- Deity
- Shiva as Abathsahayeswarar; Guru (Jupiter)
- Timings
- 6 am to 1 pm, 4 pm to 8:45 pm
- Distance from Kumbakonam
- About 14 km
- Distance from Thanjavur
- About 40 km
- Nearest airport
- Tiruchirappalli
Legends
Alangudi is also known as Thiru Irumpoolai and Kasi Aranyam. One story tells of Amuthokar, a minister of the Chola king Musukunthan, who built the temple but refused to share its spiritual merit with his king and was executed. The whole village is said to have echoed with his name, and the repentant king sought forgiveness from the deity here.
Another legend says a Chola ruler once tried to move the image to Thiruvarur. The priest saved it by marking its face with chickenpox scars, and devotees point out these marks on the deity to this day.
Guru worship
Guru stands for wisdom and learning. Devotees offer yellow cloth and chana dal and pray for protection from the effects of planetary changes. The busiest day is Guru Peyarchi, when Jupiter moves into a new zodiac sign.
Festivals
- Guru Peyarchi, the transit of Jupiter
- Chithirai full moon (April–May), the main Brahmotsavam period
- Thai Poosam (January–February)
- Panguni Uthiram (March–April)
- Chariot processions around the streets on special days
Timings
The temple opens at 6 am and closes at 1 pm, then reopens from 4 pm until about 8:45 pm. Modest, simple clothing is recommended. Thursdays, the day linked with Guru, are especially crowded, so arrive early if you visit then, and allow extra time for queues at the Guru shrine.
How to reach
Alangudi is about 14 km from Kumbakonam and 40 km from Thanjavur, and most visitors travel by road from either town. Kumbakonam is the handiest railhead, and Tiruchirappalli has the nearest airport. The temple is usually visited as part of a Navagraha circuit, which we can arrange.
Also nearby
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