Chennai, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, is home to a vast array of temples that reflect the city’s deep spiritual roots and architectural splendor.
These temples, some centuries old, showcase the magnificence of Dravidian architecture with intricately carved gopurams (gateway towers), vibrant sculptures, and sacred rituals.
Among the most iconic is the Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, dedicated to Lord Shiva, which stands as a hallmark of tradition and religious devotion.
Similarly, the Parthasarathy Temple in Triplicane, one of the oldest in the city, is revered for its association with Lord Krishna and its rich Vaishnavite heritage.
Beyond these major landmarks, Chennai hosts a variety of temples dedicated to different deities, each offering a unique spiritual experience.
The Ashtalakshmi Temple by the seashore in Besant Nagar is a visual and devotional delight, celebrating the eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi.
The Vadapalani Murugan Temple is a favorite among devotees seeking blessings for marriage and success.
From the ancient Marundeeswarar Temple in Thiruvanmiyur to the towering Hanuman statue at the Nanganallur Anjaneyar Temple, Chennai’s temples not only serve as centers of worship but also as living museums of art, history, and culture. Here’s the list of most famous temples in Chennai.
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List of Popular Temples in Chennai
1 | Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Kapaleeshwarar Temple is one of the most iconic temples in Chennai, renowned for its stunning Dravidian architecture and deep spiritual significance.
Located in the bustling neighborhood of Mylapore, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Kapaleeshwarar, and his consort Goddess Parvati as Karpagambal.
As one of the most visited temples in Chennai, it draws devotees and tourists alike who come to admire its intricately carved gopuram, vibrant festivals like Panguni Peruvizha, and the rich cultural atmosphere that surrounds it.
The temple stands as a timeless symbol of the city’s religious devotion and heritage.
2 | Parthasarathy Temple
Parthasarathy Temple is one of the most revered temples in Chennai, located in the historic neighborhood of Triplicane.
Dedicated to Lord Krishna, who is worshipped here as Parthasarathy—the charioteer of Arjuna—this temple holds great significance for Vaishnavites and is known for its ancient origins dating back to the 8th century Pallava period.
As one of the oldest functioning temples in Chennai, it showcases classic Dravidian architecture, complete with intricately sculpted towers and sacred tanks.
Parthasarathy Temple stands out among the many temples in Chennai for its unique portrayal of Krishna with a mustache and battle scars, symbolizing his role in the Mahabharata.
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3 | Marundeeswarar Temple
Marundeeswarar Temple, located in Thiruvanmiyur, is one of the prominent temples in Chennai, dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as the God of Medicine—Marundeeswarar.
This ancient temple, with roots tracing back to the Chola dynasty, is renowned for its spiritual association with healing and wellness.
Devotees believe that worshiping here can bring relief from ailments, making it a significant pilgrimage site for those seeking good health.
Among the many temples in Chennai, Marundeeswarar Temple stands out for its serene ambiance, sacred medicinal plant garden, and traditional rituals that draw thousands of worshippers every year.
4 | Vadapalani Murugan Temple
Vadapalani Murugan Temple is one of the most popular temples in Chennai, dedicated to Lord Murugan, the Tamil god of war and wisdom.
Located in the bustling area of Vadapalani, this temple is especially revered by devotees seeking blessings for marriage, education, and career success.
Among the temples in Chennai, it is well-known for its vibrant rituals, frequent weddings, and the belief that prayers here are quickly answered.
With its richly adorned sanctum and welcoming atmosphere, the Vadapalani Murugan Temple continues to be a spiritual hub for both locals and visitors alike.
5 | Ashtalakshmi Temple
Ashtalakshmi Temple, located along the scenic shores of Besant Nagar, is one of the unique and visually captivating temples in Chennai.
Dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi in her eight divine forms—each representing different aspects of wealth and prosperity—the temple is designed across multiple levels, allowing devotees to worship each form individually.
Among the many temples in Chennai, Ashtalakshmi Temple stands out for its seaside location, peaceful ambiance, and intricate architectural details that reflect traditional South Indian craftsmanship.
