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The Marundeeswarar Temple, situated in Thiruvanmiyur in Chennai, is a prominent Indian temple of Lord Shiva. Here Lord Shiva is worshipped in the form of Marundeeswarar, the God of medicine. With an age of more than twelve centuries, this temple has an astonishing Dravidian style of architecture with beautifully carved stone pillars and a huge gopuram (tower). It is of great importance to the followers of this temple, especially to those who want to cure some disease. The peaceful environment is improved by the presence of a holy water well where the devotees carry out their activities.
Location
Photo: Booradleyp1 Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The temple is in the suburban town of Thiruvanmiyur, located in the city of Chennai, Tamil Nadu. This picturesque shrine is located close to the coast, thereby making it quite easy for visitors. The temple is of great cultural and religious importance as it enshrines Lord Shiva as Marundeeswarar, the god of cure. Being in the midst of a populated area, it attracts many devotees who come to seek its help and to look for a cure for problems. It is the age-old history and remarkable Dravidian art of the temple that makes it all the more attractive to barn tourists who wish to discover the spiritual fabric of Tamil Nadu.
How To Reach
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By Road: The temple is placed in Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai, which means that it is easily reachable by road. The visitors are able to hire a taxi or take the wheels themselves; the travel time depending on traffic conditions varies but usually takes close to 30 minutes from the city centre of Chennai.
Places To Visit In And Around Marundeeswarar Temple
1. Ekkatuthangal (Thiruneermalai Temple)
Photo: Chandan Parihar / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Around five kilometers away from the temple lies the Thiruneermalai Temple built in honor of Lord Murugan. This temple is famous for its mountain-top settling and ancient rock-carved buildings. It also provides a splendid view of the surroundings. Apart from that, the serene environment and the holy water pond add to the spiritual vibe of the place making it a great context for worshippers and sight-seers. People get to enjoy a calm environment while they engage in the rituals and the temple precincts.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
2. Besant Nagar (Elliot’s Beach)
Photo: Sridharan Chakravarthy / Wikimedia Commons
Approximately 3 kilometres away from the temple, Elliot’s Beach is a famous place for relaxation and recreation. This beach is a perfect respite from the madding crowds with its clean sands and peaceful surroundings, making it a great spot for walking around, admiring the sunsets at the beach, and even when carrying out the simple pleasure of sitting still. There are many eateries and cafes within the beach area, making it easy for visitors to grab a bite or a drink after the temple visit. Being such a place, it is a good location for relaxing and enjoying the coastline.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: N/A
3. Thiruvanmiyur (Marundeeswarar Temple Pond)
Photo: Velvet / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Situated in the temple premises, the temple Pond is a calm place for the devotees and the onlookers. The water body is viewed as holy and is often resorted for some rituals or ceremonies. The calmness and the lotus flowers add beauty to the place making it perfect for peaceful thoughts and meditation. The site explains the calmness that visitors can experience in regard to the sacredness of the site.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: N/A
4. Kottivakkam (Vivekananda House)
Photo: Bhaarathphotography / Wikimedia Commons
Situated at a distance of nearly 4km from the temple, Vivekananda House is a historical monument in memory of the famed monk. This heritage structure has impressive and relaxing architecture and a garden making it a nice place for visitors. The house further acts as a museum which illustrates the life and works of Swami Vivekananda, enriching the experience of the visitors in every cultural and spiritual way possible.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹10
5. Adyar (Theosophical Society)
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The Theosophical Society situated about six kilometres from the temple is a verdant haven with calming gardens. The society fosters the spirit of oneness wherever they are and spirituality within them, thus making it a perfect location to meditate and reflect. Metropolitan tourists can walk around and visit serene places like the famed Adyar banyan tree and the rest of the grounds without the distractions of the city.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
Where To Stay
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While there are no accommodations provided precisely inside the temple premises, there are some guesthouses and budget hotels available in the vicinity that make it possible to stay comfortably. Some of these include Hotel Crescent which is ideally situated a few meters from the temple, and Siva Residency which is well-regarded for its services. These places tend to offer breakfast or meals, wifi services and transport to places and sites of interest. Quite a number also offer tour guiding services in order to let you enjoy more of the cultures and history of the region.
Where To Eat
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The temple does not have restaurants in its vicinity, but there are numerous places to eat around Thiruvanmiyur. Saravana Bhavan, known for its authentic southern food, meaning Indian-style food toned down with lots of spices, is among the favourites as is A2B (Adyar Ananda Bhavan) which features entirely vegetarian cuisine with many options. If these are too bland for you, why not try Thalappakatti Restaurant and their spicy lamb biryani? Try Mami Tiffin Stall if you want something quicker or smaller than a meal.
Best Time To Visit
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The most appropriate period to visit the temple is between the months of October and March as the temperature is favorable for touring activities. The temple draws in a considerable number of worshippers during this time creating a vibrant environment which adds to the spiritual occasion. The cold season makes it possible for easy movement within the temple and its surrounding sites for visitors both physically and spiritually. This period also harbours a number of festivals and ceremonies which make it more enjoyable.
Other Factors To Consider
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Average Cost Of The Trip: Based on the trip expenses inclusive of transportation, lodging, and meals, it costs about ₹1500 to ₹4000 on average for one to visit the temple.
Tips For Travellers:
- Use sunscreen and bring water while visiting the temple to make sure you stay hydrated.
- Put on a pair of comfortable shoes as you will need to cover a lot of ground within the temple precincts and even beyond.
- Come early to beat the rush and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings.
- Observe the dress code as per the temple norms and visit the site dressed appropriately.
The Marundeeswarar Temple is an interesting tourist spot in Chennai, not only spiritually but also culturally and in terms of art. The atmosphere is calm, rich in history and has centres of interest around the temple making it enjoyable for both -devotees and tourists. Everyone, who wishes for healing blessings, a deeper level of spirituality or wants to know the culture. Plan a trip with TripXL and explore the temple along with the gorgeous Chennai city.
Cover Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
