Rahu Stalam, Hindu temple in Tirunageswaram, India.
Rahu Stalam is a temple complex in Tirunageswaram in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, dedicated to the god Naganathar. Within its walled enclosure, multiple courtyards spread out with shrines, stone pillars, and a separate pavilion for the planetary deity Rahu.
The construction of this temple took place during the reign of Chola king Aditya I in the 10th century. Later rulers added more structures and decorations over the centuries, including the outer gateway towers and chapels.
The complex in Tirunageswaram draws visitors who seek Rahu on specific weekdays, with each day dedicated to a different planetary deity. Many worshippers queue in lines before the inner shrine to participate in the milk ceremony, which is considered a special form of devotion.
The temple complex sits on the main road from Kumbakonam to Karaikkal, about 7 kilometers (4 miles) outside the town. Visitors should observe traditional dress and are required to remove footwear before entering the inner areas.
During the milk offering over the Rahu figure, those present watch as the liquid takes on a blue tint while it runs over the surface. This phenomenon is often interpreted as a sign of divine presence and draws worshippers from distant regions.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
