
Thirunageswaram Naganathaswamy Temple Rahu
A revered Navagraha temple dedicated to Lord Rahu, famous for its miraculous blue milk abhishekam and potent astrological remedies.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Witness the iconic milk abhishekam

Thirunageswaram Naganathaswamy Temple Rahu
Best Time
Witness the iconic milk abhishekam

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A revered Navagraha temple dedicated to Lord Rahu, famous for its miraculous blue milk abhishekam and potent astrological remedies.
"Witness the legendary milk turning blue during the Rahu Kala Abhishekam at this powerful temple."

🎯 Plan for Rahu Kalam
Attend during Rahu Kalam for the unique milk abhishekam. Arrive early to secure tickets and a good viewing spot .
💰 Carry Cash for Offerings
GPay is not always available. Bring cash for pooja tickets, donations, and offerings .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rahu's Milk Abhishekam
Rahu Shrine
Witness the legendary milk abhishekam where milk poured on the idol turns a striking blue hue .

Lord Rahu with Consorts
Rahu Sannidhi
See Lord Rahu depicted with a human face, accompanied by his consorts, signifying his benevolent form .

Naganathaswamy (Shiva) Shrine
Main Sanctum
Pay respects to the presiding deity, Lord Shiva, in his Lingam form, a powerful spiritual experience.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Rahu's Blessings
Temple Etiquette & Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Plan for Rahu Kalam
Attend during Rahu Kalam for the unique milk abhishekam. Arrive early to secure tickets and a good viewing spot.
💰 Carry Cash for Offerings
GPay is not always available. Bring cash for pooja tickets, donations, and offerings.
📵 No Mobile Phones Allowed
Leave your phone securely in your vehicle to avoid any issues at the entrance.
🙏 Dress Modestly
Respect the sanctity of the temple by wearing appropriate, modest attire.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Plan for Rahu Kalam
Attend during Rahu Kalam for the unique milk abhishekam. Arrive early to secure tickets and a good viewing spot.
💰 Carry Cash for Offerings
GPay is not always available. Bring cash for pooja tickets, donations, and offerings.
📵 No Mobile Phones Allowed
Leave your phone securely in your vehicle to avoid any issues at the entrance.
🙏 Dress Modestly
Respect the sanctity of the temple by wearing appropriate, modest attire.
🚗 Vehicle Parking Available
There's a parking lot with free footwear and mobile drop facilities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Thirunageswaram Naganathaswamy Temple for its powerful spiritual atmosphere and the unique, legendary milk abhishekam ritual where milk turns blue. The temple is well-maintained and considered a crucial stop for those seeking relief from Rahu Dosha. However, the strict no-mobile-phone policy and potential for large crowds during peak times are noted drawbacks.
"Great temple of Lord Sri Naganatha Swami. Temple maintained very well. Mobile phones are not allowed inside the temple, better to leave it safely in the vehicle. Flowers, garlands, coconut, fruits are available within the temple premises."
Prabhu R
"Sri Naganatha Swami Temple (Rahu Sthalam), Thirunageshwaram, is a powerful and peaceful stop on the Kumbakonam circuit. The sprawling courtyards, tall gopurams, and the separate Rahu sannidhi give it a distinctly sacred vibe. It’s one of the famed Navagraha temples dedicated to Rahu, and the unique Rahu Kālam milk abhishekam—where devotees witness the milk turn a bluish hue—makes the visit unforgettable.
Good to know: the temple is about 6 km east of Kumbakonam on the Karaikal road. Usual hours are 6:00 am–1:00 pm and 4:00 pm–9:00 pm (Rahu Kālam times remain open; Margazhi month has slightly earlier closures). If you want to attend the Rahu abhishekam, arrive early—tickets are issued at the counter and lines swell near Rahu Kālam.
Secret tip: plan your visit to coincide with a Rahu Kālam slot to see the special milk abhishekam at the Rahu shrine—stand along the side rail for the clearest view without blocking the queue."
Dinesh Babu Pugalenthi
"A unique temple for relief from 'Rahu/Sarppa dosham' at Thirunagewaram, hardly 5 km from Kumbhakonam main bus terminal.
Main rituals/practices:
Do rahu archana(₹ 250) along with
milk abhishekam (₹ 150) at Rahu sannidhi at 11.30am and offer silver naga locket (₹50) at the Hundi with reverence.
Also one can lit specific number of diyas/chiraths in the outside mandapa meant for the same for sarppa dosha etc.
Have darshan of the presiding deity in SHIV LINGA form & Devi PARVATHY sannidhi... and offer flower garlands.
The temple holds the key for those seeking relief from Rahu dosha inflictions (as per horoscope).
It's a unique spiritual experience and adds to one's confidence in facing the challenges of life."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The temple is conveniently located about 6 km east of Kumbakonam on the Karaikal road. You can hire an auto-rickshaw or a taxi from Kumbakonam main bus terminal, which is a short ride away. Many visitors also include it as part of the Navagraha temple circuit tours.
Yes, there is a parking lot available at the temple premises. It also offers free footwear and mobile drop stations, making it convenient for visitors.
The nearest major transportation hub is the Kumbakonam bus terminal. From there, you can easily access the temple via local transport.
