Introduction

About 5 kilometers (3 miles) west of Karaikal in Pondicherry, is the 7th century Thirunallar Temple dedicated Lord Shiva. To arrive at this site, you can take the bus of the route Karaikal-Mayiladuthuraj and Kumbakonam. Shiva is the main deity at this ancient temple, and other shrines include those of Shani dev (the ruler of Saturn), Sri Pranambigai, Sri Thiagarajar and Sri Vinayagar. The temple comes alive with a colorful festival (locally called Shani Peyarchi) each time Saturn moves from one sign of the zodiac to another. The most striking feature of this Saturn temple is that it is the only one where you will find Shani dev to have Abhayahastham. According to legend, King Nala of Purana was relieved of the affliction of Shani after he worshipped Him here. Even today, locals continue to believe that anyone who visits this temple is blessed by Lord Shani, and is relieved of all his woes.

The main deity of Thirunallar Temple is known as Dharbarenyeswarar, as the idol was discovered in a forest of Dharba grass. Over the years, the devotees have given many names to the idol; the popularly known ones are Swayambhu Lingam, Adhimoorthy and Nallarar. The temple has been popularly visited by saints of the likes of Thirugnanasambhandar, Arunagirinadhar Sundaramurthy Swamigal and Thirunavukkarasar, who have sung praises of Lord Shiva.

Here puja is performed six times a day, with Ashtothra Archana, Abhishegam, Sahasranama Archana and Navagraha Shanthi being performed daily. The popularly celebrated festivals at Thirunallar Temple include Adi Pooram, Vinayaga Chathurthi, Navarathri Kolu, Ambu, Soorasamharam festival, Thiruvathirai festival, Sivarathri festival, Ambal, Brahmortsavam and the Shani Peyarchi, with Brahmortsavam being the biggest festival celebrated for 18 consecutive days. It marks the day when King Nala was relieved of his curses at the Thirunallar Temple in Pondicherry. Various processions such as that of Sri Thiagarajar, Panchamurthy, Rathortsavam, Sagpura Veedhiyula and Thepportsavam are the main attractions of this festival.

Steeped in folklore and exuding an old-world air, Thirunallar Temple is a must-do on your trip to Pondicherry.
 

Special Attributes

This 7th century Shani temple bursts with colors and festivities during the 18-day-long Brahmortsavam. 

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress appropriately, wear fully covered clothes as it is a religious site. 

Connectivity

To arrive at this site, you can take the bus of the route Karaikal-Mayiladuthuraj and Kumbakonam. 

Enjoyed by

Backpackers, Families, Senior Citizens

Exposure

You will be indoors.

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Gives you a glimpse into the colorful Tamil culture and heritage. 

Things Not Allowed

Put your shoes outside

Tip

You need at least half a day at hand to visit the site, explore it and then return to Pondicherry. For the trip, it is advisable to carry along your sunglasses, sunscreen lotion and a bottle of drinking water. 

Type of site