Triplicane Parthasarathy Temple Vaikunta Ekadasi Sorgavasal Travel Guide

Triplicane Parthasarathy Temple Vaikunta Ekadasi Sorgavasal at the historic Triplicane Parthasarathy Temple in Chennai is one of the most spiritually electrifying religious festivals in South India. The unique experience of entering through the Sorgavasal (also known as the Paramapada Vasal or “Heavenly Gate”) draws thousands of devotees every year who believe passing through it on Vaikunta Ekadasi brings divine blessings and spiritual merit. This travel guide will help you plan your visit with up-to-date details on timings, booking, insider tips, and more. For official information, visit Incredible India.

Quick Facts

Location	Triplicane, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Temple Name	Arulmigu Sri Parthasarathy Swamy Temple
Daily Timings	6:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Vaikunta Ekadasi Sorgavasal Date (2025)	December 30, 2025 (est.)
Sorgavasal Opening	Early Morning ~2:30 AM, Gate Rite ~4:30 AM (Vaikunta Ekadasi)
Entry Fee	Free (General Darshan)
Special Darshan Tickets	Available at counters; see booking section
Contact	+91-44-2844-2462 / 2844-2449

Daily temple hours are confirmed by official temple sources.

About Triplicane Parthasarathy Temple

The Triplicane Parthasarathy Temple (Arulmigu Sri Parthasarathy Swamy Temple) is an ancient Vaishnavite shrine, originally constructed during the 6th–8th centuries CE by the Pallavas. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams – sacred abodes of Lord Vishnu – in India. Understanding Triplicane Parthasarathy Temple Vaikunta is essential.

The principal deity is Lord Parthasarathy, Lord Krishna in his charioteer form during the Mahabharata battle. The temple’s architectural richness, deep cultural heritage, and vibrant festivals make it essential for travellers exploring religious tourism in Chennai.

How To Reach

By Air

The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport (MAA), approximately 23 km from Triplicane in the city centre. From the airport, you can take an app-based taxi, prepaid taxi services, or ride-shares to Triplicane, which takes around 40-60 minutes depending on traffic. Autocab services and airport buses also operate to central Chennai.

By Train

The closest major railway station is Chennai Central Station (MAS), about 6 km from Triplicane. Chennai Egmore (MS) is about 5 km away. Both stations connect with the Chennai suburban railway network. After arriving, take a taxi, autorickshaw, or local bus to reach Parthasarathy Temple in Triplicane. This relates to Triplicane Parthasarathy Temple Vaikunta.

By Road

Chennai is well-connected by a network of national and state highways. Buses from across Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states drop passengers at Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus (CMBT) or the central Koyambedu area, from which local taxis, buses, or autorickshaws can take you to Triplicane. If self-driving, GPS directions to the temple work reliably throughout Chennai.

Booking And Ticket Information

General entry to the temple for daily darshan is free of charge. However, special darshan tickets may be issued during festival days or peak periods.

Step-By-Step Booking (General Darshan)

1. Visit the official temple booking portal: https://parthasarathy.hrce.tn.gov.in. Learn more about Triplicane Parthasarathy Temple Vaikunta.

2. On the homepage, click on “Temple Booking Service” or “Online Ticket Service”.

3. Select the type of darshan service you want (general darshan or special queue).

4. Choose your visit date and available slots, indicated in green.

In contrast, 5. Complete the form with your name and contact details, then confirm your ticket.

Special Darshan During Vaikunta Ekadasi

On Vaikunta Ekadasi, the Sorgavasal opening is a highlight. While the general darshan may still be free, local ticket windows often issue special access passes and expedited tickets. At the temple office, enquire about VIP or special darshan passes on the day of the festival. Long queues and large crowds are expected, so arrive early (well before dawn).

Pooja And Service Tickets

For specific poojas (e.g., Archana, Thirumanjanam), tickets may be purchased at the temple counter or via the official portal:

• Archana: ₹50 (approx.)
• Thirumanjanam (Abhishekam): ₹300 (approx.)
• Special Darshan: ₹100 (approx.)
• Kalyanotsavam: ₹500 (approx.)

These ticket prices are approximate and sourced from recent information; confirm at the counter on the day of your visit.

Best Time To Visit

The ideal time to visit Triplicane Parthasarathy Temple overall is between December and February when Chennai’s climate is cool and pleasant – perfect for spiritual sightseeing and walking around the neighbourhood.

If your goal is to witness the Vaikunta Ekadasi Sorgavasal event, plan for late December (around December 30 for 2025) or the equivalent Margazhi date in the Hindu calendar. On that day, the temple opens pre-dawn (as early as 2:30 AM) for special darshan with the Sorgavasal ritual, and continues throughout the day until late evening.

Insider Tips From My Visit

When I visited the Triplicane Parthasarathy Temple on a Vaikunta Ekadasi, what surprised me most was the sheer devotion and patience of the crowd. People queue for hours before sunrise, and bands of volunteers help manage the flow. Even though the wait can be long, the atmosphere is peaceful and reverent.

Furthermore, i personally recommend arriving at least 3–4 hours before the scheduled Sorgavasal opening to secure a good spot in line. Wear comfortable clothing (traditional attire is appreciated) and bring bottled water and light snacks, especially if you are in the queue for darshan. Cameras are usually allowed within the complex, but always ask the temple staff if there are any restrictions in certain inner sanctum areas.

On the other hand, if you’re not there for the festival, aim for the early morning or late evening on a regular day – the temple is much quieter then and you can explore the complex sculptures and shrines at your leisure.

Nearby Attractions (With Approximate Distances)

• Marina Beach – ~3 km (One of the world’s longest urban beaches)
• Kapaleeshwarar Temple – ~6 km (Historic Dravidian temple dedicated to Shiva)
• Vivekananda House – ~4 km (Museum and memorial)
• Fort St. George – ~8 km (Historic fort and museum)
• Government Museum Chennai – ~7 km (Archaeology & natural history)

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Vaikunta Ekadasi?

Vaikunta Ekadasi is a significant Hindu festival celebrated in Vaishnavite temples across South India, typically between mid-December and mid-January. On this day, the temple’s special gate known as Sorgavasal or “Heavenly Gate” is ceremonially opened, and devotees believe that passing through it brings spiritual merit and blessings.

When Is Vaikunta Ekadasi At This Temple?

In 2025, the Sorgavasal opening at Triplicane Parthasarathy Temple was reported on December 30, with moolavar darshan from 2:30 AM and the gate ceremony at around 4:30 AM.

Do I Need To Book Online For Vaikunta Ekadasi?

Unlike some larger temples, Triplicane Parthasarathy Temple may not require strict online reservations for the Sorgavasal event. However, arriving early and checking in at the temple’s booking counter upon arrival is wise. General entry is free, though special darshan tickets may be sold at booths on site.

Is Photography Allowed Inside?

Photography is generally permitted within the temple grounds, but some inner sanctum areas may have restrictions. It’s courteous to ask the temple staff if you’re unsure during festival crowds.

In contrast, whether you’re a pilgrim seeking spiritual blessings or a traveller interested in South Indian religious culture, the Triplicane Parthasarathy Temple Vaikunta Ekadasi Sorgavasal experience combines devotion, tradition, and unforgettable memories.