6 Rahu and Ketu Temples in India Every Devotee Should Visit
In Indian astrology, Rahu and Ketu are the mysterious shadow planets that shape destiny in ways both baffling and transformative. They’re often linked with sudden changes, karmic challenges, and deep spiritual awakenings. For centuries, devotees have turned to temples dedicated to these celestial forces to seek balance, peace, and divine guidance.
Across India, a handful of ancient temples are especially known for their Rahu-Ketu rituals. Here’s a look at six sacred places where faith meets the cosmos.
- Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple- Srikalahasti, Andhra Pradesh
Located in the Tirupati district, the Srikalahasti Temple is one of South India’s most revered Shaivite shrines. Lord Shiva here is worshipped as Kalahasteeswara, representing the element of air (Vayu). The temple is famously known as Rahu–Ketu Kshetra or Dakshina Kailasam.
Legend says Kannappa Nayanar, one of Shiva’s greatest devotees, offered his own eyes to stop the bleeding from a Shivalinga a sacrifice so pure that Lord Shiva himself appeared and granted him liberation.
- Tirunageswaram Naganathar Temple- Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
Popularly known as Rahu Stalam, this temple near Kumbakonam is one of the nine Navagraha temples, representing Rahu. Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Naganathar and Goddess Parvati as Piraisoodi Amman.
The temple, praised in the 7th-century Tevaram hymns, is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture with four towering gopurams, beautifully carved halls, and a grand ornamental mandapam from the Nayak era.
- Shri Naganathaswamy Ketu Temple- Keezhaperumpallam, Tamil Nadu
Dedicated to Lord Shiva as Naganatha Swamy, this temple near Poompuhar is known as Ketu Sthalam. It’s another key Navagraha shrine, closely associated with the planet Ketu.
With its simple flat gopuram and peaceful surroundings, it’s a favorite among devotees seeking relief from Ketu-related doshas. Major festivals like Mahashivaratri and Margazhi Thiruvadirai draw large gatherings for special rituals.
- Rahu Ketu Temple- Telangana
This temple stands out for honoring both Rahu and Ketu together. Pilgrims come here to perform rituals meant to neutralize the malefic effects of these shadow planets and to invite prosperity and peace into their lives. The serene environment of the temple adds to its spiritual appeal, offering solace and reflection.
- Shri Neelakandeswarar Temple- Gerugambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
In this ancient shrine, Lord Shiva is worshipped as Neelakandeswarar and Goddess Parvati as Adi Kamakshi. The temple has a dedicated shrine for Ketu Bhagavan, where devotees perform special poojas to ease karmic obstacles and restore harmony. It’s a peaceful retreat for those looking to calm planetary influences through prayer.
- Rahu Temple- Uttarakhand
Nestled in the serene hills of Uttarakhand, this temple dedicated to Rahu offers both spiritual relief and natural tranquility. Devotees perform rituals here to lessen Rahu-related doshas and meditate amidst the mountain stillness. Many believe the temple’s energy helps restore balance, clarity, and inner calm.
