Have you ever wondered why not only is Chennai a modern city, but also full of spiritual delight? That is due to the plenty of temples that blend together devotion, art and history. The city provides a spiritual experience with old shrines with unbelievable carvings and the most crowded temples in Chennai, where people still hold the traditions.
Regardless of whether you are a lover of history and culture or simply want to relax, visiting these renowned temples will astonish you. Every temple is unique, as is the story behind it, as well as the architecture and the spiritual experience. Stay with us as this guide will introduce you to the 20 best temples that should not be missed as a destination on your list.
20 Best Temples in Chennai
Planning a visit to Chennai? Whether you are a devotee or an admirer of art and history, these temples to visit in Chennai will blow your mind with their unique stories and the atmosphere they provide.
1. Kapaleeshwarar Temple
One of the most famous temples in Chennai is the Kapaleeshwarar Temple located at Mylapore in honour of Lord Shiva. It was constructed with Dravidian style, with its coloured tower (gopuram) attracting thousands of devotees and tourists day in and day out. The temple was constructed in the 7th century. It is also a cultural spot where such festivals as Panguni Peruvizha are conducted with much zeal. It is among the most historical and spiritual temples to visit in Chennai because of its spiritual feel and beautiful architecture.
Address: Mylapore, Chennai
Timings: 5:30 AM - 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
2. Parthasarathy Temple
There are various things to do in Chennai, but visiting this temple will provide you with a sense of divinity. The Parthasarathy (dedicated to Lord Krishna) is a temple located in Triplicane. The Pallavas built it in the 8th century, and it is carved with intricate details and a huge gopuram. Devotees are drawn here to receive blessings and to experience the Tamil culture, which has been maintained. Vaikunta Ekadasi is another festival that is of particular significance to the temple. It is a place that is a must-visit for both architecture lovers and devotees.
Address: Triplicane, Chennai
Timings: 6:00 AM - 12:30 PM, 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
3. Marundeeswarar Temple
This temple is an establishment of Shiva Marundeeswarar, the Lord of medicines at Thiruvanmiyur. Some are of the opinion that illnesses can be cured through their worship. The temple possesses some Yvansaige Chola inscriptions and glamorous architecture, thereby giving it a peaceful environment. Choose to visit one of the oldest temples in Chennai, and you are making a good bet in the direction of higher blessings and a deeper healing. And if you’re a shopaholic, you can also visit the various famous shopping places in Chennai nearby.
Address: Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai.
Timings: 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 8:30 PM
4. Ashtalakshmi Temple
Close by the Beach of Elliot, this temple worships goddess Lakshmi in eight forms, which refer to synonyms of wealth, prosperity, and wisdom. Its design is unique, as it features multi-layered levels where believers can climb and worship in various forms as individuals, making it one of the best trekking in Chennai. The temple is situated with the Bay of Bengal behind it, making it serene and calm. It is a wonderful place where you can be at peace with the beauty of the scenery.
Address: Besant Nagar, Chennai.
Timings: 6:30 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
5. Vadapalani Murugan Temple
This is a temple of Lord Murugan that is situated in Vadapalani and is widely used with the purpose of fulfilling the desires of newlyweds and students. It was constructed during the 19th century and has a high Rajagopuram carved with fine details. It is also the place where the great festivals and religious events take place. And in the case you want to see a temple with much devotional flavour, make this one part of your list as well. You can also explore our guide on the best time to visit Chennai, to plan your trip at the right time.
Address: Vadapalani, Chennai
Timings: 5:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
6. Kalikambal Temple
The Kalikambal Temple belongs to the Goddess Kalikambal and the Lord Kamadeswarar. It is historic since the famous Marathi king Chhatrapati Shivaji once visited here. The temple is also strong, and it has vibrant festivals celebrated here. It cannot be missed in cases where one wishes to explore the old temples in Chennai.
Address: George Town, Chennai
Timings: 5:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
7. ISKCON Temple Chennai
This is among the largest temples of ISKCON in India. It glorifies Lord Krishna and Radha. It is constructed in the contemporary manner, which provides a peaceful and serene venue with kirtans, bhajans and teachings on spirituality. It is also a cultural centre where various festivals and rituals are celebrated with much enthusiasm. It fulfils the needs of those people who seek both devotion and events within the community.
Address: Intjambakkam, Chennai.
Timings: 4:30 AM - 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
8. Chenna Kesava Perumal Temple
This temple is of Lord Vishnu and was constructed in the 18th century. Indeed, it demonstrates the long devotion of Chennai. The carvings are stunning and individuals come through out the year in large numbers. It is also famous in terms of the Brahmotsavam yearly festival. It is considered one of the most famous Chennai temples to visit among devotees.
Address: Sowcarpet, Chennai
Timings: 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
9. Anjaneyar Temple ( Nanganallur )
The idol of lord Hanuman in this temple is 32 feet in height and is among the tallest ones in South India. It is said that prayer here gives strength and courage. This is one place that you cannot afford to miss if you want to witness one of the biggest temples in Chennai.
