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Shri Lakshmi Kuberar Temple at Rathinamangalam near Vandalur in Chennai is one of the most popular temples in the city and is widely known to bestow financial blessings on its devotees. Kuberar, the God of Wealth, is worshipped in the temple on special days like Amavasya and Pournami when hundreds of devotees troop in to offer their prayers and partake in special rituals. These days are believed to augment the powers of the temple to help the devotees alleviate financial stress and ensure success in life. On special days like Diwali, Akshaya Trithiya or New Year’s Day, the temple remains open for longer hours to accommodate more devotees.
Quick Facts About Kuberar Temple
Kuberar Temple Address: Rathinamangalam, near Vandalur, Chennai
Kuberar Temple Timings: 6 AM – 1 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (27 km)
How To Reach: Easily accessible via buses, cars, and autos
Best Time To Visit: On Amavasya and Pournami days
Entry Fee: None
How To Reach Kuberar Temple
Photo: Mandradiar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
By Air: Chennai International Airport is the nearest airport,27 km away, from which you can travel by taxi or bus to reach the temple.
By Road: The route to the temple is well-connected by road, with frequent buses and taxis operating from Chennai to the temple. One can also hire private vehicles or book auto-shared vehicles to reach the place.
By Train: Vandalur Railway Station is the closest railway station, 5 km from the temple. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are easily available.
Things To Do In The Temple
1. Attend The Puja
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There are different types of poojas conducted at Shri Lakshmi Kuberar Temple. Shri Kuberar Arathi is conducted immediately after the temple doors are opened. On special days like Friday, Go-Matha worship is performed to bless devotees and bestow upon them prosperity. The temple celebrates Thirukalyanam of Shri Lakshmi Kuberar in July. And thousands throng to the temple to seek the blessings of the deities. The unique features of the temple worship are the Tamil rituals conducted for the deity. Recitation of the Mahamanthra and practising Kubera Mudhra are emphasised in every pooja.
2. Explore Temple’s Architecture
Photo: KennyOMG / Wikimedia Commons
Temple architecture is a charming synthesis of traditional South Indian Tamil style. The main sanctum houses Shri Lakshmi Kuberar, who is decked in grand Alankaram (decoration) on special occasions. Shrines around the temple include Shodasa Ganapathi, Navagrahas with consorts, and Shri Rama/Anjaneya/Krishna/Nala Kuber.
Places To Visit Around Shri Lakshmi Kuberar Temple
Let’s explore some places near Shri Lakshmi Kuberar Temple.
1. Varadaraja Perumal Temple
About 15 km south of the Shri Lakshmi Kuberar Temple at Kanchipuram is a prominent Vaishnavite shrine to Lord Vishnu known as the Varadaraja Perumal Temple. Being an architectural wonder, this temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams and a key pilgrimage site to Lord Vishnu. It has a tall gopuram and carvings with stories from Hindu mythology. The temple also has a rare ‘Athi Varadar’ idol, which is shown to the devotees outside the temple only once every 40 years. The spiritual and architectural significance of this temple makes it one of the best and must-visit temples in Tamil Nadu.
Timings: 6:30 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
2. Vandalur Zoo
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Vandalur Zoological Park, located 5 km from Shri Lakshmi Kuberar Temple, is one of the largest zoological parks in India. Spread over 1,265 acres of land area, the zoo has a wide variety of animal species including endangered animal species and exotic species. The zoological park is a popular place for family visits and nature enthusiasts. A tour of the zoo provides knowledge of wildlife conservation. It has many sections like a reptile house, bird sanctuary and lion safari. The well-maintained gardens and pathways are good places to enjoy a pleasant walk with nature.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
3. Kailasanathar Temple
Photo: Senthil-kumar / Wikimedia Commons
About 12 km away from Shri Lakshmi Kuberar Temple is the popular Kailasanathar Temple. This impressive temple is a marvel of Pallava architecture and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Sometimes referred to as the Temple of a Thousand Pillars, this temple of Dravidian architecture is adorned with exquisite stone carvings and has a peaceful environment. Built-in the 8th century, the temple does not have the hustle and bustle of city life and makes for a good spot for meditation and contemplation. The vimana (tower) has detailed carvings on the exteriors inspired by ancient Hindu scriptures.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 7 PM
4. Dakshinachitra Heritage Museum
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Dakshinachitra Heritage Museum, about 20 km from the Shri Lakshmi Kuberar Temple, is one of India’s renowned living museums. It gathers the traditional arts, crafts and lifestyles of South India into a single place. The museum has rebuilt houses from all over the region, combining old and new styles to display the range of architectural and cultural diversity in the region. Houses in the museum depict the Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh styles. Visitors can learn about the diverse cultures of South India through a display of their arts, architecture, lifestyles, workshops and craft demonstrations at the museum.
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Where To Eat
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Traditional South Indian food near Shri Lakshmi Kuberar Temple can be relished in the local eating joints that serve traditional meals with a spread of dosa, idli, vada and sambar. One can visit Hotel Crescent in Vandalur. They serve both vegetarian and non-vegetarian South Indian food. Murugan Idli Shop near Urapakkam is famous for breakfast delicacies such as idli, dosa, vada etc. Ananda Bhavan near Vandalur is one of the best restaurants that serve pure vegetarian meals. It is a great place for devotees. If you are looking for more diversity, you can always head to A2B (Adyar Ananda Bhavan), located on GST Road. They serve south Indian and north Indian meals and sweets.
Where To Stay
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For accommodation near Shri Lakshmi Kuberar Temple, there are plenty of options around Vandalur and nearby areas — ranging from budget lodging to mid-range hotels and a few luxury options closer to the city. SRM Hotel at Guduvanchery, approximately 7 km from the temple, provides decent rooms with modern amenities. Hotel Vassi Palaze at Vandalur is also popular for its clean and budget-friendly accommodations. Mahalaya Residency, near Chennai Airport, is a good option for those who want to stay close to the city. For those who wish to stay closer to the temple, the Sathguru Nivas provides simple, cheap rooms primarily for the devotees.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip
The temple has no entrance fee, but you can donate. To plan your visit to other temples or marketplaces, especially the Kanchipuram Silk Market, it’s essential to budget for transportation and purchase items.
Best Time To Visit
The ideal time to visit the temple is from October to February, as the temperature is cool and pleasant. This season allows you to explore the temple and its surroundings without inconvenience.
Tips For Tourists
- Dress properly and respect religious customs in the temple.
- Tourists who are curious about the temple’s history and architecture can hire guides.
- Always remove your footwear while entering the temple; you may carry a bag to store them.
- Seek permission to click Kuberar Temple photos before entering the premises with your camera.
Shri Lakshmi Kuberar Temple is a dwelling of spiritual and monetary prosperity, as well as a place of worship. Its serene atmosphere and hallowed rituals make it an important destination for devotees and tourists. Come here seeking divine blessings or just to experience Tamil Nadu’s spiritual heritage, and you will surely have a fulfilling visit. Plan your trip to Tamil Nadu with TripXL for an enriching and convenient experience.
Cover Photo: Jagadeesh. S / Wikimedia Commons