Yes, local buses frequently ply between Kumbakonam and Thirunageswaram, making it an accessible option for budget travelers.
While the main temple areas are generally accessible, some older sections might have steps. It's advisable to check with temple authorities for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The temple is typically open from 6:00 am to 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm. However, it remains open during Rahu Kalam times for special rituals.
Ticket prices for Rahu Pooja can range from ₹100 to ₹500, with specific poojas like the ₹250 Rahu Pooja and ₹150 milk abhishekam being popular options. It's best to check current pricing at the ticket counter.
It is highly recommended to arrive early, especially on Saturdays or during Rahu Kalam, as tickets are issued at the counter and lines can get very long.
General darshan is usually free, but special poojas and rituals require tickets. Offerings can be made at the Hundi.
Rahu Kalam is an inauspicious period in Vedic astrology. The temple is particularly known for performing poojas and abhishekam during these times, believing it to be highly effective for mitigating Rahu dosha.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The most unique aspect is that the milk poured on the Rahu idol is said to miraculously turn a bluish hue, symbolizing the mythological presence of poison. This phenomenon is a major draw for devotees.
The primary deities are Lord Naganathaswamy (Shiva) and Goddess Girigujambigai. However, the temple is most famous for its shrine dedicated to Lord Rahu, who is considered the presiding deity for this Navagraha sthalam.
No, mobile phones and cameras are generally not allowed inside the main temple complex. You will need to deposit them at the designated drop-off points.
This temple is considered a powerful remedy for Rahu Dosha, believed to alleviate issues like delays, financial losses, and career stagnation caused by astrological afflictions.
Yes, besides the milk abhishekam, you can perform Rahu archana, offer a silver Naga locket, and light specific diyas in the outside mandapa for relief from Sarpa Dosha and other afflictions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are food stalls located outside the temple premises offering local snacks and meals. For a wider variety, you can find restaurants in Kumbakonam town.
Prasadams are usually available for purchase at the temple counters. You can also offer your own prasadams.
While small eateries are available, for a full-fledged meal, it's best to head back to Kumbakonam, which offers a range of dining options.
As with most temples, consuming food inside the main sanctum is not permitted. However, there are designated areas for offering prayers with food items.
You can expect traditional South Indian vegetarian fare, including rice-based dishes, snacks like vada and bajji, and sweet treats.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple premises. Mobile phones and cameras must be deposited at the designated drop-off points before entering.
The colorful gopuram (tower) and the temple tank (Kulam) offer excellent opportunities for exterior shots. The surrounding architecture also provides a picturesque backdrop.
While you cannot use devices inside, you might be able to capture some moments from the temple entrance or surrounding areas, provided it doesn't disrupt devotees or temple activities.
The ornate carvings on the temple walls, the distinct gopuram, and the sacred pond are notable features. The separate Rahu shrine also has unique architectural elements.
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best natural light for photography, avoiding harsh midday sun and creating a more atmospheric feel.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🙏 Devotees Seeking Astrological Relief
📸 Photography Enthusiasts (Exterior)
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mystique of the Milk Abhishekam
To experience this, it's crucial to plan your visit accordingly. Arriving early is essential, especially on Saturdays, as tickets for the pooja are sold at the counter and the queues can become quite long. The temple authorities manage the flow of devotees, and standing along the side rails can offer a clearer view without obstructing the main queue. Remember to carry cash, as digital payment options might not be readily available.
Navagraha Significance and Rahu Dosha Remedies
Devotees flock to this temple seeking relief from various life challenges attributed to Rahu's influence, such as persistent delays, financial setbacks, career stagnation, and relationship issues. The temple offers specific rituals and poojas, including archana with milk and the offering of silver Naga lockets, which are believed to be particularly effective in appeasing Lord Rahu and bringing about positive changes in life. The unique depiction of Rahu with a human face, rather than a serpent's, is also seen as a sign of his benevolent aspect when worshipped here.
Temple Architecture and Deities
Another notable feature is the temple tank (Kulam), which is used for ceremonial baths. The temple's design and layout are intended to create a serene and spiritual atmosphere for devotees. While photography is prohibited inside the main temple areas, the exterior architecture, including the gopuram and the tank, offers picturesque views, especially during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon.




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