Complete Visitor Guide Β· 2025
Dakshina Dwaraka Dham
ISKCON Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai
Timings Β· Darshan Β· Prasadam Β· Festivals Β· How to Reach
& Everything You Need to Know Before You Visit
A Divine Destination Unlike Any Other
Imagine stepping out of the rush of Chennai's city life and suddenly finding yourself standing at the edge of the Bay of Bengal, with the sound of ocean waves blending with the melodious chanting of Hare Krishna. The air fills with the fragrance of incense, flowers adorn the deities in glittering splendour, and a deep, inexplicable peace washes over your heart. This is not imagination β this is the everyday reality at Dakshina Dwaraka Dham, ISKCON Thiruvanmiyur.
Situated along the scenic seashore of Thiruvanmiyur, this magnificent spiritual and cultural complex is conceived by Srila Prabhupada's ISKCON Hare Krishna Movement, Chennai. Currently under construction, once complete, it will stand as the tallest temple in Chennai β a second Shore Temple of Tamil Nadu, designed in the magnificent tradition of Pallava-style architecture.
Whether you are a devoted bhakta, a curious first-time visitor, a family seeking a meaningful outing, or a traveller in search of stillness β this temple has something profound to offer. Every person who enters β regardless of religion, caste, or nationality β is welcomed with the blessings of Sri Sri Gaur Nitai, Sri Sri Krishna Rukmini Satyabhama, and Srila Prabhupada.
The Presiding Deities
Sri Sri Gaur Nitai
Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu and Nityananda Prabhu β the golden avatars of mercy who shower unconditional love upon all
Sri Sri Krishna Rukmini Satyabhama
The Lord of Dwaraka in His full divine glory, with His beloved queens β the principal focus of worship at Dakshina Dwaraka Dham
Srila Prabhupada
The Founder-Acharya of ISKCON who carried the message of Lord Krishna to every corner of the world
Aarti & Darshan Timings
| Time | Programme |
|---|---|
| 4:30 AM | Mangala Aarti |
| 5:00 AM | Mantra Meditation (Japa Session) |
| 7:15 AM | Shringara Aarti |
| 7:30 AM | Guru Puja |
| 8:00 AM | Srimad Bhagavatam Class |
| 12:25 PM | Rajbhoga Aarti |
| 4:15 PM | Dhupa Aarti β Darshan Opens |
| 7:00 PM | Sandhya Aarti |
| 7:30 PM | Bhagavad-Gita Discourse |
| 8:00 β 8:15 PM | Shayana Aarti β Darshan Closes |
β° Temple is open every day of the year. Timings may vary slightly on major festival days.
Essential Visitor Information
Entry & Donation
Entry and Darshan are absolutely free of cost. We never charge for blessings. Devotees who wish to contribute may donate online through our website β for Dakshina Dwaraka Dham construction, festival sevas, or cultural programs.
Dress Code
Please dress modestly as a mark of respect. Men: Dhoti or full trousers with shirt. Women: Saree, salwar, or kurta. Shorts, sleeveless and revealing clothing are not permitted. Remove footwear before entering.
Photography
Photography of the deities and temple premises is welcome. However, selfies with the Lord are strictly not permitted. Maintain sanctity in the deity hall and avoid flash photography during aartis.
What to See
The main deity hall accommodates up to 150 devotees. A book counter stocks Bhagavad Gita As It Is, Srimad Bhagavatam, and all of Srila Prabhupada's writings. The temple lawn opens to a breathtaking view of the Bay of Bengal.
Guest House
Our Dwarka Palace β a Kalyana Mandapam with guest house facility β is available for visiting devotees. Please check availability in advance by calling +91 93449 14701.
Restricted Items
Alcohol, cigarettes, tobacco, and all intoxicants are strictly prohibited on temple premises. Outside food is not permitted inside. Silence and decorum must be maintained in the deity hall at all times.
Prasadam β Food for the Soul
No visit to ISKCON is truly complete without tasting prasadam β the sanctified food offered to Lord Krishna. Free from onion and garlic, purely sattvic in nature, this is not merely food β it is the Lord's mercy. When you partake of prasadam, your very existence becomes purified, helping you lead a more peaceful and spiritually fulfilling life.
