History
The Navagraha Temple in Pondicherry, also known as the Sri Navagraha Temple, is a unique and spiritually significant shrine dedicated to the nine planetary deities (Navagrahas) of Hindu astrology. Located in the village of Poornankuppam, a few kilometers from the main city of Puducherry, this temple is one of the few in South India where all nine planetary gods are enshrined in individual sanctums within a single temple complex.
The temple features shrines for Surya (Sun), Chandra (Moon), Angaraka (Mars), Budha (Mercury), Guru (Jupiter), Shukra (Venus), Shani (Saturn), Rahu, and Ketu. Each deity is placed according to traditional astrological principles, and devotees visit to seek blessings for relief from planetary doshas (afflictions), for good fortune, and to bring balance to their lives. The architectural style reflects traditional South Indian design, with vibrant gopurams and detailed carvings.
The Navagraha Temple in Pondicherry has become a popular spiritual destination, especially for those interested in astrology and planetary worship. It offers a peaceful atmosphere for prayer and is often visited during specific planetary transits and auspicious days related to each graha.
Greatness:
The Navagraha Temple in Pondicherry is a unique and spiritually significant complex dedicated to the nine planetary deities of Hindu astrology—Surya (Sun), Chandra (Moon), Mangala (Mars), Budha (Mercury), Guru (Jupiter), Shukra (Venus), Shani (Saturn), Rahu, and Ketu. Located in the village of Killiyanoor, about 15 km from the city, this temple is a rare site in South India where all nine grahas are enshrined in one place with individual sanctums for each.The temple complex is beautifully maintained and follows traditional Tamil architecture, creating a serene environment for devotees. Pilgrims visit this temple to perform rituals and seek relief from astrological afflictions, improve health, career, relationships, and to attain mental peace. Special poojas and offerings are conducted based on one’s horoscope to appease the planetary deities.The Navagraha Temple in Pondicherry is not only a powerful center of astrological worship but also a place of spiritual healing, drawing visitors who seek harmony and guidance from the celestial forces that influence human destiny.
Specialities:
The Navagraha Temple in Pondicherry, located in the village of Suryanpet (also known as Siva Suryanarayana Temple), is a unique and sacred site dedicated to the nine celestial deities or Navagrahas in Hindu astrology—Surya (Sun), Chandra (Moon), Angaraka (Mars), Budha (Mercury), Guru (Jupiter), Shukra (Venus), Shani (Saturn), Rahu, and Ketu.
This temple is special because all nine planetary deities are enshrined in one complex, allowing devotees to offer prayers and remedies for astrological issues in a single visit. Each deity has its own sanctum, with Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati as the presiding deities of the main shrine, underlining the belief that all planetary energies are under Shiva’s cosmic order.The temple combines traditional Dravidian architecture with a peaceful, rural setting, making it a spiritually uplifting experience. Devotees frequently visit during planetary transitions or to perform special navagraha dosha nivarthi rituals for health, prosperity, career growth, and harmony. The Navagraha Temple in Pondicherry thus stands as a powerful spiritual center, blending astrology, devotion, and heritage in one sacred space.
Festivals:
- Navagraha Homams and Shanti Poojas
- Graha Peyarchi Festivals
- Amavasya and Saturdays
Timings:
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
FAQs
The Navagraha Temple is located in Kumbakonam Road, near Villiyanur, about 7–8 km from Pondicherry (Puducherry) town center, in Tamil Nadu, close to the Pondicherry–Cuddalore highway.
No, this is a modern temple, built in recent decades with the specific intent of facilitating Navagraha worship in one central location. It has gained popularity for its peaceful setting and astrological significance.
Yes. The temple offers Navagraha Poojas, Shani Poojas, and parihara (remedial) rituals. You can speak to the temple priest or management to schedule a pooja based on your janma nakshatra or horoscope.
Unlike the traditional Navagraha temples in Kumbakonam, this temple houses all nine planetary deities in one complex, making it easy for devotees to offer prayers to all grahas at once.
The idols are large, distinct, and well-maintained, with clear instructions for devotees.
Many people visit here to perform remedial poojas for planetary afflictions (doshas) in their horoscopes
