Exploring Nava Tirupati: A Pilgrim’s Guide to the Thamirabarani Shrines

Along the tranquil banks of the Thamirabarani River unfolds Nava Tirupati (also known as ‘Navathirupathi’), a revered cluster of 9 ancient Vishnu temples. Each shrine is traditionally believed to symbolically represent one of the Navagrahas, the 9 cosmic planets, beautifully integrating astrological significance within the Vaishnava tradition. And yes, these 9 gems are also part of the sacred 108 Divya Desams, considered the earthly abodes of Lord Vishnu.

That’s right, this is faith, history, and planetary drama rolled into one river-hugging pilgrimage route. Sounds like a journey worth taking already, doesn’t it?

Now here’s where it becomes even more intriguing. According to Vaishnava traditions, while most Divya Desams are spread across India, a few have addresses that sound straight out of a divine GPS. Muktinath, also known as ‘Saligrama’, rests in Nepal, with 2 more believed to exist beyond the earthly realm in Tirupparkatal (Ksira Sagara) and Vaikuntham.

So grab your bag, summon your inner explorer, and let our guide lead you through the Navathirupathi Temples, a spiritual adventure you’ll be bragging about later.

Why Visit the Navathirupathi Temples?

Believed by devotees to ease the effects of challenging planetary influences, each of the Navathirupathi Temples is imbued with celestial meaning and centuries of faith. Nestled gracefully along the banks of the Thamirabarani River between Tirunelveli and Tiruchendur, all 9 temples are close enough to explore in a single day.

These shrines, dating back over a 1,000 years, resonate with the grandeur of Dravidian architecture and the poetic devotion of the 12 Tamil Vaishnava poet-saints, the Alvars, whose verses continue to stir hearts even today.

In the Pandya region, these 9 temples collectively represent the Navagrahas, with Lord Vishnu believed to oversee their planetary influences. In other words, 1 deity, 9 cosmic roles!

To make your pilgrimage both smooth and soul-soothing, a specially curated package with a relaxing stay at Regency Tuticorin by GRT Hotels is the perfect companion for your spiritual journey. But before we delve into the comforts of your stay, let’s take a step back into the real stars of the journey, the temples themselves.

Sri Srivaikuntanathan Perumal Temple, Nava Tirupati Temple 1

History

Located in Srivaikuntam town in Thoothukudi, this sprawling 5-acre marvel, also called the ‘Kallapiran Temple’, is where Lord Vishnu rests under the hood of Adisesha. Dating back to the Pandya era in the early medieval period and polished up by Vijayanagara and Nayak rulers, it flaunts a towering 9-tier gopuram.
 

Importance of the Temple

This temple is traditionally associated by devotees with Sun (Surya) and is regarded as the foremost among the Navagrahas. Think of it as the spiritual equivalent of charging your inner batteries: a strong Sun here is said to inspire leadership, ambition, and confidence, basically giving you your own cosmic glow-up. Revered as the first of the Navathirupathi Temples praised by Nammalwar (one of the 12 Alvar saints), the shrine remains a landmark of the Thoothukudi region and a much-loved pilgrimage centre.
 

Story Behind the Temple

Long ago, when the sacred Vedas were stolen and the balance of the universe wavered, Lord Vishnu chose Srivaikuntam as the place to set things right. Taking the form of Matsya, he descended to retrieve the lost scriptures, ensuring that wisdom and order returned to the world. Another local lore speaks about a cow revealing the buried deity, earning the deity the nickname ‘Pal Pandian’.
 

• Festival: Vaikunta Ekadasi (December - January)
   
• Timings: 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM & 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
   
• Prayers: It is believed that prayers offered here help overcome challenges in marriage, gain confidence, energy, self-belief, and success.
   
• Devotional offering: Devotees perform tirumanjanam (sacred bath) in the holy Thamirabarani River and offer new clothes.
   
• Dress code: Visitors are advised to wear traditional, modest clothing.
   
• Distance: Around 32 km from Regency Tuticorin by GRT Hotels

*Temple timings may vary depending on the directives of the temple administration.

Divya Desam - Arulmigu Sri Vijayasana Perumal Temple, Nava Tirupati Temple 2

History

Located in Natham, Sri Vijayasana Perumal Temple features a serene granite sanctum that reflects the devotional traditions of medieval Tamil dynasties. Known locally by different names, it welcomes visitors with a graceful 5-tier gopuram.
 

