28 Famous Temples In Chennai In 2020 That Are Artistic, Spectacular And Divine!
Buzzing streets, beaches, shopping arcades, historical monuments, and skyscrapers are not the only elements that sum up Chennai. There some stunning heritage temples that add a hint of color and charm to the city. With rich spiritual history and marvelous structures, the famous temples in Chennai, not only allure devotees and religious enthusiasts, but everyone who loves to explore architectural wonders.
Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu is a hub of temples of various faiths. Built in the unique South Indian architectural styles, these Chennai temples are a symbol of spirituality, culture and art. Here are some of the most popular and important temples in Chennai
- Kapaleeswarar Temple
- Marundheeswarar Temple
- Ekambareswarar Temple
- Parthasarathy Temple
- Sri Vadapalani Andavar Temple
- Kandhakottam
- Kalikambal Temple
- Thirumala Thirupathi Devasthanam Temple
- Ashtalakshmi Temple
- Shree Chandraprabhu Jain Naya Mandir
- Mangadu Kamakshiamman Temple
- Adeeswar Temple
- Mahalingapuram Ayyappan Temple
- Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
- Arulmigu Ramanatheswarar Temple
- Madhya Kailash Temple
- Anjaneya Swamy Temple
Dedicated to Arulmigu Kapleeshwar- form of Lord Shiva and Goddess Karpagambal- form of Parvati, Kapaleeswarar is one of the most popular Shiva temple in Chennai. Built by Pallavas in the 7th century, the marvelous architecture resembles Dravidian style, featuring wood carvings, stone carvings, decorated pillars and Gopuram at the doorway.
There are 6 daily puja services in the temple such as Kala Santhi (morning), Uchchikala (Mid-day) Sayamkala (Evening) and Ardhajama (late Night), which allure devotees throughout the year. But maximum footfall is seen during major festivals like Panguni and Arubathimooval. Moreover, there is a huge tank, right behind the temple, where theppam or float festival is celebrated every year.
Opening Hours: 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Closed on Monday
Address: 12, North Mada Street, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004, India
Built By: Pallavas
Must Read: 14 Best Beach Restaurants In Chennai For A Dinner Date With Views
2. Marundheeswarar Temple
One of the most revered temples in Chennai, Marundheeswarar is believed to be built in 11th century. Here, Lord Shiva is worshipped as Marundheeswarar- healer of all ailments. According to mythological tales, Rishi Valmiki worshipped Lord Rama, under the holy vanni tree, which is seen in the 1 acre sprawling temple ground. Marundheeswarar Temple is counted as one of the Trinity sea shore temples in Tamil Nadu; the other two being Kapaleeswarar temple in Mylapore and Thyagarajaswamy temple in Thiruvottiyur.
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Address: 8, W Tank St, Lalitha Nagar, Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600041
Built In: 7th century
Built By: Chola Dynasty
3. Ekambareswarar Temple
This temple a very popular temple on the list of Hindu temples in Chennai. In Ekambareswarar Temple, the Lord Shiva is worshipped with full grandeur and devotion, along with other Gods like Ganesha, Vishnu, Shakthi, Surya and Goddess Kamakshi. Along with these, there is a separate temple, within the same complex, dedicated to Nabagraha-the nine planets. This temple was built in 1680 by Alanganatha Pillai- a worker under the British Raj and was counted as Allingall’s Pagoda in the city maps till 18th century. This is one of the most visited and best temples in Chennai
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM
Address: Ekambaranathar Sannathi St, Periya, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631502
Built In: NA
Built By: Chola Kings
Suggested Read: 49 Tourist Places Near Chennai: Reasons To Look Forward To Your 2020 Weekends In Chennai
4. Parthasarathy Temple
One of the most prominent Vishnu temples in Chennai, Parthasarathy Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. In fact, it is the only temple in Chennai, where different avatars of Lord Vishnu, namely, Krishna, Varaha, Rama and Narasimha are worshipped, under one roof. The temple has separate entrances for Rama and Narsimha. Parthasarathy Temple has spectacular sculptures, inscriptions and murals dedicated to different events of battle of Kurukshetra.
