Location
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Graha
Surya (Sun)
Deity
Sri Suryanar (Kolavamsa Nathar)
Goddess
Usha Devi & Pratyusha Devi
Timings
6:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Best time
Sunday mornings, Ratha Sapthami (Jan–Feb)
District
Thanjavur
Address
Suryanar Kovil, Aduthurai, Thanjavur District, Tamil Nadu 612102
History
Built during the reign of Kulottunga Chola I in the 12th century, this is the only Navagraha temple where the Sun God is the primary deity. All nine grahas have separate shrines facing the sanctum, an architectural arrangement unique in South India.
Significance
Worship here is prescribed for leadership, eyesight, bone strength, father-related karma and government matters. Sunday is the most powerful day, especially during Ratha Sapthami.
Pariharam
Offer red flowers, wheat and jaggery pongal. Light 9 ghee lamps and chant the Aditya Hrudayam 3 times facing east on Sunday morning.
Festivals
Ratha Sapthami
January – February · Grand chariot procession of Surya
Aadi Perukku
July – August · Special abhishekam for the Sun
Nearby stays & food
Hotel Raya's
Stay · 15 km · Comfortable stay in Kumbakonam
Mangala Bhavan
Food · 14 km · Pure veg South Indian meals