Importance of the Temple

Devotional tradition links this shrine with Chandra, the Moon, the ruler of emotions, instincts, and all those feelings that don’t always follow logic. When the Moon is steady, it’s said to bring calm, empathy, and emotional balance. And when emotions feel a little all over the place, devotees believe a visit here helps slow things down, soften the edges, and bring the mind back to centre.
 

Story Behind the Temple

The lore narrates of the devoted Brahmin Vedavith, who lovingly cared for his elderly parents and longed for moksha. Guided here by the Lord Vishnu in the guise of an elderly Brahmin, he attained liberation. Following the southern Tenkalai Vaishnava tradition, with rituals performed 6 times a day, this temple is spiritually significant for seekers, believed to bestow liberation to departing souls.
 

• Festival: Vaikunta Ekadasi (December - January)
   
• Timings: 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM & 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
   
• Prayers: It is traditionally believed that worship here may help calm mental unrest and encourage peace, emotional balance, and inner steadiness.
   
• Devotional offering: Expressing gratitude through the offering of vastras and tirumanjanam (sacred bath) at Agni Theertham (sacred tank).
   
• Dress code: Visitors are advised to wear traditional, modest clothing.
   
• Distance: Around 30 km from Regency Tuticorin by GRT Hotels
   
• Note: Temple timings may vary depending on the directives of the temple administration.

*Temple timings may vary depending on the directives of the temple administration.

Arulmigu Sri Thirupuliyangudi Kaaisinavendhar Perumal Temple, Nava Tirupathi 3

History

At Thirupuliyangudi, this sacred temple venerates Lord Vishnu as ‘Bhoomipalagar’ or ‘Kaaichinavendan’. Here, Vishnu lounges in a serene reclining posture, with Brahma sprouting from his navel and Sridevi and Bhoodevi gracing either side. Rooted in classic Dravidian architecture, the temple traces its origins to the Pandya period, with later expansions by the Vijayanagara rulers adding to its quiet grandeur.
 

Importance of the Temple

Popular traditional belief links this shrine with Budha (Mercury), the planet that loves quick thinking, sharp conversations, and clever problem-solving. A well-aligned Mercury is believed to sharpen the mind, boost communication, and support smart decisions, while a weaker influence may lead to nervousness or communication challenges.
 

Story Behind the Temple

Legends tell of a cosmic drama where Bhoodevi hid in the Nether World, plunging the earth into darkness. As the devas prayed, Vishnu, along with Lakshmi, comforted Bhoodevi and restored balance to creation. With harmony restored and the world back on track, Lord Vishnu earned the name ‘Bhoomi Paalar’, the steadfast protector of the earth.
 

• Festival: Vaikunta Ekadasi (December - January)
   
• Timings: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM
   
• Prayers: In devotional belief, prayers are offered for forgiveness of past actions and for blessings of wisdom, learning, progeny, and relief from difficult planetary influences.
   
• Devotional offering: As a gesture of gratitude, devotees perform the sacred ritual bath (Tirumanjanam) and offer new ceremonial clothes (vastras) to the deity.
   
• Dress code: Visitors are advised to wear traditional, modest clothing.
   
• Distance: Around 29 km from Regency Tuticorin by GRT Hotels
   
• Note: Temple timings may vary depending on the directives of the temple administration.

*Temple timings may vary depending on the directives of the temple administration.

Arulmigu Aravindalochanar Temple, Irattai Tirupathi, Nava Tirupati 4

History

Located in Tholavillimangalam, a village in the Thoothukudi district, this temple reflects the classic Dravidian architectural style. It is one of the revered Rettai Tirupathi, featuring 2 neighbouring shrines, the Devapiran Temple and the Aravindalochanar Temple.

Originally raised by the Pandya rulers and later enriched during the Nayak period, the temple stands out for what it doesn’t have: a towering rajagopuram. Instead, the focus shifts inward, where Aravindalochanar sits serenely beneath the Kumudha Vimanam, a lotus-shaped tower symbolically associated with sacred traditions.
 

Importance of the Temple

This temple is traditionally associated with Rahu, the shadow graha known for stirring ambition, desire, and sudden shifts in life’s direction. When Rahu’s energy flows well, it fuels bold thinking, intense focus, and the drive to pursue big goals. When that energy feels overwhelming, it can blur clarity and pull the mind in too many directions at once.
 

Story Behind the Temple

Temple tradition recalls the legend of Sage Suprabhar as a devotee who knew no shortcuts. Each day, he worshipped Lord Vishnu with red lotus flowers along the banks of the Thamirabarani River. Moved by this unwavering faith, Lord Vishnu appeared before the sage and gently asked him to continue his prayers right there. It was here that Vishnu manifested as Aravindalochanar, the Lotus-Eyed Lord, blessing the land and giving rise to the northern shrine that devotees revere to this day.
 

