Vadapalani Aandavar Temple, Vadapalani

Vadapalani, Tamil Nadu

Nestled in the sacred surroundings of Vadapalani, Vadapalani Aandavar Temple stands as a prominent pilgrimage site that draws worshippers from near and far. This temple is celebrated for its spiritual energy, captivating architecture, and the unwavering faith it inspires in all who visit. Generations of devotees have made their journey here, seeking divine grace and spiritual fulfilment. The temple grounds often come alive during festivals, with vibrant decorations, traditional music, and devotional activities that reflect the region’s rich culture. Even on quiet days, the gentle sounds of temple bells and the sight of flickering lamps create a deeply calming environment. For many, a visit to Vadapalani Aandavar Temple is not just a religious journey but also a soulful retreat that renews the heart and mind. This cherished shrine stands alongside many Popular temples in Tamil Nadu, celebrated for their devotion and heritage.

Vadapalani Aandavar Temple History and Significance

The temple started as a thatched hut where Annaswami Nayakar worshipped a portrait of Murugan. Built around 1890, it became famous for Annaswami's ability to foretell events. Rathinasamy Chettiyar continued this tradition. The temple was renovated in 1920 and attracts many devotees.

Annaswami Nayakar, a staunch devotee of Murugan, built a small hut with a painted portrait of Murugan. Despite suffering from a stomach ailment, he visited many Murugan temples. A Sadhu in his dream told him Murugan was at home. He offered poojas and his ailments disappeared.

After visiting the Palani temple, Annaswami saw a beautiful picture of Murugan. Without money to buy it, the shopkeeper later gave it to him, saying Murugan appeared in his dream. Annaswami brought the picture home and experienced divine power, resolving devotees' problems.

Rathinasamy Chettiyar, Annaswami's disciple, agreed to build a temple on the site. Annaswami oversaw construction, while Rathinasamy arranged for the sacred idol. The temple was completed, and the Kumbabishekam was performed. Offerings were used for poojas and temple proceedings.

Rathinasamy named the temple Vadapalani Temple. After his spiritual abode, Bagyalingam continued the Arul Vaakku and poojas.

Vadapalani Aandavar Temple Opening Time
Vadapalani Aandavar Temple Pooja Timing
Vadapalani Aandavar Temple Information Facilities and Accommodation
Vadapalani Aandavar Temple Transportation and Accessibility
Vadapalani Aandavar Temple Interesting Facts
Vadapalani Aandavar Temple Nearby Temples
Other Murugan Temples
Famous Temples from around

Vadapalani Aandavar Temple Opening Time

Day	Timings
Monday	5:00 AM – 12:30 PM 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Tuesday	5:00 AM – 12:30 PM 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Wednesday	5:00 AM – 12:30 PM 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Thursday	5:00 AM – 12:30 PM 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Friday	Special days: Open all times
Saturday	5:00 AM – 12:30 PM 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Sunday	5:00 AM – 12:30 PM 4:00 PM – 9:30 PM

Vadapalani Aandavar Temple Pooja Timing

Pooja Name	Timings
Palliyarai Pooja (NORMAL DECORATION)	05:30 AM to 06:00 AM IST
Kalasandhi pooja (NORMAL DECORATION)	06:30 AM to 06:45 AM IST
Uchikkala Pooja (SANTHANA KAPPU)	12:00 PM to 12:30 PM IST
Sayaraksha Pooja (Evening) (SANTHANA KAPPU)	05:00 PM to 06:45 PM IST
Ardhajama Pooja (No decoration)	09:00 PM IST

Vadapalani Aandavar Temple Location Details

Vadapalani Aandavar Temple is located in Vadapalani, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The temple is well connected by road, rail, and air, making it easily accessible for devotees and tourists. Below are the location details.

Address

Palani Andavar Koil street.Vadapalani,Mobile No-8072398360, 600026

04424836903

How to Reach Vadapalani Aandavar Temple

By Road:

Vadapalani is well-connected by road to all parts of Chennai and Tamil Nadu. State Transport Buses, private buses, and taxis operate regularly within the city.

By Train:

Nearest railway stations: Chennai Central and Egmore Railway Station. From these stations, buses or taxis are available to Vadapalani.

By Air:

Nearest airport: Chennai International Airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Vadapalani, which is located within Chennai city.

Vadapalani Aandavar Temple Nearby Temples

Best time to visit (season/months):

The best time to visit Vadapalani Aandavar Temple is between November and February when the weather in Chennai is pleasant. Avoid visiting during the peak summer months (April to June) due to high temperatures and humidity.

