Have you ever felt that deep urge to just pause your busy life and seek a place where your heart feels lighter? Many people in Chennai say they find that peace when they visit the Nanganallur Anjaneyar Temple. Whether it’s curiosity about the 32-feet Hanuman statue or simply the need for quiet prayer, this temple often pops up as the answer. Maybe that’s exactly why you’re here right now, searching for what makes this place so special.
In this blog, we’ll walk through everything you’d want to know ,its history, unique features, rituals, and even practical details like timings and how to get there. Think of it as your personal guide, written to help you explore not just the facts but also the soul of the temple. By the end, you’ll feel ready to visit in person or at least understand why it means so much to countless devotees.
Special Features of Anjaneyar Temple
One of the most striking sights inside the temple is the massive 32-feet Hanuman idol carved from a single granite rock. Devotees call him Viswaroopa Anjaneya, and standing before him often feels like being in the presence of a living deity. The sheer size of the idol, along with the calm yet powerful expression on Hanuman’s face, is enough to fill anyone with awe and devotion.
Apart from the main deity, you’ll also find several sannadhis like Ramar Sannadhi, Krishna Sannadhi, Vinayaka Sannadhi, Nagaraja Sannadhi, and Raghavendra Sannadhi. The towering Rajagopuram with its three golden kalasams is another highlight that catches every visitor’s eye. Together, these features make the temple not just a place of worship but also a marvel of Hindu temple architecture in Chennai.
Key Highlights
- 32-feet Hanuman idol carved from a single granite stone
- Viswaroopa Anjaneya form that inspires awe and devotion
- Multiple sannadhis: Ramar, Krishna, Vinayaka, Nagaraja, Raghavendra
- Rajagopuram with three golden kalasams
- Blend of spiritual power and traditional temple architecture
Sthala Puran
The story of this temple is closely tied to the Indian epics, especially the Ramayana and Mahabharata. According to legend, Hanuman blessed Arjuna by appearing on his chariot flag during the Kurukshetra war. This divine connection is believed to be one of the reasons the temple houses a majestic image of Kodanda Rama along with Sita and Lakshmana, emphasizing Hanuman’s eternal service to Sri Rama.
Local lore also says that great saints and devotees were drawn to this sacred spot long before the temple was consecrated in 1995. People believe that the power of Hanuman was present here even in ancient times, and the temple stands as a testimony to those stories. For devotees, the Sthala Puranam is not just history but a living reminder of Hanuman’s role in protecting dharma and guiding his followers.
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Key Takeaways
- Links to Ramayana and Mahabharata traditions
- Presence of Kodanda Rama along with Sita and Lakshmana
- Story of Arjuna’s chariot flag and Hanuman’s divine presence
- Spiritual heritage believed to predate the temple’s consecration in 1995
Architecture of Anjaneyar Temple
The temple’s architecture reflects the grandeur of traditional South Indian temple design. The most eye-catching feature is the 90-feet Rajagopuram, crowned with three shining golden kalasams. Inside, the 32-feet Hanuman idol carved from a single block of granite stands tall, a rare marvel in Hindu temple architecture.
Beyond the main sanctum, the temple has spacious mandapas where devotees gather for prayers, festivals, and community rituals. The thoughtful design even includes a lightning arrester to protect the towering structures. Every detail, from the kalasams to the ornamental carvings, shows how beauty and function come together to create a sacred atmosphere.
Architectural Highlights
- 90-feet Rajagopuram with three golden kalasams
- 32-feet Hanuman idol sculpted from a single granite rock
- Spacious mandapas for rituals and gatherings
- Blend of devotion and Hindu temple architecture traditions
- Modern safety addition: lightning arrester
Alankar of Deity
One of the most enchanting aspects of the temple is the daily alankar, or decoration, of the deity. The Hanuman idol is adorned with fresh garlands, fragrant flowers, and sacred ornaments that highlight his majestic presence. Devotees often say that every visit feels different because the deity’s alankar changes daily, reflecting both tradition and creativity.
The rituals include the chanting of stotras and mantras, which fill the mandapa with powerful vibrations. On special occasions, Hanuman is decorated in unique styles that symbolize different qualities like strength, devotion, and protection. For many visitors, simply watching the alankar and listening to the prayers becomes a deeply moving spiritual experience.
Highlights of Alankar
- Daily flower garlands and sacred ornaments
- Changing decorations bring fresh experiences for devotees
- Stotras and mantras during rituals enhance the atmosphere
- Special alankars on festivals reflect Hanuman’s divine qualities
Prayers and Benefits
Devotees come to the temple with heartfelt prayers, often offering garlands, coconuts, or butter as a sign of devotion. One of the unique practices here is the Thulabaram, where people weigh themselves against offerings like sugar, fruits, or rice to express gratitude for wishes fulfilled. Many believe that sincere prayers at this temple bring strength, courage, and relief from difficulties in life.
The temple also conducts special vratas and poojas that are believed to remove obstacles and bring peace to families. Regular chanting of Hanuman stotras and mantras is said to instill discipline, focus, and protection from negative influences. Over the years, countless devotees have shared their stories of blessings and answered prayers after visiting the temple.
