The Dhandeeswaram temple is a well-known temple in the strides of Lord Shiva. This temple is located at Dhandeeswaram in the state of Tamil Nadu, and it is one of the temples with an old architectural design, history, and religious significance. The presiding deity here is Dhandeeswaram, and he takes the shape of lingam. The original temple structure was built in the Pallava dynasty, which was later repaired and restructured during the Chola dynasty. Devotees from all corners of the world visit the temple in millions, seeking the blessings or the wish-fulfilling power found within the temple.
Quick Details About Dhandeeswaram Temple
Dhandeeswaram Temple Address: 1st Ave, Karunabigai Colony, Velachery, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Dhandeeswaram Temple Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: None
How To Reach: By bus, auto-rickshaw, and taxi
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport, 12 km
Nearest Railway Station: Velachery Railway Station, 3 km
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location
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Situated in Velachery, Chennai, in the state of Tamil Nadu, the Dhandeeswaram Temple is along the Dhandeeswaram Main Road. It connects through the Velachery Main Road, which connects to Mount and Raj Bhavan Road and is easily accessible from the main city. The temple is located conveniently close to other sites, such as Velachery Bus Terminus and Vijayanagar Junction.
How To Reach Dhandeeswaram Temple
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By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, 12 km from the city. From there, you can catch a taxi or bus to Kanchipuram, then an autorickshaw to Dhandeeswaram Temple.
By train: The nearest railway station is Velachery Railway Station, which is about 3 km from the temple. Taxis and autorickshaws are directly available to the temple.
By Road: If you are coming from Chennai, it is 60 km through the Chennai-Bangalore Highway. Regular buses are available to Kanchipuram and Velachery. The nearest bus station is the Velachery bus stand, and from there, you can walk to the temple.
Places To Visit Near Dhandeeswaram Temple
After visiting Dhandeeswaram Temple, explore nearby attractions rich in history and spirituality:
1. Guindy National Park
Photo: Ara C / Wikimedia Commons
This is one of the very few urban wildlife sanctuaries in the country, and it is situated at the centre of Chennai. This is a 2.7-square-kilometre reserve place that has emerged as the haven for numerous flora and fauna, such as blackbuck, spotted deer, jackal, and also more than 130 types of birds. The park has a children’s play area with a small zoo. It is a good view for nature lovers, photographers, and bird watchers.
Timings: 9 AM – 5:30 PM
Distance: 5 km from Dhandeeswaram
2. Phoenix Marketcity
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The ultimate destination for spending an entire day on shopping, dining, and entertainment is Phoenix Marketcity in Chennai. One of the city’s largest malls, this place features an extensive selection of international and Indian brands, high-end boutiques, and many dining places. This mall has a multiplex cinema, thereby becoming an entertaining space. It contains a food court and fine dining restaurants offering cuisine worldwide.
Timings: 10 AM – 10 PM
Distance: 2 km from Dhandeeswaram
3. Ashtalakshmi Temple
Photo: User:Sudharsun.j / Wikimedia Commons
The Ashtalakshmi Temple is dedicated to the eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi, each symbolising different aspects of prosperity and well-being. It is located along the scenic shore in Besant Nagar, with its multi-tiered architecture and serene location making it a beautiful and spiritual place to visit. The temple has a calm atmosphere with waves in the background, ideal for prayer and meditation. This temple complex features carved work and colourful shrines.
Timings: 6:30 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM to 8 PM
Distance: 10 km from Dhandeeswaram
4. Elliot’s Beach
Photo: KARTY JazZ / Wikimedia Commons
Elliot’s Beach is situated in the bustling locality of Besant Nagar. It is a peaceful place with calm waters and a clean, sandy beach free from the city’s noise. It is considered quiet and one of the favourite evening walking spots for family get-togethers and casual outings. Other attractions are the Karl Schmidt Memorial dedicated to the Dutch sailor, and the Annai Vailankanni Church, which gives it cultural importance.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Distance: 9 km from Dhandeeswaram
5. Valluvar Kottam
Photo: Surajram / Wikimedia Commons
Valluvar Kottam is one of the prominent landmarks in Chennai. It is a unique monument dedicated to the great Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar. The chariot is sculpted with minute carvings of verses from Thiruvalluvar’s work, Thirukkural. The 39-metre-high chariot with stone wheels in fine details portrays traditional Tamil architecture and artistry. Valluvar Kottam itself is a marvel of architecture and a cultural and historical landmark because it houses many exhibitions and events.
Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Distance: 10 km from Dhandeeswaram
Where To Stay
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The Holiday Inn Chennai OMR IT Expressway is a well-furnished and modernised hotel that contains an outdoor swimming pool, gym, and restaurant facilities, located about 5 km from the Dhandeeswaram Temple. Due to the availability of the hotel close to Velachery, it is a perfect accommodation option for the guests visiting the region. Alternatively, the Westin Chennai Velachery, which is 3 km from the temple, has luxury accommodations, a spa, and an international buffet along with Indian specialties.
Where To Eat
Dining options around Dhandeeswaram Temple include Sangeetha Veg Restaurant, located along Velachery Main Road. This popular restaurant offers a wide range of South Indian vegetarian dishes and provides a clean and family-friendly ambience. Dosas, idlis, and filter coffee are the favourites among residents and tourists. Aasife Biriyani in Velachery, known for its mouth-watering biryanis and North Indian delicacies, is the other option.
Other Factors To Consider
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Best Time To Visit
October to March is the ideal time to visit Dhandeeswaram Temple because it is the most pleasant time of year in Chennai, with cold temperatures and less humidity. This is the region’s winter, ideal for outdoor activities and temple visits.
Average Cost Of The Trip
You can go for a weekend visit to Dhandeeswaram Temple within your budget. One person would require about ₹1,500 to ₹5,000. On average, all transports, budget lodgings, meals, contributions, and donations that you would like to make at the temple are covered in that amount.
Whether you are seeking divine blessings or simply desire to experience serenity surrounding the temple grounds, Dhandeeswaram Temple is a good starting point for exploring the vibrant cultures and festivals of the region. So, plan your visit to this magnificent site and discover the rich spiritual heritage of Tamil Nadu with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Johann-Nikolaus Andreae / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only