Temple Facility

Drinking Water R.O.:

In this temple, Drinking water facility has been set up for the devotees near the Anjaneyar shrine and Adhipeedam shrine.

Lactating Mothers Room:

There are 2 rooms behind Vinayagar shrine and 1 room behind Utsawar shrine.

Postal Prasadam:

Delivery of prasadam to devotees through post office.

Tonsure Facility:

in this temple hair offering place is currently not used.Construction work is going on. In this temple there is a temprory hair offering place behind the office. There are 2 bathrooms facilities for devotees making hair offerings.

Marriage Hall:

The marriage hall belonging to the temple is currently not in use and the process is being taken to start construction at a cost of 19.5 crores.At present, 28 pillars are numbered in the Kandar Anubhuthi Mandapam and Arunagirinath Mandapam in the temple and marriages are conducted. Amount for marriage application form-50. Amount for marriage-5665.

Toilet Facility:

The toilet belonging to the temple is not in use at present and the construction work is being started. At present, a mobile toilet has been set up outside the office near Annadhanakoodam. It is cleaned twice daily.

Library Facility:

The spiritual library is opposite the west tower where the oldest books are preserved. This library has 2900 books.

Free Footwear Stand:

n this temple, chappal stand facilities have available in outside of the temple this service is free of cost

Hospital:

Siddha medicine is being conducted at this time from 24.10.1975 to date. A free medical service is being offered free of charge by pharmaceuticals. This makes the poor simple people benefit. At the time of the need for drinking water, the service is provided to the devotees. Note From 9.00 am to 12.30 pm From 4.00 pm to 7.00 pm Holiday on Sundays and Government Holidays

Golden Chariot:

The golden chariot temple belonging to this temple is in the inner campus security centre. Servants pay a fee of Rs.2500 and carry out a golden chariot procession to fulfill their wishes.

Wooden Chariot:

This wooden chariot is located inside the temple near the Arunagirinath shrine. During Vaikasi Visakha, Sevaartis perform their prayers by performing wooden chariot procession.

Wheel Chair:

The temple is wheelchair accessible. Please refer people at the counter for wheelchair requirements.

Other Murugan Temples

Vadapalani Aandavar Temple Information Facilities and Accommodation

Temple Speciality

Historical:

Vallal Vadapalani Lord who bestows desired boons. Just as Lord Vadapalani gives boons to those who pray, Lord Vadapalani is bestowing all boons as Lord Vadapalani in Chennai, the northern part of Tamil Nadu.It is a true phenomenon that those who could not go to Palani and fulfilled their prayers came to this place and fulfilled their wishes to Palani Hill Murugan and received the grace of South Palani Murugan in this North Palani Murugan temple.There are many people who prayed to Lord Vadapalani for the things they wanted from Palani Murugan and received his grace. Day by day the fame of this temple is growing and rising as a place of prayer that gives blessings to those who wish.The place where the three siddhas who found this temple attained samadhi is on Nelkunram Path near this temple. A Siddha temple has been built at that place to visit the Samadhi of the three at the same time. Special pujas are conducted every full moon. Guru Puja is also being done well. The greatest merit of this place is that those who worship Moolava and Angarakan (Mars) and perform special abhishekam and archanai to get good education, to get good education, to be healthy and to be healthy, to get rid of their shortcomings. The blessing of Lord Vadapalani, the boon of Kaliyuga, is blessed.In this temple it is special to worship the moolavar order as shoes. Not found in any other Murugan Temple. Wearing sandals signifies complete elimination of arrogance and ego. It is believed that the right leg of the head of this temple is slightly forward, and it is believed that the Lord of Vadapalani will rush to remove the grievances of the devotees in this Kali Yuga.

Subshrines Details

Arunagirinath Shrine:

The shrine of Arunagirinathar faces west. abishegam and bhajans are conducted in every occation in the month of aadi in swathi natchatram.

Meenakshi Amman shrine:

The shrine of Meenakshi Amman faces south. The scene of Lord Muruga (Subramaniyar) getting `Vel` from the beautiful Meenakshi Amman shrine for Soora Samharam during Kanda sashti festival will be celebrated. This shrine is a wow fulfilling location. The devotees fulfill their vows before this deity by performing `மஞ்சள் காப்பு அபிஷேகம்` (abhishegam with turmeric powder). Aadi Pooram and special abishegam, alankaram and special poojas during Navarathri festival are conducted. Pancha Murthi processions are held during Kanda Sashti and Vaikasi Visagam festivals.

