Top 15 Religious Places to Visit in Chennai
Chennai, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, is home to some of the most revered and architecturally stunning religious places in Chennai. From ancient temples in Chennai to modern spiritual spots, the city offers a diverse array of sacred sites that are deeply connected to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of South India. Let’s explore the top 15 religious places in Chennai where history, architecture, and spirituality come together beautifully.
Top 15 Religious Places to Visit in Chennai
1. Kapaleeshwarar Temple
One of the most famous temples in Chennai, Kapaleeshwarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its magnificent Dravidian architecture.
Location: Mylapore
Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Nearest Metro Station: Mylapore (Chennai Metro)
Route & Restrictions: No photography allowed inside the temple.
2. Sri Parthasarathy Temple
This temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is one of the oldest in the city. It’s a must-visit religious spot in Chennai for devotees of Lord Parthasarathy.
Location: Triplicane
Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Nearest Metro Station: Triplicane (Chennai Metro)
Route & Restrictions: No footwear inside the temple.
3. San Thome Basilica
A famous Christian religious place in Chennai, San Thome Basilica is one of the only three churches in the world built over the tomb of an Apostle of Jesus Christ.
Location: San Thome
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Nearest Metro Station: San Thome (Chennai Metro)
Route & Restrictions: Visitors are required to maintain decorum.
4. Sri Vadapalani Andavar Temple
A significant temple in Chennai, Sri Vadapalani Andavar Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is an important pilgrimage site for devotees.
Location: Vadapalani
Timings: 5:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Nearest Metro Station: Vadapalani (Chennai Metro)
Route & Restrictions: Photography is prohibited during pooja.
5. Mariamman Temple
Famous for its colorful architecture, Mariamman Temple is dedicated to the goddess Mariamman, the deity of rain and fertility.
Location: Chennai City Center
Timings: 5:30 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Nearest Metro Station: Central (Chennai Metro)
Route & Restrictions: No entry during festivals.
6. Arulmigu Kapaleeswarar Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is well known for its grand festivals, especially during the Panguni Uthiram festival.
Location: Mylapore
Timings: 5:30 AM – 12:30 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Nearest Metro Station: Mylapore (Chennai Metro)
Route & Restrictions: Proper dress code required.
7. Elliot’s Beach (Besant Nagar Beach)
A unique spiritual place in Chennai, Elliot’s Beach is home to the Ashtalakshmi Temple, dedicated to the eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi.
Location: Besant Nagar
Timings: 5:30 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Nearest Metro Station: Besant Nagar (Chennai Metro)
Route & Restrictions: No entry after evening in certain areas.
8. Theosophical Society
While not a traditional temple, this spiritual place in Chennai is dedicated to the study of philosophy and religion, and offers tranquility and peace.
Location: Adyar
Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Nearest Metro Station: Adyar (Chennai Metro)
Route & Restrictions: Entry permitted only with a pass.
9. Sri Ramakrishna Math
This revered spiritual spot in Chennai is dedicated to the teachings of Sri Ramakrishna and Swami Vivekananda. It is a hub for meditation and reflection.
Location: Mylapore
Timings: 5:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Nearest Metro Station: Mylapore (Chennai Metro)
Route & Restrictions: No footwear inside the prayer hall.
10. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple
Dedicated to Sai Baba, this temple is a place for peace, prayers, and healing, offering solace to thousands of devotees.
Location: Poonamallee
Timings: 5:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Nearest Metro Station: Poonamallee (Chennai Metro)
Route & Restrictions: Respectful behavior is expected.
11. Thousand Lights Mosque
A major religious place in Chennai, this mosque is a serene and peaceful place for Muslims. Known for its historical value and beautiful architecture.
Location: Anna Salai
Timings: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Nearest Metro Station: AG-DMS (Chennai Metro)
Route & Restrictions: Open to all, but visitors should respect religious customs.
12. St. Thomas Mount
This hilltop church is believed to be the spot where St. Thomas, one of Jesus’s Apostles, was martyred. A significant Christian sacred place in Chennai.
Location: St. Thomas Mount
Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Nearest Metro Station: St. Thomas Mount (Chennai Metro)
Route & Restrictions: Visitors must climb up the hill to reach the church.
13. Vivekananda House
Also known as Vivekananda Kendra, this historical building is dedicated to Swami Vivekananda and hosts many activities related to his teachings.
Location: Marina Beach
Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Nearest Metro Station: Marina (Chennai Metro)
Route & Restrictions: Entry free; however, it is closed on public holidays.
14. The Sri Ayyappa Temple
A temple dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, this place is peaceful and tranquil, offering a place of worship for devotees.
Location: Nanganallur
Timings: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Nearest Metro Station: Nanganallur (Chennai Metro)
Route & Restrictions: No restrictions, but dress modestly.
15. Kandhakottam Temple
This temple dedicated to Lord Murugan is an important place of worship for locals and visitors alike. Known for its peaceful ambiance and spiritual vibes.
Location: Nungambakkam
Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Nearest Metro Station: Nungambakkam (Chennai Metro)
Route & Restrictions: Open to all; however, no photography allowed inside.
Also Read:- 15 Religious Places to Visit in Hyderabad
FAQs:
1. What are the best temples to visit in Chennai?
Some of the best temples include Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Sri Parthasarathy Temple, and Vadapalani Andavar Temple.
2. How do I reach Sri Parthasarathy Temple from the metro?
Take the Chennai Metro to Triplicane Station, and the temple is just a short walk from there.
3. Is photography allowed inside the temples in Chennai?
Some temples, like Gavi Gangadhareshwara Temple, prohibit photography during rituals. It’s best to check the temple’s policy before visiting.
4. What is the best time to visit the temples in Chennai?
The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the temples are less crowded, and you can enjoy the peace and quiet.