Top 10 Famous Temples in Chennai – A Spiritual Journey

Published on Jun 24, 2025

Chennai, the capital city of Tamil Nadu, is not only a hub of culture and commerce but also a sacred land dotted with centuries-old temples. Known for their spiritual significance, intricate Dravidian architecture, and rich heritage, the famous temples in Chennai attract thousands of devotees and tourists every year.

If you are planning a spiritual getaway or a cultural tour of South India, don’t miss these iconic landmarks. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 famous temples in Chennai that you must visit.

Top 10 famous temples in Chennai

1. Kapaleeshwarar Temple – The Heart of Mylapore

This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most famous temples in Chennai. Built in the 7th century by the Pallavas, the temple features towering gopurams (gateways), intricate carvings, and a vibrant atmosphere, especially during festivals like Arubathimoovar.

Location: Mylapore
Deity: Lord Shiva (Kapaleeshwarar)
Highlight: Annual chariot festival and evening poojas

2. Parthasarathy Temple – Chennai’s Historic Vaishnavite Shrine

Situated in Triplicane, this 8th-century temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna as Parthasarathy (Charioteer of Arjuna). It’s one of the oldest temples in the city and part of the top 10 famous temples in Chennai due to its religious and historical significance.

Location: Triplicane
Deity: Lord Krishna
Highlight: Unique deity form depicting war wounds of Mahabharata

3. Vadapalani Murugan Temple – For Marriage Blessings

Famous for blessing devotees with marriage and career success, this temple is dedicated to Lord Muruga. It’s known for its beautiful murals and swift fulfillment of prayers.

 

Location: Vadapalani
Deity: Lord Murugan
Highlight: Believed to fulfill marriage and career-related wishes

4. Marundeeswarar Temple – The Lord of Healing

Located in Thiruvanmiyur, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva as the God of Medicine. Devotees pray here for healing from ailments, making it one of the most spiritually powerful and famous temples in Chennai.

Location: Thiruvanmiyur
Deity: Marundeeswarar (Lord Shiva)
Highlight: Healing prayers and herbal traditions

5. Ashtalakshmi Temple – Blessings of Eight Forms of Lakshmi

This seaside temple is dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi in her eight manifestations—wealth, health, success, progeny, etc. The unique multi-tier structure and sea-facing location make it a peaceful destination.

Location: Besant Nagar
Deity: Ashta Lakshmi
Highlight: Located near the beach, known for financial blessings

6. Kalikambal Temple – Visited by Chhatrapati Shivaji

Dedicated to Goddess Kalikambal (a fierce form of Parvati), this temple in George Town has historical relevance as it was visited by Chhatrapati Shivaji in 1677. It’s deeply rooted in local traditions and spirituality.

Location: Parry's Corner (George Town)
Deity: Kalikambal Devi
Highlight: Shivaji Maharaj’s visit is commemorated here

7. ISKCON Temple Chennai – For Peace and Devotion

This temple is part of the worldwide ISKCON movement. Dedicated to Lord Krishna and Radha, it offers kirtans, spiritual classes, prasadam, and more.

Location: Injambakkam
Deity: Radha-Krishna
Highlight: Spiritual retreats and cultural programs

8. Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple – Kerala-style Architecture

Modeled after the Padmanabhaswamy temple in Kerala, this temple in Adyar is known for its peaceful surroundings and unique design.

Location: Adyar
Deity: Lord Vishnu
Highlight: Architecture inspired by Kerala temples

9. Shirdi Sai Baba Temple – A Modern-Day Spiritual Hub

One of the famous temples in Chennai for Sai devotees, this temple in Mylapore is known for its serene ambiance and regular bhajans, aratis, and charity programs.

 

Location: Mylapore
Deity: Shirdi Sai Baba
Highlight: Daily prayers and spiritual services

10. Sri Ramakrishna Math Temple – A Place for Meditation and Wisdom

Not just a temple but a spiritual center, this math is built in memory of Sri Ramakrishna and promotes meditation, learning, and service.

Location: Mylapore
Deity: Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa
Highlight: Peaceful setting for meditation and spiritual talks

Why You Should Visit These Famous Temples in Chennai

• Spiritual Experience: These temples offer a deep connection to faith and tradition.

• Architectural Marvels: Admire centuries-old Dravidian and modern South Indian temple styles.

• Cultural Immersion: Witness traditional rituals, festivals, and local heritage.

Plan Your Temple Tour with Ease

If you are an international traveler looking to explore the divine and cultural side of India, you can book India Tour Packages From Driver India Private Tour. Their customizable packages include temple tours in Chennai and other spiritual destinations across Tamil Nadu and South India.

They offer:

• Private chauffeur-driven cars

• Guided temple visits

• Hotel bookings and local tips

• Tailored itineraries for USA, UK, and global travelers

Final Thoughts

The famous temples in Chennai are more than just places of worship—they are gateways to the city’s soul. Whether you're seeking blessings, peace, or cultural knowledge, visiting these temples will leave you with a profound experience.

 

So next time you’re in Chennai, make sure to explore the top 10 famous temples in Chennai for a journey that touches both your heart and spirit.