The Thirunallar Temple, officially known as Sri Dharbaranyeswaraswamy Devasthanam and Sri Saneeswara Bhagawan Temple, is one of the most unique and spiritually powerful temples in South India. Located in Thirunallar near Karaikal in the Union Territory of Puducherry, this ancient temple holds the rare distinction of being dedicated to both Lord Shiva and Lord Saneeswara (Saturn) under one roof. The presiding deity is Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Dharbaranyeswarar, which means “Lord of the Forest of Dharba Grass.” His consort is Goddess Bhogamartha Poonmulai Amman .
What makes this temple exceptionally significant is its association with King Nala, a legendary figure from Hindu mythology. According to temple lore, King Nala was afflicted by the malefic effects of Saturn (Sani dosha) and lost his kingdom. After wandering for years, he arrived at Thirunallar, bathed in the sacred temple tank (now known as Nala Theertham), and worshipped Lord Shiva. The Lord’s grace neutralized the harmful effects of Saturn, restoring Nala’s kingdom and prosperity . This legend established Thirunallar as the foremost Parihara Sthalam (remedial center) for those suffering from Saturn-related afflictions.
Thousands of devotees flock here daily, especially on Saturdays, to perform rituals seeking relief from Sani dosha, Sade Sati, and other astrological challenges. The temple’s spiritual ambiance, combined with its architectural beauty dating back to the Chola dynasty, makes it a must-visit pilgrimage destination.
Temple Overview Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Sri Dharbaranyeswaraswamy Devasthanam & Sri Saneeswara Bhagawan Temple |
| Location | Thirunallar, Karaikal, Union Territory of Puducherry – 609 607 |
| Primary Deities | Lord Dharbaranyeswarar (Shiva), Goddess Bhogamartha Poonmulai Amman (Parvati), Lord Saneeswara (Saturn) |
| Significance | Foremost Parihara Sthalam for Saturn afflictions; associated with King Nala legend |
| Temple Built | 7th Century CE by Chola dynasty |
| Sacred Tank | Nala Theertham (also called Brahma Theertham) |
| Special Day | Saturdays – dedicated to Lord Saneeswara |
| Major Event 2026 | Sani Peyarchi – Saturn Transit Festival (March 6, 2026) |
| Contact Numbers | +91 4368 – 236 530, 236 504, 94422 36504 |
| Official Website | https://thirunallarutemple.org/ |
Thirunallar Temple Darshan Timings 2026
The temple follows a consistent daily schedule throughout the week. There is no afternoon break, allowing devotees flexible darshan timings. According to temple sources, the timings remain the same for all days .
| Days | Morning Darshan | Evening Darshan |
|---|---|---|
| Monday to Sunday | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM |
The temple remains open continuously between these hours. Special extended timings are usually announced during the Sani Peyarchi festival and other important occasions.
Sevas, Poojas and Price Offerings
The temple offers various sevas and rituals for devotees seeking Lord Saneeswara’s blessings. Below is a comprehensive list of available rituals and their approximate costs based on temple information.
| Seva/Ritual Name | Approximate Fee (INR) | Details/Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Ellu Deepam (Sesame Oil Lamp) | ₹100 – ₹300 | Lighting lamps with black sesame seeds tied in cloth; removes obstacles |
| Tailabhishekam | ₹500 – ₹1,000 | Offering gingelly oil for anointing the idol; improves longevity and stability |
| Archana with Vanni Leaves | ₹50 – ₹100 | Special archana for wealth and prosperity |
| Kondrai Flower Archana | ₹50 – ₹100 | Worship for family peace and healthy relationships |
| Oomatham Flower Archana | ₹50 – ₹100 | For curing mental illness and stress relief |
| Rice with Sesame Powder Offering | ₹100 – ₹200 | To receive maximum pooja benefits |
| Nala Theertham Snan | Free | Holy dip in sacred tank; cleanses past sins |
| Nithya Archana | ₹30 – ₹50 | Daily regular worship |
| Pradosha Pooja | ₹200 – ₹500 | Performed on 13th day from new/full moon |
| Purattasi Pooja | Special rates | September-October special observances |
Important Note: To book poojas or receive archana prasadam by post, devotees can remit the prescribed amount through Money Order or Demand Draft payable to “The Executive Officer (Temples), Thirunallar – 609 607.” Include your full name, complete address, and birth star in BLOCK LETTERS .
How to Reach Thirunallar Temple
The temple is well-connected by air, rail, and road to major cities across South India .
| Transport Mode | Details | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| By Air | Tiruchirapalli International Airport | 147 km |
| Chennai International Airport | 296 km | |
| By Train | Thirunallar Railway Station | Located on Peralam–Karaikal line |
| Mayiladuthurai Railway Station | 32 km (connected to all India) | |
| By Road | Karaikal | 7.6 km |
| Kumbakonam | 59 km | |
| Puducherry (Pondicherry) | 128 km | |
| Nagapattinam | 26 km | |
| Chennai | Direct buses available |
For the 2026 Sani Peyarchi festival (March 6), devotees have requested special train services from Tambaram, Puducherry, Madurai, and Tiruchy to Thirunallar via the Peralam route .
