Valluvar Kottam

About Valluvar Kottam

Valluvar Kottam is a memorial to the great Tamil poet-saint Tiruvalluvar, who wrote the famous Thirukkural. This monument was constructed in 1976. The memorial is shaped like a temple chariot and is the replica of the temple chariot in Thiruvarur. The temple chariot has been installed with a life-size statue of Thiruvalluvar. The Valluvar Kottam is one of the modern day landmarks of the Chennai city.

All the 133 chapters of Tiruvalluvar’s famous work, Thirukkural, have been depicted in bas-relief in the front hall corridors of the chariot. The Valluvar Kottam has an auditorium also, which is said to be the largest in Asia and can house about 4000 people. The Valluvar Kottam is a modern memorial to the great Tamil poet who represents the glorious culture of the Tamils. Over 3,000 blocks of stone were used to create this memorial to Tamil culture.

Interesting places to Visit

Marina Beach
The city’s Marina Beach, bordered by gardens, lies just to the South of the War Memorial. It is claimed to be the second largest in the world, about 13 kms.

Covelong
For a balmy holiday, the fishing village of Covelong has an excellent stretch of beach. This lies 55 km enroute to Mamallapuram which is 60 km from Madras and is a breathtaking seaside haven ideal for a relaxing holiday.

Elliots Beach (Marina beach):

The Marina Beach is a beach situated along shoreline in the city of Chennai, India.It is the longest beach in India and the second longest in the world

Valluvar Kottam
The ValluvarKottam, dedicated to the memory of the Tamil Saint Philosopher and poet Thiruvalluvar, is the largest auditorium in Asia. It is located at the junction of Kodampakkam High Road and Valluvar Kottam Road.

National Art Gallery and Museum
Built in 1906, the Chennai National Art Gallery was originally intended to be a memorial to queen Victoria. An impressive certal dome flanked a series of smaller domes supported by pillars on each side. After independence, it became an art Gallery in 1951. It has bronze exhibits dating from 10th to 13th centuries and paintings of Rajasthani and Mughals of the 17th century. Established in 1857, the museum can justify its claim to being one of India’s best. There are large sectiors devoted to Archacology, Anthropology, Geology, Numismatics, Zoology and Botany along with comprehensive collections of arms and armour.

Parathasarathy Temple
Located at Triplicane High Road is the large Sri Prthasarathy Temple. This Hindu Temple, devoted to Lord Krishna, was built in the 8th Century by Pallava King and has been ornately renovated since.

Kapaleeswarar Temple
This Hindue tmeple is little more that 350 years old, is considered by Hindus to be one of the most sacred Hindu, sites in Southern Part of India

Nearest Visiting places

Madurai
It is one of the oldest towns in South India. This is the abode of goddess Meenakshi, the consort of Lord Sundereswarar (Shiva). Legend has it, that when a Pandya king founded the town of Madurai some thousands of years ago, Lord Shiva was present. And the nectar falling off his hair gave the town its name of Madurai or city of nectar.

Tiruchirapalli
Precariously perched atop a massive outcrop of rock that rises abruptly out of the flat surrounding plain is the famous Rock Fort at Tiruchirapalli. Set in the middle of the town on the bank of the river Cauvery, is visible for miles around and it. A citadel of the Chola kings in the Sangam period (2 BC to 2 AD) the Rock Fort has had a long and chequered history.

Thanjavur
Just 58 km away lies Thanjavur, once the capital of the Chola empire which is referred to as the “Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu”. Nearly a thousand years ago around the 11th century, Thanjavur was the capital of a powerful dynasty, the imperial Cholas whose empire extended beyond South India and Sri Lanka to the kingdoms of South-East Asia. The Chola kings used their wealth to encourage thearts and built innumerable temples and shrines to ornament their land.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation

For accommodation near Valluvar Kottam, nearby towns offer budget lodges, guesthouses, and mid-range hotels. Book ahead during peak season (December-March).

Help Line/Phone Number

K4 Police Station
Chennai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Police Station
Greams road, Thousand Lights, Chennai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Police Station
Anna Salai Road, Teynampet, Chennai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Police Station
Pantheon Road, Egmore, Chennai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Police Station
Egmore High Road, Egmore, Chennai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Police Station
Poonamallee High Road, Egmore, Chennai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Nearest Hospital:

St. Isabel’s Hospital & Nursing Home
No. 18, Oliver Road, Mylapore, Chennai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004- 044 24991081

Csi Kalyani Multispeciality Hospital
Radha Krishnan Salai, Mylapore, Chennai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu- 044 28470642

Rajan Dental - Implants, Cosmetic, Pediatric, Sedation and more
56, Dr.R.K.Salai,, Chennai, Tamilnadu 600004- 044 2847 2266

