Suryanar Koil Temple

Located in the tiny village of Suryanar Koil near the town of Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu, Suryanar Koil Temple (also known as Sri Suryanar Temple) is dedicated to the Hindu Sun God. Presided by Suriyanar, the Sun and its consorts- Ushadevi and Pratyusha Devi, the temple also houses the planetary deities. The shrine is one of the nine revered Navagraha temples in Tamil Nadu and is the only one of its kind to have separate shrines for all the planetary deities. Very popular for the traditional Navagraha pilgrimage esteemed by the Hindus, the temple is venerated for its pujas which supposedly can cure malefic effects of Saturn (shani), reduces hurdles in marriage, helps in good education and career goals and removes putra dosham etc.

Suryanar Koil Temple is believed to have been built in the 11th century during the reign of Kulottunga Chola; the later additions and renovations were made during the Vijayanagar Empire. Constructed in the traditional Dravidian style of architecture, the temple boasts of a five tiered gopuram, an elaborate gateway tower and impressive granite walls enclosing each shrine within the premises. Legend goes to say that the planetary deities were cursed by Brahma to reside in the wild jungle; however, later, Lord Shiva made their abode a pilgrimage spot. The temple has six customary rituals performed daily, and celebrates two annual festivals; and, is managed and maintained by Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu.