8 Tamil Nadu Temple Tour Circuits You Should Explore

6. Navagraha (Nine Planets) Circuit — Around Kumbakonam

The Navagraha circuit links nine temples associated with the planetary deities, clustered around Kumbakonam and the Cauvery delta. Devotees come here for specific rituals addressing astrological concerns, while curious travelers discover richly decorated village temples and quieter rituals than the better-known city shrines. A flexible 1–3 day schedule works: you can visit two to three temples a day with time for local food and temple markets. Hire a local driver or guided tour to handle short inter-temple hops; distances are modest but many sites are on rural roads. Look for local priests who explain the rituals if you want context. Accommodation in Kumbakonam makes a convenient base, with early-morning temple visits arranged by many hotels. The circuit combines sacred intent with folk traditions specific to the delta region.