Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple Besant Nagar Chennai (Timings, History, Entry Fee, Images & Information)

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Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Besant Nagar is a serene Hindu temple tucked along the gorgeous Bay of Bengal. Dedicated to the eight forms of Goddess Lakshmi (ashta means eight), this temple draws devotees seeking prosperity, success and knowledge. The goddess blesses everyone who offers their prayers with a clean soul.

A visit to Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple Chennai isn’t just an act of worship, but a spiritual experience. Set against the calming sea, this temple offers a peaceful space for reflection and devotion amid the bustle of city life.

The soothing waves echo through the temple complex, while the gentle breeze fills the space with peace. Then, the rhythmic chants and fragrant flowers create a comforting atmosphere.

Where is Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Chennai?

Chennai Ashtalakshmi Temple is located near the shoreline along Elliots Beach in Besant Nagar. It’s a multi-tiered temple complex with shrines for Goddess Lakshmi and her divine manifestations. Each sanctum is designed so that devotees can visit all the shrines without passing above another.

History of Besant Nagar Ashtalakshmi Temple

The history of the Ashtalakshmi Temple in Chennai goes back to the 1970s. The temple was built following the wish of Sri Chandrashekarendra Saraswati, revered as Kanchi Periyava. His vision was brought to life through the efforts of Sri Mukkur Srinivasa Varadhachariar.

The foundation stone was laid in January 1974 with active participation from the public. The temple was consecrated on 5 April 1976, in the presence of Ahobila Mutt’s 44th guru, Vedhantha Dhesika Yatheendhra Mahadhesikan.

In 2012, the temple underwent a major renovation costing ₹7 million to ensure the preservation of its structure and sanctity. Another ₹1.6 million was spent on conducting the sacred restoration ritual Jeernotharana Ashtabandana Mahakumbhabhishekam. As part of this process, 32 new kalasams were installed, including a striking 5.5-foot gold-plated kalasam atop the sanctum.

Architecture of Ashtalakshmi Temple Besant Nagar

The Ashtalakshmi Temple architecture is inspired by the Sundara Varadaraja Perumal Temple in Uthiramerur. Built using a combination of granite, marble and concrete, the temple measures 65 feet in length and 45 feet in breadth.

The entire complex is designed in the form of Om, referred to as Omkara Kshetra design in temple architecture. Complementing this is the Ashtanga Vimana style, an eight-part structure and multiple levels, ensuring that no sanctum is built directly above another.

Its orientation towards the Bay of Bengal has also been decided in accordance with Hindu beliefs. Goddess Lakshmi is said to have emerged from the ocean during the Samudra Manthan.

Things to do at Ashtalakshmi Temple Besant Nagar

1. Seeking blessings from Mahalakshmi – Goddess Lakshmi (along with Vishnu), consecrated on level two, is the main deity of Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple in Chennai. The standing idols are seven feet tall, facing the waters of the Bay of Bengal. It’s the central sanctum where devotees usually come to worship. The Sthala Vriksham in the complex is also sacred as Goddess Mahalakshmi is believed to reside in its leaves.

2. Offering prayers to the other shrines – Ashtalakshmi Temple has shrines across different levels for the eight manifestations of Goddess Lakshmi. The first level has the shrines of Adi Lakshmi, Dhanya Lakshmi and Dhairya Lakshmi. The second level has only the central sanctum of Mahalakshmi. Then, the shrines of Santhana Lakshmi, Vijaya Lakshmi, Vidya Lakshmi and Gaja Lakshmi are at the third level. And at the topmost level is the shrine of Dhana Lakshmi. The temple complex also has shrines of other deities beyond the Ashtalakshmi shrines.

3. Participating in daily puja rituals – The temple priests perform six pujas daily as per the Vedic practices. Ghee-lit lamps and rhythmic chants set a devotional rhythm throughout the day. Fridays are special, especially during the Tamil months of Aadi and Thai. Special puja rituals for Goddess Lakshmi are performed on those days.

4. Taking a walk along the shore – Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, is close to Elliots Beach. The Bay of Bengal is often referred to as the temple’s sacred tank. You can take a walk along the shoreline, enjoying the sea breeze and coastal views. Local food stalls and open spaces make this a pleasant extension of the temple visit.

5. Enjoying the evening aarti – The evening aarti is a memorable experience at Besant Nagar Ashtalakshmi Temple. As lamps are lit and chants fill the air, the atmosphere becomes especially lively. Staying till the evening also offers you an opportunity to witness beautiful sunset views over the sea.

Chennai Ashtalakshmi Temple Timings and Entry Fees

Besant Nagar Ashtalakshmi Temple opening time is from 6.30 AM to 12 PM and 6 PM to 9 PM. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the morning opening hours of the temple are extended until 1 PM. All timings may change, though, during festive days and special occasions.

The morning aarti timing of Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple is around 7 AM. The evening aarti is held at around 6.30 PM.

Entry to the temple is free for everyone.

Best time to visit Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple Chennai

Winter (November-February) is the best season to visit the Besant Nagar Beach Ashtalakshmi Temple. During these months, Chennai’s weather is pleasant for a comfortable exploration. For the best experience, visit during the early morning hours or just before evening.

Time to explore Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple Chennai

Plan to spend at least an hour to explore Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple at a relaxed pace. This gives you enough time for darshan at the main sanctum and visiting other shrines across the levels. If you’re visiting in the evening, have a little extra time to step outside and take in the sunset views.

How to reach Ashtalakshmi Temple in Besant Nagar?

Ashtalakshmi Temple Besant Nagar is near Elliots Beach, about 15 km away from the Chennai city centre. It’s 14 km from Chennai Central railway station, 17 km from the bus station in Koyambedu, and 16 km from Chennai airport.

Now, here is how to reach Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple –

By metro – You can reach this temple via the Chennai metro service. The nearest metro station to Ashtalakshmi Temple Chennai currently in operation is Guindy, around 8 km away.

By bus – Local city buses are also available to the Ashtalakshmi Temple. The Besant Nagar bus stop is only a few hundred metres from the temple.

By auto/e-rickshaw – Auto rickshaws and e-rickshaws also offer an easy way to visit the temple. They’re readily available all over Chennai.

By taxi/cab – Getting a taxi or private cab is the most comfortable way to visit Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple Besant Nagar. Hire one from the top car rental companies in Chennai and visit the temple and nearby destinations.

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Location Map for Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple Besant Nagar Chennai