Alwarpet Anjaneyar Temple

The temple was established in the 18th century by Salivahana Chettiars, merchants from Mysore who migrated to Mylapore and received land from the Nawab of the Carnatic. The Chettiars initially constructed two Vinayaga (Ganesha) temples on their property. While digging a well, they encountered the self-manifested idol of Hanuman, prompting them to build a temple around this sacred discovery. The temple marked its 200th anniversary in 2000, confirming its deep roots in the neighbourhood's religious and social life.

Today the shrine is managed by the Arulmigu Anjeneya Aaliyah Trust, run by employees of the Tamil Nadu State Agriculture and Rural Development Bank Ltd.

Daily Worship and Darshan

The temple opens early to accommodate morning devotees, with darshan available from 5:00 am to 12:00 noon. The evening session runs from 4:30 pm to 9:00 pm. The main aarti—the ritual honouring of the deity with lights and offerings—takes place at 7:00 pm (19:00), marking a significant moment in the daily worship cycle when the deity is formally venerated.

Visitors planning their visit should note that timings may differ on festival days. It is advisable to contact the temple directly before travelling on such occasions to confirm exact schedules.

Festivals Throughout the Year

The temple observes several major festivals that draw larger numbers of devotees and involve more elaborate decoration than ordinary days. Sharad Navaratri, the nine-night festival honouring the divine feminine, is celebrated during the autumn months. Ugadi or Gudi Padwa, which marks the Hindu New Year in Deccan and Marathi traditions, is also observed here. Karwa Chauth, a festival observed by married women for the wellbeing of their spouses, is another significant occasion. The temple also celebrates Guru Purnima and Kartik Purnima.

Since these festivals follow the lunar calendar, their dates vary from year to year. Those planning a visit around festival times should check with the temple in advance for exact dates and any special arrangements.

Visiting: Etiquette and Practicalities

Visitors should dress modestly and respectfully, as is customary in Hindu temples. Shoes are typically removed before entering the sanctum. The temple follows standard Hindu worship practices; those unfamiliar with temple etiquette may observe other devotees to understand the flow of darshan and ritual participation. Photography policies may vary, so it is courteous to ask before taking images inside the temple.

The temple office can be reached at +91 44-24992777 for inquiries about timings, rituals, or other details. Visitors should plan their visit according to the posted timings, keeping in mind that the temple may observe different schedules on festival days.

Location and Access

The temple is located at No. 181, Luz Church Road, Mylapore, Chennai-600 004, in a well-established residential and religious neighbourhood. The coordinates are 13.0385°N, 80.2585°E, which can be used with mapping applications for navigation. Mylapore is well-connected within central Chennai and accessible via local buses, auto-rickshaws, and private transport. Luz Church Road is a known landmark street in the area, making the temple relatively easy to locate once you arrive in the neighbourhood. Those using GPS or mapping applications can enter the temple's coordinates or address directly for turn-by-turn navigation.