Parthasarathy Temple Triplicane Chennai
Chennai's ancient 8th-century temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, featuring unique 'Meesai Perumal' and stunning Dravidian architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful darshan, fewer crowds
Parthasarathy Temple Triplicane Chennai
Best Time
Peaceful darshan, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Chennai's ancient 8th-century temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, featuring unique 'Meesai Perumal' and stunning Dravidian architecture.
"An amazing experience; the collective chanting and architectural beauty were enchanting. You'll get inner peace."
🎯 Dress Modestly :dress:
Cover shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts and revealing attire to show respect.
👟 Remove Footwear :athletic_shoe:
Leave your shoes at the designated spots before entering the main temple complex.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Meesai Perumal
Central Shrine
The unique moustached form of Lord Krishna, a rare and iconic sight that draws devotees and visitors alike.
Ancient Architecture
Temple Complex
Marvel at the Dravidian style, towering gopuram, ornate pillars, and intricate carvings dating back centuries.
Panchamurthi Sthalam
Various Shrines
Explore shrines dedicated to Yoga Narasimha, Rama, Gajendra Varadaraja, and Ranganatha alongside Parthasarathy.
Temple Tank (Theppam)
Adjacent to Temple
A serene water body often used for festivals, offering a peaceful spot for reflection and photography.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Respectful Attire and Customs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Dress Modestly :dress:
Cover shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts and revealing attire to show respect.
👟 Remove Footwear :athletic_shoe:
Leave your shoes at the designated spots before entering the main temple complex.
📸 Photography Etiquette :camera_with_flash:
Be mindful of where photography is permitted; often restricted inside sanctums.
🙏 Embrace the Peace :pray:
Even with crowds, try to soak in the spiritual ambiance and ancient vibes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Dress Modestly :dress:
Cover shoulders and knees. Avoid shorts and revealing attire to show respect.
👟 Remove Footwear :athletic_shoe:
Leave your shoes at the designated spots before entering the main temple complex.
📸 Photography Etiquette :camera_with_flash:
Be mindful of where photography is permitted; often restricted inside sanctums.
🙏 Embrace the Peace :pray:
Even with crowds, try to soak in the spiritual ambiance and ancient vibes.
😋 Taste the Prasadam :yum:
Don't miss the sweet Ven Pongal, believed to be made with ghee to soothe deity's wounds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Parthasarathy Temple for its profound spiritual ambiance, rich history, and unique 'Meesai Perumal' idol. Many find the architecture awe-inspiring and the prasadam delicious. However, some note that the temple could benefit from improved cleanliness and that priests can sometimes seem rushed due to large crowds.
"What a temple is this. Loved this. I went this weekend and found one of the beautiful temple. I feel that the temple needs so more cleaning and hygiene due to huge crowd and will work better than now. I really felt blessed to get a chance to visit these places.
The only thing I found about the priests, they are always into rush in any famous temples. Even though less crowd they always ask devotees to go out as fast as they can. But if you see positive sides then one of the best temple to visit in Chennai. Lovely."
Being_Reviewer
"Arulmigu Sri Parthasarathyswamy Temple – Triplicane, Chennai
Visited this ancient temple in central Chennai and was deeply moved by its spiritual ambiance and rich heritage. Here's what stood out:
History & Architecture
One of Chennai’s oldest surviving temples, originally built by the Pallavas in the 6th–8th century, then expanded by the Cholas and later Vijayanagara kings .
A proud Divya Desam, praised in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham by the Alvars .
Features classic Dravidian structure: towering Raja Gopuram, ornate stone pillars, 36-pillared mandapam, and detailed carvings .
Multiple Forms of Perumal
Central shrine houses Lord Parthasarathy (Krishna–Charioteer of Arjuna), unique with a moustache (“Meesai Perumal”) and holding only a conch (no discus), believed to bear Bheeshma’s arrow scars from Kurukshetra .
Other shrines honor Yoga Narasimha, Rama, Gajendra Varadaraja, and Ranganatha, making it a revered Panchamurthi sthalam .
Meesai Perumal & Variants
The moustached form is an iconic visual; during certain days of Vaikunta Ekadasi, he's shown without a moustache, symbolizing humility .
The temple also includes a distinct shrine for Yoga Narasimha, with its own entrance and dhvajastambha .
Prasadam
The Ven Pongal served here is particularly sweet and rich, made with extra ghee and cashews—believed to soothe the deity's arrow wounds .
Common temple prasadam like Puliyodarai is also loved by devotees .
Location & Atmosphere
Situated in the heart of Triplicane, just a few minutes from Marina Beach, yet it feels like a peaceful oasis .
Real devotees comment on its positive aura, dedicated priests, and well-maintained grounds .
Festivals & Events
Major celebrations include Chittirai Brahmotsavam, Vaikunta Ekadasi, and the Masi (February–March) Theppam (float festival) in the temple tank .
The annual Ramanujar festival is significant—legend says his father performed a Putrakameshti yagna here and received the blessing that Ramanuja would be born .
