Thittai Vasishteswarar Temple
A revered Guru Sthalam dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its unique Rasi statue and blessings of Guru Bhagavan.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid Thursday crowds
Thittai Vasishteswarar Temple
Best Time
Avoid Thursday crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A revered Guru Sthalam dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its unique Rasi statue and blessings of Guru Bhagavan.
"Seek blessings from Guru Bhagavan at this unique temple with its special Rasi statue feature."
🚗 Parking Availability
Ample parking for bikes and cars is available just outside the temple. :car:
🙏 Offerings Available Nearby
Shops near the temple sell items for archana (offerings). :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Guru Bhagavan's Blessing
Main Sanctum
Seek blessings from Guru Bhagavan (Planet Jupiter) at this renowned Guru Sthalam.
Rasi Statue Prayer
Temple Roof
Stand under your zodiac sign on the roof for a personalized prayer experience.
Lord Vasishteswarar & Ambal
Sanctum Sanctorum
Worship Lord Shiva (Vasishteswarar) and Goddess Brahannayaki Amman, revered by Sage Vasishta.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Guru's Blessings
Unique Rasi Statue Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Availability
Ample parking for bikes and cars is available just outside the temple. :car:
🙏 Offerings Available Nearby
Shops near the temple sell items for archana (offerings). :pray:
💧 No Refreshments Nearby
Plan to eat before you visit; no hotels or bakeries are close by. :bread:
⛽ Petrol Bunk Outside
A petrol bunk is conveniently located right outside the temple premises. :fuel_pump:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Availability
Ample parking for bikes and cars is available just outside the temple. :car:
🙏 Offerings Available Nearby
Shops near the temple sell items for archana (offerings). :pray:
💧 No Refreshments Nearby
Plan to eat before you visit; no hotels or bakeries are close by. :bread:
⛽ Petrol Bunk Outside
A petrol bunk is conveniently located right outside the temple premises. :fuel_pump:
👟 Footwear Stands
Plenty of stands and spaces are available for leaving your footwear. :athletic_shoe:
🤝 Help Those in Need
Many ask for help outside; consider buying them food before your visit. :handshake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Thittai Vasishteswarar Temple as a significant Guru Sthalam, highlighting the unique Rasi statue experience and the blessings of Guru Bhagavan. The temple's historical importance and architectural beauty are also noted. However, the lack of nearby amenities like food and refreshments is a recurring point of concern for visitors.
"Sri Vasisteswarar Shiva Temple is Guru Stalam, Blessing Guru Ambal Vasisteswarar Nandhi You can pray Together from Rasi Statue is available on Temple Roof, You can Stand your Rasi Symbol below and Prayers together Ambal, Sivan Vasisteshwarar, And Nandi, your prayers become true 💯%"
G M Vediyan
"This is one of the most famous temples for Guru Bhagavan.
It can be reached from both Kumbakonam and Thanjavur.
If planning to start from Kumbakonam, the Kumbakonam - Thanjavur highway is very well constructed and mostly deserted. Very good for a ride/drive.
Bike/Car parking is available just outside the temple. They charge 5 Rs for bikes, not sure about the cost for car parking.
Items for archana (offerings) are available at shops near the temple.
However, please note that there are no refreshments, bakeries, or hotels available nearby — so plan accordingly.
A petrol bunk is available right outside the temple.
Plenty of stands and places available for footwear.
Many people ask for food/money outside the temple, so if you can buy something for them before you go to the temple, you can offer them.
Annadanam cost is Rs.2000/- for 50 people. They will take down your details. Pls carry cash.
Thursdays are especially crowded, as it is considered an auspicious day for Lord Guru.
Though Shivan temple, Guru bhagwan attracts the most crowd and the queue for this temple is not well planned, but can see God from almost up close and get archanai done."
Yogesh Reddy
"Vasishteswarar Temple, located in the village of Thittai, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is located 11 kilometers north from Thanjavur city in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Constructed by the Chola empire😊
The presiding deity in the temple is Lord Swayambootheswarar (Shiva) along with his consort, Goddess Ulaganayaki (Parvati). Saint Vasishtar is said to have worshipped the deity in this temple. Hence, the deity is known as Lord Vasishteswarar."
