Thirucherai Saranatha Perumal Temple is a revered Hindu temple located near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the presiding deity, Saranatha Perumal, is worshipped along with his consort, Mahalakshmi (Thirumamagal Nachiyar). The temple is unique as Vishnu is believed to have granted salvation (Moksha) to the sage Markandeya here.
A significant feature of this temple is the presence of a shrine for Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, which is rare in Divya Desams. The temple also has historical and architectural significance, with intricate sculptures and Dravidian-style construction. The temple tank, known as Sara Pushkarani, is considered sacred. The temple is associated with the Vaishnavite saint Thirumangai Alvar, who has sung in praise of the deity.
Thirucherai Saranatha Perumal Temple is a popular pilgrimage site, especially during the annual Vaikunta Ekadasi and other Vishnu-related festivals. It is also known for its association with the divine marriage of Mahalakshmi and Vishnu, making it an important shrine for devotees seeking prosperity and blessings.
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- History/Legend of the Temple Thirucherai Saranatha Perumal Temple, located near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is one of the Divya Desams, the 108 temples glorified in the hymns of the Alvars, the Tamil saint-poets of the Bhakti movement. Believed to be at least 1,500 years old, the temple has been associated with various dynasties, including the Cholas, Pandyas, and Vijayanagara rulers, who contributed to its development. The presiding deity, Saranatha Perumal, is depicted with his consorts, Sri Devi and Bhoomi Devi. According to legend, this sacred site is where the river goddess Cauvery prayed to Vishnu for purification, and he blessed her, making the location highly significant. The temple is renowned for its unique sanctum, where Lord Vishnu is worshipped as Saranatha Perumal, considered a divine refuge for devotees. Architecturally, the temple reflects the grandeur of Dravidian style, featuring a towering Rajagopuram (entrance tower) and intricately carved pillars. The temple's pushkarini (sacred water tank), Sara Pushkarini, is believed to possess immense spiritual merit. Thirumangai Alvar, one of the 12 Alvars, composed hymns praising the deity, emphasizing the temple’s sanctity. As a key part of the Vaishnavite tradition, it draws numerous devotees, particularly during the Vaikunta Ekadasi festival and other religious celebrations.
- Name of the Deities Saranatha Perumal (Lord Vishnu). Sara Nayaki (Goddess Lakshmi).
- Nearby Cities and Distance Thanjavur (51.6 km). Karaikal (60.1 km). Trichy ((114.6 km)).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Car. Bus. Train. Bike.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Thanjavur 1 hr 3 min.
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... Car - Rs.800 to Rs.1500. Bus - Rs.20 to Rs.50. Train - Rs.30 to Rs.150.
- Temple Instructions Traditional attire is recommended. Men: Dhoti/Veshti, shirt or Angavastram. Women: Saree, salwar kameez, or traditional Indian dress. Generally, photography inside the sanctum (garbhagriha) is not allowed in most South Indian temples. However, taking photos in the outer premises might be permitted.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Vaikunta Ekadasi – Celebrated grandly in December–January (Margazhi month), devotees pass through the "Paramapada Vasal" (gateway to heaven). Thai Ammavasai Theerthavari – Special rituals and theerthavari (holy dip) in January–February. Panguni Brahmotsavam – The major annual festival (March–April) with processions, special pujas, and cultural events. Rama Navami – Celebrates Lord Rama's birth, with special prayers in March–April. Purattasi Saturdays – Special offerings to Lord Vishnu during the Tamil month of Purattasi (September–October). Deepavali and Pongal – Celebrated with grandeur, with special decorations and feasts. Aadi Pooram – A festival dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and Andal in July–August. Navaratri & Vijayadasami – Special alankarams (decorations) for the deity during this period (September–October).
- Rituals Available Weddings. Seemantham (Baby Shower). Upanayanam (Sacred Thread Ceremony).
- Offerings One significant offering is Tula Bharam (Weighing Balance Offering), where devotees present materials such as sugar, rice, fruits, or coins equivalent to their body weight. Garlands and flowers, including jasmine, tulsi, and lotus, are commonly offered to adorn the deity. Sacred prasadam, such as Pongal, Payasam, and other sweets, is prepared and offered as a form of divine gratitude. Another traditional offering is Vastra Samarpanam (Clothing Donation), where silk and cotton garments are dedicated to the deity. Some devotees express their devotion by donating gold and silver ornaments as a token of gratitude. Oil for lamps, particularly ghee or oil, is offered to light lamps, symbolizing prosperity and divine blessings. Additionally, Annadhanam (Food Donation) is an important act of charity where devotees provide food for the poor, seeking spiritual merit and blessings from the deity.
- Prasadham Thirucherai Saranatha Perumal Temple, located near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, is a revered Vishnu temple dedicated to Lord Saranatha Perumal, a form of Lord Vishnu. The temple is famous for its unique Prasadam (holy offering), known as Samba Sadham (a type of tamarind rice). It is believed that this prasadam is specially blessed by the deity and holds spiritual significance. Devotees consider it highly sacred and consuming it is believed to bring divine blessings and prosperity. The temple itself is historically and spiritually significant, attracting pilgrims seeking the grace of Lord Vishnu.
