About Suriyanar Koil Temple

Temple History:

This place is believed to be the one where all-time planetary deities were forced to suffer with leprosy because of the curse of Lord Brahma. As a result of their hard penance towards Lord Shiva (Prana nathar) in Thirumangalakkudi, which is too close to Suryanar Kovil, all the nine planetary deities regained their original power and bliss. They were directed by Lord Shiva to stay in Suryanar Kovil and bless the devotees worshipping them. Among all the nine planets, the Sun god is predominantly worshipped in Suryanar Kovil.

Greatness of Temple:

This is the only temple in Tamil Nadu where separate shrines are there for all nine planetary deities. The temple is a 900-year-old Dravidian Architecture built by the Chola King Kulothunga Cholan. The presiding deity is the Sun God. Usha and Chayadevi are His consorts.

Temple Specialty:

Though the temple was built by the Tamil King Kulothunga Cholan, the temple has been patronised by the King of Srivijaya, the current-day Indonesia. This depicts the religious connection between the two countries. This is the only temple with separate shrines for all time planetary deities. Suriyanar Koil tops the list in the pilgrimage tour of the Navagraha temples.

Festivals:

A ten-day-long festival called Ratha Sapthami is celebrated during the Tamil month Thai, which falls during Mid-January to Mid- February. Also, celebrations with special poojas and rituals are conducted during the transition days of Saturn and Jupiter.

Nearby Tourist Places:

Swamilmalai Temple, Kumbakonam Temples, Poombuhar Museum.

Travel

• By Road: You can reach Suriyanar Koil by travelling a distance of 15km from Kumbakonam.  The temple is very near Aduthurai at a distance of 2-3 km. From Mayiladuthurai and Swamimalai, the temple is equidistant at 21 km.
• By Rail: The nearest railway station is at Aduthurai. You can prefer to travel by road from either Tanjore or Kumbakonam railheads.
• By Air: The nearest airport is at Tiruchirapalli. From there, you can reach the temple in less than two and a half hours.

Opening time: From 6 A.M. to 12.30 P.M and 4.00 P.M. to 8.00 P.M.

Closing time: 12.20 PM to 04.00 PM