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Murugan temples in Chennai, are important places of worship devoted to the respected Tamil deity, Lord Murugan (known as Kartikeya). Lord Murugan, the son of Shiva and Parvati, represents bravery, wisdom, and victory. Lord Murugan temples in Chennai are noted for their amazing architecture and vibrant religious festivals. Visitors come to these temples not only to pray but also to take part in various spiritual rituals and festivals that celebrate Lord Murugan’s significance. In Chennai, various temples are devoted to Lord Murugan, each reflecting unique customs and cultural history.
10 Best Murugan Temples In Chennai
Here is a list of the 10 best Murugan temples in Chennai, each offering a unique blend of history, architecture, and spiritual significance.
1. Vadapalani Murugan Temple
Photo: Calistemon / Wikimedia Commons
The Vadapalani Murugan Temple, located in the centre of Chennai, is one of the most prominent temples in the city and it is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is one of the best Murugan temples in Chennai. This temple attracts thousands of devotees daily due to its spiritual significance and reputation. It is said that the temple was initially established in the late 19th century by a devotee who enshrined a modest Murugan idol, which later gained considerable popularity. During festivals such as Skanda Shashti and Thai Poosam devotees participate in huge processions and ceremonies.
Location: Vadapalani, Chennai
Timings: 5 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
2. Thiruporur Murugan Temple
Photo: Ravindraboopathi / Wikimedia Commons
The Thiruporur Murugan Temple is a historic and famous temple in Chennai that was built in the 16th century by Chidambara Swamigal. This temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan, the Hindu god of war and wisdom and is special because it’s believed to be one of the places where Lord Murugan defeated the demon Surapadman. A large gopuram is present at the temple entrance along with sculptures of Lord Murugan, his consorts, and various scenes from legends. The temple hosts a grand festival during the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April), where rituals, music, and processions honour Lord Murugan. Devotees believe that prayers here bring courage, wisdom, and relief from life’s struggles.
Location: Thiruporur, 40 kilometres from Chennai
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
3. Kundrathur Murugan Temple
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Kundrathur Murugan shrine, located on a small hill, is a peaceful shrine devoted to Lord Murugan. It is believed to have been constructed by King Kulothunga Chola II during the Chola dynasty’s reign. The temple is built on a hillside, giving amazing views of the surrounding landscapes. Also, the temple is unique because it is one of the few temples where the idol of Lord Murugan faces north, which is considered quite rare and auspicious. The temple becomes particularly vibrant during the Thaipusam festival, attracting devotees to participate in numerous religious activities and rites.
Location: Kundrathur, 24 km from Chennai
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
4. Swaminatha Swamy Temple
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Swaminatha Swamy Temple, located in Swamimalai near Kumbakonam, is an essential spiritual place dedicated to Lord Murugan and one of his six holy abodes (Arupadai Veedu). This temple is roughly 275 kilometres from Chennai and lies atop a tiny hill, requiring pilgrims to walk 60 stairs to access the main shrine. The temple architecture is a remarkable illustration of the Dravidian style, with its towering gopurams and finely carved pillars. Swaminatha Swamy Temple attracts thousands of devotees, notably during Skanda Shashti and Thai Poosam, which are celebrated with magnificent processions and rituals.
Location: Swamimalai, 275 miles from Chennai
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
5. Thiruthani Murugan Temple
Photo: Srithern / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Thiruthani Murugan Temple, located 84 kilometres from Chennai, is one of the six abodes of Lord Murugan. Located on top of a hill, this temple bears enormous significance since it is said to be where Lord Murugan rested after conquering the demon Surapadman. It is reached by climbing 365 stairs, symbolising the days of the year. The area’s peaceful setting and scenic view draw many devotees throughout the year. Thiruthani Murugan Temple is also recognised for its healing qualities, with many devotees travelling to seek physical and emotional healing by prayers.
Location: Thiruthani, 84 miles from Chennai
Timings: 5:30 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
6. Tiruverkadu Sri Karumariamman Temple
Photo: gorkhe1980 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Tiruverkadu Sri Karumariamman Temple is located at the Tiruverkadu, roughly 10 kilometres from Koyambedu. Although primarily dedicated to Goddess Karumariamman, the temple also has a shrine for Lord Murugan, making it a significant religious site for Murugan devotees. A unique feature of this temple is the ‘Amman Oonjal’ ceremony, where the goddess’s idol is placed on a swing, symbolising her gentle care for her devotees. Many people visit to pray for family health, happiness, and success from Goddess Karumariamman and Lord Murugan.
Location: Tiruverkadu, Chennai
Timings: 5 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
7. Pazhani Andavar Temple
Photo: Rejeesh Irinave / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Pazhani Andavar Temple, located on top of Palani hills, is one of the most famous temples dedicated to Lord Murugan in Chennai. This temple is regarded as one of Lord Murugan’s six holy abodes and a popular pilgrimage destination for Murugan followers. To reach the temple, pilgrims must climb a flight of steps or take a rope car to the summit. The temple is recognised for its famous idol of Lord Murugan, fashioned from a unique mixture of herbs, which is supposed to have excellent healing abilities.
Location: Pazhani, 528 kilometres from Chennai
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
8. Sri Parthasarathy Temple
Photo: Destination8infinity / Wikimedia Commons
Sri Parthasarathy Temple, located in the lively suburb of Triplicane, Chennai, is one of the city’s most revered and oldest temples in Chennai. While primarily dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple also has a modest shrine for Lord Murugan, making it a favourite site for Murugan worshippers. The temple’s complex Dravidian architecture, with its towering gopurams and rich sculptures, is a tribute to its historical significance, dating back to the Pallava dynasty. Sri Parthasarathy Temple is a dynamic hub of spiritual activity, with frequent poojas, festivals, and religious activities throughout the year.
Location: Triplicane, Chennai
Timings: 5:30 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
9. Kachapeswarar Temple
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Kachapeswarar Temple, located in the temple town of Kanchipuram, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It holds significance to Lord Murugan due to the modest shrine, built especially for him. One unique element here is the shrine for Goddess Soundaryanayaki, which is carved with great detail and surrounded by smaller idols representing various forms of the goddess. The temple also includes a Nandi Mandapam, where a well-crafted statue of Nandi (the sacred bull of Lord Shiva) sits facing the sanctum. The lovely and calm setting of the temple, combined with its historical significance, makes it a must-visit for devotees of Lord Murugan and Lord Shiva.
Location: Kanchipuram, 72 km from Chennai
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
10. Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temple
Photo: Ksiva21 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temple, located in the Besant Nagar region of Chennai, is a symbolic portrayal of the six sacred abodes of Lord Murugan. This temple is next to a lovely beach and provides a peaceful place for prayer and meditation. Each shrine within the temple represents one of the six abodes of Murugan, making it an ideal spot for devotees who seek to experience the essence of all the six holy manifestations in one place. Festivals such as Skanda Shashti are celebrated with special poojas, attracting vast audiences who gather to seek Lord Murugan’s blessings.
Location: Besant Nagar, Chennai
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
The Murugan temples in Chennai offer a rich spiritual experience for believers. Each temple has its particular beauty, from old traditions to artistic architectural wonders. Visiting these temples is not simply a journey of religion but also an exploration of Tamil Nadu’s rich culture and history. Ready to explore these great temples? Book your journey with TripXL today and start your spiritual adventure.
Cover Photo: Vkraja / Wikimedia Commons