• Festival: Vaikunta Ekadasi (December - January)
   
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM & 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
   
• Prayers: Many believe that worship here can help them navigate confusion, fears, and sudden obstacles while seeking guidance and academic progress.
   
• Devotional offering: Expressing gratitude through Tirumanjanam in Suprabha Theertham (sacred tank) and the offering of vastras.
   
• Dress code: Visitors are advised to wear traditional, modest clothing.
   
• Distance: Around 32 km from Regency Tuticorin by GRT Hotels
   
• Note: Temple timings may vary depending on the directives of the temple administration.

*Temple timings may vary depending on the directives of the temple administration.

Divya Desam - Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, Nava Tirupati 5

History

This temple, located in Thirutholaivillimangalam, houses Lord Devapiran facing east, flanked by Sridevi and Bhoodevi. Surrounded by sturdy granite walls and without a rajagopuram, the temple keeps things simple and focused. Much of what you see today took shape in the 16th century, when the Vijayanagara and Nayak rulers added pillared halls and key shrines, layering history upon devotion.
 

Importance of the Temple

In temple tradition, this shrine corresponds with Ketu Graha, representing the inward journey: enlightenment, detachment, and the unwinding of past karma. Ketu’s energy is believed to encourage letting go, deeper reflection, and spiritual growth. When that pull feels strong, it often nudges people toward inner change and self-discovery, making this temple a place many visit to find clarity and closure.
 

Story Behind the Temple

The temple lore takes an unexpected turn here. Sage Atreya Suprabhar once came upon a weighing scale (tharaasu) and a bow (villu), ordinary objects, until they suddenly weren’t. Right before his eyes, they transformed into a man and a woman, bound by a curse that had held them in that form. With the sage’s compassionate touch, the curse was lifted, and the pair attained liberation. Since then, devotees believe this temple carries the power to ease karmic burdens and gently untangle the challenges linked to Rahu and Ketu.
 

• Festival: Vaikunta Ekadasi (December - January)
   
• Timings: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
   
• Prayers: Devotees pray here in the hope of easing past karmic burdens and nurturing spiritual growth, clarity, detachment, harmonious alliances, and educational success.
   
• Devotional offering: Expressing gratitude through Tirumanjanam in Suprabha Theertham (sacred tank) and the offering of vastras.
   
• Dress code: Visitors are advised to wear traditional, modest clothing.
   
• Distance: Around 32 km from Regency Tuticorin by GRT Hotels
   
• Note: Temple timings may vary depending on the directives of the temple administration.

*Temple timings may vary depending on the directives of the temple administration.

Vaithamanidhi Perumal Temple, Nava Tirupati Temple 6

History

Located in Thirukkolur, this temple is also called ‘Kuberasthalam’ (associated with Kubera, the god of wealth), dedicated to Vishnu as Vaithamanidhi Perumal in a reclining posture. Built by the Pandya kings and set across 2 precincts (concentric pathways), the temple holds an irresistible aura of wealth, both material and spiritual.

Lord Vishnu rests with a wooden measuring vessel (marakkal) as his pillow, protecting the Nava Nidhis (9 sacred treasures) beneath his right shoulder. This iconic posture earned Lord Vishnu the name Vaithamanidhi Perumal, the guardian of the Nava Nidhis, reminding devotees that blessings come in measure, guided by one’s deeds and karma.
 

Importance of the Temple

This temple is primarily honoured as Kuberasthalam, a sacred space associated with wealth, prosperity, and divine guardianship of abundance. Devotees visit seeking stability, financial well-being, and the grace of measured blessings. In certain traditional belief systems, the temple is also secondarily linked with Mars, the fiery planet of energy, courage, and drive. A well-balanced Mars is believed to inspire confidence and leadership, while an imbalance may lead to restlessness or impulsiveness.
 

Story Behind the Temple

Legend says Kubera, the treasurer of the heavens, once lost all his wealth after a curse from Shiva. Humbled and determined, he came to this temple to perform penance. Through devotion and patience, he not only regained his riches but also restored his honour. Today, devotees visit Vaithamanidhi Perumal Temple as a reminder that true abundance comes from faith, humility, and dedication.
 

• Festival: Vaikunta Ekadasi (December - January)
   
• Timings: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM & 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM
   
• Prayers: Devotees believe that offering prayers at this shrine grants the courage and resilience to confront conflicts and obstacles, while also easing the intensity of difficult planetary influences.
   