Angarakan:

Angarakan Swamy This temple has a separate shrine where Angarakan (Planet Mars) graces the devotees. This shrine functions as a parihara sthalam (shrine for remedies). Those who face obstacles in marriage due to Sevvai Dosham will have to perform remedial pooja by adorning Angarakan of this temple with red cloth, perform abishegam and archanai by mentioning their name, star and rasi. Men and women with Sevvai Dosham should perform pooja, doing neivedyam of rice mixed with thoor dal, followed by wearing sevvarali garland and distributing the prasadam to the devotees with their own hands. Then they should circumambulate the temple. The presiding deity for Angarakan viz., Lord Muruga, should be worshipped.

Sokkanathar Shrine:

Sokkanathar Shrine There is a seperate shrine for Chokkanathar Lingam under a five hooded snake canopy is found in the east-facing shrine. Nandi is found in the opposite direction. Om namashivayaa is his sloga. During the Tamil month of Maasi(feb) Maha Shivarathri and in aippasi month annabishegam festivals are celebrated with special abhishegams, alankarams and aradhanai being performed.

Aadhi Peedam:

Aadhi peedam Annasami Naicker: He is chiefly responsible for the formation of this temple. He cut his tongue and offered it to Tiruttani Murugan (cutting onersquos tongue and offering it to Lord is known as ldquoPavadamrdquo). He constructed a thatched hut in his house and a stage (Aadhi peedam) from where oracle messages where conveyed. He performed poojas to the portrait of Palani Andavar brought from Palani in this place. This portrait is located in the mandapam situated in the north inside the main shrine. Rathinsamy Chettiar: He also performed ldquoPavadamrdquo to Vadapalani Andavar. He was a disciple of Annasami Naicker. After Annasami Naicker, the idol of Lord Muruga was installed only during his time. A building was constructed with bricks and lime mortar in the place where the Main shrine stands now. It is significant to note that the stage for oracle messages till then was henceforth made to be called as Vadapalani Andavar temple, only by him. Bhagyalinga Adigalar: The Main shrine and the inner stone compound wall were constructed by his efforts. He also was deeply devoted to Vadapalani Andavar and performed ldquoPavadamrdquo. This temple attained name and fame only during his period. The samadhis of all these three people are located on the road leading to Nerkundram and goes by the name ldquoSidhar templerdquo. Daily abishegams, special abhishegams on full moon days and annadhanam (public feeding) are conducted in grand manner. The templersquos meditation hall is located next to the Aadi peedam.

Arulmighu Shanmugar Shrine:

Shanmugar Shrine Lord Shanmuga, known by names like Skanda, Muruga, Subramania, etc., graces devotees from temples located in all hills. One among such holy places where Lord Shanmuga graces devotees is Vadapalani Andavar temple. Shanmuga in this temple has 12 hands carrying twelve divine weapons and occupies a Ratham like Structure which is a special feature. It is believed that if one worships Shanmuga on Panguni Uthiram day all wishes would be fulfilled. Grand festival is held on Panguni Uthiram. Devotees fulfill their religious vows and make offerings on Panguni Uthiram. It is believed that one overcomes pride and become submissive by worshipping here. It is believed that Muruga removes evils of past birth, pride, delusion and confers wisdom. Even though peacock is the normal vehicle of Muruga, elephant and swan given by Indra, goat and horse are also his vehicles. During Panguni Uthiram festival Shanmuga graces the devotees in special alankarams.

Anjaneyar shrine:

Anjaneyar Shrine The shrine of Anjaneyar faces west. Devotees offer curd rice, Vada malai, betel leaf garland, thulasi garland and perform archana on fulfillment of their wishes. By worshipping Anjaneyar problems like obstacles in marriage, issueless chronic stomach ailments etc. devotees get relief very fast. Further, it is believed that one can get over fear, improved intelligence, relief from ailments and fame in life by worshipping the Anjaneyar in this temple.

Vara siddhi vinayagar Shrine:

Arulmighu Vara Siddhi Vinayagar Shine Arulmighu Vara Siddhi Vinayagar in this temple graces the devotees, facing east. `Vara Siddhi Vinayagar` as the name suggests, bestows boons as desired by the devotees. The exterior walls of this shrine appear beautiful with intricate ornate works devoid of any sculptures. Large number of devotees visit this shrine on Sankatahara Chathurthi days every month. One can see devotees fulfilling their vows by performing milk abhishekam, chandana kappu (smearing the whole idol with sandal paste), archanai with different flowers, adorning the deity with `Arugam pul` garland etc. Consistent with the proverb `மூர்த்தி சிறிதாயினும், கீர்த்தி பெரிது`, which means `large fame despite small size`, Vara Sidhi Vinayagar in this temple graces the devotees in grand manner. During festivals, the deity adorned with special decorations goes in procession and graces the devotees.

