Sri Kala Bairavar Temple in Kumbakonam is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Kala Bhairava, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva, who governs time and offers protection. Situated in Tamil Nadu, this temple holds immense spiritual significance, as devotees believe that worshipping here helps in overcoming time-related obstacles, removing negative influences, and attaining success in various aspects of life. The temple follows the Dravidian architectural style, adorned with intricate carvings and sacred shrines that add to its divine aura. Kala Bhairava Jayanthi and Ashtami days are considered highly auspicious for special prayers and rituals. Devotees offer ghee lamps, garlands, and pujas to seek blessings for time management, relief from planetary afflictions (doshas), and overall well-being. This sacred site is a must-visit for those looking for divine intervention in managing life’s challenges and achieving spiritual upliftment.
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- History/Legend of the Temple Sri Kala Bairavar Temple in Kumbakonam is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Kala Bhairava, a fierce manifestation of Lord Shiva. This temple holds historical and spiritual significance, attracting devotees seeking protection, justice, and relief from planetary afflictions. Believed to be ancient, the temple dates back several centuries, with architectural influences from the Chola and Nayak dynasties. It is associated with the Shakti Peetha tradition and is an important center for Bhairava worship. Kumbakonam, known for its Mahamaham festival, houses several temples, and this shrine is a vital part of the divine worship circuit for Shiva and Bhairava devotees. Worshipped as the protector of time (Kala), Lord Bhairava is believed to remove obstacles, delays, and misfortunes from devotees’ lives. The temple is particularly significant for those seeking relief from Ashtama Shani (Saturn's eight-year phase) and Rahu-Ketu afflictions, with special pujas and rituals like Kala Bhairava Ashtami observed with devotion. Architecturally, the temple showcases traditional Dravidian design, with a distinct shrine for Kala Bhairava. The deity is depicted in a standing posture, adorned with sacred ornaments, wielding his characteristic danda (staff) and damaru (drum). The temple’s sanctum and intricate sculptures reflect Tamil Nadu’s rich heritage. Among the major festivals, Kala Bhairava Jayanthi is celebrated grandly, drawing large crowds. Devotees perform ghee lamps, archanas, and abishekams to seek blessings for prosperity and protection, and as part of worship rituals, dogs—considered Bhairava’s divine vehicle—are often fed. Sri Kala Bairavar Temple in Kumbakonam remains a significant spiritual hub, deeply rooted in Tamil religious traditions, and continues to attract devotees seeking divine grace.
- Name of the Deities Kala Bhairavar (Lord Shiva ). Goddess Parvati.
- Nearby Cities and Distance Thanjavur (45.9 km). Karaikal (53.7 km). Trichy (109.0 km).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Car. Bus. Train. Bike. Auto.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Thanjavur 46 min.
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... Car - Rs.1000 to Rs.1500. Bus - Rs.30 to Rs.50. Train - Rs.30 to Rs.100. Auto - Rs.500 to Rs.800.
- Temple Instructions Wear traditional attire (men in dhoti/veshti, women in saree or salwar kameez) as a mark of respect. Seek permission before taking pictures, as some temples restrict photography inside the sanctum. Walk around the sanctum in a clockwise direction for divine blessings.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Ashtami Days (8th Lunar Day) Ashtami, especially Krishna Paksha Ashtami (8th day of the waning moon), is considered highly auspicious for worshipping Kala Bhairavar. Devotees perform special poojas and abhishekam (ritual bathing of the deity). Kala Bhairava Jayanthi Celebrated on the Ashtami day of Margashirsha month (November-December), this festival marks the appearance of Lord Kala Bhairavar. Devotees observe fasting and perform special poojas at midnight. Maha Shivaratri Observed in February-March, this grand festival honors Lord Shiva, with special rituals dedicated to Kala Bhairavar during the night. New Moon Days (Amavasya) Amavasya is significant for offering prayers to ancestors and seeking Kala Bhairavar’s blessings to remove obstacles and negative influences. Pradosham Falling twice a month (on the 13th day of the lunar fortnight), Pradosham is an important time for Shiva worship, and Kala Bhairavar devotees participate in special rituals. Annual Abhishekam and Special Poojas The temple conducts grand abhishekams and homams (fire rituals) on key festival days and during special planetary alignments.
- Rituals Available Not Available.
- Offerings Devotees offer the deity special naivedyam (food) and vastrams (clothes). Ritual bathing of the deity in milk, honey, curd, and other sacred substances. Chanting names with offerings such as flowers and fruits.
- Prasadham Special Kala Bhairava Prasadam is offered after pooja, which includes sweets, tamarind rice, and special vibhuti (sacred ash).
