ISKCON Temple Chennai, popularly known as the Hare Rama Hare Krishna Temple, is one of the most serene and spiritually uplifting places to visit in Tamil Nadu. Situated in Akkarai, Sholinganallur, near the East Coast Road (ECR), this beautiful temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and Srimati Radharani. It attracts devotees, spiritual seekers, and tourists every day who come to experience devotion, calmness, and inner peace.
Spread across nearly 1.5 acres, the ISKCON Temple Chennai is admired for its grand Radha Krishna architecture, neatly maintained premises, and peaceful surroundings. The temple complex reflects traditional Vaishnava design while offering a tranquil atmosphere that allows visitors to disconnect from daily stress and connect with spirituality. It is regarded as one of the largest Radha Krishna temples in Tamil Nadu, making it a prominent spiritual landmark in Chennai.
The temple is not just a place of worship but also a center for Bhakti Yoga, kirtans, spiritual discourses, and cultural programs. The soothing chants of Hare Krishna Hare Rama create a divine ambiance that leaves a lasting impression on every visitor. The calm environment and spiritual energy make it an ideal place for meditation and self-reflection.
Whether you are a devoted follower of Lord Krishna, a spiritual explorer, or someone searching for famous temples in Chennai, ISKCON Temple Chennai offers a deeply enriching experience. A visit to this sacred place brings peace to the mind, devotion to the heart, and memories that remain long after you leave the temple premises.
About ISKCON Temple Chennai
ISKCON Temple Chennai is a peaceful spiritual place that follows the teachings of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. The temple mainly promotes Bhakti Yoga, which focuses on love and devotion toward Lord Krishna through chanting, prayer, and selfless service. People from all backgrounds are welcome to visit and take part in temple activities.
The temple conducts daily aartis, poojas, devotional chanting, spiritual talks, and meditation sessions. These activities help devotees feel relaxed, positive, and spiritually connected. Many visitors come here not only for worship but also to find mental peace and spend time in a calm environment away from daily life pressure.
ISKCON Temple Chennai is also known for celebrating important Hindu festivals with great devotion and enthusiasm. Festivals such as Janmashtami, Radhashtami, Govardhan Puja, Rama Navami, and Vaikuntha Ekadashi are observed with special prayers, bhajans, decorations, and a large gathering of devotees. These celebrations create a joyful and divine atmosphere inside the temple.
ISKCON Temple Chennai Darshan Timings
Darshan at ISKCON Temple Chennai is available every day and is arranged in different time slots so that devotees can visit comfortably. Visitors can choose a time that suits them, whether they prefer a peaceful morning darshan or wish to attend the evening aarti.
The temple generally follows the same darshan schedule throughout the week. However, on special festival days, the timings may change slightly due to special rituals and events.
Below is the regular darshan timing followed at ISKCON Temple Chennai.
| Time of Darshan | Timing |
|---|---|
| Morning Darshan | 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM |
| Afternoon Darshan | 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM |
| Evening Darshan (First Slot) | 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan (Second Slot) | 9:00 PM to 9:15 PM |
| Applicable Days | Monday to Sunday |
Early morning and late evening darshan hours are usually less crowded. These timings are ideal for devotees who want a quiet and peaceful darshan experience at ISKCON Temple Chennai.
Aarti and Puja Timings at ISKCON Chennai
Aarti at ISKCON Temple Chennai is a soulful and peaceful experience that fills the temple with devotion and positive energy. The sound of Hare Krishna kirtans, mantra chanting, and traditional prayers creates a calm and spiritual atmosphere. Every aarti and pooja is performed with discipline and devotion, following a fixed daily schedule from early morning till night.
Devotees can take part in different aartis, spiritual talks, and meditation sessions throughout the day. Each ritual has its own importance and allows visitors to feel closer to Lord Krishna and Srimati Radharani.
Below is the complete daily aarti and puja timing followed at ISKCON Temple Chennai from Monday to Sunday.