How to Book Darshan Tickets
Important: Thirunallar Temple does NOT have an online booking system for general darshan. Entry is free and on a first-come, first-served basis.
For special pooja bookings and archana prasadam by post, follow this procedure :
Step 1: Prepare a Demand Draft or Money Order for the prescribed amount
Step 2: Make it payable to “The Executive Officer (Temples), Thirunallar – 609 607”
Step 3: Write your details in BLOCK LETTERS (Tamil or English) including:
- Full Name
- Complete Address with PIN code
- Birth Star (Nakshatra)
- Phone Number
- Required pooja details
Step 4: Send the DD/MO along with a covering letter to:
The Executive Officer (Temples)
Sri Dharbaranyeswaraswamy Devasthanam
Sri Saneeswara Bhagawan Temple
Thirunallar – P.O. 609 607, Karaikal (Puducherry UT)
For On-Site Booking: Visit the temple office between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM on weekdays. Phone inquiries: (04368) 236530 .
Sani Peyarchi 2026 – Saturn Transit Festival
The Sani Peyarchi (Saturn Transit) is the most important festival at Thirunallar Temple, occurring once every 2.5 years. For 2026, this auspicious event has been confirmed based on the ‘Vaakiyam’ almanac .
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Sani Peyarchi 2026 Date | March 6, 2026 (Friday) |
| Transit Details | Saturn moves from Aquarius (Kumbam) to Pisces (Meenam) as per Vakkiyapadi system |
| Expected Devotees | Over 1-2 lakh pilgrims |
| Special Arrangements | Queue complexes, free drinking water, Annadanam, medical camps |
| Best Time for Darshan | Early morning 4:00 AM – 8:00 AM (before crowds peak) |
| Rituals Performed | Nala Theertham Snan, Tailabhishekam, Ellu Deepam, Special Homas |
Zodiac Signs Requiring Special Attention in 2026 :
- Ezharai Sani (7.5 Year Cycle): Aquarius (Kumbam) – Final phase; Pisces (Meenam) – Mid-phase; Aries (Mesham) – Starting phase
- Ashtama Sani (8th House): Leo (Simmam) – Health and legal matters require caution
- Arthaashtama Sani (4th House): Sagittarius (Dhanusu) – Focus on family stability
Nearby Attractions
Thirunallar serves as an excellent base for exploring several spiritual and tourist destinations in the region.
| Attraction | Distance | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Karaikal Ammaiyar Temple | 8 km | Ancient temple dedicated to Karaikal Ammaiyar, one of the 63 Nayanmars |
| Karaikal Beach Park | 9 km | Scenic beach with park, ideal for evening relaxation |
| Nagore Dargah | 25 km | Famous Sufi shrine attracting devotees of all faiths |
| Velankanni Church | 35 km | Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, international pilgrimage center |
| Nithyakalyana Perumal Temple | 8 km | Vishnu temple with unique architecture |
| Kolanjiappar Temple | 35 km | Shiva temple in Vaitheeswarankoil |
| Yazhmurinathar Temple | 40 km | One of the Navagraha temples in Keezhperumpallam |
| Ananta Padmanabhaswamy Temple | 30 km | Vishnu temple in Adhi Kumbeswarar |
| Mayiladuthurai | 32 km | Major temple town with Mayuranathaswamy Temple |
| Kumbakonam | 59 km | Famous for Mahamaham tank and numerous ancient temples |
| Puducherry (Pondicherry) | 128 km | French Quarter, Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Promenade Beach |
Important Instructions for Visitors
Following these guidelines will ensure a smooth and spiritually fulfilling darshan experience.
Prohibited Items Inside Temple
- Mobile phones – strictly prohibited; deposit at counter
- Cameras and video equipment – no photography allowed
- Electronic gadgets – all to be deposited at entrance
- Leather items – avoid carrying belts, wallets
- Outside food and beverages
Praying Methods and Remedies
- Sesame Oil Lamp (Ellu Deepam) – Light on Saturdays for relief from Shani Dasa
- Vanni Leaves Archana – Perform for good wealth and prosperity
- Kondrai Flowers Worship – Offer for family peace and healthy relationships
- Oomatham Flowers Archana – Pray to cure mental illness
- Holy Dip – Bathe in Nala Theertham and worship in wet clothes for complete freedom from Shani effects
Temple Etiquette
- Remove footwear before entering temple premises
- Maintain silence inside sanctum areas
- Follow queue discipline – no pushing or rushing
- Lamps can be purchased inside temple; no need to buy from outside vendors
- Saturdays are extremely crowded – plan for 2-4 hours waiting time
Accommodation Options Table
Several accommodation options are available near the temple, ranging from budget lodges to comfortable hotels.
