
Alangudi Abathsahayeswarar Temple
A sacred Navagraha temple dedicated to Guru Bhagavan, offering blessings for wisdom and prosperity. Worship Lord Shiva as Apathsahayeswarar for protec...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Alangudi Abathsahayeswarar Temple
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred Navagraha temple dedicated to Guru Bhagavan, offering blessings for wisdom and prosperity. Worship Lord Shiva as Apathsahayeswarar for protection.
"Divine place. Calm temple. Powerful Guru Bhagavan."

🎯 Plan for Thursday Crowds
Thursdays are very crowded for Guru Bhagavan darshan. Arrive early or visit on a weekday for a more peaceful experience.
💧 Temple Pond Maintenance
Some visitors suggest the temple pond could benefit from better maintenance and cleaning.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Guru Bhagavan Shrine
Main Sanctum
Seek blessings from Guru Bhagavan (Lord Dakshinamurthy), the presiding deity, renowned for bestowing wisdom and prosperity.

Apathsahayeswarar Lingam
Main Sanctum
Worship Lord Shiva as Apathsahayeswarar, a self-manifested lingam offering protection during times of crisis.

Elavarkuzhali Amman Sannidhi
Separate Shrine
Pay respects to Goddess Parvati, known as Elavarkuzhali, in her dedicated shrine within the temple complex.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Guru's Blessings
Temple Maintenance and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Plan for Thursday Crowds
Thursdays are very crowded for Guru Bhagavan darshan. Arrive early or visit on a weekday for a more peaceful experience.
💧 Temple Pond Maintenance
Some visitors suggest the temple pond could benefit from better maintenance and cleaning.
🙏 Special Pooja Inquiries
Contact temple management for details on special poojas, costs, and timings if you wish to perform one.
♿ Seating for Seniors
Consider suggesting to temple authorities the addition of seating at the entrance for the convenience of elderly visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Plan for Thursday Crowds
Thursdays are very crowded for Guru Bhagavan darshan. Arrive early or visit on a weekday for a more peaceful experience.
💧 Temple Pond Maintenance
Some visitors suggest the temple pond could benefit from better maintenance and cleaning.
🙏 Special Pooja Inquiries
Contact temple management for details on special poojas, costs, and timings if you wish to perform one.
♿ Seating for Seniors
Consider suggesting to temple authorities the addition of seating at the entrance for the convenience of elderly visitors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
This divine and calm temple is highly regarded for its powerful Guru Bhagavan shrine. Visitors appreciate the spiritual vibrations and the cooperative nature of the people. However, some reviews suggest improvements in the cleanliness of the temple pond and the addition of seating for the elderly. Ongoing renovations are also noted.
"Guru sthalam and must visit temple.. I visited this temple on 27th Oct morning temple is not crowded.. Good parking available..."
Selva Ganeshan
"Divine place. Calm temple. Powerful Guru Bhagavan.
Suggestion:
In the entrance, it will be better if temple authorities can place seats or chairs. So that aged people can sit and wait till the temple opens.
The temple pond is so greeny and looks dirty. Please clean and maintain."
Magesh
"This temple is one of the nine Navagraha temples of Tamil Nadu in Alangudi. Guru Bhagavan temple. Shiva is worshipped as Apathsahayesvarar, represented as Suyambulingam...His consort Parvati is depicted as Elavarkuzhali.. Every thursday there will be a huge crowd of devotees visiting this temple and getting the blessings of Lord Guru bhagavan. The temple complex covers two acres and it houses a five tier gateway tower known as gopurams, one facing the Apathsahayeswarar shrine and other towards North.The temple is located in Alangudi, a village located 16 km (9.9 mi) from Kumbakonam and 56 km (35 mi) from Thanjavur on the Thanjavur - Thiruvarur road."
ARUN GANESAN
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The temple is located in Alangudi, approximately 16 km (9.9 mi) from Kumbakonam. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus heading towards Mannargudi or Thanjavur on the Thanjavur-Thiruvarur road.
Alangudi is about 56 km (35 mi) from Thanjavur. Buses are available on the Thanjavur-Thiruvarur road, or you can opt for a taxi for a more direct journey.
While direct transport might be limited, local buses frequently ply the route from Kumbakonam and Thanjavur towards Alangudi. Taxis offer the most convenient option.
The temple is approximately 18 kms from Kumbakonam towards Mannargudi, making it a relatively short distance if you are coming from that direction.
Information on dedicated parking facilities is limited, but visitors typically find space nearby. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on Thursdays, to secure a convenient spot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entry fee to visit the main temple premises. However, special poojas or rituals may incur separate charges.
Temple timings can vary, but it is typically open from early morning until late afternoon. It's best to check locally or inquire beforehand, especially if planning a visit for specific poojas.
Thursdays are considered the most auspicious day for worshipping Guru Bhagavan. However, these days also attract the largest crowds.
Yes, you can often book special poojas by contacting the temple management directly. They can provide information on available poojas, their costs, and timings.