It is a favored destination for those seeking blessings for prosperity, harmony, and well-being.
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6 | Kalikambal Temple
Kalikambal Temple, located in the heart of George Town, is one of the most historically significant temples in Chennai.
Dedicated to Goddess Kalikambal, a fierce form of Durga, this temple is revered for its powerful spiritual energy and ancient origins.
Among the many temples in Chennai, Kalikambal Temple is notable for its connection to historical figures, including the great Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji, who is believed to have worshipped here in the 17th century.
With its vibrant festivals, traditional rituals, and rich heritage, the temple continues to draw devotees seeking strength, protection, and blessings.
7 | Thiruvottiyur Thyagaraja Temple
Thiruvottiyur Thyagaraja Temple is one of the most ancient and revered temples in Chennai, known for its deep spiritual legacy and architectural splendor.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Adhipureeswarar, and Goddess Vadivudai Amman, the temple dates back to the 7th century and has been praised in the devotional hymns of Tamil Shaivite saints.
Among the temples in Chennai, this temple holds special significance as a Paadal Petra Sthalam, attracting devotees seeking divine grace and healing.
Its towering gopuram, sacred rituals, and historical importance make it a vital part of Chennai’s religious and cultural landscape.
8 | Chennakesava Perumal Temple
Chennakesava Perumal Temple, located in the bustling area of Parry’s Corner, is one of the oldest Vishnu temples in the city and holds a special place among the many temples in Chennai.
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Chennakesava Perumal, this temple is believed to have given the city its name—“Chenna” meaning beautiful.
Originally built by the Nayaks in the 17th century, the temple showcases classic South Indian architecture with intricate carvings and a peaceful atmosphere amid the urban hustle.
As one of the prominent temples in Chennai, it continues to draw devotees who seek blessings for prosperity, protection, and spiritual well-being.
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9 | Karaneeswarar Temple
Karaneeswarar Temple, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Saidapet, is one of the lesser-known yet spiritually significant temples in Chennai.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Karaneeswarar, or the “Lord of Causes,” this temple is believed to have been built during the Chola period and carries a rich legacy of devotion and traditional worship.
Among the many temples in Chennai, Karaneeswarar Temple stands out for its serene atmosphere, ancient architecture, and the strong local belief in the deity’s power to remove obstacles and grant boons.
It remains a cherished place of worship for devotees seeking peace, healing, and divine intervention.
10 | Kandhakottam Temple
Kandhakottam Temple, located in the George Town area, is one of the most prominent Murugan temples in Chennai and holds a special place among the revered temples in Chennai.
Dedicated to Lord Murugan, the temple dates back to the 17th century and is renowned for its grand Dravidian architecture and vibrant religious life.
Spread across eight acres, it features shrines for Lord Murugan along with his consorts Valli and Deivayanai, as well as other deities like Lord Ganesha and Lord Shiva.
The temple is also a cultural hub, supporting traditional arts and education. With festivals like Kandha Shashti and Panguni Uthiram celebrated with great fervor, Kandhakottam continues to be a vital spiritual center in the heart of the city.
11 | Shri Chandraprabhu Jain Naya Mandir
Shri Chandraprabhu Jain Naya Mandir, located at 142 Mint Street in Sowcarpet, George Town, Chennai, is one of the most prominent Jain temples in the city.
Dedicated to Lord Chandraprabhu, the eighth Tirthankara in Jainism, this temple is renowned for its exquisite white marble architecture, which draws inspiration from the Dilwara Temples of Rajasthan.
The temple features intricately carved pillars, detailed murals, and a serene ambiance, making it a significant spiritual site among the temples in Chennai.
It operates daily from 5:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM, welcoming devotees and visitors seeking peace and spiritual solace.
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12 | Mahalingapuram Ayyappan Temple
Mahalingapuram Ayyappan Temple, located in Nungambakkam, is one of the most significant temples in Chennai, particularly revered by devotees of Lord Ayyappa.
Constructed in 1974 under the guidance of Brahmasree Kanippayyur Sankaran Namboodiripad, the temple follows traditional Kerala-style architecture and rituals.
