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Chennai, renowned for having some of the best temples in Chennai, boasts a rich cultural and historical background. Many ancient temples reflect its spiritual and architectural legacy. These temples, some dating back centuries, serve not only as places of worship but also as cultural and historical landmarks. The city’s spiritual landscape is adorned with magnificent shrines, each showcasing distinctive legends, traditions, and architectural splendour. Here, we will explore some of the best temples in Chennai, delving into their significance, history, and cultural heritage.
10 Ancient Temples In Chennai
Discover the 10 best ancient temples in Chennai, each offering unique spiritual experiences and rich cultural heritage:
1. Anjaneyar Temple
Photo: RAJUKHAN SR RAJESH / Wikimedia Commons
The Anjaneyar Temple in Nanganallur, Chennai, is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple’s main attraction is a 32-foot-tall idol of Hanuman, sculpted from a single piece of granite, making it the second tallest Hanuman idol in India. Established in 1989 and consecrated in 1995, the temple is known for its spiritual ambience and architectural beauty. It features shrines for Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, and Lord Krishna with Rukmini and Satyabhama.
Location: Anjaneyar Temple, near Tindivanam, Tamil Nadu, India
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
2. Arulmigu Sri Parthasarathy Temple
Photo: Souvik pal / Wikimedia Commons
Arulmigu Sri Parthasarathy Temple near Tindivanam is an ancient Vaishnavite temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, depicted as Parthasarathy, Arjuna’s charioteer in the Mahabharata. Devotees flock here, especially during festivals like Vaikunta Ekadasi, celebrated with grandeur. Its spiritual ambience and pleasant surroundings make it one of the biggest temples in Chennai for anyone seeking insight into devotion and spirituality.
Location: Arulmigu Sri Parthasarathy Temple, near Tindivanam, Tamil Nadu, India
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
3. Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple
Photo: User:Sudharsun.j/ Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple features a stunning blend of Kerala and Dravidian architectural styles, with a 100-foot tall gopuram (gateway tower). Inside, the main shrine houses an 18-foot idol of Lord Vishnu reclining on the serpent Adi Shesha. Festivals like Vaikunta Ekadasi are celebrated with special rituals.
Location: Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple, near Tindivanam, Tamil Nadu, India
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
4. Arulmigu Nithya Kalyana Perumal Temple
Photo: Sailko / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Arulmigu Nithya Kalyana Perumal Temple, situated near Tindivanam, is renowned for its dedication to Lord Vishnu, who is celebrated as the eternal groom. The temple specializes in rituals for marriages and resolving marital issues, attracting couples seeking divine blessings for happy unions. Special poojas are conducted during significant occasions, emphasizing the temple’s spiritual importance.
Location: Arulmigu Nithya Kalyana Perumal Temple, near Tindivanam, Tamil Nadu, India
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
5. Sri Kalikambal Kamateswarar Temple
Photo: Ranjan Kumar Panigrahi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sri Kalikambal Kamateswarar Temple is located in George Town, Chennai. Dedicated to Goddess Kalikambal (a form of Parvati) and Lord Kamateswarar (Shiva), this historic temple was originally near the seashore but was relocated in 1640. The temple has a beautiful tower and detailed carvings. It is especially busy on Saturdays when special prayers are held, drawing worshippers who come for blessings, strength, and courage.
Location: Sri Kalikambal Kamateswarar Temple, near Tindivanam, Tamil Nadu, India
Timings: 6 AM – 8:30 PM
6. Sri Kamakshi Amman Devasthanam
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
The Sri Kamakshi Amman Devasthanam in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, is a revered temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, an incarnation of Parvati. This historic temple, believed to have been built during the Pallava era, is a significant centre of Shaktism. The main deity, Kamakshi, is enshrined in a seated posture, symbolizing peace and prosperity. Special poojas are conducted during auspicious days, especially during Navratri, drawing many visitors.
Location: Sri Kamakshi Amman Devasthanam, near Tindivanam, Tamil Nadu, India
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
7. Kapaleeswarar Temple
Photo: N. Vivekananthamoorthy / Wikimedia Commons
Kapaleeswarar Temple, near Tindivanam, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its beautiful Dravidian design, featuring detailed carvings and colorful towers. Many devotees visit, especially during festivals like Maha Shivaratri, which include special rituals. The temple’s peaceful setting and spiritual importance make it one of the oldest temples in Chennai.
Location: Kapaleeswarar Temple, near Tindivanam, Tamil Nadu, India
Timings: 5 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
8. Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temple
Photo: Paramjeet / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temples are six sacred abodes of Lord Murugan in Tamil Nadu, each with its unique significance and legend. Thiruparankundram is where Murugan married Deivanai, while Tiruchendur marks his victory over the demon Surapadman. At Palani, he resides as Dhandayuthapani, and in Swamimalai, he taught the meaning of “Om” to his father, Lord Shiva.
Location: Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temple, near Tindivanam, Tamil Nadu, India
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
9. Dhenupureeswarar Temple
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / Px Here / Image For Representation Only
Dhenupureeswarar Temple, near Tindivanam, is an old temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, dating back to the Chola period. Known for its classic Dravidian design and beautiful carvings, the temple holds an important place in Tamil Nadu’s spiritual history. It is believed that praying at Dhenupureeswarar Temple brings peace and good fortune, especially during the busy Maha Shivaratri festival. The temple’s peaceful surroundings and cultural history attract both spiritual visitors and history lovers.
Location: Dhenupureeswarar Temple, near Tindivanam, Tamil Nadu, India
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
10. Matsya Narayan Temple
Photo: Mohan K. Duwal / Wikimedia Commons
The Matsya Narayan Temple near Tindivanam is dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s Matsya avatar, symbolizing his first incarnation. Celebrated for its peaceful ambience and beautiful idols, this famous temple near Chennai is a crucial site for Vaishnavites. Its traditional architecture and tranquil surroundings enhance its spiritual allure, inviting devotees to pray and meditate. Special rituals are performed during festivals like Vaikunta Ekadasi, drawing many worshippers from afar.
Location: Matsya Narayan Temple, near Tindivanam, Tamil Nadu, India
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8:30 PM
The ancient temples in Chennai offer a blend of spirituality, history, and art. Exploring these temples in Chennai allows one to witness the architectural marvels of the past, spiritual traditions, and cultural heritage. Whether you are a devotee, a history enthusiast, or a traveller seeking peace, these temples offer something for everyone. Plan your visit with TripXL for a memorable experience and discover the wonders of these ancient temples.
Cover Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