π½οΈ When is Prasadam Served?
During major festivals, prasadam is distributed to all visitors. On weekends, prasadam is served in the morning after Srimad Bhagavatam class. Every day of the week, donna prasadam is available for all who visit the temple.
π΄ We also have our special restaurant β Basil Bites at Taramani β serving a wide variety of delicious sattvic prasadam items. Order through Swiggy or Zomato, or visit in person and choose from the menu. A true treat for the body and the soul!
Weekly Programs & Special Events
- 1Daily Β· 5:00 AM β 7:15 AM
Japa Meditation Sessions
Every morning, devotees gather to chant the Hare Krishna Mahamantra in a peaceful, focused atmosphere. Open to all β beginners especially welcome. Simply come and experience the transformative power of mantra meditation.
- 2Daily Β· 8:00 AM
Srimad Bhagavatam Class
A beautiful morning class on the timeless wisdom of the Srimad Bhagavatam. Families are welcome on weekends and receive prasadam after the class.
- 3Every Sunday
ICVK Classes for Children
Young children are introduced to Indian culture, values, and Krishna consciousness in a fun, age-appropriate setting β building good character and helping them lead happy, spiritually grounded lives.
- 4Regular Β· Family Programme
Bhagavad Gita Classes for Families
Families attend together β children join their classes while parents attend Bhagavad Gita sessions and learn to apply this timeless wisdom in everyday modern life.
- 5Saturdays & Sundays Β· 5:20 PM onwards
Kala Madhuryam β Classical Arts Programme
Artists from across India present classical dance, music, bhajans, and devotional singing before Lord Krishna. Witness these performances absolutely free β an experience that naturally awakens devotion in the heart.
- 6Sundays Β· 5:30 PM onwards
Youth Programme β Bhagavad Gita Fundamentals
Specially curated for young adults. Receive the foundational knowledge of the Bhagavad Gita, followed by aarti, kirtan, and prasadam. An evening that nourishes the heart, mind, and soul.
- 7Every Ekadashi Β· 5:15 AM β 8:15 PM
Ekadashi Japa Yajna
On each Ekadashi, devotees sit together and chant the Hare Krishna Mahamantra throughout the entire day. Registration begins at 5:15 AM. Become fully absorbed in the Lord's holy names and receive His special blessings.
Festivals Throughout the Year
We celebrate over 14β15 festivals every year β each one a magnificent occasion of devotion, culture, and community joy. These are the sacred celebrations that fill our temple with thousands of devotees:
β The most spectacular days are Sri Krishna Janmashtami (midnight celebration), Rath Yatra, and Vaikuntha Ekadashi β plan ahead for these unforgettable occasions!
Do's & Don'ts
β Please Do
- βRemove footwear before entering
- βDress modestly and respectfully
- βParticipate in aarti and kirtan
- βMaintain silence in the deity hall
- βAccept prasadam with both hands
- βArrive early for a peaceful darshan
- βBring your children β all are welcome
- βTake photos of the deities and temple area
β Please Do Not
- βTake selfies with the Lord β not permitted
- βBring outside food inside the temple
- βWear shorts, sleeveless or revealing attire
- βSpeak loudly inside the deity hall
- βBring alcohol, cigarettes or intoxicants
- βTouch the deities or any sacred objects
- βUse camera flash during aarti or worship
Best Time to Visit
The temple is open every day β and every moment in the Lord's presence is auspicious. Here is a guide to help you plan the perfect visit:
Morning Visit
Serene, peaceful darshan. Beautiful kirtan, Bhagavatam class, and morning prasadam. Ideal for Mangala Aarti at 4:30 AM.
Evening Visit
Most popular time. Vibrant Sandhya Aarti, Bhagavad Gita discourse, and Kala Madhuryam on weekends.
Weekdays
Less crowded, more intimate darshan. Ideal for quiet contemplation and personal time with the Lord.
Weekends
Hundreds of devotees gather here. Vibrant energy, special cultural programmes, and a joyful community atmosphere.
