Swetharanyeswarar Temple
Swetharanyeswarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Thiruvenkadu, Mayiladuthurai district, Tamil Nadu. It is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams — the Shiva temples glorified in the Tevaram hymns of the Nayanmar saints. On the Navagraha circuit it is the shrine of Budha (Mercury), one of the classic nine-planet pilgrimage circuit in the Kaveri delta around Kumbakonam.
Thiruvenkadu, the Mercury (Budha) shrine of the Navagraha circuit, is an ancient Tevaram-sung Shiva temple regarded as the 'Kashi of the south' — rituals here are held to equal a Varanasi pilgrimage.
Quick facts
| Deity | Shiva — Navagraha shrine of Budha (Mercury) |
| Town | Thiruvenkadu |
| District | Mayiladuthurai district |
| State | Tamil Nadu |
| Sacred lists | Navagraha Temples · Paadal Petra Sthalams |
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Visiting
Most temples in Tamil Nadu open early morning and again in the evening, closing through the midday hours — plan darshan before noon or after 4pm and confirm timings locally, since festival days change everything. Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), leave footwear at the stands provided, and note that some sanctums admit Hindus only while towers and outer courtyards welcome everyone. Photography rules vary; ask before shooting inside.
Timing a visit? Check today’s panchangam for auspicious windows and festival days, and use our free itinerary builder to slot temples, food and rest into your day.