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Dhenupureeswarar Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Madambakkam near Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The main deity, Dhenupureeswarar, symbolises Lord Shiva as a guardian of all living beings and has a special legend about Kamadhenu, the divine cow, Kabila, who was cursed by Lord Shiva. This temple dates back to the Chola period and is famous for its spiritual atmosphere and architectural heritage, attracting devotees who want to seek blessings and feel the essence of Tamil Nadu’s rich religious heritage.
Quick Facts
Dhenupureeswarar Temple Address: Madambakkam, Chennai (600126), Tamil Nadu
Dhenupureeswarar Temple Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Tambaram Railway Station
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Location
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This temple is located in the quiet locality of Madambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Its surroundings are thick foliage and several beautiful shrines that bring an otherwise city landscape to the peacefulness of the people visiting. The main roads via which the temple is approached are the Madambakkam Main Road and the Tambaram Velachery Road.
How To Reach
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By Air: Chennai International Airport is the nearest airport, which is about 16 km away from the temple. Taxis and local buses are available there to reach Madambakkam.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Tambaram Railway Station, which is 8 km from the temple. Autorickshaws or taxis can be hailed from there to reach the Dhenupreeswarar temple.
By Road: A road route can be taken off Tambaram-Velachery Road. There are buses and taxis to reach Madambakkam. The nearest bus station is Madambakkam Koil Stop, which is a few meters away from the temple.
Things To Do
1. Participate In The Daily Rituals And Festivals
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The daily abhishekam and alankaram at the temple make this abode of Lord Shiva well-developed in terms of spiritual affairs. These are not just ceremonies but reflections of the centuries-long tradition. During the respective period and festival seasons, including the sacred Maha Shivaratri and Arudra Darisanam, the temple is filled with devotees. These grand celebrations include colourful processions, lively cultural events, and traditional music that can be heard throughout the temple grounds.
2. Explore The Dravidian Architecture
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The architectural splendour of the temple is classic Dravidian architecture with intricately carved pillars, expansive mandapams, and a tall gopuram that attracts the eye. Constructed during the glorious Chola dynasty, the temple does show an array of sculptures detailing stories from Hindu mythology as testimonies to excellence in art of the times. Old stone carvings on stones speak of the long and rich history associated with South Indian temple architecture.
Places To Visit Around Dhenupureeswarar Temple
1. Chokkanathar Temple
Photo: எஸ். பி. கிருஷ்ணமூர்த்தி / Wikimedia Commons
Chokkanathar Temple is located in Thirumudivakkam. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and draws the attention of devotees through its serene surroundings and religious importance. It is believed that it has been in use for more than 2000 years and is related to the Pandya monarch Varaguna Pandian. This temple has inscriptions of Hoysala kings, the Vijayanagara donations, and accounts of later Nayaks and Marathas. The temple witnesses various local festivals, creating a lively atmosphere where followers gather for spiritual comfort.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4:30 PM – 8 PM
Distance: 20 km
2. Sri Veera Anjaneya Temple
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The Veera Anjaneya temple at Tambaram is a place dedicated to Lord Hanuman. He is called Veera Anjaneya, symbolising courage and strength. This temple is known for its gigantic Hanuman idol and is one of the important destinations where people come seeking blessings for courage and protection. The shrine is popular at its location largely because of the custom practised by the devotees of tying or hanging saffron bags (or coconut bags) and completing 11 rounds around the temple while chanting “Sri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram.”
Timings: 5:30 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
Distance From Dhenupureeswarar Temple: 18 km
3. Kailasanathar Temple
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons
The Kailasanathar Temple of Kanchipuram is an exquisite structure built adhering to the principles of Pallava architecture during the reign of Narasimhavarman II with some additions of his successor Mahendravarman III about 700 CE. The temple has a Dravidian architecture style dedicated to Lord Shiva. Nine shrines surround the main sanctum, with 7 to the outside and 2 to the inside, all representatives of different forms of Shiva.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Distance From Dhenupureeswarar Temple: 60 km
4. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
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The Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, located in Tamil Nadu at Mylapore, is visited by many and offers them peace and comfort in spirituality. This temple is designed like the original at Shirdi, which houses a lifelike statue of Sai Baba. The temple conducts special aartis four times a day, which includes the Kakad Aarti in the morning and the Shej Aarti at night. Thursdays are more conclusive and expressive of faith, as many visit the temple to seek blessings and help in community services.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
Distance From Dhenupureeswarar Temple: 16 km
5. Madambakkam Lake
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Madambakkam is a beautiful place and scenic spot near the temple. This is a relaxing place for nature lovers. The lake area has emerged as a favourite spot for morning walkers and picnics, with beautiful surroundings. One can also observe birds and local wild animals that inhabit the region while soaking in the natural beauty of the lake. This environment complements the spiritual sojourn of those with a plan to visit the nearby temples and mix devotion and exploration right in the heart of Madambakkam.
Timings: 24*7
Distance From Dhenupureeswarar Temple: 2 km
Where To Stay
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Hotel Lemon Tree is a good option for an effortless stay near the temple with modern facilities, easy access to local places, and quality service at a mid-range budget. Hotel Mamalla Heritage is easy on the pocket with all the basic facilities; it offers a clean, cosy environment, which makes it suitable for budget travellers. For a luxurious feel, Hotel Ramada Plaza Chennai, near the airport, has high-class facilities in the areas of a spa, pool, fine dining, and much more, promising rejuvenation with a premium experience.
Where To Eat
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The traditional breakfast menu at Murugan Idli Shop in Tambaram includes popular South Indian items such as soft idlis and crispy dosas, which the locals and visitors relish. Adyar Ananda Bhavan, close to this place, serves a range of South Indian meals, snacks, and sweets that incorporate traditional tastes and quality. Ponnusamy Hotel in Chennai specialises in spicy Chettinad cuisine, where dishes like Chettinad Chicken Curry give the customer a richly flavoured meal.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Amar Prakash Pandey / Unsplash
The best time to visit the temple is from November to February, as it is cool and pleasant weather during this time. It is comfortable for travelling, sightseeing, and visiting the temples.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip:
For a weekend visit, this costs between ₹3,000 and ₹10,000 per person, which includes transportation, accommodation, and food. Budget-friendly hotel accommodations near the site and trying local cuisine keep costs low but still well within the comfort and enjoyment of a cultural experience.
Tips For Travellers:
- Visitors are generally expected to be modestly dressed, and shoes should be removed before entering the temple grounds.
- Visit the temple at non-peak hours, early mornings, or late evenings when the temple is less crowded.
Beyond being a place of worship, Dhenupureeswarar Temple is an all-immersive experience with South India’s legacy, a blend of peace, culture, and history. This temple is a must-visit destination for any traveller visiting Tamil Nadu, bringing together tradition and beauty that appears to resonate with every faith of the visitor as well as those eager to explore India’s heritage. So, plan a trip with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Richard Mortel / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
