
Sri Agniswarar Temple is situated in Kanjanur, near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India.
What is the significance of Sri Agniswarar Temple?
This temple is one of the Navagraha Temples in Tamil Nadu, specifically associated with Sukran (Venus). It is believed that worshiping here helps devotees gain prosperity, wealth, and marital harmony.
What is special about this temple?
Unlike other Navagraha temples, there is no separate idol for Sukran. Instead, it is believed that Sukran himself is embodied in the presiding deity, Lord Shiva. The temple is associated with the legend of Sage Parashara and is believed to bless devotees with prosperity and marital bliss.
What are the main festivals celebrated here?
Sukran Peyarchi (Transit of Venus) – A grand celebration happens when Venus changes its zodiac sign. Maha Shivaratri – Dedicated to Lord Shiva with special poojas and night-long worship. Panguni Uthiram – A festival associated with marriage and relationships. Aadi Pooram – Celebrated for Goddess Karpagambal .
How to reach Sri Agniswarar Temple?
By Road: The temple is about 18 km from Kumbakonam and is well connected by buses and taxis. By Rail: The nearest railway station is Kumbakonam Railway Station (18 km). By Air: The nearest airport is Trichy International Airport, about 120 km away.
Are there any special poojas offered?
Yes, special poojas include: Sukra Dosha Nivarthi Pooja (for Venus-related doshas) Parihara Pooja (for marriage and financial prosperity) Abhishekam and Archana (for Lord Shiva and Goddess Karpagambal )
What is the history of the temple?
The temple was built by the Medieval Cholas and later renovated by the Vijayanagar kings. It is classified as a Padal Petra Stalam, meaning it has been praised in ancient Tamil hymns. The temple's Rajagopuram (main tower) has five tiers, and it is known for its unique lingam that absorbs oil when poured during abhishekam (ritual bathing)
