Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Parthasarathy Temple is a revered 6th-century Hindu Vaishnavite temple located in the Triplicane neighborhood of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. The name 'Parthasarathy' translates to 'charioteer of Arjuna,' referring to Krishna's role in the Mahabharata. This temple is among the 108 Divya Desams, the sacred abodes of Vishnu, and is celebrated in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, the early medieval Tamil literature canon of the Alvar saints. The temple stands as one of the oldest and most significant religious monuments in Chennai.
Originally constructed by the Pallavas in the 6th century under King Narasimhavarman I, the temple has undergone expansions by the Cholas and Vijayanagara rulers. According to legend, the Saptarishis (seven sages) worshipped five deities known as Panchaveeras, including Venkata Krishnaswamy, Rukmini, Satyaki, Balarama, Pradyumna, and Aniruddha. The temple's location, historically abundant with lily ponds, is called Allikeni, meaning 'a pond of lily.' The temple follows the Thenkalai sect of Vaishnavism and adheres to the Vaikhanasa Agama, and is maintained by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu.
Presiding Deity: The temple houses icons of five forms of Vishnu: Yoga Narasimha, Rama, Gajendra Varadaraja, Ranganatha, and Krishna as Parthasarathy
Unique Feature: The presiding deity is depicted with a moustache, a unique feature among Vishnu temples
Architecture: Elaborate carvings typical of South Indian temple design, showcasing the architectural styles of Pallava, Chola, and Vijayanagara periods
Temple Tank: The temple features a sacred tank used for the annual float festival (Theppam)
Divya Desam Status: One of the 108 Divya Desams, sacred abodes of Vishnu mentioned in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham
The Parthasarathy Temple holds immense religious significance as one of the 108 Divya Desams, making it a highly revered pilgrimage site for Vaishnavites. The temple is celebrated in the hymns of the Alvar saints, who were the early medieval Tamil poet-saints. Major festivals include the Brahmotsavam during the Tamil month of Chittirai (April–May) and the annual float festival (Theppam) in the temple tank, which attract thousands of devotees.
Visiting Hours: Daily from 4:00 AM to 11:00 AM and from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Dress Code: Traditional attire is recommended; modest clothing is expected
Festival Periods: The temple experiences high footfall during Brahmotsavam and Theppam festivals
Photography: Check with temple authorities regarding photography permissions
Location: Triplicane, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport, Chennai – approx. 15 km
Major Railway Stations:
Chennai Central Railway Station – approx. 5 km
Chennai Egmore Railway Station – approx. 4 km
Metro Station: Nearest metro stations accessible via connecting transport
The temple is located in the heart of Triplicane, one of Chennai's oldest neighborhoods, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city.
Parthasarathy Temple is well connected by road and public transport. The temple is located in Triplicane, which is easily accessible from Chennai city center. Public bus services operated by the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) provide regular connectivity to the area. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services operate regularly, offering convenient access for devotees and visitors. The temple is easily accessible from major railway stations and the international airport, making it convenient for both local devotees and tourists. The area is also well-served by local transport options, making it easily reachable from various parts of Chennai.