Address: Nanganallur, Chennai.
Timings: 5:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
10. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
This temple has a meditative ambience for Sai Baba followers. It was constructed in 1952 and was among the earliest temples of Sai Baba that were constructed in Tamil Nadu. It is open to everyone irrespective of their faith and is among the well-known places of togetherness and prayer in the city of Chennai.
Address: Mylapore, Chennai
Timings: 5:30 AM - 12:30 PM, 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
11. Adeeswar Temple
This Jain shrine is of Lord Rishabhanatha (Adinath). It was constructed in the 1st century, and it is among the most ancient temples in Chennai. It attracts individuals who want to experience peace and spiritual development. It is an escape out of the city because the temple is surrounded by green trees, thus giving a relaxing vibe. To anyone who wants to see the oldest temples in Chennai, the Adeeswar is a gem that reveals the diverse spiritual background of the city.
Address: Red Hills, Chennai
Timings: 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
12. Mangadu Kamakshi Amman Temple
In Mangadu, the temple of Goddess Kamakshi is reputed to fulfil wishes, particularly for the women who are already married. It is believed that Goddess Parvati conducted penance here before marrying Lord Shiva. The temple is never empty and is full of rituals. When you are naming the top ten temples in Chennai, then your first is this one at the very top due to the strong belief and legends.
Address: Mangadu, Chennai
Timings: 5:30 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
13. Sholinganallur Prathyangira Devi Temple
The well-known Goddess Prathyangira Devi of this temple is fierce yet protective. She, according to her followers, gets rid of evil spirits and has been safeguarding families. There are unique rituals and murals practised here. In case you wish to see some unusual Chennai temples, this particular temple has a unique spiritual ambience.
Address: Sholinganallur, Chennai.
Timings: 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
14. Sri Audikesava Perumal Temple
This is a temple of Lord Vishnu that is located in Pallavaram and has a long history tracing back to the Pallava time. It is quiet, it is traditionally designed and it contains significant rituals. It is among the most ancient temples in Chennai that reflects its ancient history.
Address: Pallavaram, Chennai
Timings: 6:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
15. Thiruneermalai Temple
This temple is located on a small hill and it praises Lord Vishnu serving four manifestations of him, namely Ranganatha, Narasimha, Rama and Trivikrama. It is an excellent viewpoint on top of the hill. It is also mythical, as it is related to Sage Valmiki, and the temple is a wonderful place to visit for people who love nature and want to seek spirituality.
Address: Chromepet, Chennai
Timings: 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
16. Kandaswamy Temple (Saidapet)
This is a 500-year-old temple, which is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is a renowned temple in Chennai. It contains colourful architecture and grand celebrations at festivals like Skanda Shashti. Numerous visitors arrive in the entire city. It is halfway through Saidapet, which is a bustling area, and it provides serenity to the worsippers.
Address: Saidapet, Chennai
Timings: 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
17. Thiruvotriyur Thyagararaj Temple
This is the large temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it is even one of the oldest in Chennai, whose record dates back over a thousand years. It possesses numerous temples and massive towers resembling the Dravidian design. Another thing that makes the temple most famous is its festivals, in which numerous rituals are performed with utmost sincerity. This place is a must-see in Chennai if you want to see the old temples there.
Address: Thiruvotriyur, Chennai.
Timings: 5:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
18. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple
This is a beautiful Vishnu temple by the Thiruneermalai hills. It is recognised due to its spiritual significance and silent nature. The temple is visited not only as a place to worship, but also because of the intricate sculptures and carvings displaying ancient Tamil workmanship. The temple is among the finest temples in Chennai, which visitors like because of its antique structure.
Address: Chennai, Near Chromepet.
Timings: 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
19. Corner Chennakesava Perumal Temple of Sri Parry
It is one of the renowned temples of Chennai and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is situated in one of the most vibrant mixed-arch denying Parry corners and combines vintage and urban lives. Although located in a business district, the temple is a serene destination for its worshipers. It is a good option to visit during sightseeing of old areas in the city, as there is a history and cultural nature around it.
Address: Parry Corner, Chennai
Timings: 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
20. Arupadai Veedu Murugam Temple
This temple is a wonder of today that unites the six abodes of Lord Murugan in one location. It spares worshipers the hassle of visiting six other temples, which makes it a distinctive experience. It is among the best temples in Chennai to worship Murugan because of the design and the spiritual atmosphere.
Address: Besant Nagar, Chennai.
Timings: 5:30 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Conclusion
Temples in Chennai are evidence of the perfect blend of history and spirituality. Chennai city has something to offer to everyone, whether it is the architecture, history, or spiritual experience in its well-known temples. From the majesty of the Kapaleeshwarar Temple to the serene atmosphere of the Adeeswar Jain Temple, there is a charm and tale with each shrine. The trip to these ancient temples will lead you to become one with divinity and experience the cultural heart of the city. Pack your bags and explore these temples on your next trip to Chennai.