- Benefits of Visiting Devotees claim that worshipping Kala Bhairavar at this temple helps them overcome their phobias, improve their time management skills, and achieve prosperity in life. Couples do particular pujas and archanas to invoke Kala Bhairavar's blessings for a successful marriage. Performing rituals at the temple will help you overcome ancestral curses (Pitru Dosha) and planetary afflictions, particularly Rahu-Ketu and Shani Dosha. Worshiping Kala Bhairava is thought to remove negative energies, fear, and evil influences from life.
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? No
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year No
- Other things to do / places of interest Mahamaham Tank (5 km). Srinivasa Ramanujam Monument (5.5 km). Sri Vittal Rukmani Samasthanam (6.5 km). Sarkarai Padithurai Ghat.(6.8 km). Kumbakonam Art Gallery. (10.5 km).
- Nearby Temples Kasi Viswanathar Temple. Adi Kumbeswarar Temple. Sarangapani Temple. Ramaswamy Temple. Chakrapani Temple.
- Nearby Eateries Moshika Bhavan. Sri Mangalambika Vilas Coffee Hotel. Sri Balaji Bhavan. Hotel KAMATCHI BHAVAN. Sathars Restaurant.
- Hotels / Home stays: SRI HOME STAY. Kumbakonam Home Stay. Sri Chakrapani Leisure Stay. ABOORVA GRAND INN. Ramana's Home Stay.
- Standard Weather It has a tropical climate that includes hot summers, moderate monsoons, and mild winters. The temple is open all year, although the best time to visit is between November and February.
- For the best experience / Must know It is a revered temple dedicated to Lord Kala Bhairava, a fierce form of Lord Shiva associated with time and protection. The temple is known for its powerful spiritual energy and is visited by devotees seeking relief from planetary afflictions, especially related to Shani (Saturn) and Rahu-Ketu doshas. Devotees offer special prayers on Ashtami days (eighth day of the lunar cycle) and light ghee lamps to seek divine blessings.
- Not to miss Don't miss visiting Sri Kala Bairavar Temple in Kumbakonam, a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Kala Bhairava, a fierce form of Lord Shiva. Known for its powerful spiritual vibrations, the temple is believed to help devotees overcome obstacles, remove negativity, and grant protection. Special poojas on Ashtami days and Kala Bhairava Jayanthi are highly significant. The temple's unique idol of Kala Bhairavar with his vahana (mount) dog is a must-see. Devotees seek blessings for time management, success, and relief from planetary doshas. A visit here promises divine grace and positive transformation!
- Note for Travelers Sri Kala Bairavar Temple in Kumbakonam is accessible via multiple modes of transport. By air, the nearest airport is Trichy International Airport (TIR), approximately 100 km away, from where travelers can take a taxi or bus to Kumbakonam. By train, Kumbakonam Railway Station is well-connected to major cities like Chennai, Trichy, and Thanjavur, with the temple being just a short auto or taxi ride away. By road, Kumbakonam is easily accessible via NH36, with frequent bus services from Chennai, Trichy, and other nearby towns. For local transport, visitors can use auto-rickshaws, taxis, and buses to reach the temple from Kumbakonam city center. The best time to visit is early morning or evening for a peaceful darshan, while it is advisable to avoid peak noon hours due to the heat.
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FAQ's
Where is Sri Kala Bairavar Temple located?
Sri Kala Bairavar Temple is located in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India. It is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Kala Bhairava, a fierce form of Lord Shiva.
What is the significance of this temple?
This temple is dedicated to Kala Bhairava, the Lord of Time. It is believed that worshipping him helps devotees overcome time-related obstacles, delays, and planetary afflictions (Doshas). Devotees also pray here for success in business, job, and legal matters.
What are the spiritual ceremonies at Kala Bairava Temple Kumbakonam?
Kala Bhairava Homam – A special fire ritual for protection, time management, and success. Ashtami Pooja – Conducted on the eighth day of the lunar cycle, it is believed to be highly auspicious for Bhairava worship. Shani Dosha Nivarthi Pooja – Rituals to reduce the malefic effects of Saturn (Shani). Sarpa Dosha Nivarana Pooja – Performed to remove afflictions related to serpent curses. Abhishekam and Archana – Offerings and worship conducted by devotees for blessings.
What is the best day to visit?
Ashtami Tithi (8th day of the lunar cycle) Kala Ashtami (special day for Bhairava worship) Pournami (Full Moon day) New Moon day (Amavasya) Sundays and Tuesdays are also considered special for Lord Bhairava.
How to reach the temple?
By Air: The nearest airport is Trichy International Airport (approx. 90 km). By Train: Kumbakonam Railway Station is well-connected to major cities. By Road: Frequent buses and taxis are available from Chennai, Trichy, and other Tamil Nadu cities.
What is special about this temple?
Lord Kala Bhairavar is the presiding deity. The temple is known for granting relief from diseases, improving mental well-being, and fulfilling devotees' desires. Special pujas are performed on Sundays during Rahu Kalam (4:30 PM - 6:00 PM) and on Ashtami (8th day from new/full moon)