Opening Hours: 5:50 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Address: Narayana Krishnaraja Puram, Triplicane, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600005
Built In: 8th century
Built By: Pallavas
5. Sri Vadapalani Andavar Temple
Sri Vadapalani Andavar temple, also known as Vadapalani Murugan Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan and considered as one of the major attractions of Chennai. Built by Annaswami Nayakar, a devotee of Murugan in 1890, this temple was renovated in 1920 by building a huge rajagopuram at the entranceway. Sri Vadapalani Andavar temple is considered as a sacred place for marriages and other religious ceremonies and it is believed that the moolavar in standing posture blesses the newly married couple with health and prosperity.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM and from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: Arulmigu Vadapalani Andavar Temple, Palani Andavar koil street, Vadapalani, Chennai – 600026
Built In: Late 19th century
Buily By: Annaswami Nayakar
Suggested Read: 20 Hill Stations Near Chennai In 2020 That Will Leave You Loving Summer Forever!
6. Kandhakottam
Another beautiful Chennai temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan is Kandha Kottam. Resting over sprawling 8 acres of land, this temple also has’ saravanapoigai’- a huge tank, right behind. Legend says that this temple was founded by two hard working and devout traders of Thiruporur. Here, Lord Murugan is worshipped as a ‘warrior God’. Along with daily pujas and rituals, there is a special weekly puja organised every Thursday, where Jothi Darshanam is shown and Arutperunjothi Agaval is sung by the priests.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 9:45 PM and 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM
Address: 38, 52, Nyniappa St, Rattan Bazaar, Park Town, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600003
Built In: 1915
Buily By: Maari Chettiar
Suggested Read: 16 Romantic Places In Chennai For A Quixotic Day Out With Your Love In 2020!
7. Kalikambal Temple
The list of famous temples in Chennai also has Kalikambal Temple. Originally located near the sea shore, this temple, dedicated to Kaligambal and Kamateswarar was re-located to its current location, in 1640. Moreover, legend has it that the original worshipping deity was God in his fierce form, which was replaced by shanta swaroopa or calm and composed form of Goddess Kamakshi, in later years. Historical sources reveal that in 1667, great Maratha king, Shivaji himself visited this temple to worship.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: 212, Thambu Chetty St, near DHL Express Courier, Mannady, George Town, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600001
Built In: 1678
Built By: Shivaji
Suggested Read: 16 Adventure Sports In Chennai That You Should Try To Kick In That Adrenaline In 2020
8. Thirumala Thirupathi Devasthanam Temple
Out of all famous temples in Chennai, Thirumala Thirupathi Devasthanam Temple is famed for maximum footfall, throughout the year, especially on Saturdays and during festivals. Situated by the banks of Sri Swami Pushkaarini, this temple boasts of marvellous architecture and artistically designed walls, pillars and gopurams. The entrance porch looks stunning while the shrine of Lord Venkatachalapathi resembles closely with Lord Venketeshwara in Tirupathi.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Location:No 26, Venkatanarayana Rd, Parthasarathi Puram, T. Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600017
Built In: NA
Built By:Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams
9. Ashtalakshmi Temple
Situated by the Elliot Beach, Ashtalakshmi Temple is a religious wonder and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful temples in Chennai. The uniqueness of the temple is that, it is dedicated to Goddess Laxmi and her eight forms, each representing success, offspring, prosperity, wealth, courage, bravery, food and knowledge. This is one of most artistically designed temples to visit in Chennai
The shrines of Aadilakshmi, Dharyalakshmi and Dhaanyalakshmi rests on first floor, while Goddess Mahalakshmi and Maha Vishnu on the second. Third floor houses Santha Lakshmi, Vijaya Lakshmi and Gajalakshmi and Dhanalakshmi is worshipped on the fourth floor.
Opening Hours: 6:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Address: Elliots beach, 6/21 paindi Amman Kovil, Besant Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600090
Built In: 1974
Built By: Sri Chandrashekarendra Saraswati Swamigal
Suggested Read: 9 Spectacular Waterfalls Near Chennai That Should Be On Your Travel Itinerary
10. Shree Chandraprabhu Jain Naya Mandir
Shree Chandraprabhu Jain Naya Mandir is one of the most popular Jain temples in Chennai. Dedicated to 8th Tirthankara- Sri Chandraprabhu Bhagwan, this is a two-storied structure, built of sparkling white limestone, marble and soapstone. Endowed with white façade, beautiful murals and pillars, the intricate yet splendid architecture, resembles that of Dilwara temple in Rajasthan.
Opening Hours: 5:00 AM to 8:30 PM
Location: 142 , S Mint Street, George Town, Sowcarpet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600001
Built In: NA
Built By: NA
11. Mangadu Kamakshiamman Temple
The Mangadu Kamakshiamman Temple is located in Mangadu, a suburb between Kundrathur and Poonamalle in Chennai. The term Mangadu means Mango forests or Mangroves. The temple is dedicated to Hindu goddess Kamakshi Amman. It is believed that the goddess playfully closed Lord Shiva’s eyes due to which the entire world fell into darkness. Following which, Lord Shiva had asked her to perform some severe penance. And the place where the temple stands now is where Kamakshi Amman performed her penance. Lord Siva was so moved by her devotion, that he appeared before her and married her. So there’s a belief that unmarried girls who pray to goddess Kamakshi here get married soon. This belief makes it one of the most famous Amman temples in Chennai
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 1:30 PM and 3:00 PM to 9:30 PM
Address: Kundrathur – Sriperumbudur Rd, Srinivasa Nagar, Mangadu, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600122
Built In: NA
Built By: NA
Suggested Read: 7 Road Trips From Chennai For The Roadie In You!
12. Adeeswar Temple
Adeeswar Temple is a popular Jain temple in Chennai. It is belived that the temple was constructed in the 1st century BC, which is why it is also known as Kesarwadi Jain Temple by the locals. Though, some scholars say that it was built in 4th or 5th century. The temple is dedicated to first Tirthankar Shri Rishabhadev who is also known as Adeeswar, Adi Bhagvan, Adi Jain and Adi Nath. The temple is symbol of the beginning and growth of Jainism in Tamil Nadu. Its location being close to the Redhill Lake on the Grand Trunk Road makes it an accessible place for the devotees and visitors.
Opening Hours: 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 05:00 PM to 09:00 PM
Location: Redhill Lake, GST Rd, St Anthony Nagar, Balaji Nagar, Puzhal, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600017
Built In: 1st century BC
Built By: NA
Suggested Read: 10 Exquisite Beach Resorts In Chennai To Appease Your Coastal Cravings
13. Mahalingapuram Ayyappan Temple
The Mahalingapuram Ayyappan temple was the first Ayyappan temple to be built in Chennai. Constructed in 1974 under the guidance of Sri.N.Subramanian Stapathy, the temple is dedicated to Lord Ayyappan, the god of growth. This temple is visited by a large of devotees and came into existence as many worshipers head to the most popular Ayyappa temple, Sabarimala, during the Mandalam-Makaravilakku seasons. As it is one of the famous temples in Chennai
Opening Hours: 3:30 AM to 11:00 AM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: 18, Madhavan Nair Rd, Mahalingapuram, Nungambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600034
Aarti Timings: 3.30 AM
Built In: 1974
Built By: NA
14. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
The Shirdi Sai Baba Temple is a Hindu shrine located in Mylapore. The temple came in to existence in 1952. It was build by a prominant devotee called, Narasimhaswami, in memory of the Indian saint Sai Baba of Shirdi. The temple is considered to be one of the most powerful and famous temples in Chennai
Opening Hours: 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Address: No 187 Bheema Sena Garden Street, Royapettah High Rd, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004
Built In: 1952
Built By: Sri Narasimha Swamy
Suggested Read: 11 Weekend Getaways From Chennai That Offer A Refreshing Break From The Monotony!
15. Arulmigu Ramanatheswarar Temple
Located in Porur, Arulmigu Ramanatheswarar Temple is an ancient Hindu temple. The temple dates back to 700 AD. It is believed that when Lord Rama came was searching for his wife, Sita, he found linga of Lord Shiva here. And with his guidance he found the direction to Sita. The practice of offering Theertham (holy water) and Sadaari are only done in Vishnu temples. And, this is the only temple dedicated to Shiva, where it is offered to the devotees. The temple is built in the Chozha temple architectural style.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Location: 19, Eswaran Koil St, RE Nagar, Porur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600116
Built In: 700 AD
Built By: Kulothunga Chola
Suggested Read: 10 Best Churches In Chennai Where You Will Love The Spiritual Vibe In 2020!
16. Madhya Kailash Temple
Madhya Kailash Temple, also known as Nadukkayilai, is located in Adyar. The temple is popular due to its unique idol of “Adhyantha Prabhu”. The idol partly depict two Hindu deities – Ganapathy (Ganesha) and Anjaneya (Hunuman), with the right side being Ganesha and the left being Hanuman. The idol was built after a vision seen of this form by a temple official.
Opening Hours: 12:00 AM to 11:59 PM
Address: Anna Sathya Nagar, Raja Annamalai Puram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600028
Built In: NA
Built By: NA
17. Anjaneya Swamy Temple
Anjaneyaswami Temple is located in Nanganallur, a southern neighbourhood of Chennai. The temple is dedicated to Lord Anjaneya, popularly known as Lord Hanuman. The temple has one of the largest Hanuman idols in India. The 32 feet tall granite statue was constructed from a single layer of rock. The temple is visited by large number of devotees and tourists who come here just to see the statue.
Opening Hours: 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Address: No. 1, 8th Street, Ram Nagar, Nanganallur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600061
Built In: 1995
Built By: NA
Suggested Read: 12 Places For Trekking Near Chennai: Gear Up For Ultimate Thrill And Fun In 2020
18. Kandaswamy Temple
Kandaswamy Temple is located on the Chennai – Mahabalipuram route, in Geaorgetown. Built in the 11th century AD, the temple was abdicated by the Chola leaders who were in rule at that time. Situated in Cheyyur, a small village the temple is noted for architectural beauty. Its artistic walls display different figures posing in various styles. The temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan.
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 9:45 PM
Location: Kandaswamy Temple, George Town, Chennai
Built In: 1670
Built By: NA
Suggested Read: 23 New Year Parties In Chennai (2020): The Ultimate List Of Events
19. Chennakesava Perumal Temple
Chennakesava Perumal Temple is one of the oldest temples in Chennai that is located in the George Town area. It is believed to be the first temple built in the 1700s in this area. The temple is dedicated to the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Chennakesava Perumal. The best part about this temple is the carved pillars and sculptures that honor different gods. It is also believed that Chennai was named after the name of this temple.
Opening hours: 5:00 AM to 8:00 AM
Address: Devaraja Mudali St, Rattan Bazaar, George Town, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600003
Built In: 1117 CE
Built By: King Vishnuvardhana
20. Karaneeswarar Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Karaneeswarar Temple is an ancient temple in the area of Saidapet. On the temple premises, you will find a rank with the name Gopathi Saras which is believed to have magical powers and can cure illnesses if one takes a dip in the holy waters on a full moon night. This Chennai temple
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Address: 1, Karaneeswarar Koil St, Suriyammapet, Saidapet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600015
Built In: 12th-century
Built By: NA
Suggested Read: Chennai In December 2020: See What All You Can See And Do To Make Your Trip An Exciting Affair
21. Navagraha Temples
In Chennai, you will find nine Navagraha Temples that can be dated back to the Chola Dynasty Era in the 7th to 11th century. They are dispersed on the outskirts of this city in Tamil Nadu. You can explore these temples around Chennai
Opening Hours: 5:00 AM to 12:00 Noon and 5.00 PM to 9.00 PM
Location: Kumbakonam
Built In: NA
Built By: NA
Suggested Read: 8 Hotels In Chennai That Reeks Of Luxury And Comfort To Make The Vacay Extra Special!
22. ISKCON Temple
Everyone must have heard of ISKCON Temple in one city or the other. These temples are maintained by the Hare Krishna organization. The temple is situated on the East Coast Road in South Chennai and is considered to be the biggest temple that is dedicated to Radha and Krishna. In comparison to the old temples in Chennai
Opening Hours: 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM, and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Address: Bhakti Vedanta Swami Road, Off ECR, Akkarai, Sholinganallur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600119
Built In: 2012
Built By: International Society for Krishna Consciousness
23. Varasiddhi Vinayagar TempleImage Credit: Rajukhan Sr Rajesh for Wikimedia
Built in 1979, the temple is the major cultural centre of Chennai and is known for its historical and religious significance. The poor are regularly fed in this temple and grand pujas are organised on various auspicious occasions. It is one of the historical temples in Chennai and also features an auditorium where many musical as well as cultural programs are held on a regular basis.
Opening Hours: 5:30 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Location: Besant Nagar
Built In: 1979
Built By: NA
24. Nandeeswarar TempleImage Credit: Pradeep Thangamuthu for Wikimedia
The temple is located in Adambakkam, and is close to the St. Thomas Mount subway station. The temple is also known as Sivan temple, one of the famous temples in Chennai and is dedicated to Sri Nandeeswarar as the main deity and Gomathi or Aavudai Nayagi as the Goddess. Shrines of many prominent gods and goddesses are also available in the temples premises.
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM
Location: Adambakkam
Built In: 950 AD
Built By: NA
25. Kumaran KundramThe Newly Consecrated Rajagopuram of the Temple Lord Murugan. The temple is built on the top of a hillock and deity is placed facing North. Devotees are required to climb approximately 80 steps to reach the temple. Shrine of other gods and goddesses including Vinayagar, Shiva, Sarabheswara, Ambal and the Navagrahas.
Opening Hours:
Location: Chrompet
Built In: 1979
Built By: NA
READ ON APP