The temple complex houses shrines for Lord Ayyappa, Lord Guruvayurappan, Lord Ganesha, Lord Subramanya with his consorts, and Lord Ranganatha.
A unique feature of this temple is the 18 steps leading to the sanctum sanctorum, symbolizing various yogic and spiritual practices.
The temple is especially significant during the Mandalam-Makaravilakku season, attracting numerous devotees who undertake the 41-day fasting and pilgrimage to Sabarimala.
It also hosts various festivals such as Gokulashtami, Makar Sankranti, and Chitrai Vishu, drawing large crowds and fostering a sense of community among devotees.
13 | Sri Kamakshi Amman Temple
Sri Kamakshi Amman Temple, located in the historic city of Kanchipuram near Chennai, is one of the most revered temples in Chennai and a significant center of Shaktism in Tamil Nadu.
Dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, a form of Adi Parashakti, the temple is believed to have been established between the 5th and 8th centuries CE, possibly by the Pallava kings.
The temple is renowned for its serene ambiance and architectural grandeur, featuring a gold-plated sanctum (vimana) and a Sri Chakra installed by Adi Shankaracharya.
As one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, it holds immense spiritual significance, drawing devotees seeking blessings for various aspects of life.
The temple is also associated with the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham, a prominent religious institution. Major festivals celebrated here include Brahmotsavam and Navaratri, attracting thousands of devotees annually.
14 | Navagraha Temples
The Navagraha Temples are a unique group of nine temples in and around Chennai, each dedicated to one of the nine celestial bodies (Navagrahas) of Hindu astrology.
These temples in Chennai attract devotees seeking relief from planetary afflictions and blessings for health, prosperity, and harmony.
Unlike the traditional Navagraha temples located in Kumbakonam, the Chennai cluster allows urban residents easier access for worship and ritual observances.
Each temple is devoted to a specific planet, such as Surya (Sun), Chandra (Moon), and Shani (Saturn), and is visited based on individual astrological needs.
These sacred sites form an important spiritual circuit among the many diverse temples in Chennai.
15 | Adeeswar Temple
Adeeswar Temple, also known as Adhiswar Jain Temple, is one of the oldest and most historically significant Jain temples in Chennai, located near Red Hills in Puzhal.
Dedicated to Lord Rishabhadev, the first Tirthankara of Jainism, this temple is believed to have been established as early as the 1st century BCE.
Among the many temples in Chennai, Adeeswar Temple stands out for its ancient origins, peaceful ambiance, and Kalinga-style architecture adorned with intricate carvings.
It is a sacred site for the Jain community and continues to attract devotees and history enthusiasts seeking a glimpse into the region’s rich religious and cultural past.
16 | Anjaneya Swamy Temple
Anjaneya Swamy Temple in Nanganallur is one of the most renowned temples in Chennai, dedicated to Lord Hanuman.
Known for its towering 32-foot idol carved from a single piece of granite, the temple is a spiritual landmark and a major attraction for devotees seeking strength, courage, and protection from ailments.
Among the many temples in Chennai, this one stands out not only for its impressive architecture but also for its serene atmosphere and vibrant religious activities.
The temple complex also houses shrines for Lord Rama, Krishna, and Raghavendra, making it a holistic spiritual center for worshippers.
17 | Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple
Arulmigu Ramanatheswarar Temple in Porur is one of the ancient temples in Chennai, dedicated to Lord Shiva as Ramanatheswarar.
Believed to date back to the Chola period, it is associated with a legend of Lord Rama performing penance here.
The temple is also considered a Guru Sthalam, linked to the planet Jupiter, attracting devotees seeking blessings for knowledge and prosperity.
With its historical significance and serene atmosphere, it holds a special place among the temples in Chennai.
18 | Varasiddhi Vinayagar Temple
Varasiddhi Vinayagar Temple, located in Besant Nagar, Chennai, is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
The temple’s presiding deity is the Valampuri Varasiddhi Vinayagar, depicted with his consort Siddhi on his left. A miniature idol of Ganesha, originally worshipped at the temple’s former site, is installed above the main idol.
