Lord Murugan is a beloved deity worshipped by devotees around the world. Visiting his temples is said to bring spiritual fulfillment and inner peace. If you're looking to spend temple visit in the divine presence of Lord Murugan, Chennai offers a sacred trail through some of its most revered and ancient temples. This spiritual pilgrimage covers five powerful abodes of Murugan, each with its unique legend, energy, and charm. Whether you're a devoted follower or a cultural traveller seeking spiritual exploration, this journey promises blessings, serenity, and unforgettable moments.
1. Starting the Journey at Vallakottai Murugan Temple
Begin your journey a little outside Chennai, at the serene Vallakottai Murugan Temple, located near Sriperumbudur. The Vallakottai Murugan Temple is a sacred site known for its impressive Dravidian architecture. At the entrance stands a majestic five-tiered Rajagopuram (temple tower), leading devotees into a spacious mandapam (hall). Beyond this lies a beautifully carved granite hall with pillars, guiding worshippers to the sanctum.
The sanctum, facing east, houses the 7-foot-tall idol of Lord Murugan in a standing posture, an awe-inspiring sight for all devotees. In front of the main deity are twin peacock idols, symbolizing Murugan’s divine mount.
This temple is believed to be over 1,200 years old, built by King Bhagirath, the ruler of Sankondpuram in the ancient kingdom of Ilanji. He constructed the temple as a mark of gratitude to Lord Murugan. Devotees revere the deity here as
“Izhanda Selvangalai Meetuth Tharum Arulmigu Kodaya Andavar”, meaning
"The Lord who restores all that is lost." The temple comes alive during festivals, drawing thousands of devotees:
- Aadi Krithigai (July-August)
- Thirukarthigai (November–December):
- Skanda Shashti
Travel Tip: Best to visit early morning. Combine it with a short trip to Sriperumbudur.
Address: Vallakkottai, Oragadam, Tamil Nadu 602105
2. Vadapalani Murugan Temple – The Protector of Chennai
From Vallakottai, you can plan your next trip to the heart of Chennai – Vadapalani Murugan Temple. This 125-year-old temple is one of the busiest and most powerful Murugan shrines in Tamil Nadu. It all started with a simple thatched hut and a painting of Lord Muruga. A devout follower named Annaswami Tambiran, with very limited means, built the modest shelter for his worship.
During his deep meditation and prayers, he began experiencing divine energy flowing through him. In those moments of trance, he would utter messages believed to be “arulvak”—divine words of grace. These arulvaks often turned out to be true and brought relief to many, helping people secure jobs, find life partners, and overcome personal challenges.
As word of his divine experiences spread, more devotees began to gather. With their contributions, a small shrine was built around the painting, and eventually, the temple grew in both size and spiritual significance. The temple also includes a spacious marriage hall, used regularly for both weddings and religious discourses. In fact, the temple has become a popular destination for sacred unions—with nearly 7,000 couples getting married here every year.
What’s fascinating is that the temple is known for Lord Murugan granting boons just as he did in Palani.
Special Ritual: Don’t miss the celebration on Thaipusam or Panguni Uthiram.
Address: Palani Andavar Koil St, Vadapalani, Chennai 600026
3. Kandakottam – Lord Murugan as the Warrior Saint of Parrys
Your spiritual journey now leads you to Kandhakottam in Parrys, a bustling commercial hub that quietly shelters this sacred and historic temple. Here, Lord Murugan is worshipped as Kandha Swami, and the temple is believed to be 500 to 1000 years old, standing as a timeless symbol of devotion
During the time of foreign rule around Thiruporur, near Chengalpattu, several temples were destroyed. To protect the sacred idol of Lord Kandhaswamy, devotees hid it inside an anthill (Putturu). Though temple worship resumed years later, the original idol could not be found, and a new one was consecrated.
Among Lord Murugan's ardent followers were two devotees from what is now known as Kandhakottam. They regularly visited Thiruporur on Krithigai days. On one such return journey, they rested beneath a tree, where Lord Murugan appeared in a dream, revealing that His original idol was still hidden in a nearby anthill.
Following the vision, they recovered the idol. However, during their journey home, when they placed the idol on the ground to rest, it could not be lifted again. Taking this as a divine sign, they consecrated the idol on that very spot. The area, once called Pethanayakkanpettai, became known as Kandhakottam, honouring both the Lord and the temple.
- Every Tuesday, a special rosewater (panneer) abhishekam is performed for Lord Murugan.
