Top 10 Famous Temples in Chennai
Kapaleeshwarar Temple is one of the most famous temples in Chennai, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built in Dravidian architectural style, this temple is believed to be over 1,300 years old.
Why it’s famous
Major landmark among famous Shiva temples in Chennai
Known for its towering gopuram
The annual Arupathimoovar festival attracts lakhs of devotees
Rich Saivite history mentioned in ancient Tamil literature
Distance from Koyambedu Bus Stand: ~10 km
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or during festivals (Feb–Mar)
Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Vadapalani Murugan Temple is one of Chennai’s most visited temples, dedicated to Lord Muruga. It is especially popular among film personalities.
Why it’s famous
One of the most visited Murugan temples in Chennai
Known for fulfilling marriage and career-related prayers
Dates back over 125 years
Devotees perform tonsuring and special poojas
Distance from Koyambedu Bus Stand: ~3 km
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings, or during Skanda Sashti
Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
The Parthasarathy Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna in his Parthasarathy form. It is one of the oldest temples in Tamil Nadu, built in the 8th century.
Why it’s famous
One of the top Perumal temples in Chennai
Five different avatars of Vishnu are worshipped here
Beautiful Dravidian architecture
A must-visit for Vaishnavite devotees
Distance from Koyambedu Bus Stand: ~11 km
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Morning hours, December (Margazhi month)
Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
This beachside temple is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi in 8 forms, making it one of the most unique Amman temples in Chennai.
Why it’s famous
Located near Elliot’s Beach
Eight shrines stacked across multiple levels
Peaceful atmosphere and sea breeze
Beautiful evening lighting
Distance from Koyambedu Bus Stand: ~15 km
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Sunset hours, Fridays, and festivals
Timings: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva as Marundeeswarar (God of Medicine). Devotees believe visiting this temple helps with health issues.
Why it’s famous
Known for healing prayers
Classical Dravidian architecture
Mentioned in ancient Shaivite hymns
Distance from Koyambedu Bus Stand: ~16 km
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Early mornings, Pradosham days
Timings: 5:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Dedicated to Goddess Kalikambal, this temple is known for its powerful energy and long history.
Why it’s famous
Shivaji Maharaj is believed to have worshipped here
Popular for business prosperity prayers
Strong spiritual vibrations
Distance from Koyambedu Bus Stand: ~12 km
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Tuesdays, Fridays
Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in Anantha Padmanabha form.
Why it’s famous
Peaceful atmosphere
Majestic shrine with reclining Vishnu
Ideal for Vaishnavites seeking calm spiritual space
Distance from Koyambedu Bus Stand: ~14 km
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Morning hours
Timings: 6:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
This temple dates back to the 7th century and is maintained by the HR&CE board.
Why it’s famous
Ancient Chola-era construction
Popular among devotees seeking relief from health issues
Strong energy around the Shiva lingam
Distance from Koyambedu Bus Stand: ~6 km
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings
Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
This Vinayagar temple is widely visited for new beginnings and obstacle removal.
Why it’s famous
Very powerful Ganesha idol
Frequented by students and business owners
Peaceful atmosphere
Distance from Koyambedu Bus Stand: ~5 km
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Early morning, Sankatahara Chaturthi
Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
This temple is perfect for devotees who prefer peaceful, non-crowded Perumal temples.
Why it’s famous
Beautiful architecture
Peaceful environment
Ideal for meditation and spiritual reflection
Distance from Koyambedu Bus Stand: ~18 km
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time to Visit: Morning hours
Timings: 6:00 AM – 11:30 AM, 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
