About the Temple
The Mahabuddha Temple, also known as the Sri Lanka Maha Bodhi Centre, is a revered Buddhist pilgrimage site located in Egmore, Chennai. Established as a symbol of Indo-Sri Lankan friendship, this temple serves as a significant religious and cultural hub for Buddhist followers. With its serene ambiance, spiritual offerings, and historical relevance, the temple attracts monks, pilgrims, and visitors from across India and Sri Lanka.
Temple Description and Speciality
The main attraction of the temple is the 18-foot-tall statue of Lord Buddha in the Abhaya Mudra (gesture of protection and fearlessness).
The Buddha Vihar inside the temple offers a tranquil environment for meditation.
The temple is a key Buddhist spiritual center in TamilNadu, attracting monks, pilgrims, and visitors from India and Sri Lanka.
Temple Address and Location
Address: 12, Kennet Lane, Egmore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600008, India.
Latitude & Longitude: 13.0735° N, 80.2606° E.
Temple Timings and Sevas
Temple Timings: Open throughout the day (Exact timings may vary).
Special Services & Sevas:
Vesak Festival (Buddha Purnima) – Celebrated in May to honor Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and Nirvana.
Full Moon (Poya Day) Pujas – Special prayer sessions and sermons.
Dhamma Talks & Meditation Sessions – Teaching and practicing Vipassana meditation.
Charitable Activities – Free homeopathic clinic for the local community.
Facilities Available
Traveling Facilities
Easily accessible by road, train, and metro.
Located in the city center, making transportation convenient.
Food Facilities
Several restaurants and eateries nearby offer vegetarian, South Indian, and international cuisines.
Stay Facilities
Maha Bodhi Nikethanaya (Guest House):
A five-storey lodging facility with 32 rooms.
Primarily for Buddhist monks and Sri Lankan pilgrims.
Other hotels and lodges are available nearby.
How to Reach Mahabuddha Temple, Chennai
Nearest Transport Hubs
Nearest Railway Station: Egmore Railway Station (directly opposite the temple).
Nearest Major Railway Station: Chennai Central Railway Station (2 km away).
Nearest Bus Station: Egmore Bus Stand (close to the temple).
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (MAA) (~18 km from the temple).
Bus Routes to the Temple
Chennai Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) buses serve Egmore.
Common Bus Numbers: 15B, 27B, 29A, 32, 40A, 47D.
Train Routes to the Temple
Egmore Railway Station is well-connected to major South Indian cities.
Visitors arriving at Chennai Central Railway Station can take a short taxi or metro ride.Airways to the Temple
Chennai International Airport (MAA) is 18 km away.
From the airport, one can take:
Taxi or Auto (40-50 minutes)
Metro Train to Egmore Metro Station
Nearby Cities
Kanchipuram (75 km) – Famous for temples and silk sarees.
Mahabalipuram (60 km) – A UNESCO Heritage Site with ancient rock-cut temples.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Marina Beach (3 km) – One of the longest urban beaches in the world.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple (6 km) – A Dravidian-style temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Santhome Basilica (6 km) – A church built over the tomb of St. Thomas.
Government Museum, Chennai (1.5 km) – Houses Buddhist relics and ancient artifacts.
Valluvar Kottam (4 km) – A monument dedicated to poet Thiruvalluvar.
Guindy National Park (10 km) – A wildlife sanctuary inside the city.
Best Time to Visit
November to February – The most pleasant weather for sightseeing.
May (Vesak Festival) – To experience Buddhist celebrations at the temple.
Shopping & Local Specialties
Silk Sarees – Kanchipuram silk available in T. Nagar, Mylapore, and Pondy Bazaar.
Handicrafts & Wooden Sculptures – Available at Poompuhar Handicrafts Emporium.
South Indian Spices & Filter Coffee – Buy authentic masalas and filter coffee powder.
Gold Jewelry – Traditional South Indian gold ornaments.
The Mahabuddha Temple in Chennai is more than just a place of worship it is a center for meditation, learning, and cultural exchange. Whether one seeks spiritual solace, wishes to explore Buddhist traditions, or enjoys the peaceful retreat of the temple, this sacred site offers a deeply enriching experience. Its accessible location, nearby attractions, and well-equipped facilities make it an essential destination for devotees and travelers alike.
The Mahabuddha Temple in Chennai is more than just a place of worship it is a center for meditation, learning, and cultural exchange. Whether one seeks spiritual solace, wishes to explore Buddhist traditions, or enjoys the peaceful retreat of the temple, this sacred site offers a deeply enriching experience. Its accessible location, nearby attractions, and well-equipped facilities make it an essential destination for devotees and travelers alike.