Harvey Heart Hospitals Ltd
No. 542, T.T.K. Road, Alwarpet, Taynampet, Teynampet, Chennai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600018- 044 24311722

Roots Dental Hospitals
33, Desiga Road, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil nadu 600004- 044 24642565

Location info

• **Address:**Valluvar Kottam ,Chennai District ,Tamil nadu ,India

• **District:**Chennai District

• Nearest City: Chennai

• Best time to visit: January to April

Climate & weather

The weather and climate of Chennai reflect the geographical location and relief of the Chennai city. Chennai lies near the thermal equator and the Sea that is why there is very less variation in seasonal temperature. For most parts of the year, the weather of Chennai is hot and humid. The hottest part of the year n Chennai and surrounding areas is late May and early June, with maximum temperatures around 38-42 °C. The coolest period is January, with minimum temperatures around 19-20 °C. Thus, for most parts of the year, the weather and climate of Chennai city remains moderate- neither too high nor too low.

How to reach Valluvar Kottam

• **Nearest Railway Station:**Chennai

• **Nearest Airport:**Chennai

• **Road Transport:**Chennai is very well connected to all the major cities in the Southern India.there are good number of buses to every cities

Best time to visit Valluvar Kottam

November to February when the weather is pleasant. Early morning (8–10 AM) and late afternoon (3–5 PM) offer the best light for photography and comfortable exploration. Avoid midday heat.

Timings & opening hours

Open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily. Some sites may remain closed on national holidays. Last entry is typically 30 minutes before closing. Sound and light shows (if available) start after sunset.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry fee: INR 10–25 for Indian nationals, INR 100–250 for foreign nationals. Camera fee: INR 20–50 (still), INR 100 (video). Children under 15 years enter free. Maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Duration needed

1–2 hours for a comprehensive visit. History enthusiasts may spend 2–3 hours exploring the site and reading about its significance. Photographers should allow extra time during golden hour.

Safety tips

Watch your step on uneven surfaces and stairs. Follow ASI safety guidelines. Do not climb on fragile structures or restricted areas. Keep away from unguarded edges and heights. Stay hydrated. Secure valuables in crowded areas.

Things to carry

1. Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during your visit.
2. Comfortable Footwear: For walking and exploring.
3. Camera: Capture memorable moments.
4. Hat and Sunglasses: Sun protection.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

By Air: Chennai International Airport (MAA) is the primary international gateway. Regional airports include Coimbatore International Airport (CJB), Madurai International Airport (IXM), and Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ), depending on location.

By Train: Tamil Nadu has an extensive railway network. Major junctions include Chennai Central (MAS), Coimbatore Junction (CBE), Madurai Junction (MDU), Tiruchirappalli Junction (TPJ), and Salem Junction (SA). From the nearest station, local transport is readily available.

By Road: Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) operates an extensive bus network connecting all parts of the state. National highways NH 44, NH 48, and NH 32 provide excellent connectivity. Private buses and taxis are also available from nearby towns and cities.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Tamil Nadu. 4G is reliable in Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, and along major highways. Coverage may be weaker in remote sections of the Western Ghats, deep forest reserves, and certain rural interior areas. Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels and cafes in urban areas.

Food & restaurants nearby

Near Valluvar Kottam, local restaurants and eateries serve authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine including idli, dosa, vada, sambar, and rice-based meals. Visitors can also find North Indian and Chinese options at multi-cuisine restaurants in the nearest town.

History of Valluvar Kottam

Valluvar Kottam is an important historical monument in Tamil Nadu, reflecting the architectural and cultural achievements of the dynasties that ruled the region. Built during a significant period in Tamil history, it showcases the artistic skills and engineering prowess of its builders. The site has witnessed centuries of history and remains a testament to Tamil Nadu’s rich heritage.

Things to do at Valluvar Kottam

Explore the monument’s architecture — its design, carvings, inscriptions, and structural features. Read the information boards to understand the historical context. Photograph the site’s architectural details and overall grandeur. Take a guided tour for deeper historical insights.

Things to visit & highlights

The main monument with its distinctive architectural features. Any inscriptions, sculptures, or artwork preserved at the site. The surrounding grounds and gardens that complement the monument.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town and along the approach roads. Major fuel stations are located within 3–8 km of the monument.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to visit Valluvar Kottam? November to February offers comfortable weather. Early morning (8–10 AM) or late afternoon (3–5 PM) are ideal for exploration and photography.

How much time should I spend at Valluvar Kottam? 1–2 hours is adequate for a thorough visit. History enthusiasts and photographers may need more time.

Is a guide available at Valluvar Kottam? Licensed guides are available at the entrance. Audio guides may also be available at major sites. Information boards in English and Tamil are typically present.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.

Quick facts

• Type: Tourist Attraction
• State: Tamilnadu
• Category: Historical Monuments

Visitor information

Please check locally for current visitor information.