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Key Benefits of Prayers
- Thulabaram ritual for expressing gratitude
- Blessings for strength, courage, and protection
- Special vratas and poojas for family peace
- Chanting of Hanuman stotras and mantras for focus and devotion
- Testimonies of fulfilled prayers from devotees
Festivals at Anjaneyar Temple
Festivals at the temple bring a vibrant energy that draws thousands of devotees from Chennai and beyond. The most celebrated event is Hanumath Jayanthi, when the temple is beautifully decorated, and special poojas are conducted from early morning till late night. Devotees gather in large numbers, chanting Hanuman’s name and participating in rituals with great enthusiasm.
Other important festivals include Sri Rama Navami and Gokulashtami, both marked with colorful processions, music, and community prayers. During these occasions, the temple’s ratham (chariot) and mandapas come alive with celebrations. These festivals not only strengthen spiritual connections but also bring people together in a shared sense of culture and faith.
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Major Festivals Celebrated
- Hanumath Jayanthi – grand celebrations and special poojas
- Sri Rama Navami – honoring Lord Rama with processions and rituals
- Gokulashtami – festive prayers and cultural programs for Lord Krishna
- Use of the temple’s ratham and mandapas during celebrations
Social Activities
Beyond being a spiritual hub, the temple also plays an important role in community welfare. Regular Annadhanam is organized, where free meals are served to devotees and the needy, reflecting the temple’s commitment to service. Families also use the temple premises for traditional ceremonies like marriages, ear piercing, and head-shaving rituals, keeping cultural practices alive.
The temple trust, along with devotees, supports various danaas (charity) and social drives. From educational support to community welfare programs, these activities make the temple a center of compassion and social responsibility. By blending devotion with service, the temple continues to touch lives in ways that go beyond prayer.
Social & Cultural Contributions
- Annadhanam – free meals for devotees and the poor
- Ceremonies like marriages, ear piercing, and head-shaving
- Danaas (charity) supporting the underprivileged
- Educational and community welfare initiatives
- Active involvement of the Maruthi Bhaktha Samajam Trust
Nanganallur Nnjaneyar Temple Timings
Visiting the temple at the right time ensures you can participate in poojas and enjoy the serene atmosphere without rush. The temple opens early in the morning and closes by night, with several key poojas performed throughout the day. Whether you’re a regular devotee or a first-time visitor, knowing these timings can make your visit smooth and fulfilling.
Here’s a clear schedule for daily temple hours and poojas:
Timing | Activity/Pooja |
5:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Morning darshan |
4:30 PM – 9:00 PM | Evening darshan |
5:00 AM – 5:30 AM | Viswaroopa Pooja |
7:30 AM – 8:00 AM | Kalasandhi Pooja |
12:00 PM – 12:30 PM | Uchikkala Pooja |
5:15 PM – 6:00 PM | Sayaraksha Pooja |
How to reach Anjaneyar Temple?
The Nanganallur Anjaneyar Temple is well-connected and easy to reach, whether you’re traveling by train, bus, or car. If you’re using suburban trains, the nearest station is Pazhavanthangal Railway Station, just a short auto or taxi ride away. Many local buses also pass through Nanganallur, making it convenient for those coming from different parts of Chennai.
For visitors driving or using cabs, the temple has clear signboards and parking facilities nearby. It’s located in a calm neighborhood, so planning your route in advance helps avoid traffic and ensures a peaceful visit.
Directions at a Glance
- By Train: Pazhavanthangal Railway Station (~1 km)
- By Bus: Local buses from Chennai city to Nanganallur
- By Car/Taxi: Well-connected roads; parking available near temple
- Nearby Landmarks: Easy to locate from surrounding Chennai temples and main roads
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Anjaneyar Temple in Chennai?
Anjaneyar Temple is located in Nanganallur, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, famous for its 32-feet Hanuman idol.
What is special about Nanganallur Anjaneya Temple?
It houses a 32-feet tall Hanuman idol and Sannidhis for Rama, Krishna, Vinayaka, and Ragavendra saints.
What are the temple timings for Anjaneyar Temple?
Open daily from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM for devotees.
Which festivals are celebrated at Anjaneyar Temple?
Hanumath Jayanthi, Sri Rama Navami, and Gokulashtami are major festivals celebrated with rituals and poojas.
How can I reach Nanganallur Anjaneya Temple?
Accessible by road, suburban trains, and nearest railway station Pazhavanthangal; about 10 km from Chennai city center.
Who built the Anjaneyar Temple in Nanganallur?
The 32-feet Hanuman idol was installed by Sri Maruthi Bhaktha Samajam Trust in 1989, consecrated in 1995.
What are the key features of the temple?
Temple features include Rajagopuram, Mandapa, Thulabaram, Kalasam, and Sannidhis of Rama, Krishna, Vinayaka, and Ragavendra.
Last Words
Visiting the Nanganallur Anjaneyar Temple is more than a spiritual experience; it’s a journey into faith, history, and devotion. From the majestic 32-feet Hanuman idol to the vibrant festivals and meaningful rituals, every aspect of the temple leaves a lasting impression.
Whether you’re seeking peace, spiritual guidance, or simply a glimpse of remarkable Hindu temple architecture, this temple offers it all. Planning your visit with proper timings and knowing the special poojas ensures a fulfilling experience. Truly, a trip here connects your heart to centuries of devotion and cultural heritage.
With over five years of experience in crafting engaging and insightful content, I’m the creator of TravelLeeps.com; a travel blog dedicated to inspiring journeys, practical tips, and unforgettable destinations around the globe.