The temple also houses shrines for Lord Krishna, Lord Murugan, Lord Dakshinamurthy, and Goddess Durga. Notably, the Mahamandapam features stucco images representing 32 forms of Vinayaka.
Established in the early 1970s, the temple underwent its first Kumbabhishekam (consecration) in April 1979. It actively participates in community welfare activities, including providing food for the poor and conducting regular poojas.
The temple’s serene ambiance and spiritual significance make it a cherished destination among the many temples in Chennai.
19 | Nandeeswarar Temple
Nandeeswarar Temple, located in Adambakkam near St. Thomas Mount in Chennai, is one of the ancient temples in Chennai, dating back to approximately 950 CE.
Dedicated to Lord Shiva as Nandeeswarar and his consort Goddess Aavudai Nayagi (Gomathi), the temple is renowned for its historical significance and spiritual ambiance.
According to legend, Sage Bhringi performed intense penance here, and Lord Shiva appeared before him in the form of Nandi, leading to the deity’s name, Nandeeswarar.
The temple complex houses separate shrines for various deities, including Vinayaka, Vishnu, Subramanya, Bairavar, Brahma, Durga, Sandikeswarar, and the Navagrahas.
The idol of Nandeeswarar faces east, while Goddess Aavudai Nayagi faces south. The temple also features a Vilvam tree, considered the stala viruksham (sacred tree).
Special poojas are conducted on days like Pradosham, Shivaratri, and Mondays, attracting numerous devotees seeking blessings. Its rich history and serene atmosphere make it a significant destination among the many temples in Chennai.
20 | Kumaran Kundram Temple
Kumaran Kundram Temple, located atop a hill in Chromepet, Chennai, is a significant Murugan temple among the many temples in Chennai.
Established in 1979, it was envisioned by Chandrasekarendra Saraswati Swamigal of the Kanchi Mutt. The presiding deity, Sri Swaminathaswamy, is believed to be equivalent to the one in Swamimalai and stands atop the hillock facing north.
The temple complex includes shrines for Lord Shiva, Sarabeshwara, Goddess Ambal, and the Navagrahas. A five-tier Rajagopuram was constructed in 2014, and the temple hosts annual festivals like Soorasamhaaram and Karthigai Deepam, attracting numerous devotees.
The temple is open daily from 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM and 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM. Its serene atmosphere and spiritual significance make it a cherished destination among the temples in Chennai.
21 | Sri Prasanna Venkata Narasimha Perumal Temple
Sri Prasanna Venkata Narasimha Perumal Temple, located in West Saidapet, Chennai, is a revered Vaishnavite temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his combined forms as Venkateswara and Narasimha.
Believed to have been established during the Vijayanagara period, the temple’s origins trace back over 700 years, with inscriptions dating to 1421 CE.
The main deity, Prasanna Venkateswara Perumal, is enshrined in a standing posture alongside his consorts, Sri Devi and Bhu Devi.
A significant feature of the temple is the Yoga Narasimha idol, discovered during renovations, adding to its spiritual significance.
The temple complex also houses shrines for Sri Alarmel Mangai Thayar, Andal, Chakkarathalwar, and a separate shrine for Lord Rama, reflecting the temple’s rich religious heritage.
With its historical depth and architectural beauty, Sri Prasanna Venkata Narasimha Perumal Temple stands as a prominent destination among the many temples in Chennai.
Final Thoughts about Temples in Chennai
Temples in Chennai reflect the city’s deep-rooted spiritual heritage, vibrant traditions, and architectural splendor.
From ancient shrines like Kapaleeshwarar and Parthasarathy Temple to culturally significant sites like Vadapalani Murugan Temple and Adeeswar Jain Temple, Chennai offers a diverse tapestry of faiths and histories.
These temples not only serve as places of worship but also as centers of community life, art, and festivals, enriching the cultural fabric of the city.
Whether one seeks peace, devotion, or a glimpse into Tamil Nadu’s sacred past, the temples in Chennai provide a profound and inspiring experience.
