Sacred Sun Temples in Tamil Nadu You Must Visit

The ancient temples dedicated to the Sun God (Surya) stand as remarkable symbols of Tamil Nadu's cultural and spiritual heritage. Renowned for their intricate Dravidian architecture and deep-rooted historical value, these sacred spaces are also revered for their spiritual energy. Devotees believe that worshipping at these temples and performing specific rituals and remedies can help overcome Navagraha doshas—the ill effects caused by unfavourable planetary alignments. These temples continue to be powerful hubs for healing, inner transformation, and astrological balance, offering blessings of health, prosperity, and divine protection.

1. Suryanar Kovil (Sooriyanar Temple) near Aduthurai

Suryanar Kovil, located near Aduthurai in Tamil Nadu, is dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. Constructed during the reign of Kulottunga Chola in the 11th century, the temple follows Dravidian architecture and features a five-tiered rajagopuram. It is unique for housing separate shrines for all nine planetary deities, making it a prominent Navagraha temple. Devotees believe that worshipping here can alleviate doshas (flaws) associated with planetary positions in one's horoscope. The temple also hosts six daily rituals and two major annual festivals. ​

2. Gnayiru Temple near Redhills

Situated in Gnayiru Gramam near Redhills, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva as Pushparatheswarar, with Goddess Swarnambigai as the consort. The temple's history dates back to the 10th century, built by the Chola dynasty. A significant legend involves the Sun God performing penance here to overcome a curse, leading to his reconciliation with his wife, Chayadevi. Devotees believe that bathing in the temple's tank on Ratha Saptami day, with Vellerukku (Calotropis) leaves on their heads, can cure skin ailments, including leprosy. ​

3. Agastheeswarar Temple in Kolapakkam (near Porur/Kundrathur)

Located in Kolapakkam, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva as Agastheeswarar. The legend states that Sage Agasthiyar, along with Sage Vageesar and the Sun God, worshipped Lord Shiva here. Notably, sun rays fall on the main deity's idol on three specific days each year. Devotees visit to seek blessings for marriage and progeny, and to mitigate adverse effects caused by planetary positions, especially those related to the Sun. ​

4. Parudhiniyamam (Paruthiyappar Koil) on the Tanjore-Pattukottai Road

Parudhiniyamam, also known as Paruthiyappar Koil, is a temple located on the Tanjore-Pattukottai road. While specific historical details are limited, it is recognized as one of the temples associated with Lord Shiva in the region. Devotees often visit such temples to seek blessings for various aspects of life, including health, prosperity, and marital harmony.​

5. Aditya Puraneshwarar Temple in Thiruvengadu

Thiruvengadu is renowned for the Aditya Puraneshwarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva as Aditya Puraneshwarar. The temple holds historical and architectural significance, attracting devotees who seek blessings for various life challenges. Visiting such temples is believed to help in resolving issues related to planetary influences, especially those concerning the Sun.​

6. Suriyanarkovil (Sun Temple) in Villupuram

Suriyanarkovil, located in Villupuram, is a temple dedicated to the Sun God, Surya. The temple's history and architectural details are significant, with the Sun God being the primary deity. Devotees visit to seek relief from ailments and to mitigate adverse planetary effects, especially those associated with the Sun.

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