• Devotional offering: Expressing gratitude to Perumal through archanas, a ritual of worship where the names of the deity are recited and the offering of Vastras.
   
• Dress code: Visitors are advised to wear traditional, modest clothing.
   
• Distance: Around 33 km from Regency Tuticorin by GRT Hotels
   
• Note: Temple timings may vary depending on the directives of the temple administration.

*Temple timings may vary depending on the directives of the temple administration.

Divya Desam - Arulmigu Sri Mayakoothar Temple, Nava Tirupati Temple 7

History

Along the Tirunelveli and Tiruchendur route, this ancient temple venerates Vishnu as ‘Mayakoothar’, the lord who danced in triumph after defeating the asura Asmachaaran. With a modest Rajagopuram, 2 prakarams, and Vishnu facing east, the temple radiates quiet strength, a gentle reminder that Saturn may test, but devotion steadies the path.
 

Importance of the Temple

Devotees associate this temple with Saturn, or Shani, the planet that’s both teacher and taskmaster. A well-aligned Shani helps build discipline, patience, and resilience, basically turning life’s slow lanes into lessons. If Shani’s energy feels intense, it might slow you down or throw a curveball. Think of it as cosmic coaching with a divine trainer.
 

Story Behind the Temple

The stories here have a little drama and a lot of flair. Lord Vishnu is said to have arrived on (divine carriers) to defeat the asura Asmachaaran, and then danced in triumph, earning the name Mayakoothar. But there’s a sweeter tale too: Devasaran (or Vedhacharan) and his wife Kumudavalli, devoted beyond measure, were blessed with a daughter, Kamaladevi. She performed penance here, seeking Vishnu as her divine consort, giving the temple its ancient name, Thirukulanthai.
 

• Festival: Vaikunta Ekadasi (December - January)
   
• Timings: 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM & 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM
   
• Prayers: Devotees pray in the belief that worship here may support them through hardships and delays, encouraging patience, discipline, and perseverance.
   
• Devotional offering: Devotees honour Lord Vishnu with a ritual bath in Perungulam tank and offer new clothes as a gesture of thanks.
   
• Dress code: Visitors are advised to wear traditional, modest clothing.
   
• Distance: Around 29 km from Regency Tuticorin by GRT Hotels
   
• Note: Temple timings may vary depending on the directives of the temple administration.

*Temple timings may vary depending on the directives of the temple administration.

Sri Makara Nedunkullhaikkaathar Temple - Then Thirupperai, Nava Tirupati Temple 8

History

Located in Then Thirupperai, this temple enshrines Vishnu along with Sridevi and Bhoodevi, worshipped here as ‘Makara Nedunkuzhaikkathar’, named after the elegant fish-shaped earrings (Makara Kundalams) offered to him. The temple features a flat-structured rajagopuram, while the original shrine is believed to have existed even before the era of Nammalwar.
 

Importance of the Temple

Devotees revere this temple as the embodiment of Venus (Shukra), the planet of love, beauty, and all things that make life feel a little more enjoyable. A strong Venus is said to sprinkle harmony, creativity, and charm into relationships and personal expression. When afflicted, Venus may lead to vanity, possessiveness, or a lack of commitment.
 

Story Behind the Temple

Legend has it that Bhoodevi, separated by a curse, came to the banks of the Thamirabarani and began her penance, chanting Om Namo Narayanaya. There, she spotted divine earrings in the river and offered them to Vishnu. With that heartfelt gesture, she regained her true form, and Lord Vishnu earned his sacred name. A reminder that even in divine tales, the little things and the right offering create the biggest miracles!
 

• Festival: Vaikunta Ekadasi (December - January)
   
• Timings: 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM & 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM
   
• Prayers: According to traditional belief, worshippers seek blessings for harmony in relationships and for love, happiness, and creativity.
   
• Devotional offering: Performing thirumanjanam in the holy Thamirabarani River and offering new Vastras in gratitude for answered prayers.
   
• Dress code: Visitors are advised to wear traditional, modest clothing.
   
• Distance: Around 29 km from Regency Tuticorin by GRT Hotels
   
• Note: Temple timings may vary depending on the directives of the temple administration.

*Temple timings may vary depending on the directives of the temple administration.