Summary
A divine blend of ancient architecture, living tradition, and deep Vaishnava devotion—this temple is high on my list for anyone seeking spiritual depth or historical richness in Chennai. The sight of Meesai Perumal, the serene tank, and the lusciously sweet prasadam make it unforgettable."
Jagankumar E
"An amazing experience. I'm not a religious person but the collective chanting of the mantras and the architectural beauty was enchanting. Whenever you visit Chennai, try this place at least once. You'll get inner peace."
Madhurima Roychowdhury
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The temple is located in Triplicane, a well-connected area in Chennai. You can easily reach it by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or local bus. The nearest railway station is Chennai Central, from where you can take a taxi or bus.
Parking can be challenging in the busy Triplicane area. It's advisable to use ride-sharing services or public transport. If driving, look for designated parking areas or be prepared to park a short walk away.
Yes, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Ola are readily available in Chennai and can drop you directly at the temple. This is a convenient option for many visitors.
Parthasarathy Temple is just a few minutes away from Marina Beach. You can easily walk, take a short auto-rickshaw ride, or a quick bus journey to reach the temple.
Triplicane can experience heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. It's best to check live traffic updates on your navigation app before heading out to choose the most efficient route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the main temple complex is generally free for devotees. However, special 'darshan' tickets might be available for quicker access during peak times, though this is not always explicitly advertised.
The temple typically opens early in the morning and closes in the evening. Specific timings can vary, but it's usually open from around 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM and then from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. It's always good to check locally for any changes.
No advance booking is usually required for general darshan. The temple operates on a first-come, first-served basis for most visitors.
During major festivals like Brahmotsavam or Vaikunta Ekadasi, the temple may have extended hours or specific darshan timings. It's advisable to check the temple's official announcements or local news for festival schedules.
While there might be designated areas or faster queues for certain individuals, the general public can access the temple during its operating hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The temple is renowned for its 'Meesai Perumal' (moustached Lord Krishna), its ancient Pallava architecture, and being a Divya Desam praised by Alvars. It also houses shrines for multiple forms of Vishnu.
Modest clothing is essential. Wear attire that covers your shoulders and knees. Traditional Indian wear like sarees, salwar kameez, or kurtas are common and appropriate.
Photography is generally permitted in the outer courtyards and areas with architectural interest. However, it is usually prohibited inside the inner sanctums and around the main deity.
A typical visit can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on the crowd and how much time you spend exploring the different shrines and admiring the architecture.
While the ancient structure might present some challenges, efforts are often made to accommodate visitors. It's best to inquire at the temple entrance about accessibility options.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the temple offers delicious prasadam, most notably the sweet Ven Pongal, which is said to be made with extra ghee and cashews. Puliyodarai is also a popular offering.
Triplicane offers various local eateries and restaurants serving South Indian cuisine. You can find simple tiffin centers to more elaborate dining options nearby.
Absolutely. Chennai, and Triplicane in particular, is known for its vegetarian South Indian food. You'll find plenty of options for dosas, idlis, vadas, and thalis.
While the focus is on spiritual offerings, some temples may have small stalls selling water or basic religious items. It's advisable to carry your own water bottle.
The sweet Ven Pongal is particularly famous and is believed to have medicinal properties, made with ghee to soothe the deity's arrow wounds.
📸 📸 Photography
The towering gopuram, the intricately carved pillars in the mandapams, and the temple tank offer excellent photographic opportunities. The exterior architecture is also very photogenic.
No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the inner sanctums and around the main deity to maintain the sanctity of the place.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for photography. The golden hour can create beautiful shots of the temple's exterior.
Focus on the detailed stone carvings, the unique 'Meesai Perumal' idol, the 36-pillared mandapam, and the ornate 'Raja Gopuram'.
Tripods might be restricted, especially during crowded times. It's best to check with temple authorities or security personnel before setting up.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Solo Travelers & Backpackers
The temple's location in Triplicane means you're close to other city attractions and public transport, making it easy to navigate. Engage with the peaceful ambiance, perhaps try the local street food in the vicinity, and use the opportunity for quiet reflection or photography. 🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Architecture of Parthasarathy Temple
As a Divya Desam, it holds immense significance for Vaishnavites, having been praised by the early Alvars in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham.
The Unique Deities of Parthasarathy Temple
Beyond the main deity, the temple is a Panchamurthi Sthalam, housing shrines for five forms of Lord Vishnu. These include Yoga Narasimha (a fierce form of Vishnu), Lord Rama, Gajendra Varadaraja (Vishnu as the rescuer of an elephant), and Lord Ranganatha (a reclining form of Vishnu).
Festivals and Spiritual Significance
Another significant event is Vaikunta Ekadasi, a day dedicated to Vishnu, which is celebrated with great fervor. The Masi Theppam (float festival) held in the temple tank is also a visually spectacular event. The temple's spiritual importance is further underscored by its connection to the birth of the revered philosopher Ramanuja. Legend states that his father performed a Putrakameshti yagna here, praying for a blessed child, which led to Ramanuja's birth.
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