Best Season
October to February β the Chennai heat is gentle, the Bay of Bengal breeze is refreshing, and the atmosphere is perfect.
How to Reach Us
π Dakshina Dwaraka Dham β ISKCON Thiruvanmiyur
63, First Seaward Road, Valmiki Nagar, Thiruvanmiyur, Chennai β 600 041
Landmark: Behind Marundeeswarar Temple Β· Known locally as "Dwarka Palace" or "Hare Krishna Kovil"
By Bus
Take a bus to Thiruvanmiyur Bus Depot. From there, the temple is just 1.5 km away β a short and easy auto ride.
By Local Train
Board a local train from Chennai Central to Thiruvanmiyur Railway Station. The temple is approximately 2 km from the station by auto.
By Auto / Cab
Ask for "Dwarka Palace", "Hare Krishna Kovil", or "Behind Marundeeswarar Temple, Thiruvanmiyur." Any driver in the area will know it.
Parking
Free parking available for up to 50 four-wheelers. Come early on weekends and festival days to secure a spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ISKCON Thiruvanmiyur open every day?
Yes! The temple is open every single day of the year β including Sundays and public holidays. Darshan begins with Mangala Aarti at 4:30 AM and closes with Shayana Aarti at 8:15 PM.
Can non-Hindus visit ISKCON temple?
Absolutely! Everyone is welcome β regardless of religion, caste, nationality, or background. Lord Krishna's house is open to all, and we warmly receive visitors from every walk of life.
Is entry to the temple free?
Yes, entry and darshan are completely free. We never charge for the Lord's blessings. If you wish to contribute, you may donate online through our website for temple construction or various sevas.
What is the dress code at ISKCON Thiruvanmiyur?
Please dress modestly. Men: dhoti or full trousers with a shirt. Women: saree, salwar, or kurta. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothing are not permitted. Remove footwear before entering.
Is photography allowed inside the temple?
Yes, you may photograph the deities and temple premises. However, selfies with the Lord are not permitted. Please avoid flash photography during aartis to maintain the sanctity of worship.
How long does a typical temple visit take?
A darshan visit takes about 15β20 minutes. If you attend an aarti, Bhagavad Gita class, or the Kala Madhuryam programme on weekends, you may want to stay longer β and most visitors are delighted that they did!
Is there a guest house at the temple?
Yes. Our Dwarka Palace Kalyana Mandapam has guest house facilities for visiting devotees. Please check availability in advance by calling +91 93449 14701.
Can I attend Mangala Aarti at 4:30 AM?
Absolutely! Mangala Aarti at 4:30 AM is open to all. Predawn chanting, softly lit lamps, and the gentle sound of the Bay of Bengal in the background β it is one of the most blissful experiences the temple has to offer.
Connect with Us
Follow Hare Krishna Movement Chennai across all platforms for daily darshan, spiritual insights, event updates, and seva opportunities.
Official Website
Hare Krishna Movement Chennai
https://hkmchennai.org/
Twitter (X)
HKM Chennai (Official X Handle)
https://x.com/ChennaiHare
HKM Chennai Official Instagram (@hkm_chennai)
https://www.instagram.com/hkm_chennai
Hare Krishna Movement Chennai (Official Page)
https://www.facebook.com/hkmcworld/
Hare Krishna Movement Chennai (Organization Profile)
https://www.linkedin.com/company/hare-krishna-movement-chennai?originalSubdomain=in
Donation / Campaign Page
Dakshina Dwaraka Dham Construction Campaign
https://campaigns.hkmchennai.org/srila-prabhupada-s-iskcon-thiruvanmiyur-campaign
WhatsApp Channel
HKM Chennai Official WhatsApp
https://api.whatsapp.com/send/?phone=919789057101&text&type=phone_number&app_absent=0
Come. Experience. Be Transformed.
The ocean waves sing the Lord's glories. The incense rises like prayers. The deities wait with open hearts. Your visit to Dakshina Dwaraka Dham is not just a temple trip β it is a journey to the divine.
πͺ· Β Plan Your Visit Today