A shoreline temple dedicated to the eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi, perched on the rocks at Elliot's Beach in Besant Nagar.
History
The Ashtalakshmi Temple is a relatively modern temple, constructed in 1976 on the rocky shoreline of Elliot's Beach. Despite its recent construction, it has quickly become one of Chennai's most iconic landmarks. The temple is dedicated to "Ashta Lakshmi," the eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi representing wealth, prosperity, courage, knowledge, progeny, grain, abundance, and bliss. Its dramatic coastal location and distinctive multi-tiered architecture make it a popular destination for both devotees and tourists.
Architecture
The temple is built on five tiers, with each level housing a shrine to a different form of Lakshmi. The ground floor, partially below sea level, features a shrine where waves occasionally wash in during high tide, creating a uniquely spiritual atmosphere. The top tier offers panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal. The architecture is contemporary Dravidian, with colourful gopuram-style towers and ornate sculptures on every level.
Visiting Information
Located at the northern end of Elliot's Beach in Besant Nagar, accessible by bus and auto-rickshaw from Adyar. The temple is best visited during the morning or at sunset for the spectacular ocean views. Fridays are especially busy with devotees.
Festivals
Margazhi Month Celebrations
December/JanuaryThe sacred Tamil month of Margazhi sees early-morning Dhanur Masa pujas performed at dawn, with special alankaram for all eight forms of Lakshmi. Devotees visit during the pre-dawn hours for the most auspicious darshan.
Pavitra Utsavam
August/SeptemberA five-day annual purification ceremony where sacred threads (pavitram) are offered to the deities. Special homams and abhishekams are conducted to purify the temple and bless devotees.
Varalakshmi Vratam
AugustA Friday celebration dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi where married women perform special pujas for family prosperity. The temple is beautifully decorated and all eight shrines receive special abhishekam.
Navaratri
September/OctoberNine nights of celebrations with the Goddess decorated as different forms of Shakti. Golu (doll displays) are arranged in the temple, and Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam performances are held each evening.
Events & Activities
Sunset Bhajans
SpiritualGroup bhajan sessions held on the temple's upper tier on Friday evenings, with the Bay of Bengal as a backdrop, creating a meditative atmosphere as the sun sets over the water.
Location
Explore Besant Nagar
Discover more about the Besant Nagar neighbourhood, including transport, healthcare, and other attractions.
Other Heritage Sites
Kapaleeshwarar Temple
A 7th-century Dravidian temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the heart of Mylapore.
Parthasarathy Temple
An 8th-century Vaishnavite temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, one of the oldest structures in Chennai.
Vadapalani Murugan Temple
One of Chennai's most visited temples, dedicated to Lord Murugan, drawing massive crowds during Thaipusam and Skanda Shashti.