- Distance from Karaikal
- About 5 km
- Distance from Mayiladuthurai
- About 33 km
- Distance from Chennai
- About 300 km
- Busiest day
- Saturday
- Main festival
- Sani Peyarchi
The legend of King Nala
The best-known story here is that of King Nala, who suffered years of misfortune under Saturn's influence. He finally came to Thirunallar, bathed in the temple tank and worshipped Shiva, and was freed from his troubles. Shani is said to have promised that those who worship here with devotion would be spared his harsh effects. The tank, Nala Theertham, is named after the king, and pilgrims bathe in it before entering the temple.
The temple
The main deity is Shiva as Dharbaranyeswarar, with the goddess Pranambikai, while the Saneeswaran shrine draws most of the crowds. Various dynasties have added to and renovated the complex over the centuries. Devotees often wear black, Saturn's colour, and offer sesame, oil lamps, cloth and grain.
Festivals
Sani Peyarchi, Saturn's move from one zodiac sign to the next roughly every two and a half years, brings enormous crowds; book stays well ahead if you plan to go then. Saturdays are busy every week. Other festivals include the Brahmotsavam with its car procession, Maha Shivaratri, Margazhi Thiruvathirai, Aippasi Annabhishekam, Navaratri and Karthigai Deepam.
Visiting information
The temple is open in the morning and again from late afternoon into the evening, with an abhishekam for the presiding deity early each morning. Dress traditionally and modestly. On Saturdays and festival days, expect long queues and arrive early.
How to reach
Thirunallar is about 5 km from Karaikal and 33 km from Mayiladuthurai, with frequent buses from both. Karaikal and Mayiladuthurai have railway stations. Chennai, about 300 km away, and Tiruchirappalli are the practical airports. The temple is easy to combine with the Navagraha temples around Kumbakonam, and we can plan that circuit from Virudhachalam.
Also nearby
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