AKRITI MISHRA
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The temple is easily accessible from both Kumbakonam and Thanjavur. The Kumbakonam-Thanjavur highway is well-constructed and offers a smooth drive. It's located about 11 kilometers north of Thanjavur city.
Many visitors use bikes or cars for a comfortable journey. The highway is good for driving.
While specific bus routes aren't detailed, the temple's proximity to Thanjavur suggests local bus services might be available. It's advisable to check local transport schedules.
The temple is located in the village of Thittai, about 11 km north of Thanjavur. GPS navigation should guide you effectively.
The nearest major cities are Kumbakonam and Thanjavur, both offering good connectivity.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of an entry fee for general darshan. However, specific rituals or special darshans might have associated costs.
Specific timings are not provided in the reviews, but temples typically open in the morning and close in the evening. It's best to check locally or call ahead.
Advance booking is generally not required for regular darshan. However, for special events or Annadanam sponsorship, you may need to make arrangements.
Yes, the temple is known for its Guru Bhagavan significance. Archana (offerings) can be done. Annadanam (free meal) sponsorship is also available.
Annadanam sponsorship for 50 people costs Rs. 2000/-. You will need to provide your details and pay in cash.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The temple has a unique Rasi statue on its roof. You can stand below your specific zodiac sign and offer prayers for a personalized divine connection.
Yes, Thursdays are considered very auspicious for Lord Guru and thus attract significant crowds.
The queue for Guru Bhagavan can be crowded and is not always well-planned, but you can still get close for darshan and archana.
It's a Guru Sthalam, a Padal Petra Sthalam revered in Tevaram hymns, and a 12th-century temple built by the Cholas, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Yes, you can perform Archana (offerings) at the temple. Items for Archana are available for purchase nearby.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no refreshments, bakeries, or hotels available nearby. It's recommended to eat before you arrive.
Annadanam (free meal) is offered, and you can sponsor it for Rs. 2000/- for 50 people. You need to provide your details and pay in cash.
Since there are no food options, it's wise to carry your own snacks and water.
Both Thanjavur and Kumbakonam have a variety of local eateries and restaurants offering South Indian cuisine.
While not explicitly mentioned, it's possible to find small shops selling water, but it's safer to carry your own.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography rules can vary in temples. It's best to check for signage or ask temple authorities. Generally, photography inside the sanctum is prohibited.
The Rasi statue on the roof and the temple architecture, including the gopurams and intricate carvings, offer good photographic opportunities.
Photography of the exterior and architectural elements is usually permitted. You might be able to capture the Rasi statues from the ground.
Flash photography is often restricted inside temples to avoid disturbing the sanctity and other devotees.
Early morning or late afternoon, during the golden hours, can provide beautiful lighting for architectural shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🙏 Devotees Seeking Guru's Blessings
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Guru Bhagavan
This temple's unique Rasi statue feature on the roof allows devotees to connect directly with the celestial energies. By standing beneath their specific zodiac sign, individuals can perform prayers and seek personalized blessings from Guru Bhagavan. This interactive element makes the spiritual experience more profound and engaging for many visitors.
Thursdays are considered particularly auspicious for worshipping Guru Bhagavan, leading to higher crowds on these days. Many visitors also come to perform Archana (a ritualistic offering) to the deity, seeking divine intervention and blessings for their endeavors. The temple's historical roots as a Chola construction and its mention in the revered Tevaram hymns further add to its spiritual and cultural importance.
Architectural and Historical Marvel
The presiding deity is Lord Swayambootheswarar (Shiva), also known as Lord Vasishteswarar, named after the sage Vasishta who is believed to have worshipped here. His consort is Goddess Brahannayaki Amman (also referred to as Ulaganayaki). The temple's sanctum sanctorum houses these deities, drawing devotees seeking spiritual fulfillment and peace. The architecture, with its majestic towers and detailed sculptures, offers a glimpse into the artistic traditions of the 12th century.
Throughout the year, the temple hosts various festivals and rituals that are celebrated with great enthusiasm. These events contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of Thittai and attract pilgrims from across the country. The temple's enduring presence and the continuous flow of devotees underscore its importance as a center of faith and a custodian of ancient traditions.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit