30 Famous Temples in Chennai that you must visit!

Popular Temples in Chennai that are unmissable!

There are many beautiful temples in Chennai and here in this blog, you can find the list of them. Check it out and book any hotel in Chennai on an advance basis for a stress-free stay. 

1. Kalikambal Temple 

Located in the beautiful George Town on Thambu Chetty Street, it is one of the most popular temples in Chennai. This ancient temple takes you back to the 17th century which showcases the classic Dravidian architecture. The main deities include Kaikambal Goddess which is a form of Parvati/Kali and Lord Kamateswarar that is Shiva. 

Things to remember 

• The best time to visit : November to February 
• Best days to visit : Fridays and Tuesdays 
• Nearby places to visit include Parthasarathy Temple (5-6km), Fort St. George (2km), Marine beach (4-5km), Ashtalakshami Temple (10-12km)
• As it is a religious site, you must wear comfortable and respectful attire

Timings of Temple 

Morning	6 am to 12 pm
Evening	4:30 pm - 9 pm

2. Ashtalakshmi Temple 

Located in Besant Nagar on the beautiful Eliot’s beach, this is one of the most famous Lakshmi temple in Chennai. It is a popular tourist attraction for locals and even for tourists. On a daily basis, the pooja is performed six times a day and even different festivals are celebrated like Deepavali and Navratri. 

Things to remember 

• The best time to visit this temple is from November to February 
• If you are visiting this temple, there are many nearby attractions that you should not miss including Eliot`s beach, Marundeeswarar Temple, Annai Vailainkanni Shrine and many others
• You must know that Photography is restricted inside the temple

Morning	6 : 30 am to 12 pm
Evening	4:00 pm - 9:00 pm

3. Kapaleeswarar Temple

Located in Mylapore, Southern side of Chennai, it is a temple dedicated to the ultimate power, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati . The architecture of the temple signifies the Dravidian era. Gopuram, the coloured tower is one of the highlights of the temple which attracts many tourists across the world. This is one of the famous temples in Chennai which was built in the 7th century. 

Things to remember

• The best time to visit this siva temple is from October to March as the weather is pleasant 
• If you wish to witness the grand processions and cultural events, you can also visit during Panguni Peruvizha (March to April) 
• Make sure you dress modestly, traditional clothing is preferred
• Respect the rituals and maintain silence
• Don’t miss out the Temple Tank (Kapaleeswarar tank) as it is known to be sacred
• Witness the Punnai tree where Goddess Parvati used to worship Lord Shiva. It is present in the courtyard of the mandir
• Few of the nearby attractions include Marina beach, Elliot’s beach and Dakshina Chitra, Mylapore streets and markets. 

Morning	5:30 am to 12:00 pm
Evening	5:00 pm - 9:00 pm

4. Sri Marundeeswarar Temple, Thiruvanmiyur

It is surely one of the top temples in Chennai and spiritual seekers across the world travel here to witness the beauty and feel the aura of this temple. This powerful temple  is dedicated to Lord Shiva, also referred as Marundeeswar or Aushadeeswarar which means ‘God of Medicine’. This popular Shiva temple in Chennai covers the area of one-acre land. It is also known as one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams and the beautiful architecture of the temple emphasizes Dravidian architecture with a combination of Chola art and Pallava Dynasty and is one of the oldest temple in Chennai. 

Things to remember 

• You can find 1 hall or Mandapam which has 36 carved pillars and its houses where you can find Lord Shiva in the ‘Somaskanda’ form.
• This temple is situated at the place where Lord Shiva taught the medicinal qualities to sage Agastya.
• Another story is associated with Sage Valmiki who worshipped Lord Shiva to get rid of his sons from his previous life as he was a robber. Lord Shiva appeared in front of Valmiki under the Vanni tree which is still present in the temple. 
• Few of nearby attractions include Theosophical society, Ashtalakshmi temple, Elliot’s Beach, and Thiruvanmiyur Beach

Morning	5:00 am to 12:00 pm
Evening	4:00 pm - 9:00 pm

5.  Parthasarathy Temple, Triplicane 

Unquestionably, it is one of the best and popular Vishnu temples in Chennai which is visited by travelers and spiritual seekers across the world. The temple has numerous shrines which are dedicated to different avatars of Lord Vishnu. Constructed in the 8th century CE by the Pallava Kings. Later on, the expansion also took place by the Cholas and kings of Vijaynagar. This is one of the oldest temples in Chennai and is closely associated with the Epic Mahabharat. 

Things to remember

• The beautiful Krishna temple in Chennai has a significant shrine among the 108 Divya Desams which is a sacred Vishnu Temple
• The temple houses shrines for five forms of Vishnu which includes Narasimha, Rama, Varaha, Krishna and Ranganatha
• One of the popular festival that is celebrated here is Brahmotsavam
• You must wear traditional clothing 
• You can visit Marina beach as it is nearby
• Make sure you customize and book any India tour packages so that you can visit all of these spiritual places without any hassle. 
   

Morning	5:50 am to 12:30 pm
Evening	4:00 pm - 9:00 pm

6. Ekambaranathar Temple, Kanchipuran

One of the popular and top temples in Chennai, which is also the largest temple in Kanchipuram. Extending in the area of 20 acres of land, the beautiful temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Originally built by the Pallava dynasty and renovated by the Cholas and Rayas, this aesthetically pleasing temple is a hub of tourists across the world because it is surely one of the best places to visit in India and so don’t miss out. 

Things to remember : 

• This temple has the tallest tower 
• It is one of the biggest temples in Kanchipuram
•  In the temple complex, you would find a 3,500 year old mango tree which is believed to have four branches of Vedas
• You must prefer to wear traditional or modest clothes 
• The best time to visit this temple is during Maha Shivratri 

Morning	6:00 am to 12:30 pm
Evening	4:00 pm - 8:30 pm

7. Siruvapuri Murugun Temple 

This is one of the famous Murugun temple in Chennai which is a hub of devotees. The history of these temples dates back to the era of Ramayana. The sons of Lord Rama, Luv and Kush lived here. It is also believed that Luv Kush attacked Rama not knowing that they were his sons. Later on, the temple was renovated by the kings of Vijaynagar in the 16th century. The main deity of this temple is Lord Murugan. Here the child form of Murugan is worshipped. 

Things to know

• If you seek tranquility you must visit this temple
• It is less crowded and offers you space to dive deep into the spiritual vibe
• This is an ideal destination for spiritual break 
• It is also believed that those who visit temples for six consecutive days and offer prayer, their marriage and love life will be intact.

Monday, & Wednesday to Saturday	Morning - 7 am to 12pm and Evening - 4:30pm to 8 pm
Tuesday	4:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Sunday	6:00 am to 8:00 pm

8. Shri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Chennai

Located in Pazavanthangal, this is one of the  famous Narasimha temples in Chennai. It is an incarnation of the powerful Lord Vishnu. The temple has a beautiful idol of Lakshmi Narasimha and is visited by numerous tourists from different parts of the world. You can also visit on the occasion of Narasimha Jayanti. 

Things to know

• You should dress modestly 
• Do not miss the sacred offerings that is prasadam 
• Photography is not allowed so make sure you don’t capture pictures
• There are many nearby temples to visit Anjaneyar Temple Nanganallur (which is a popular for its tall Hanuman idol), Marundeeawarar and Kapaleeshwarar temple.

Morning	6 am to 12pm
Evening	4pm - 8pm

9. Nanganallur Anjaneyar Temple 

This well-known Hanuman temple in Chennai has a 32-foot tall idol of Lord Hanuman. It is the second tallest Hanuman Statue in India. This temple is a hub of devotees seeking strength, courage and protection. 

Things to know

• Tourists are expected to wear traditional clothes 
• It is suggested to check out the policy of temple on photography 
• There is only limited parking for visitors 

Morning	6 am to 12pm
Evening	4pm - 9 pm

10. Pachaiamman Temple 

Located in Thirumullaaivoyal suburb, the Pachaiamman Temple in Chennai is one of the most popular temples amongst the devotees. The word Pachai Amman means ‘Green Mother’ which emphasizes the fertility and nurturing aspect of Mother Nature. There are many festivals which are enthusiastically celebrated including Chitra Purnima, Vinayaka Chaturthi, Vaikasi Visakam, Aadi Pooram, Navratri and many other hindu festivals. 

Things to remember : 

• You must dress modestly
• You can expect larger crowds on Amman festival and Fridays
• Devotees also offer neem leaves, turmeric and green sarees as the deity is significantly associated with healing with nature. 
• Few nearby places to visit such as Thirumullaivoyal Masilamaniswarar Temple, Tiruttani Murugan Temple (a bit farther, but significant), Anjaneyar Temple Nanganallur

Morning	6 am to 12 :30 pm
Evening	3:30 pm - 8 pm

11. Ayyappan Temple in Chennai

It is located in Ayyappan Koil street located at Madipakkam, Chennai. You can witness the surreal deity of Lord Ayyapa. The temple has 18 holy steps and also has shrines for Ganapathy and Mahishasuramardhini, Nagaraja and many more. One of the main highlights of Ayyappan temple in Chennai is ‘Parayeduppu’ which is the annual utsavam held in november. 

Morning	5 am to 11 am
Evening	5 pm - 9 pm

Temple Pooja Timings 

Before you begin your spiritual journey to one of the best temples in Chennai, it is important for you to find out its pooja timings as well. Check out the details : 

Ganapathy Homam	5:30 am
Abhishekam	6:30 am
Pooja (morning)	7:20 am
First PadiVilakku, Sandhya Pooja, Deepa Aradhana	6:15 pm
Second PadiVilakku, Atthazha pooja, Deepa Aradhana	8:20 pm
Ucha Pooja	10:20 am

12. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple in Chennai

Shirdi Sai Baba Temple is surely one of the most popular and beautiful temples in Chennai. The peaceful vibe and captivating architecture of the temple is one of the highlights. The architecture of this temple is immensely captivating and the golden arch above the idol adds a different charm to the shrine. Just above the garba Griha, you would find a huge picture of Shridi Sai Baba.  There are many nearby attractions such as Kapaleeswarar temple, Ashtalakshmi temple, Iskcon temple and many others. 

13. Kesarwadi Jain Shwethambar Temple 

This is a popular and admired Jain temple in Chennai. If you love architecture, this must be on your bucket list. Located in the Puzhal area, this temple welcomes the devotees across South India. You can find a mini white palace which has intricate carvings, large courtyards, great stone work, beautiful paintings and various idols. The beautiful idol in this temple is extremely special because it resembles the Kesariaji Shrine in Rajasthan which is popularly known as Kesawadi. The temple stays open 24 hours and it is suggested to maintain a decent dress code and try to avoid black dress. 

Morning	5 am to 1 pm
Evening	4 pm - 9 pm

14. Iskcon Temple, Chennai

Popularly known as Sri Sri Radha Krishna Mandir is dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha. It is one of the most famous Krishna temples in Chennai and it is one of the 800+ temples under the International Society for Krishna conscious organisation (ISKCON). It is located towards the Southern side of the city and it looks immensely beautiful because of its detailed carvings and colourful paintings depicting Lord Krisshna’s life. Make sure whenever you visit this temple you don’t forget to : 

• Darshan of Radha-Krishna, and Lalita-Vishaka and Lord Chaitanya and Lord Nityananda and many others
• Participate in daily aarti and devotional prayers and collective chanting
• Explore the temple complex and meditate in the calm settings for peace

Morning	7:30 am to 1 pm
Evening	4 pm - 8 pm

15. Thiruneermalai Neervanna Perumal Temple in Chennai

This temple is famously known as Neervanna Perumal temple in Chennai. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this appears to be one of those 108 Divya Desamas entirely dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This beautiful temple was once known as Kandava Vanam and the architecture of the temple is immensely beautiful. The temple has a beautiful three-tier Rajagopuram at the entrance and there are around 200 uniform steps to reach the hilltop shrine. You can also find Ajaneya (Hanuman) Shrine. There is a mandapam which was built by M.S. Subbulakshmi and Kalki Sadasivam, whose marriage took place in this temple. 

Morning	7:30 am to 1 pm
Evening	4 pm - 8 pm

16. Varahi Amman Temple in Velachery 

It is one of the oldest Amman temple in Chennai, and it is located in Velachery. It is believed that it is more than 1200 years old, this is also a historically enriched temple. It throws light on the rich culture, and traditional art of medieval India.

Morning	6:30 am to 12:30 pm
Evening	5 :00 pm - 9: 00 pm

17. Agatheeswarar - Surya- Kolapakkam 

This is one of the popular Navagraha temples in Chennai. This temple is 1300 years old. This beautiful hindu temple in Chennai is located at Kolapakkam which is a suburb of the city. This temple is one of the famous Shiva temples in Chennai and is considered to be one of Navagraha Sthalams dedicated to Surya Bhagwan. 

Morning	7:30 am to 11:30 pm
Evening	5 :00 pm - 8: 00 pm

18. Thiruchendur Murugan Temple in Chennai

Known as,  Sri Subramaniya Swamy Temple, This is one of the big temples in Chennai dedicated to Lord Murgan, Kartikeya or Subramaniya in Tamil Nadu. It is one of the six abodes of Murugan which holds importance to the culture, spirituality and mythology of Tamil Nadu. The architecture of the temple is Dravidian style and one can also participate in various festivals such as Skanda Sashti, Vaikasi Visakam, Thai Poosam and Panguni Uthiram. The temple timings are 5 am to 9pm daily. 

19. Sri Uttara Guruvayoorappan Temple in Chennai

Dedicated to Lord Guruvayoorappan Temple, this is one of the renowned temples to visit in Chennai. The temple is accessible and one can visit this temple by road, by train and even by air. The best time to visit this temple is from October to February. This Guruvayur temple in Chennai is a hub of tourists and devotees, however before you plan to visit make sure you keep checking their website to gather more information. 

Morning	5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Evening	5 :00  pm - 9: 00 pm

20. Sri Chenna Kesava Peumal Temple in Chennai

In this temple, the presiding deity is Chenna Kesava Perumal which is a form of Lord Vishnu and the consort Chenkamala Valli Thayar that is Goddess Lakshmi. It is believed that this famous Perumal temple in Chennai has given this city its name. Chenna or Chenni in Tamil means face and this temple was regarded as the face of the city. 

Major Festivals in Perumal Temple in Chennai

1. Vaikunta Ekadasi 
2. Annual Brahmotsavam
3. Sri Rama Navami
4. Krishna Jayanthi (Janmashtami)
5. Deepavali and Pongal 
6. Other Ekadasis 

Morning	7:30 am to 12:00 pm
Evening	4:30 pm - 9: 00 pm

21. Garbarakshambigai Temple in Chennai

Located approximately 6km from Papanasam, this beautiful temple is nestled on the Southern banks of the Vettar River. This is one of the famous temples in Chennai dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Garbarakshambigai (Parvati). Devotees visit this temple to seek divine blessings associated with fertility, safe pregnancy and childbirth. Shiva is worshipped as Mullaivananathar and Goddess Parvati as Garbarakshambigai. This is one of the best Shiva temple in Chennai which was built during the Chola dynasty in Dravidian architectural style. 

Event	Timing
Opening Timing	5:30 am
Closing Timing	8 pm
Break Time	12:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Morning Darshan	5:30 am to 12:30 pm
Evening Darshan	4:00 pm to 8:00 pm

22. Shri Lakshmi Kuber Temple

This is one of the most beautiful temples in Chennai. Built by the Rajalakshmi Kuber Trust, this is a nicely maintained temple as well. This temple covers an area of 4,000 square feet. This Kuberar temple in Chennai is dedicated to Kubera and also has a five-tier gopuram. 

Morning	5:30 am to 12:00 pm
Evening	4:00 pm - 8: 00 pm

23. Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple in Chennai

It is  a popular and admired Shiva temple in Chennai which is also known as Vadathirunallar which is located at New Pallavaram Chennai. There are many festivals that are celebrated in this temple including Thiruvathirai festival, Soorasamharam festival, Adi Pooram Festival, Sanipeyarchi festival and other festivals like Navaratri Kolu Ambu festival and Vinayaga Chaturthi festival. Worshipping in this saniswaran temple in Chennai reduces the adverse impact and adds a positive effect of Lord Shani. There are many temples around this temple such as Bhadrakali Temple, Kailasanathar Temple and Karaikal temple. 

Morning - Monday to Friday	6 am to 12:30 pm
Evening - Monday to Friday	6:00 pm - 8: 00 pm
Morning : Saturdays	6:00 am to 12:30 pm
Evening : Saturdays	5:00 pm to 12:30 pm

24. Siva Subramanya Swamy temple in Chennai

In the list of temples, it is surely the renowned and the popular Murugan temple in Chennai. The temple is located just 2km away from the Saidapet Railway station and the Karaneeswarar temple is nearby. Across South India, the son of Shiva and Parvati, Murugan is one of the most admired Gods. You can attend many festivals in this temple including Panguni Uthiram in March, Chithirai Tamil New Year day and many others. 

Morning	8 am to 12:00 pm
Evening	4:00 pm - 8: 00 pm

25. Siddhar Temple in Chennai

Devotees visit Siddhar Temple in Chennai to get rid from Pithru Shabas which is the curse of the ancestors and any kind of bad impact of the Sun planet (Surya dosha). Devotees also come to get rid of mental illness or distress. You can also perform Abhishek and Vastras to Lord. 

Morning	6 am to 11:00 am
Evening	4:00 pm - 8: 00 pm

26. Durga Lakshmi Saraswati Temple in Chennai

It is one of the temples in Porur Chennai and is dedicated to Goddess Durga. You can find the Tridevi here - Durga Maa, Lakshmi Maa and Saraswati Maa. It is said that this Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati temple in Chennai was constructed 2000 years ago. Tridevi deities are the highlights of this temple. You can also find shrines for Sri Vinayagar, Sri Murugar and Navagrahas. 

27. Shani Temple in Chennai

If you are looking out for a Shani temple in Chennai, don’t worry as it is located at Brindawan colony. The temple stays open 7 days and stays open between 8 am to 11 am. The nearest metro station to this temple is Koyambedu Metro station and the nearest railway station is Pattaravakka railway station. 

Morning	6 am to 4 pm
Evening	12:30 pm - 8: 00 pm

These timings are usually app;icable from Tuesday to Sunday. 

28. Santoshi Mata Temple in Chennai

Located in Rajeswari Nagar, santhoshi matha temple in chennai is extremely accessible as it is located in a well-connected area. Every Friday, devotees gather to offer prayers and seek blessings. You can reach this temple by air, by bus and by rail. There are many places that you can visit near Santhoshi Matha temple such as Kapaleeshwarar, Parthasarathy, Marina beach,Fort St, George and many others. 

29. Thiruneermalai Temple (300 stairs temple in Chennai)

This is a popular mountain temple in Chennai which attracts tourists from different parts of the world. This is very close to Pallavaram or Chrompet. The temple has 2 parts, the first is base and another is hilltop. You would get to enjoy scenic and panoramic views of the surroundings. This is also famous as the 300 stairs temple in Chennai.  It is located 20-25km away from Chennai which is near Pallavaram/Chrompet. It is better to reach by road as it offers a calming escape. You can attend festivals like Vaikunta Ekadashi. 

Morning	6 am to 12 pm
Evening	4 pm - 8 pm

30. Sri Malola Narasimha Swamy Peetam, Velachery 

This is a renowned, admired and famous Narasimha temple in Chennai and devotees across the world travel to Chennai to witness the divine energy of this temple. As a visitor, if you wish to bring offerings, you can bring flowers, fruits or sweets. Visitors are expected to dress modestly and decently. 

Top Temples in Chennai : A Glimpse!

Here’s another list of temples that you can visit in Chennai. Just make sure you check out all the options, choices and destination information before you book any hotels in India. Once you dive deep and gather information, visiting these temples would be easier for you. 

1. Rajinikanth temple
2. Subramanya Swamy Temple
3. Mariamman Temple 
4. Dhanvantri Temple
5. Dakshinamurthy Temple 
6. Chandra- Navagraha Temple, Chennai
7. Annanagar Sri Ayyappa Temple 
8. Ayyanar Temple in Chennai 
9. Arunachalam Temple
10. Amma Bhagavan Temple
11. Sri Durga Peeli Amman Temple
12. Sri Guru Raghavendra Temple 
13. Sri Kala Bhairavar Temple, Mambakkam 
14. Sri Navapasana Raja Murugun Temple
15. Pal Muneeswaran temple 
16. Rahu Ketu temple in Chennai
17. Valleeswarar Temples
18. Sukran Temple
19. Ketu Temple in Chennai
20. Sri Panduranga Swamy Temple 
21. Lakshmi Visa Ganapathi Temple
22.  Annamalaiyar temple
23.  Dakshinamurthy temple
24. Dhanvantri temple
25.  Sarabeswarar temple
26. Arupadai Veedu temple 
27. Hayagriva Temple

Concluding Thoughts!

Chennai is surely a beautiful city which offers you a chance to dive deep into spirituality too. The famous temples in Chennai give you the opportunity not only to plunge yourself into spirituality but also to understand the city’s deep rooted culture, history and tradition. From wonderful ancient dravidian architecture to beautiful rituals, visiting these top temples in Chennai would surely be a lifetime experience for you. Before you plan your trip, make sure you gather more information and knowledge about the destination,temples, routes and timings, you can also read the India travel guide to dive deep and understand in a better way. 

FAQs

What is the perfect time to visit temples in Chennai?

The ideal time would be between November to February. Choose early mornings and evenings.  

Which is the most popular temple in Chennai?

Kapaleeswarar temple in Mylapore is the most famous temple.

Is there any dress code for temples in Chennai?

Yes, you are expected to wear a modest dress. Traditional dress is preferred

Which temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva?

Marundeeswarar and Kapaleeswarar are the most prominent temples in Chennai.

Is photography allowed inside Chennai Temples?

Photography is mostly restricted so you must  refrain from taking pictures.