Kanjanur Sukran Temple (Agneeswarar Temple), Kumbakonam

Timings

6 am to 12.30 pm, 4 pm to 8.30 pm

Planet

Sukran (Venus)

Best time

All year

Nearest railway station

Kumbakonam

Nearest airport

Tiruchirappalli

Distance from Chennai

About 278 km

History and legend

The main lingam is regarded as self-manifested, and the stone temple dates from the Chola period, with later additions by other rulers. The place is also known as Palasavanam and as an Agni sthalam, which is why the deity is called Agneeswarar. According to legend, Shiva granted a vision of his cosmic dance to the sage Parasara here, and Brahma witnessed Shiva's wedding at this spot. Devas and Brahma are said to have been freed from curses after praying here.

Worship

Sukran is associated with prosperity, comfort and happy married life. Devotees offer white cloth and white flowers and pray for relief from difficult planetary periods. Fridays, the day linked with Venus, are especially busy.

• Sukra Peyarchi (transit of Venus)
• Maha Shivaratri
• Aadi Pooram
• Navaratri
• Arudra Darshanam
• Panguni Uthiram

Timings and tips

The temple is open from 6 am to 12.30 pm and from 4 pm to 8.30 pm. It can be visited in any season, though October to March is cooler for touring several temples in a day. Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Temple chariot processions take place on major festival days.

How to reach

Kumbakonam is the nearest railway station and the usual base; Thanjavur is another option. Tiruchirappalli has the closest airport, under three hours away by road, and Chennai is about 278 km away. We regularly arrange Navagraha temple tours from Kumbakonam, and Virudhachalam is within easy reach for a start. With extra time you can add Poompuhar and its Silappathikaram Art Gallery, or the Kallanai (Grand Anicut) near Tiruchirappalli.

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