| Hotel Name | Distance from Temple | Key Features | Approx. Tariff (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chandrodayam Residency | Walking distance | New hotel (1 year old), super clean rooms, AC, water heater, TV, complimentary breakfast, parking, excellent service | ₹1,800 – ₹2,500 |
| HARIHARAA RESIDENCY | 2-5 min walk | Budget-friendly, clean rooms, near Nala Theertham, helpful staff (Mr. Pratheep/Arularasan), family-friendly | ₹1,000 – ₹1,800 |
| Geetan Lodge | Near Nala Theertham | Functional hotel, close to temple, parking available, basic amenities | ₹800 – ₹1,500 |
| THIRUNALLAR S A RESIDENCY | Walking distance | Free WiFi, free parking, helpful hosts | ₹1,500 – ₹2,200 |
| Udhayam Residency | Walkable to temple | Neat and clean, safe and secure, owner Mr. Raj very helpful | ₹1,200 – ₹1,800 |
| PGR Thirunallar | Located in Thirunallar | Free WiFi, free parking, rooms with patio | ₹1,000 – ₹1,600 |
| The Landmark Tower | Thirunallar | 3-star hotel, shared lounge, room service, free WiFi | ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 |
| AVS Imperiaa Karaikal | Karaikal (8 km) | 4-star hotel, swimming pool, fitness center, terrace, excellent breakfast | ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 |
Booking Tip: During Sani Peyarchi (March 6, 2026) and other Saturdays, hotels get booked months in advance. Reserve at least 2-3 months ahead.
Dos and Don’ts at Thirunallar Temple
| Dos | Don’ts |
|---|---|
| Do take a holy dip in Nala Theertham before entering the main temple | Don’t carry mobile phones, cameras, or electronic gadgets inside |
| Do wear traditional and modest clothing | Don’t wear shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing attire |
| Do light sesame oil lamps on Saturdays for relief from Shani dosha | Don’t buy lamps or pooja items from unauthorized street vendors |
| Do perform archana with appropriate flowers based on your need | Don’t touch the idols or enter restricted sanctum areas |
| Do maintain queue discipline and silence | Don’t push, rush, or create disturbances |
| Do carry your ID proof if staying in hotels | Don’t leave your belongings unattended |
| Do offer rice mixed with sesame powder for maximum benefits | Don’t consume non-vegetarian food or alcohol before temple visit |
| Do visit on Saturdays for special Saneeswara darshan | Don’t visit during afternoon break (12 PM – 4:30 PM) if short on time |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What are the Thirunallar Temple darshan timings?
A: The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM (morning session) and 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM (evening session) all seven days of the week .
Q2: What is the Sani Peyarchi 2026 date?
A: Sani Peyarchi (Saturn Transit) will occur on March 6, 2026, as per the ‘Vaakiyam’ almanac .
Q3: Is there an entry fee for darshan?
A: No, entry for darshan is completely free for all devotees.
Q4: How can I book pooja online?
A: There is no online booking system. For pooja bookings, send Demand Draft/Money Order to the temple address with your details .
Q5: What is the cost of Ellu Deepam (Sesame Lamp) offering?
A: Ellu Deepam costs approximately ₹100 to ₹300 depending on the size and type of offering .
Q6: Can I take photos inside the temple?
A: No, photography and videography are strictly prohibited inside the temple .
Q7: What is the best time to visit Thirunallar Temple?
A: October to April offers pleasant weather. For peaceful darshan, visit early morning between 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM .
Q8: Why is Nala Theertham important?
A: King Nala bathed here and was cured of Shani dosha. Taking a holy dip cleanses past sins and reduces Saturn’s malefic effects .
Q9: Are mobile phones allowed inside?
A: No, mobile phones and all electronic gadgets must be deposited at the counter at the entrance .
Q10: Which zodiac signs are most affected by Sani Peyarchi 2026?
A: Aquarius (Kumbam), Pisces (Meenam), Aries (Mesham), and Leo (Simmam) require special attention and remedies .
Q11: Can we visit other temples after Thirunallar?
A: Yes, you can visit all temples. However, if you are performing specific pariharam (remedial rituals), you should return home immediately after the ritual .
Q12: What are the special days at Thirunallar Temple?
A: Saturdays are most important for Lord Saneeswara. Purattasi (September-October) Pradosha days, Fridays, Tamil and English New Year days, Karthikai Deepam, and Deepavali feature special poojas .
Q13: Is there accommodation available near the temple?
A: Yes, several hotels like Chandrodayam Residency, HARIHARAA RESIDENCY, Geetan Lodge, and The Landmark Tower offer rooms within walking distance .
Q14: How far is Thirunallar from Karaikal?
A: Thirunallar is just 7.6 km from Karaikal .
Q15: Who should visit Thirunallar Temple?
A: Anyone suffering from Saturn-related afflictions (Sade Sati, Ashtama Sani), facing delays in marriage, career obstacles, health issues, or seeking overall prosperity should visit at least once a year with family .
Temple Contact Information :
Official Temple Administration:
The Executive Officer (Temples)
Sri Dharbaranyeswaraswamy Devasthanam
Sri Saneeswara Bhagawan Temple
Thirunallar – P.O. 609 607, Karaikal (Pondicherry UT)
Phone: (04368) 236530
Fax: (04368) 236504
Email: sds.kkl@nic.in
Official Website: https://thirunallarutemple.org/
May Lord Dharbaranyeswarar and Lord Saneeswara Bhagawan bless you with peace, prosperity, and freedom from all obstacles! 🙏