Sri Surya Narayana Swamy Temple Tiruchanur – History, Significance, Rituals & Timings

Temple Overview

• Location: Opposite Padma Sarovaram, in Tiruchanur, just 5 km from Tirupati.
• Deity: Lord Surya Narayana Swamy, installed by Lord Venkateswara Swamy himself, making this shrine unique among Surya temples.
• The temple is part of the sacred Tiruchanur circuit, complementing the famous Padmavathi Ammavari Temple.

History

• The temple is an ancient shrine located opposite Padma Sarovaram at Tiruchanur.
• It is believed that Lord Venkateswara Himself installed Lord Surya Narayana Swamy here as a mark of reverence to the Sun God.
• The temple is considered a sub-temple of Padmavathi Ammavaru Temple, forming part of the sacred Tiruchanur complex.
• Historical references note that Sage Suka Maharshi lived in this region, then called Sukanur or Thirugachanoor, which later became Tiruchanur.

Legends

• According to temple lore, after Sage Bhrigu struck Lord Vishnu’s chest, Goddess Lakshmi left Vaikunta. Lord Vishnu wandered in search of her and eventually reached Tiruchanur, where he met Goddess Padmavathi.
• To marry her, Lord Vishnu required immense wealth and performed penance to Surya Narayana Swamy, installing Him here as a guardian deity of prosperity and cosmic energy.

Rituals

• Daily Sevas:
• Suprabatham (early morning awakening of the deity)
• Thomala Seva (adorning the deity with garlands)
• Archana and Suddhi (purification and offerings)
• Sarva Darshanam (general darshan for devotees)
• Ekanta Seva (night ritual before closing)
• Abhishekam: Performed on special days with sacred materials like milk, curd, honey, and sandal paste.
• Navagraha-related worship: As Surya is the chief among planets, devotees often perform rituals here for relief from planetary doshas.

Festivals

• Ratha Saptami (Surya Jayanthi):
• The most important festival, celebrated in Magha Masam (Jan–Feb).
• Lord Surya Narayana Swamy is taken out in procession on different vahanams (chariots), symbolizing the Sun’s movement across the sky.
• Thousands of devotees participate, offering prayers for health, prosperity, and success.
• Makara Sankranti: Observed with special pujas marking the Sun’s transition into Capricorn.
• Navaratri & Kartika Masam: Special rituals and lamps are offered, connecting Surya worship with broader Vaishnavite traditions.

Beliefs

• Worship here is believed to bring relief from eye ailments, health issues, and planetary afflictions.

Temple Timings & Sevas

• 5:30 AM – 8:15 PM (daily)
• 5:30 – 6:00 AM → Suprabatham
• 6:00 – 6:30 AM → Thomala Seva
• 6:30 – 7:15 AM → Suddhi, Archana
• 7:15 – 11:30 AM → Sarva Darshanam
• 11:30 – 12:00 PM → Suddhi
• 12:00 – 5:30 PM → Sarva Darshanam
• 5:30 – 6:00 PM → Suddhi
• 6:00 – 8:00 PM → Sarva Darshanam
• 8:00 – 8:15 PM → Ekanta Seva

Getting Here

• From Tirupati: ~5 km (10–15 minutes by auto, taxi, or bus).
• By Road: Well-connected by APSRTC buses and private vehicles.
• By Rail: Tirupati Railway Station is the nearest major railhead.
• By Air: Tirupati International Airport (~15 km away).

Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning sevas (Suprabatham, Thomala Seva) for a serene experience.
• Dress Code: Traditional attire recommended.
• Nearby Attractions: Padmavathi Ammavari Temple, Kapila Theertham, and Tirumala Venkateswara Temple.
• Special Note: As Surya Narayana Swamy is installed by Lord Venkateswara, devotees believe darshan here enhances blessings received at Tirumala.