Photography rules can vary. It's advisable to check for signage or ask temple authorities about restrictions, especially within the inner sanctums.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
This temple is one of the nine Navagraha temples dedicated to Guru (Jupiter) and is highly revered for its Guru Bhagavan shrine. It's also a Padal Petra Sthalam, praised by Saiva saints.
Modest attire is recommended, covering shoulders and knees, as is customary for visiting religious sites in India.
While the temple complex is spread out, specific facilities like ramps or dedicated seating might be limited. Visitors have suggested adding more seating.
The temple complex covers about two acres and features a five-tier gopuram. It houses shrines for Lord Shiva (Apathsahayeswarar) and Goddess Parvati (Elavarkuzhali).
During some visits, renovation and painting work have been observed. It's a good idea to check for any ongoing work that might affect your experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Local eateries and small restaurants are usually available in Alangudi village, offering South Indian cuisine. For a wider variety, you might need to travel back to Kumbakonam.
Prasadam (blessed food) is often distributed at temples. Availability and types can vary, so inquire upon arrival.
While specific temple-related delicacies aren't widely mentioned, exploring local South Indian cuisine in the surrounding villages is recommended.
Yes, especially during warmer months, it's always a good idea to carry water. Some vendors may sell water bottles within the temple vicinity.
Options for specialized dietary needs might be limited in the immediate vicinity. It's best to plan accordingly if you have specific requirements.
📸 📸 Photography
The temple's gopurams, the main deity shrines, and the temple tank (despite maintenance suggestions) offer picturesque opportunities. Capture the architectural details and the spiritual ambiance.
Photography is typically prohibited inside the inner sanctums of most temples to maintain sanctity. Always check for signs or ask temple staff.
Natural light is prevalent during daytime hours. Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer, more atmospheric lighting.
The five-tier gopurams and the intricate carvings, if visible, are key photographic subjects. The overall Chola period architecture is also noteworthy.
Visiting on weekdays, especially in the early morning, will provide the best opportunities for unobstructed photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more comfortable, especially during warmer months, carry water and snacks. If possible, visit during less crowded hours on weekdays to allow children more space to move around. The temple complex is not overly large, making it manageable for families. Be mindful of the dress code, ensuring children are dressed modestly.
🙏 Devotees Seeking Astrological Remedies
It is advisable to consult with a knowledgeable astrologer beforehand to understand the specific remedies or prayers recommended for your astrological chart. While the temple itself offers a powerful spiritual environment, engaging in specific poojas or offerings tailored to Guru Bhagavan can enhance the efficacy of your visit. Be prepared for larger crowds on Thursdays, and consider arriving early to participate in the rituals without rush.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Guru Bhagavan
Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Apathsahayeswarar, meaning 'the one who provides help in times of danger.' This aspect of Shiva is believed to offer protection and succor to devotees facing difficulties. The Suyambulingam (self-manifested lingam) in the main shrine is considered highly potent. The temple's history is intertwined with Saiva saint-poets like Sambandar and Appar, who have sung praises of the presiding deities, further enhancing its spiritual significance as a Padal Petra Sthalam.
The temple complex itself reflects a blend of architectural styles, with its origins dating back to the Chola period and subsequent modifications by the Nayak dynasty in the 16th century. The presence of a five-tier gopuram signifies its importance. While the spiritual core remains paramount, visitors often note the need for enhanced maintenance of the temple surroundings, including the sacred pond, to preserve its sanctity and aesthetic appeal for future generations.
Navagraha Temples and Their Importance
Visiting these temples in a specific order or on particular days is often recommended for maximum benefit. Devotees believe that by offering prayers and performing rituals at the respective Navagraha temples, they can harmonize the planetary energies in their lives, leading to peace, prosperity, and well-being. The collective spiritual energy of these nine sites is immense, drawing pilgrims from across India and beyond who seek divine intervention for their life's challenges.
Each Navagraha temple has unique legends and presiding deities associated with its planet. For Guru, Alangudi's Apathsahayeswarar and the specific form of Dakshinamurthy are central. The rituals and practices at these temples are deeply rooted in ancient Vedic traditions, emphasizing the interconnectedness of celestial movements and earthly life. Understanding the significance of these temples can enrich a visitor's spiritual journey and provide a deeper appreciation for Hindu astrology and temple traditions.





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