Famous Temples in Besant Nagar, Chennai (2026)
Besant Nagar (Pincode 600090) is one of Chennai’s most scenic and culturally vibrant coastal neighbourhoods. Known for its wide roads, green surroundings, and close proximity to Elliots Beach, the area is also home to several beautiful and well-maintained temples. These temples play an important role in the spiritual life of the community, with thousands of devotees visiting daily for peace, blessings, and prayer.
Besant Nagar’s temples are known for their calm atmosphere, traditional Tamil architecture, and strong cultural activities throughout the year. Whether it’s daily poojas, vibrant festival celebrations, community bhajans, or cultural gatherings, these temples create a deep spiritual connection among residents and visitors alike. Below is the list of famous temples in Besant Nagar, each offering a unique devotional experience.
1. Arulmigu Ashtalakshmi Temple
Deity: Goddess Lakshmi (Eight Forms)
Address: Beach Road, Besant Nagar, Chennai – 600090
The Ashtalakshmi Temple is one of the most iconic seaside temples in Chennai, dedicated to the eight divine forms of Goddess Lakshmi. Built overlooking Elliots Beach, it is known for its unique multi-level architecture and serene ocean backdrop. Devotees visit to seek wealth, prosperity, educational success, and overall well-being. The temple becomes especially vibrant during Navaratri and Fridays, drawing huge crowds from across the city.
Map: View on Google Maps
2. Arulmigu Ratnagirishwarar Temple
Deity: Lord Shiva
Address: Besant Nagar, Chennai – 600090
This historic Shiva temple is one of the most peaceful spiritual spots in the neighbourhood. Surrounded by greenery and located close to residential areas, the temple offers a calm and spiritually uplifting environment. Devotees visit to seek blessings for health, success, and peace of mind. The temple also hosts special poojas during Pradosham and Shivaratri.
Map: View on Google Maps
3. Arulmigu Arupadai Murugan Temple
Deity: Lord Murugan
Address: 6th Avenue, Besant Nagar, Chennai – 600090
This beautifully constructed Murugan temple is inspired by the traditional design of Tamil Nadu’s ancient shrines. The temple is known for its devotional ambience, detailed carvings, and peaceful prayer hall. Tuesdays, Fridays, and festival days like Thaipusam and Skanda Shasti attract a large crowd of devotees.
Map: View on Google Maps
4. Mahalakshmi Temple, Besant Nagar
Deity: Goddess Mahalakshmi
Address: Besant Nagar, Chennai – 600090
A popular temple dedicated to Mahalakshmi, this shrine is often visited by devotees seeking wealth, financial stability, and overall prosperity. The temple’s peaceful atmosphere and accessible location make it one of the favourite prayer spots for local residents. Fridays are the busiest, with special alankarams and Lakshmi poojas.
Map: View on Google Maps
5. Sri Varasiddhi Vinayagar Temple (Besant Nagar)
Deity: Lord Ganesha
Address: Besant Nagar, Chennai – 600090
This Vinayagar temple is known for its positive atmosphere and spiritual simplicity. Devotees frequently visit to seek blessings before new ventures, exams, interviews, and important life events. The temple stays crowded during Ganesh Chaturthi, especially during the special alankaram days.
Map: View on Google Maps
6. Sri Ayyappan Temple, Besant Nagar
Deity: Lord Ayyappa
Address: Near 4th Avenue, Besant Nagar, Chennai – 600090
This temple is a favourite among devotees who visit regularly for Ayyappa swamy poojas and bhajans. The temple follows Kerala-style rituals and attracts huge crowds during Mandala Pooja and Makara Jyothi season. The disciplined ambience and peaceful surroundings make it ideal for spiritual reflection.
Map: View on Google Maps
7. Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Shiva Temple
Deity: Lord Shiva
Address: Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Campus, Besant Nagar, Chennai – 600090
Located inside the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan campus, this temple is a peaceful spot for meditation and prayer. Known for its clean surroundings, cultural events, and devotional programs, this temple provides a calming environment for devotees of Lord Shiva.
Map: View on Google Maps
8. Sri Arunachaleswarar Temple
Deity: Lord Shiva
Address: Besant Nagar, Chennai – 600090
Inspired by the holy Arunachaleswarar Temple of Tiruvannamalai, this temple offers a sacred and peaceful ambience for devotees. The temple hosts special poojas during full moon days and during Karthigai festival. It is a serene spiritual spot for meditation and prayer.
Map: View on Google Maps
9. Sri Madhava Perumal Temple (Besant Nagar)
Deity: Lord Vishnu
Address: Besant Nagar, Chennai – 600090
This Perumal temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere and strong Vaishnavite traditions. Devotees visit for blessings related to prosperity, harmony, and spiritual strength. The temple hosts Vishnu Sahasranamam chanting and special festive poojas.
Map: View on Google Maps
10. Sri Anjaneya Temple (Besant Nagar)
Deity: Lord Hanuman
Address: Besant Nagar, Chennai – 600090
This temple dedicated to Hanuman is frequented by devotees seeking strength, courage, and protection against difficulties. Tuesdays and Saturdays attract large crowds. The temple maintains a devotional atmosphere with regular bhajans and poojas.
Map: View on Google Maps
Why Besant Nagar Is a Spiritual Destination
Besant Nagar is not just a scenic coastal area—it is also a spiritual hotspot with temples that attract devotees throughout the year. With peaceful surroundings, clean temple premises, and active festival celebrations, the locality provides a refreshing blend of devotion and culture. From Shiva and Vishnu temples to Murugan, Vinayagar, and Goddess shrines, Besant Nagar offers a spiritually fulfilling experience for devotees of all ages.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the most famous temple in Besant Nagar?
The Ashtalakshmi Temple is the most iconic and widely visited temple in Besant Nagar.
2. Are these temples suitable for family visits?
Yes, all the temples listed are family-friendly and well-maintained.
3. Is parking available near these temples?
Most temples in Besant Nagar have nearby street parking or small allocated spaces.
4. What is the best time to visit?
Mornings (6 AM–9 AM) and evenings (5 PM–8 PM) offer calm darshan with minimal crowds.
5. Are festival celebrations grand here?
Yes. Navaratri, Ganesh Chaturthi, Shivaratri, Karthigai Deepam, and Ayyappa season
attract huge crowds and special rituals.
6. Are all these temples located inside Besant Nagar?
Yes. Every temple here falls strictly within Besant Nagar (600090).
