Thirunallar is a quaint town situated in Southeastern India, within the Karaikal District of the Union Territory of Puducherry, near the town of Karaikal. This historic village is renowned for the Dharbaranyesvarar Temple.
The nearest airport to Thirunallar Temple is in Trichy, approximately 154 kilometers away. Travelers can reach the temple from Trichy by train, bus, car, or other motor vehicles, passing through Thanjavur and Kumbakonam.
The name ThiruNallar(u) is thought to derive from the association with King Nala of the Nishadha country, who was liberated from the adverse effects of Shani (Saturn) by seeking the Lord's mercy at this location. The name combines "Nala" and "Aru," meaning Nallaru.
In this context, the word "Aru" signifies "to heal," and when combined with "Nala," the two terms convey the meaning of the place where Nala was redeemed from the malefic influence of Saturn through the grace of the Lord.