Daily Aarti and Puja Schedule at ISKCON Temple Chennai
| Pooja / Seva | Timings |
|---|---|
| Mangala Aarti and Hare Krishna Japa | 4:30 AM |
| Sringara Aarti and Srila Prabhupada Guru Puja | 7:30 AM |
| Srimad Bhagavatam Class (Darshan Closed) | 8:00 AM |
| Dhoop Aarti | 8:30 AM |
| Rajbhog Offering (Darshan Closed) | 12:00 PM |
| Rajbhog Aarti | 12:30 PM |
| Temple Closed for Darshan | 1:15 PM to 4:00 PM |
| Darshan Opens with Dhoop Aarti | 4:00 PM |
| Tulasi Puja (Darshan Closed Temporarily) | 6:15 PM |
| Japa Meditation | 6:30 PM |
| Gaura Sandhya Aarti | 7:00 PM |
| Bhagavad Gita Discourse | 7:45 PM |
| Shayana Aarti | 9:00 PM |
| Deities Rest (Darshan Closed) | 9:15 PM |
Among all the rituals, the evening aartis, especially the Gaura Sandhya Aarti, attract a large number of devotees. This aarti is considered very sacred and creates a powerful devotional feeling inside the temple.
Pooja Offerings at ISKCON Temple Chennai
Devotees visiting ISKCON Temple Chennai often wish to offer something as a mark of devotion and thankfulness. These offerings are a part of daily worship and help in the smooth conduct of temple rituals and services.
Common pooja offerings made during aarti and darshan include clean water, fresh milk, seasonal fruits, traditional sweets, flower garlands, oil lamps, and voluntary donations. All offerings are made with purity and devotion.
Devotees who wish to perform special poojas or sevas can arrange them by contacting the temple office in advance. These special services allow devotees to take part in personalized worship and seek blessings in a more focused way.
ISKCON Temple Chennai Opening and Closing Timings
ISKCON Temple Chennai follows a fixed daily schedule that makes it easy for devotees and visitors to plan their temple visit without any confusion. The temple remains open in two main time slots every day, allowing people to visit either in the morning or during the evening hours.
The morning session is ideal for those who prefer a calm and peaceful darshan, while the evening session is popular for aarti and devotional activities. Both time slots offer a spiritually soothing experience.
| Session | Timings |
|---|---|
| Morning Opening Hours | 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM |
| Evening Opening Hours | 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM |
Entry Fee at ISKCON Temple Chennai
There is no entry fee to visit ISKCON Temple Chennai. Darshan is completely free for all devotees and visitors. Anyone can enter the temple, attend aartis, and spend time in prayer without paying any charges.
This free entry policy makes ISKCON Temple Chennai one of the most welcoming and peaceful temples in Chennai for devotees, families, and tourists.
How to Reach ISKCON Temple Chennai
Visiting ISKCON Temple Chennai, one of the most spiritually uplifting and beautiful temples in Tamil Nadu, is easier than you think. The temple is well connected from all parts of the city, making it convenient for devotees, families, and tourists alike. Whether you are arriving by air, train, or bus, reaching the temple is smooth and hassle-free. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your visit perfectly.
By Air
- Chennai International Airport connects to almost all major cities in India, making it ideal for visitors coming from far and near.
- From the airport, you can easily hire a taxi, use app-based cabs, or even public transport to reach the temple.
- The scenic route along East Coast Road adds a beautiful start to your spiritual journey, with views of the Chennai coastline if you are driving.
By Bus
- The nearest bus stop is VGP Bus Stop, located just around 2 km from ISKCON Temple Chennai.
- Frequent MTC buses run from various parts of Chennai, making public transport a convenient and affordable option.
- From the bus stop, auto-rickshaws or short cabs can quickly take you to the temple gates.
- For visitors who enjoy a little walk, the route is safe, well-connected, and offers glimpses of the bustling life around Sholinganallur.
By Train
- Chennai Central Railway Station, one of the city’s major stations, is about 24 km from ISKCON Temple Chennai.
- From the station, you can take a local train or metro to nearby areas and then hire an auto or cab for the final stretch.
