Krishna temples in Tamil Nadu offer profound cultural and religious importance, drawing devotees from various parts of the nation. These sacred sites are recognised for their stunning architecture and spiritual atmosphere. Tamil Nadu’s Krishna temples are particularly famous for their vibrant festivals, intricate carvings, and ancient traditions that honour the life and teachings of the deity. Each temple exemplifies an enduring faith and artistic heritage in its ability to attract both pilgrims and tourists.
10 Krishna Temples In Tamil Nadu To Visit
Explore the Top 10 Krishna Temples in Tamilnadu, famous for their spiritual significance and architectural beauty.
1. Sri Parthasarathy Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons
The Sri Parthasarathy Temple is widely regarded as one of the most famous Krishna temples in Tamilnadu. Its history is rich, tracing back to the 8th century, constructed by the Pallavas. This temple is specifically dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is portrayed as Parthasarathy, the charioteer of Arjuna in the epic Mahabharata. The temple’s Dravidian architecture is characterised by soaring gopurams that are adorned with ancient carvings and sculptures illustrating various deities and mythological narratives.
Timings: 5:30 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
Nearest Railway Station: Chennai Central
2. Sri Krishna Temple, Uthukuli
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The Sri Krishna Temple, located in Uthukuli, is one of the important Krishna temples in Tamil Nadu. Its historical importance can be seen in local legends, and its peaceful environment contributes to its role as a relaxing place for worship. The temple’s architecture reflects the traditional Dravidian styles with stone pillars, beautifully crafted mandapams, and vibrant sculptures. Although it is relatively modest, this temple draws numerous devotees during significant festivals, such as Janmashtami.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 5 PM – 8 PM
Nearest Railway Station: Tiruppur Railway Station
3. Sri Rajagopalaswamy Temple
Photo: Jmadhu / Wikimedia Commons
The Sri Rajagopalaswamy Temple, located in Mannargudi, ranks among the largest and most significant Krishna temples in Tamil Nadu. Originally constructed during the Chola dynasty, the temple underwent substantial expansion by the Nayaks, which contributed to its impressive architectural style. Covering an area of over 23 acres, the temple complex showcases towering gopurams, extensive corridors, and expansive temple tanks.
Timings: 6 AM – 1 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
Nearest Railway Station: Mannargudi Railway Station
4. Sri Venugopala Swamy Temple
Photo: Naidugari Jayanna / Wikimedia Commons
The Sri Venugopala Swamy Temple is among the popular temples that offer religious and historical significance. This sacred structure is renowned for its striking architectural features, like detailed carved gopuram. Dedicated to Lord Krishna in his incarnation as Venugopala the flute-playing deity, this temple provides a peaceful retreat for spiritual contemplation. Its simple yet elegant design showcases the traditional Dravidian architecture with sculpted stone pillars and a courtyard that enhances the overall atmosphere. The temple draws numerous devotees during Janmashtami.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Nearest Railway Station: Coimbatore Junction
5. Sri Krishna Temple, Suchindram
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The Sri Krishna Temple, situated in Suchindram, is widely recognised as a significant pilgrimage destination for followers of Lord Krishna. This temple is a standalone structure and part of a more extensive complex that honours other Hindu deities, such as Lord Shiva and Hanuman. The architectural magnificence of the temple is evident in its towering gopurams, which are embellished with intricate sculptures illustrating stories from the Hindu religion.
Timings: 4:30 AM – 12:30 PM, 5 PM – 8:30 PM
Nearest Railway Station: Nagercoil Junction
6. Govindaraja Perumal Temple, Tirupati
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The Govindaraja Perumal Temple holds significant importance for followers of Lord Krishna. This temple is closely linked to the Tirupati temple complex and is one of the region’s oldest Vaishnavite temples. Constructed in the 12th century, it showcases intricate Dravidian architecture, featuring towering gopurams and elaborately detailed carvings. The presiding deity, Lord Govindaraja, reclines on the serpent Adishesha.
Timings: 5:30 AM – 1:30 PM, 3 PM – 9 PM
Nearest Railway Station: Tirupati Railway Station
7. Sri Andal Temple, Srivilliputhur
Photo: SUNDARRAJPERUMAL / Wikimedia Commons
The Sri Andal Temple, located in Srivilliputhur, is one of the most holy Krishna temples in Tamil Nadu. It is dedicated to the poet-saint Andal and Lord Ranganatha, known as Lord Vishnu’s manifestation. This temple is particularly celebrated for its imposing gopuram, which ranks among the tallest in Tamilnadu and appears in the state emblem. The temple’s architectural design showcases the Dravidian style with carved pillars and sculptures narrating stories from the lives of Andal and Krishna.
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 8:30 PM
Nearest Railway Station: Srivilliputhur Railway Station
8. The Sri Pandava Dhootha Perumal Temple
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The Sri Pandava Dhootha Perumal Temple is a distinctive temple dedicated to Krishna in Tamil Nadu. This temple honours the pivotal role of Lord Krishna as a messenger to the Kauravas as depicted in the Mahabharata. Built during the Pallava dynasty, it was later expanded by the Cholas and the Vijayanagar kings, featuring ancient architectural and historical significance. This temple is a stunning example of Dravidian architecture with Rand Gopuram and a central shrine devoted to Lord Krishna in his Dhootha form.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Nearest Railway Station: Kanchipuram Railway Station
9. Sri Kalyana Venkatesa Perumal Temple
Photo: Ramya Srivastav / Wikimedia Commons
The Sri Kalyana Venkatesa Perumal Temple is one of the most important temples in Tamil Nadu for devotees of Lord Krishna. However, despite the presiding deity being Lord Venkatesa Perumal, the temple houses a prominent shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna. This temple’s architecture exemplifies the classic Dravidian style, featuring intricately carved stone pillars, ornate mandapams, and a striking gopuram. The serene atmosphere of the temple, with its significance in local spiritual traditions, attracts many visitors.
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 8:30 PM
Nearest Railway Station: Karur Railway Station
10. The Sri Kariya Manicka Perumal Temple
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The Sri Kariya Manicka Perumal Temple, situated in the town of Thiruvali, is a historic Krishna temple within Tamil Nadu that is renowned for its connection to the Vaishnavite saint, Thirumangai Alwar. This temple is devoted to Lord Vishnu, particularly in the form of Kariya Manicka Perumal. The temple’s architectural design is remarkable, showcasing intricate sculptures, pillared halls, and a towering gopuram that exemplifies traditional Dravidian artistry.
Timings: 6 AM– 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Nearest Railway Station: Sirkazhi Railway Station
Krishna temples in Tamil Nadu possess a profound historical, cultural, and spiritual significance, providing a deep connection to both devotees and tourists alike. These temples not only exhibit breathtaking Dravidian architecture but also function as vital hubs for the celebration of Janmashtami and Vaikunta Ekadashi. If you wish to delve into these sacred sites, book your trip to Tamil Nadu with TripXL, customised itineraries and comfortable travel options.
Cover Photo: Richard Mortel / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only