Hello Friends,
Chennai boasts of a good many ancient temples, many of them steeped in tradition and looking resplendent with unique architecture. However, there are a few that have come up during the 80s and 90s which add the unique beauty of the Chennai city. And for outstation travellers these are interesting places to visit and revel in the fairly new temple ambience.
Two such temples in south Chennai are the Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temple almost near the sea and the Ashtalakshmi Temple overlooking the sea. The Arupadai Veedu temple is a replica of all the Arupadai Veedu temples of Lord Muruga across Tamil Nadu. It has been built exactly to look like the original ones with same architecture and appraoach. Ofcourse nothing like visiting the original temples naturally, but if you want a quick peek to know how the for instance the Palani temple will look like, then this is just the temple. All under one roof, literally.
The Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temple at Besant Nagar is large and spacious with a central function hall, with sea breeze blowing in mildly and nicely. The road leading to the temple is long one with ample parking space. So if you are looking to visit a temple which is not too crowded and if you want a sit for a while and do your prayers meditatively – then this is just the temple. Quiet, calm, and peaceful.
Surprisingly not too many beggars outside the temple, nor too many shops thronging you as you enter the temple premises. It is nestled neatly in an upmarket residential area of Besant Nagar and once done with the temple visit, you could easily do your evening or morning walk in the neighbourhood as well.
Temple view against the blue skyline
Inner view of the temple
Details of the Kanchi Maha Swamigal ordained the temple to be built here
Useful Links:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Six_Abodes_of_Murugan
Address:
Timings:
Open until 11 am in the morning
Opens at 5 in the evening
Cheers
Bhuvana Rajaram