- The journey allows you to see the city waking up or winding down, giving a real glimpse of Chennai life before stepping into the calm and serene environment of the temple.
Best Time to Visit ISKCON Temple Chennai
- The most comfortable months to visit are October to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant, perfect for a spiritual outing.
- Evening hours between 8:00 PM and 9:00 PM are considered especially divine, as the temple is softly lit, creating a magical and serene atmosphere.
- Attending the final aarti during this time is an experience that leaves a lasting impression — the chants, lights, and devotion combine to create a truly spiritual and unforgettable moment.
- Visiting during festival seasons like Janmashtami or Radhashtami adds even more charm, as the temple is decorated beautifully, and the spiritual energy is at its peak.
ISKCON Temple Chennai Contact Details
If you are planning a visit to ISKCON Temple Chennai, staying updated with darshan timings, festival schedules, or special poojas is important. The temple provides multiple ways for devotees to get in touch easily. Below is the complete contact information for visitors and devotees.
Temple Address
- Hare Krishna Land, Bhakti Vedanta Swami Road, Near ECR, Akkarai, Sholinganallur, Chennai – 600119
- The temple is easily accessible from East Coast Road (ECR) and nearby landmarks include VGP Golden Beach and Sholinganallur Bus Stop
- GPS coordinates: 13.0010° N, 80.2750° E for easy navigation
Phone Numbers
- 044-24530921
- 044-24530922
- 044-24530923
Tip: For faster responses, call during morning hours (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM) or evening hours (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM) when the temple office is active
Email ID
- info@iskconchennai.org
- You can email for special pooja bookings, volunteer inquiries, festival updates, or general questions
- Include your name, visit date, and type of query for quicker responses
WhatsApp (Text Queries Only)
- +91 87545 45642
- Ideal for quick clarifications about darshan, timings, or bookings
- Note: WhatsApp is text-only; avoid sending calls or multimedia for queries
Additional Tips for Visitors
- Social Media Updates: Follow ISKCON Chennai on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for live updates on events and special aartis
- Online Booking: Special poojas and festival events can be booked online through the temple website
- Directions: Use Google Maps or other GPS apps for real-time traffic updates, especially during festivals or weekends
- Visitor Guidelines: Maintain silence inside the temple premises, remove footwear before entering, and avoid photography inside the sanctum to respect temple rules
FAQs About ISKCON Temple Chennai
Q1. What are the visiting hours of ISKCON Chennai?
The temple is open in the morning from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM and in the evening from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM daily.
Q2. When is the best time to visit ISKCON Chennai?
October to February offers pleasant weather, and evening aartis around 8:00 PM provide a serene spiritual experience.
Q3. Which deities are worshipped at ISKCON Chennai?
Lord Krishna and Srimati Radharani are the main deities worshipped here.
Q4. Is there an entry fee for ISKCON Temple Chennai?
No, entry is completely free for all visitors.
Q5. What are the daily aarti timings at ISKCON Chennai?
Aartis start with Mangala Aarti at 4:30 AM and end with Shayana Aarti at 9:00 PM, including Gaura Sandhya, Rajbhog, and Dhoop Aarti.
Q6. Where is ISKCON Chennai located?
The temple is located in Akkarai, Sholinganallur, near East Coast Road (ECR), Chennai.
Q7. How can I reach ISKCON Chennai by public transport?
By bus: VGP Bus Stop (2 km away); by train: Kodambakkam Station, then auto/cab; by air: Chennai Airport, then taxi or bus.
Q8. Can devotees make special offerings or poojas?
Yes, devotees can offer milk, fruits, sweets, flowers, lamps, or book special poojas by contacting the temple in advance.
Q9. What festivals are celebrated at ISKCON Chennai?
Major festivals include Janmashtami, Radhashtami, Rama Navami, Govardhan Puja, and Vaikuntha Ekadashi.
Q10. Is photography allowed inside ISKCON Temple Chennai?
Photography may be restricted in the inner sanctum; devotees should follow temple rules.