Arulmigu Sri Aathinatha Aazhwar Thirukovil, Nava Tirupati Temple 9

History

Located in the Thoothukudi district, this revered Divya Desam is celebrated in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, a collection of 4,000 devotional Tamil verses by the 12 Alvars (Tamil poet-saints). This temple is closely associated with Nammalwar, one of the 12 Alvar saints, whose birthplace it is considered to be. The towering 95-foot Rajagopuram leads into a realm where Vishnu is worshipped as Aathinathan or Aathipiran, a swayambu deity, believed to have manifested on his own.
 

Importance of the Temple

In traditional Hindu belief, this temple is associated with Jupiter, or Guru, the planet of wisdom, growth, and all things that expand the mind and spirit. A strong Jupiter inspires learning, moral clarity, and purposeful living. When its energy feels a little off, it might tempt you toward excess, stubborn thinking, or just plain procrastination.
 

Story Behind the Temple

The story here is as remarkable as it is inspiring. Nammalwar, the silent wonder of a child, didn’t utter a word until the poet-saint Madhurakavi posed a riddle. That single spark set him speaking, and the verses he composed still echo through centuries in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham. From the sacred tamarind tree to murals of the Ramayana and intricately carved pillars, the temple is not just a place of worship; it’s a living storybook of devotion, wisdom, and cosmic inspiration.
 

• Festival: The ‘Garuda Sevai’ festival.
   
• Timings: 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM & 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
   
• Prayers: Devotees believe that worship here help balance planetary influences while seeking wisdom, prosperity, and guidance.
   
• Devotional offering: Celebrate answered prayers by conducting thirumanjanam in the holy Thamirabarani River and offering Vastras or personal tokens of appreciation.
   
• Dress code: Visitors are advised to wear traditional, modest clothing.
   
• Distance: Around 31 km from Regency Tuticorin by GRT Hotels
   
• Note: Temple timings may vary depending on the directives of the temple administration.

*Temple timings may vary depending on the directives of the temple administration.

Garuda Seva Festival: A Celestial Celebration

The annual Garuda Seva Festival during Vaikasi (May to June) is the most spectacular event in the Nava Tirupati calendar. During this multi-day festival:
 

• Festival idols from all 9 temples are brought together on Garuda vahanas (divine carriers).
   
• The festival is held at Arulmigu Sri Aathinatha Aazhwar Thirukovil Temple in the Thoothukudi district, located along the banks of the Thamirabarani River.
   
• An idol of Nammalvar is carried on an Anna Vahanam (palanquin) through paddy fields.
   
• The saint’s verses (pasurams) dedicated to each temple are recited at their respective shrines.

This vibrant procession draws thousands of devotees, blending devotion, poetry, and community, all travelling together in divine procession.

A Sacred Experience to Remember

A visit along the Nava Tirupati trail isn’t just a temple hop; it’s a journey through time, culture, and devotion rolled into one. Each shrine tells its own story, from Vishnu’s divine interventions and epic historical battles to the poetic verses of the Alvars that still echo today.

Pilgrims believe visiting all 9 shrines gently harmonises planetary influences, a cosmic tune-up for the soul. Whether seeking spiritual solace, historical insight, or simply an unforgettable cultural journey in Tamil Nadu, a visit to these shrines is both profound and uplifting.

Make Your Pilgrimage Easier with a Stay that Cares

Located along the Coromandel Coast in Thoothukudi, with convenient access to Tirunelveli and Nava Tirupati temples, Regency Tuticorin by GRT Hotels is the perfect pit stop for your pilgrimage along this sacred trail.

Rooms: Unwind in any of the 4 cosy, well-appointed rooms with complimentary breakfast, in-room dining, and a separate living area for a more spacious, comfortable experience after your temple visits.

Dining: Enjoy regional and international favourites at the on-site restaurant Lotus, or unwind with a drink at the bar, The Voyager.

Location & Facilities: Central location with easy access to major temples, airport transfers, helpful concierge assistance, and pet-friendly stays.

Offers: Special pilgrimage packages, including a curated Nava Tirupati temple tour itinerary to help you plan your sacred journey with ease.

A Pilgrimage Blessed in More Ways than One

A journey through the Navathirupathi Temples is far more than completing a checklist of temples. Each shrine along the Thamirabarani stands as a sacred chapter, where Lord Vishnu manifests in 9 distinct forms, guiding devotees through courage, wisdom, discipline, devotion, and liberation.

Together, these temples offer a rare harmony of Divya Desam sanctity and Navagraha significance, making this pilgrimage both spiritually profound and uniquely complete. Whether you arrive with prayers, curiosity, or quiet wonder, the Nava Tirupati has a way of leaving you gently transformed.