"Where Rahu worshipped Shiva, and pilgrims find relief from planetary afflictions"
Kalahasteeswarar Temple, Kumbakonam
Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India
The Kalahasteeswarar Temple in Kumbakonam is considered equivalent to the renowned Srikalahasti Temple near Tirupati, earning it the name Then Kalahasti, Southern Kalahasti. Here, devotees seek relief from Rahu-Ketu dosham, the planetary afflictions that Hindu astrology identifies as sources of life's obstacles. The temple's bell is said to resonate with the sacred sound OM.
Weather & Best Time
Plan Your Visit
Save this site and start planning your journey.
Quick Facts
Location
Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India
Tradition
Site Type
Coordinates
10.9664, 79.3775
Last Updated
Jan 14, 2026
Learn More
The Kalahasteeswarar Temple has roots in the late Chola period with major expansion under the Nayaks in the 17th century. It is one of twelve Shiva temples connected to Kumbakonam's Mahamaham festival and maintains a connection to the Kanchi Mutt, one of South India's most important Shaivite institutions.
Origin Story
The temple is associated with the legend of Rahu worshipping Shiva to gain relief from afflictions. Just as Rahu performed penance at Srikalahasti, devotees believe similar worship here provides equivalent spiritual benefits. The creation of Then Kalahasti, Southern Kalahasti, allowed those unable to travel to Andhra Pradesh to access the same remediation.
Key Figures
Kalahasteeswarar
காளஹஸ்தீஸ்வரர்
deity
The form of Shiva worshipped at this temple, equivalent to the deity at Srikalahasti. The name derives from the three creatures (spider, serpent, elephant) associated with the original temple legend.
Rahu
ராகு
deity/planet
The north lunar node, considered a shadow planet that causes obstacles and confusion when poorly placed in a birth chart. Rahu is believed to have worshipped Shiva at Kalahasti, making temples with this association powerful for remediation.
Jeerageswarar
sub-deity
A sub-deity within the temple complex associated with healing, particularly for fevers. Devotees anoint this deity with hot water seeking relief from illness.
Spiritual Lineage
The temple maintains connection to the Kanchi Mutt, one of South India's most important Shaivite institutions. Its expansion was undertaken partly for the convenience of the Mutt's peetadhipati. This institutional connection places the temple within a living lineage of Shaivite learning and practice stretching back centuries.
Know a Sacred Site We Should Include?
Help us expand our collection of sacred sites. Share your knowledge and contribute to preserving the world's spiritual heritage.