The Dharbaranyeswarar Temple at Thirunallar is the Navagraha temple for Shani (Saturn), and is the best-known Shani shrine in South India. It lies in the Karaikal district of the Union Territory of Puducherry.
Significance
According to legend, King Nala was freed from years of hardship caused by Shani after bathing in the temple tank and worshipping here. The tank — the Nala Theertham — is where devotees bathe before offering prayers. Shani is worshipped here in a benevolent aspect, and many devotees visit during difficult periods in their horoscope such as Ezharai Sani.
Visiting
Thirunallar is the southernmost stop of the Navagraha circuit. See our Navagraha temple tour.