- Thai Brahmotsavam – An 18-day grand celebration in the Tamil month of Thai
- Kanda Sashti
- Vaikasi Vasantha Utsavam
- Aadi Krithigai
- Panguni Uthiram
Address: Nyniappa St, Rattan Bazaar, Park Town, Chennai 600003
4. Kundrathur Murugan Temple – The Hill Temple of Chennai
Now, head southwest to Kundrathur, where a beautiful hillock houses Lord Murugan in a north-facing position.
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Subramaniar (Murugan) is believed to have rested on this sacred hill during His journey from Tiruporur to Tiruttanigai. Revered as South Thanigai, this temple holds a rare distinction.
Built by the Chola king, Kulothunga Chola II, the temple stands as a testament to both spiritual depth and architectural brilliance. One of its most captivating features lies in the visual experience of the deity: although Lord Murugan is accompanied by both His consorts, Goddess Valli and Goddess Deivayanai, devotees can see Him with only one goddess at a time, depending on the angle from which they view the sanctum. From one side, He appears with Valli; from the other, with Deivayanai—a divine play of presence and perspective.
To reach this tranquil hilltop shrine, devotees ascend 84 sacred steps, rewarded at the summit with divine blessings and sweeping panoramic views—a perfect blend of spiritual serenity and natural beauty.
Best Time: Sunset hours for a beautiful view and peaceful darshan.
Address: Sri Subrahmanya Swamy Temple, Kundrathur, Chennai 600 069
5. Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temple – All Abodes in One Place
Finally, complete your journey at the Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temple in Besant Nagar—a modern temple that houses replicas of all six sacred abodes (Arupadai Veedu) of Lord Murugan in one place.
This temple is a spiritual shortcut to experience Thiruparankundram, Tiruchendur, Palani, Swamimalai, Thiruthani, and Pazhamudircholai—the six holy abodes. It’s beautifully built near the beach, offering a calming end to your pilgrimage.
The six shrines are uniquely designed in the shape of the sacred symbol "ஓம் (Om)", reflecting deep spiritual significance. A temple map is thoughtfully placed to help guide devotees through this divine layout.
In addition to the regular poojas and daily rituals, the temple observes special poojas during major festivals such as Thai Pusam, Panguni Uttiram, Aadi Krittikai, and Skanda Shashti. These celebrations are marked by traditional practices like Kaavadi processions and Paal Kudam offerings, creating a vibrant and devotional atmosphere for worshippers.
Meditation Spot: Sit on the seashore after your darshan and reflect on your journey.
Address: 1, Thirumurugan St, Kalakshetra Colony, Besant Nagar, Chennai 600090
Bonus One: Thiruporur Kandaswamy Temple
If your spiritual path extends a little beyond the city, don’t miss the divine detour to Thiruporur Kandaswamy Temple, located around 40 km from Chennai on the Old Mahabalipuram Road.
This temple stands as a majestic testimony to Tamil-style architecture, believed to have its origins in the Pallava era of the 10th century CE. What’s unique here is the legend that Lord Murugan’s image was discovered beneath a palm leaf, which is still preserved within the temple precincts today—a mystical reminder of divine presence hidden in nature.
In the 17th century, the temple was lovingly rebuilt by Chidambara Swamigal, a saint believed to be a descendant of the Sangam Age poets. He composed 726 verses in praise of Lord Kandaswamy, turning this temple into a literary and devotional landmark. The vibrations of his bhakti still resonate here.
Even the renowned 16th-century saint Arunagirinathar couldn’t resist the power of this sacred place; he glorified the temple in his soul-stirring verses of Thiruppugazh.
- Vaikasi Visagam (May–June)
- Maasi Brahmotsavam
- Pongal Festival - Paalkudam & Kavadi
- Kanda Sashti & Navaratri
Travel Tip: Combine this visit with a beachside evening at Mahabalipuram or a quiet stop at nearby village temples. Early mornings or sunset darshans offer the most serene experiences.
Address: Arulmigu Kandaswamy Temple, Thiruporur - 603110,
A Pilgrim’s Reflection
This spiritual trail is not about ticking off places, but about feeling Lord Murugan’s grace grow within you, temple after temple. You’ll notice how every Murugan idol here is different—sometimes with Valli and Deivanai, sometimes alone, fierce, and sometimes smiling in peace.
Whether you complete this journey in a week or over several months, let each visit be a step toward your inner awakening.
