An 8th-century Vaishnavite temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, one of the oldest structures in Chennai.
Did you know?
The Parthasarathy Temple in Triplicane is one of the 108 Divya Desams (sacred shrines of Vishnu) and is mentioned in the works of all 12 Alvar poet-saints.
History
The Parthasarathy Temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams (sacred Vaishnavite shrines) and is believed to have been originally built by the Pallavas in the 8th century. The temple was later renovated and expanded by the Chola and Vijayanagara rulers. It is unique among Vaishnavite temples as it houses five forms of Lord Vishnu in a single complex: Narasimha, Rama, Gajendra Varada, Ranganatha, and Krishna as Parthasarathy (charioteer of Arjuna).
Architecture
The temple showcases a blend of Pallava, Chola, and Vijayanagara architectural styles. The main gopuram features detailed carvings, and the inner sanctum houses granite idols of the five forms of Vishnu. Stone inscriptions from different dynasties adorn the temple walls.
Visiting Information
Located in Triplicane, near Marina Beach, the temple is accessible by bus and MRTS. The annual Vaikunta Ekadasi festival (December/January) draws massive crowds.
Festivals
Vaikunta Ekadasi
December/JanuaryThe most important festival at this temple, when the Vaikunta Dwaram (gateway to heaven) is opened at dawn. Devotees queue from the early hours to pass through the sacred gateway, believing it grants salvation. The festival spans 21 days with the deity taken in procession on various vahanas.
Maasi Magam (Theerthavari)
February/MarchA grand procession where the processional deities are carried to the Marina Beach shore for a sacred dip. Thousands of devotees follow the procession from Triplicane to the sea in a vibrant display of faith.
Thiru Adi Pooram
July/AugustA 10-day celebration honouring Sri Andal, the only female Alvar saint. The festival includes special alankaram (decoration) of the Andal shrine and processions through the Triplicane streets.
Ther Thiruvizha (Chariot Festival)
April/MayThe grand chariot procession of Lord Parthasarathy through the streets of Triplicane, accompanied by nadaswaram musicians, Vedic chanting, and throngs of devotees pulling the decorated temple chariot.
Events & Activities
Divya Prabandham Recitation
SpiritualDaily recitation of the 4,000 verses of the Nalayira Divya Prabandham by temple priests, with special extended sessions during the Margazhi month attracting Vaishnavite devotees from across the city.
Location
Explore Triplicane
Discover more about the Triplicane 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.
Vadapalani Murugan Temple
One of Chennai's most visited temples, dedicated to Lord Murugan, drawing massive crowds during Thaipusam and Skanda Shashti.
Marundeeswarar Temple
An ancient Shiva temple in Thiruvanmiyur where the deity is worshipped as the divine physician, believed to cure ailments.