Thingalur Chandra Bhagawan Temple, Thanjavur - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Thingalur Chandra Bhagawan Temple

At a distance of 13 km from Thanjavur, the Chandra Bhagawan Temple, also called Kailasanathar Temple is a Hindu temple located in the village of Thingalur near Thanjavur. Situated on the Kumbakonam - Thiruvaiyaru Road, it is one of the must-include places in Thanjavur leisure tour. The Chandranar Temple, also known as the Kailasanathar Temple, is dedicated to the Moon God, Chandra (Soma). It is one of the nine Navagraha temples located in Tamil Nadu and South India. The primary deity of this temple is Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Kailasanathar, alongside his consort, Goddess Periyanayaki (Goddess Parvati). The temple is renowned for the tradition of performing the first feeding of rice to infants.

History of Thingalur Chandra Bhagawan Temple

The original complex is believed to have been built by Cholas, while the present masonry structure was built by the Nayaka rulers during the 16th century. The village of Thingalur finds cursory mention in the 7th century Tamil Saiva canonical work, the Tevaram, written by Tamil saint poets known as the Nayanars and classified as Vaippu Sthalam. In modern times, the temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu.

Mythology of Thingalur Chandra Bhagawan Temple

The place gets its name from the Tamil word Thingal, meaning the moon. According to mythology, Chandran wed the 27 daughters of Daksha, yet he showed a particular preference for Rohini. The other daughters expressed their grievances to their father, who subsequently cursed Chandran, causing him to diminish in brilliance. In an effort to restore his full powers, Chandra worshipped Kailasanathar at this location. Lord Shiva granted him a boon, stating that his waning would last only for half of the month, while he would regain his luminosity during the remaining half. In a display of gratitude, Chandran, in the form of a crescent moon, adorned the hair of Lord Shiva. It is believed that visiting the Chandra Navagrahasthalam and offering prayers to the Moon God at this site serves as an effective remedy for Chandra Dosha, mitigating its adverse effects and providing relief from various misfortunes.

Architecture of Thingalur Chandra Bhagawan Temple

Constructed in the Dravidian architectural style, the temple features a three-tiered rajagopuram, and two precincts. The gopuram and the central shrine faces East, while the main entrance faces South. Though the presiding deity of the temple is Lord Shiva called as Kailasanathar, the temple is popularly known as Sri Chandran Sthalam meaning the apt place to worship the Moon God. The shrine of Chandra is located in the first precinct and houses the black granite idol of Moon God typically draped in white cloth. There are seperate shrines for Ambal, Subramanya, Gajalakshmi, and Bhairava. The temple tank is named Chandrapushkarani. During the tamil months of Purattasi (September - October) and Panguni(March - April), it is very surprising to see the moon's rays fall directly on the presiding deity.

Festivals of Thingalur Chandra Bhagawan Temple

Margazhi Thiruvadhirai Festival in December/January, Maha Shivaratri in February/March, Panguni Uthiram Festival in March/April, Thirukarthigai Festival in November/December are the most prominent festivals of Thingalur Temple. Monday is regarded as the day of the Moon or Chandra, making it essential to conduct puja on this day. It is recommended to observe a fast and perform rituals for a minimum of five Mondays to attain favorable outcomes.

Dress Code & Other Restrictions of Thingalur Chandra Bhagawan Temple

When planning a visit to the Thingalur Chandra Bhagawan Temple, it is recommended to adhere to modest dress standards. Men are encouraged to wear a dhoti or pajama paired with an upper garment, as well as formal trousers and shirts. Women may opt for a saree, half saree, or churidhars. It is advisable to refrain from wearing contemporary attire such as mini-skirts, low-waist jeans, shorts, and sleeveless tops while on the temple grounds.

Non-Hindus are welcome to explore the temple complex and appreciate its architectural beauty; however, access to the sanctum sanctorum may be restricted.

Thingalur Chandra Bhagawan Temple Timings

Monday: 6 AM - 1 PM & 4 PM - 9 PM
Tuesday: 6 AM - 1 PM & 4 PM - 9 PM
Wednesday: 6 AM - 1 PM & 4 PM - 9 PM
Thursday: 6 AM - 1 PM & 4 PM - 9 PM
Friday: 6 AM - 1 PM & 4 PM - 9 PM
Saturday: 6 AM - 1 PM & 4 PM - 9 PM

Thingalur Chandra Bhagawan Temple Entry Fee

Entry is Free

Best Time to Visit Thingalur Chandra Bhagawan Temple

The best time for visiting Thingalur Chandra Bhagawan Temple is during the winter months, specifically from October to March, when the climate is more agreeable and conducive for exploring the area. Nevertheless, for those interested in experiencing the temple's festivals, it is advisable to visit during Margazhi Thiruvadhirai Festival in December/January, Maha Shivaratri in February/March, as special poojas and rituals are conducted during these times.

How to Reach Thingalur Chandra Bhagawan Temple

Chandra Bhagawan Temple or Kailasanathar Temple is situated in Thingalur, approximately 13 kilometers from Thanjavur. Travelers can access Thanjavur via train or bus from nearby towns and cities within Tamil Nadu. Upon arrival in Thanjavur, visitors have the option to reach Thingalur by bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw. The closest airport is Tiruchirappalli Airport, located around 60 kilometers from the Thingalur.