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Puducherry

Sri Dharbaranyeswarar Temple, Thirunallar (Karaikal)

Shrine of Sani Bhagavan.

Deity
Shiva as Dharbaranyeswarar, with the shrine of Sani Bhagavan (Saturn)
Where
Thirunallar, Karaikal, Puducherry
Time to keep
Half a day
Best season
Year round; Sani Peyarchi (Saturn transit) days

Why this temple matters

The most important Navagraha temple for Saturn. People come here for relief during difficult Saturn periods (Sade Sati), and on Sani Peyarchi, when Saturn changes sign, the crowds are immense.

The story

King Nala, troubled for years by Saturn's influence, bathed in the temple tank here and was freed of his suffering. The Nala Theertham is named after him.

What to look for

  • Nala Theertham, where pilgrims bathe before darshan
  • The Sani Bhagavan shrine

Festivals and when to go

  • Sani Peyarchi (Saturn transit), about every two and a half years
  • Saturdays through the year

The practical truth

  • Saturdays are crowded. Many pilgrims bathe in Nala Theertham and leave old clothes there.
  • Part of the Navagraha circuit around Kumbakonam.

Timings, rules and festival dates change. We confirm the current details for every yatra.

Have a question about Thirunallar?

Questions about this temple? Ask us directly.

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Combine Thirunallar with

Tamil NaduKumbakonamTemple town of the Navagrahas Tamil NaduThiruvarurHome of the giant chariot Tamil NaduVaitheeswaran KoilShiva the healer

How we take you here

Tell us your dates, your companions and your pace. We shape the yatra and explain every cost before you confirm.

Plan my Thirunallar yatra

Questions yatris ask

When is the best time to visit Thirunallar?

Year round; Sani Peyarchi (Saturn transit) days. Festival days are the most crowded, so plan and book early for those.

How much time should we keep for Thirunallar?

We suggest half a day at an easy pace, more if you are travelling with elders or for a festival.

What can we combine with Thirunallar?

Kumbakonam, Thiruvarur, Vaitheeswaran Koil fit well on the same yatra. Your SahaYatri will suggest an order that suits your pace.

Can TirthaSeva plan our yatra to Thirunallar?

Yes. We plan the route, travel, stays and temple visits around your pace, with a multilingual SahaYatri as your single point of contact. Message us on WhatsApp at +91 74115 67001.