Valli deivanai subramaniyar shrine:

Subramaniar with Valli and Devayani Shrine Subramaniar with Valli and Devayani graces in wedding pose. This is very auspicious. Due to this, many devotees prefer to conduct marriages before this shrine.

Temple Services

Donation:

Donations are accepted in the form of cash (Indian as well as foreign currencies) money orders, Postal orders, ATM, Net Banking Services, all debit/credit cards through payment gateway, Crossed and A/c Payee Cheques or Demand Drafts, and also in the form of kind donations i.e. article and commodities etc. The amount of donation is used for the daily administration of the Temple to fulfill the requirements like accommodation, food etc. of the pilgrims, to supply the medical services to the poor and needy.

Annadhanam:

The Annadanam scheme, which was started in at the Vadapalani Temple, On date/year the scheme was formally launched Every day nearly 100 persons will be served meals at this temple by 12 noon. One day annadhanam will be Provided for Rs.3500/- In these temples during the occasion of Kirthigai vada and payasam are served for 500 peoples. Annadhanam kattalai donation amt 75,000/-

Tank Information

Murugan Temple Pond:

The temple is called Thirukulam Vadapalani Andavar Theertha. It is located opposite the East Gopuram. Thirukkulam is enclosed and protected on all four sides with a Neerazhi mandapam in the middle. Tepathirunal is celebrated once a year for three days.

Sculpture Details

Mural Details

Historical Information

Aagamam:

Kamiga Aagamam

Sthala Virutcham:

Athimaram

Vimana Type:

vattam vadivam

Sanctorum Shape:

Square Shape

Century belongs to:

19th Century

King`s Period:

NIL

Heritage Temple:

Legends Beliefs

Legends and BeliefsThe temple is believed to offer the same blessings as the Palani temple. Devotees believe Murugan resolves their issues. The temple is unique as Murugan is seen wearing footwear, symbolising humility. He stands with his left foot forward, ready to help devotees.
Deities and Sub Deities

Deities and Sub-DeitiesThe main deity is Lord Muruga. The temple also houses Sannidhis of Varasiddhi Vinayaka, Chokkanathar, Meenakshi Amman, Kali, Bhairava, Shanmuga with Valli and Deivanai. Niches of Dakshinamurthy, Chandikeshwar, and Mahalakshmi are in the inner Praharam. There is a shrine for Angaaran (Mars).
Offerings

OfferingsDevotees offer silver and gold. Some spear their tongues, tonsure their heads, pierce their ears, and offer sarees. They take the Paalkavadi and Pushpakavadi as special prayers. The temple is known for helping devotees find answers to their problems.
Architecture

ArchitectureThe temple follows traditional South Indian architecture. The Rajagopuram at the entrance has stuccos depicting Skanda Purana legends. The main deity resembles the Palani temple idol. The temple courtyard has several Sannidhis and niches. The eastern tower depicts 108 Bharatnatyam dance gestures and stands 40.8 meters tall.The temple has a spacious hall for marriages and religious discourses. There is a golden chariot for Murugan. The temple tank is in front of the temple. The Thala Vriksham is a fig tree where devotees tie small swings for progeny.
Festivals

FestivalsThe temple celebrates various festivals dedicated to Lord Muruga. These include Thaipusam, Panguni Uthiram, and Skanda Sashti. During these festivals, the temple is decorated, and special poojas are performed. Devotees throng the temple in large numbers to seek blessings.
Religious Practices

Religious PracticesThe temple follows traditional Hindu rituals. Daily poojas are performed, and special poojas are conducted during festivals. Devotees participate in various rituals, including offering prayers, lighting lamps, and performing abhishekam. The temple is also a popular venue for marriages.

FAQ's

Where is the Vadapalani Aandavar Temple located?

The Vadapalani Aandavar Temple is located in Vadapalani, Tamil Nadu, India. Specifically, it is situated in the Chennai district.

Which God is Murugan?

Murugan is a major Hindu deity.

What is the best time to visit Vadapalani Aandavar Temple?

Why is Vadapalani Aandavar Temple famous among tourists and devotees?

How to reach Vadapalani Aandavar Temple from near City or Town?

Nearest railway stations: Chennai Central and Egmore Railway Station. From these stations, buses or taxis are available to Vadapalani. Nearest airport: Chennai International Airport. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Vadapalani, which is located within Chennai city.