- Benefits of Visiting It is one of the Navagraha Parihara Sthalams, believed to remove planetary afflictions. Devotees pray here for marriage, childbirth, and success in endeavors. The temple is believed to help mitigate planetary afflictions, especially Rahu and Ketu doshas. The temple’s theertham (holy water source) is believed to cleanse sins and purify the soul.
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? Yes
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year Thirumangai Alwar | Divya Prabandham | 8th century CE.
- Other things to do / places of interest Srinivasa Ramanujam Monument (16.3 km). Mahamaham Tank (15.4 km). Sri Vittal Rukmani Samasthanam (17.7 km).
- Nearby Temples Oppiliappan Temple. Nachiyar Koil. Sarangapani Temple. Thiruvidaimarudur Mahalingaswamy Temple. Thiru Kandiyur.
- Nearby Eateries Sri Gowrikkrishna Hotel. Sathars Restaurant. Raya’s Restaurant. Venkataramana Hotel. Oppili Residency.
- Hotels / Home stays: Sivamurugan Hotels. Ramana's Home Stay. Kumbakonam Home Stay. Viruksham Homestay. Navagraha Homestay.
- Standard Weather The standard weather in Thirucherai Saranatha Perumal Temple, Kumbakonam, is typical of Tamil Nadu's tropical climate.
- For the best experience / Must know Thirucherai Saranatha Perumal Temple, located near Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu, is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams, praised in the hymns of Alwar saints. The temple enshrines Saranatha Perumal (Vishnu) along with Saranayaki Thayar (Lakshmi). Uniquely, this is the only Vishnu temple where Bhoomidevi, Neeladevi, and Sridevi are present together. The temple is associated with the legend of King Kubera, who regained his lost wealth here by worshipping Vishnu. It is also believed that Lord Rama performed rituals here before proceeding to Lanka. Another significant legend states that the Great Deluge (Pralaya) spared this place due to Vishnu’s divine protection.
- Not to miss This Divya Desam shrine holds special significance as it is believed that Lord Vishnu appeared here to grant salvation (Sharana) to the sages. The temple is unique because Goddess Lakshmi, worshiped as Sara Nayaki, is given prominence along with the presiding deity. A notable feature of the temple is its sacred Pushkarini (temple tank), known as Sara Pushkarini, which is believed to have the divine power to grant moksha (liberation). The temple's architecture is adorned with intricate sculptures and traditional Dravidian-style gopurams.
- Note for Travelers Thirucherai Saranatha Perumal Temple is well-connected by various modes of transportation. By air, the nearest airport is Tiruchirapalli International Airport, located approximately 85 km away, from where taxis and buses are available to reach the temple. By train, the closest railway station is Kumbakonam Railway Station, situated around 11 km from Thirucherai, with frequent train services connecting major cities. By road, the temple is easily accessible via well-maintained roads, with local buses and taxis readily available from Kumbakonam, ensuring a convenient journey for pilgrims and travelers. Ensure a peaceful and divine experience by visiting during early mornings or late evenings to avoid crowds.
Opening Hours
Monday:
6:30 AM - 12:00 PM & 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Tuesday:
6:30 AM - 12:00 PM & 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Wednesday:
6:30 AM - 12:00 PM & 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Thursday:
6:30 AM - 12:00 PM & 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Closed
Friday:
6:30 AM - 12:00 PM & 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Saturday:
6:30 AM - 12:00 PM & 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Sunday:
6:30 AM - 12:00 PM & 4:30 PM - 8:30 PM
FAQ's
Where is Thirucherai Saranatha Perumal Temple located?
The temple is located in Thirucherai, a village near Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India.
What is the significance of Thirucherai Temple?
It is one of the 108 Divya Desams, sacred to Vaishnavites. The temple is famous for granting moksha (salvation). It is believed that Lord Vishnu appeared here for Cauvery River and sage Markandeya.
What is special about the temple architecture?
The temple has a five-tiered Raja gopuram (tower) and a large temple tank. It has separate shrines for Saranayaki Thayar, Yoga Narasimha, and Hanuman.
How to reach Thirucherai Saranatha Perumal Temple?
By Road: 15 km from Kumbakonam, accessible by local buses and taxis. By Train: Nearest railway station – Kumbakonam Junction (15 km away). By Air: Nearest airport – Trichy International Airport (90 km away).
What is the temple’s connection with River Cauvery?
It is believed that Goddess Cauvery prayed to Lord Vishnu here for salvation. The temple tank is considered sacred and connected to the Mahamaham Festival of Kumbakonam.
What are the benefits of worshipping here?
Blessings for marriage, childbirth, career growth, and overall prosperity. Special prayers for students and scholars. Believed to help in removing obstacles in life.
