Vishnu Balaji Travels – The Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple, located in Karaikal, is dedicated to Lord Shani (Saturn) and is one of the most important temples in the Navagraha circuit. It is a significant pilgrimage site, especially on Saturdays, when special poojas and rituals are conducted.
Chennai to Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple Tour Package Overview
Itinerary:
Day 1: Departure from Chennai
- Evening: Departure from Chennai by road (distance: ~290 km, travel time: ~6-7 hours by car/bus).
- Overnight Travel: Travel overnight to reach Thirunallar early in the morning.
Day 2: Thirunallar Temple Visit
- Early Morning Arrival: Check into a hotel for a short rest and freshening up.
- Morning Temple Visit:
- Usha Kaalam Pooja: 5:30 AM to 6:30 AM
- Kaalasandhi Pooja: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
- Uchi Kaalam Pooja: 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
- Afternoon: Free time for lunch at a local restaurant and relaxation.
- Evening Temple Visit:
- Saayartchai Pooja: 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM
- Irandaam Kaalam Pooja: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
- Overnight Stay: At a hotel in Thirunallar.
Day 3: Return to Chennai
- Morning: Optional visit to nearby temples or relax.
- Late Morning: Begin the return journey to Chennai.
- Evening: Arrival in Chennai.
Pooja Timings at Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple:
- Saturday:
- Usha Kaalam Pooja: 5:30 AM to 6:30 AM
- Kaalasandhi Pooja: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM
- Uchi Kaalam Pooja: 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
- Saayartchai Pooja: 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM
- Irandaam Kaalam Pooja: 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Nadai Thirappu (Temple Timings):
- Sunday to Friday:
- Morning: 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Package Inclusions:
- Transportation: AC Car/Bus from Chennai to Thirunallar and back, including local travel.
- Accommodation: 1-night stay in a budget or deluxe hotel in Thirunallar.
- Temple Darshan: Assistance with quick darshan and participation in the pooja.
- Meals: Breakfast included; other meals can be arranged at additional cost.
Package Exclusions:
- Special Poojas: Costs for special poojas and offerings at the temple.
- Personal Expenses: Any personal expenses like shopping, tips, etc.
Tour Package Price:
- Economy Package: ₹4,000 – ₹5,500 per person (based on a minimum of 4 participants).
- Deluxe Package: ₹6,000 – ₹7,500 per person (with better accommodation and additional services).
- Luxury Package: ₹8,000 – ₹10,000 per person (luxury accommodation and personalized services).
Best Time to Visit:
- Saturdays: Special poojas and rituals are conducted, making it the best day for pilgrimage.
- Avoid Festivals: During major festivals, the temple can be extremely crowded, so plan accordingly.
Additional Information:
- Customizable Packages: The itinerary can be customized to include additional nearby temples or destinations.
- Group Discounts: Available for larger groups or family bookings.
This package is ideal for devotees who wish to perform poojas and rituals at the Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple, ensuring a comfortable and spiritually fulfilling journey.
Chennai to Thirunallar Temple Tour Package FAQ
1. What does the Chennai to Thirunallar Temple tour package include?
- Inclusions:
- Round-trip transportation from Chennai to Thirunallar (by car, bus, or train).
- Accommodation in or near Thirunallar for the duration of the tour.
- Breakfast, and sometimes lunch and dinner, depending on the package.
- Sightseeing tours including visits to Thirunallar Temple and other nearby attractions.
- Entry fees to certain sites, if specified.
- All tolls, parking fees, and driver allowances.
- Exclusions:
- Lunch and dinner, unless specified.
- Personal expenses such as shopping and additional activities not included in the itinerary.
- Travel insurance.
2. What is the significance of Thirunallar Temple?
- Thirunallar Temple, also known as Sri Dharbaranyeswarar Temple, is a significant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is renowned for its association with the planet Saturn (Sani) and is a popular pilgrimage site for those seeking remedies for Sani dosha.
3. What are the main attractions included in this tour?
- The main focus is on the Thirunallar Temple, but the tour may also include visits to:
- Nellaiappar Temple in Tirunelveli.
- Sankaranarayanar Temple in nearby towns.
- Courtallam Falls, if time permits.
- Local markets and cultural sites, depending on the package.
4. What type of accommodation is provided?
- Accommodation options generally include budget or mid-range hotels near Thirunallar, with basic amenities such as air conditioning, attached bathrooms, and breakfast. Upgraded or luxury accommodations can be arranged upon request.
5. How long is the travel time from Chennai to Thirunallar?
- The travel time by road is approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Travel by train may vary based on the schedule and route.
6. What kind of vehicle is provided for the tour?
- The type of vehicle provided depends on the group size:
- For 1-3 people: Sedan cars like Dzire or Etios.
- For 4-6 people: Toyota Innova or similar SUVs.
- For larger groups: Tempo Traveller or bus.
7. Is the tour customizable?
- Yes, the tour can be customized based on your preferences. You can request specific temple visits, additional sightseeing, or upgraded accommodations as needed.
8. Is this tour package suitable for families with children or elderly travelers?
- Yes, the tour is suitable for families and elderly travelers. The pace of the tour can be adjusted, and comfortable transportation and accommodations are provided. Special requests for accessibility can also be accommodated.
9. What should I wear for the trip?
- Comfortable, lightweight clothing is recommended. When visiting temples, modest attire is required—shoulders and knees should be covered. Traditional attire is preferred but not mandatory.
10. What is the best time to visit Thirunallar?
- The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is cooler. Avoid the peak summer months due to high temperatures and humidity.
11. How do I book this tour package?
- You can book the package through travel agencies, online travel portals, or directly with tour operators. Early booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons or holidays.
12. What is the cancellation policy for this tour package?
- The cancellation policy varies by provider. Generally, cancellations made at least 7 days before departure may receive a partial refund, while last-minute cancellations might incur a fee or result in no refund. Always check the specific terms and conditions before booking.
13. Are there any special rituals or events that can be included in the tour?
- Yes, you can request to include special Poojas or rituals at the Thirunallar Temple. If visiting during a festival or significant event, arrangements can be made to incorporate these into your itinerary.
This FAQ addresses the key aspects of a Chennai to Thirunallar Temple tour package, providing travelers with a comprehensive understanding of what to expect and how to prepare for their visit.
