A Hindu temple devoted to Shiva, Nageswaraswamy Temple is situated in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India’s Thanjavur district. The Tevaram, authored by Tamil poet saints known as the Nayanar’s and categorized as Paadal Petra Sthalam, is a 7th-century Tamil Saiva canonical composition that honors the ruling deity. Of all the Chola temples, this one is said to be the oldest. Shiva disguised himself as the serpent ruler Nagaraja.
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- History/Legend of the Temple Adisesha performed penance in Kuvivanam while he was feeling the weight of the world. It was here that Parvathy showed up and gave him the blessing of strength. The temple's water feature is known as Naga Theertham. The temple is well-known for its shrine to Rahu, one of the nine Navagrahas heavenly bodies. Here, the fabled serpents Dakshan and Kaarkotakan are said to have worshipped Lord Shiva. Additionally, according to legend, King Nala worshipped Shiva here, just like in Thirunallar. A Naganathar temple with comparable features may be seen in Tirunageswaram. The saint Tamil poet Thirugnana Sambanthar, who lived in the 7th century CE, made reference to this location in his Tevaram.
- Name of the Deities Lord Shiva (Nageswara) & Periyanayagi Amman.
- Nearby Cities and Distance Thanjavur (39.1km). Trichy (102.2km). Karaikal (57.5km).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Bus. Car. Train.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Thanjavur 47min
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... The bus, which takes one hour and costs between ₹50 and ₹110. The approximate cost of a cab from Kumbakonam to Thanjavur is ₹1400. The cost of the train is 45INR.
- Temple Instructions The entrance to the temple is free. There is no dress code during the Darshan. If men intend to perform abhishekam, they need merely change their pants and put on a dhoti.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Theerthavari is the temple's most important and main ceremony when Lord visits Mahamaham Tank. The temple also celebrates Purattasi Navaratri in August-September, Panguni Peru Vizha in March-April, and Margazhi Tiruvadhirai in December-January.
- Rituals Available Raghu Parihara Pooja. Those affected by malefic effects or Sarpa-dosha Rahu-Kethu prays to Kudanthai or Kumbakonam Nageshwarar in the morning, Thirunageshwaram Naganathar at lunch, Thirupamburam Pambureswarar at night, and Nagoor Nageshwarar or Naganathar temple at night in an attempt to find comfort.
- Offerings Abishek and Vastra's are offered by devotees for the mother and the Lord.
- Prasadham Milk abhishekam is performed daily during Rahu Kalam, and devotees flock to see it.
- Benefits of Visiting Many people visit this temple in an attempt to heal the harmful effects of Rahu Graham, such as kalasarpadosha, santhana dosha, marital discord, and ill health. At this sanctuary, Rahu, Lord of Serpents, worshipped Lord Shiva and was released from the curse of a sage. Therefore, Lord Shiva is known here as Naganathar.
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? yes
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year Tamil saint poets - Thirugnana Samandar and Nayanars | Tevaram | 7th Century.
- Other things to do / places of interest Mahamaham Tank (0.3 km). The Great Chola Temple, Airavatesvara (3.4km). Srinivasa Ramanujan Monument (0.5km). Kurinji Metro Bazaar (0.2km). Kampaheswarar Temple, Thirubuvanam (0.8km).
- Nearby Temples Adi Kumbeshwarar Temple. Veerapathra Swamy. Kasi Viswanathan Swamy. Sarangapani Temple. Someshwara Temple.
- Nearby Eateries Sathars Restaurant. Sri Mangalambika Vilas Coffee Hotel (Since 1914). Raya's Restaurant. Venkataramana. Habibi Restaurant.
- Hotels / Home stays: RAMANA'S HOME STAY Apartment Hotel. Thirumalai Home Stay - Friendly Living. It's a home away from your home. Shiv Sakthi villa. SPOT ON 44406 Royal Residency.
- Standard Weather Throughout the year, it is hot and oppressive, the dry season is windy and mainly cloudy, and the wet season is overcast.
- For the best experience / Must know Every year on the eleventh, twelfth, and thirteenth days of the month of Chithrai (April/May), sunlight enters the lingam at the central shrine through a hole in the eastern tower.
- Not to miss The temple has beautiful Dravidian-style architecture with intricate carvings. The towering gopuram (gateway tower) and sculptural elements are notable for their fine craftsmanship.
- Note for Travelers Many buses are available from the Kumbakonam Bus Terminal, which is only 2 kilometers from the temple. You can disembark at Diamond Hall or Theater, which is a three-minute walk from the temple. You may haggle for a half-day or full-day rate, and cars are a cheap way to get around. You can book a cab at any time because taxi services are available on Nageswaran S Street in Kumbakonam 24 hours a day. You can rent a bus or minivan to get to the Kumbakonam temple.
Opening Hours
FAQ's
What is the best time to visit the temple?
The temple can be visited year-round, but the most auspicious times are during festivals like Maha Shivaratri (which falls in February or March) and the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April). Early morning and late evening are ideal times to avoid crowds.
Are there any specific rituals or prayers to follow in this temple?
Devotees visit the temple to offer prayers to Lord Nageswara to remove obstacles caused by Rahu in their lives. It is customary to chant specific mantras like the "Nageswara Ashtakshara Mantra" and offer bilva leaves, fruits, and flowers during the visit.
How do I reach the Nageswara Temple?
The temple is located in Kumbakonam, a town that is well-connected by road and rail. The nearest railway station is Kumbakonam Railway Station, which is around 5 km from the temple. You can hire a taxi or use local transport to reach the temple.
Is there any special significance related to Rahu in the Nageswara Temple?
Yes, this temple is particularly significant for those facing issues related to Rahu dosha in their horoscopes. Devotees pray here to seek relief from the malefic effects of Rahu and improve their luck and spiritual well-being.
What are the temple timings?
The temple generally opens early in the morning around 6:00 AM and closes in the evening by 8:00 PM. Exact timings may vary, so it's advisable to check locally before planning your visit. If you're planning to visit, it’s always a good idea to check for any special events, rituals, or festivals that might be taking place during your stay!
What is the mythological story behind the Nageswara Temple?
According to legend, Lord Shiva in this temple is believed to have vanquished the serpent (Naga), Karkotaka, who had caused immense harm to the people. It is said that worshiping Lord Nageswara relieves one from the malefic effects of serpents and related doshas in the horoscope.
