The Theosophical Society, Chennai
Explore a serene spiritual sanctuary in Chennai, home to diverse shrines, a vast library, and a historic Banyan tree.
The Theosophical Society, located in Adyar, Chennai, is a serene 260-acre oasis dedicated to spiritual exploration and universal brotherhood. Founded in 1875 in New York and moved to Adyar in 1882, it houses diverse religious shrines, a vast library, and the famous 450-year-old Banyan tree, offering a peaceful retreat from the city.
A brief summary to The Theosophical Society
- Chennai, Arunachalapuram, Adyar, Tamil Nadu, 600020, IN
- Visit website
- Monday 8:45 am-10 am
- Tuesday 8:30 am-10 am
- Wednesday 8:30 am-10 am
- Thursday 8:30 am-10 am
- Friday 8:30 am-10 am
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the extensive grounds and gardens.
- Visit during the cooler months (November to February) for a more pleasant experience.
- Check the opening hours before you go, as they are restricted and the society is closed on Sundays.
- Photography with DSLR cameras may require special permission.
Getting There
-
Public Transport
From Chennai Central Railway Station, take a bus or taxi towards Adyar. Bus numbers 1C, 6E, 21C, A1, A1ET, and M21V will get you close to the Theosophical Society. Alight at Malar Hospital bus stop, which is right outside the main gate. A single bus fare will typically cost ₹5-₹15.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Chennai. Simply use a ride-sharing app to book a ride to The Theosophical Society in Adyar. A typical taxi ride from Chennai Central Railway Station to the Theosophical Society will cost approximately ₹250-₹400, depending on traffic and time of day.
-
Walking
If you are near Greenways Road MRTS Station, you can walk to the Theosophical Society. It is approximately a 22-minute walk. Head south-east and follow the road. The Theosophical Society will be on your left.
Discover more about The Theosophical Society
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fika
0.5 km
Discover Fika in Adyar, Chennai – a culinary oasis blending a restaurant, bakery, and event venue for an unforgettable dining experience.
Backyard
0.8 km
Explore Backyard, Chennai's premier coworking space where creativity meets productivity in a vibrant and artistic environment.
Varam Tharum Vinayagar Aalayam
0.9 km
Experience tranquility at Varam Tharum Vinayagar Aalayam, a revered Hindu temple in Chennai, dedicated to Lord Ganesha, showcasing stunning architecture.
Shri Periya Palayathamman Temple, Sri Anjaneyar Temple
1.5 km
Experience the tranquility and rich cultural heritage at Shri Periya Palayathamman Temple and Sri Anjaneyar Temple in Chennai, a must-visit spiritual destination.
The Leela Palace Chennai - Seaside Modern Palace Hotel
1.7 km
Experience the pinnacle of luxury at The Leela Palace Chennai, where modern elegance meets traditional Indian hospitality along the stunning coastline.
Broken Bridge
1.7 km
Discover the charm of Broken Bridge in Chennai, a serene vista point offering breathtaking views and a perfect escape into nature's embrace.
Indira Nagar wall paints
1.9 km
Explore the vibrant murals of Indira Nagar Wall Paints, showcasing Chennai's rich art culture and community spirit in an open-air gallery.
ADYAR ESTUARY அடையாறு கழிமுகம்
1.9 km
Explore the tranquil Adyar Estuary, a historical landmark in Chennai that merges natural beauty with cultural significance for an unforgettable experience.
Mouth of Adyar
1.9 km
Experience the serene beauty and adventure of the Mouth of Adyar, a perfect escape in Chennai for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Ramakrishna Mutt Old Temple
2.5 km
Explore the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Ramakrishna Mutt Old Temple in Chennai, a must-visit for all travelers seeking tranquility.
Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temple
2.6 km
Explore the divine beauty and cultural heritage of Arupadai Veedu Murugan Temple in Chennai, a spiritual haven for devotees and travelers alike.
Santhome
3.2 km
Discover the historical and spiritual essence of Santhome, Chennai, where culture and tranquility meet in the heart of Tamil Nadu.
Arulmigu Mundakakanni Amman Temple
3.3 km
Experience the spiritual essence of Chennai at Arulmigu Mundakakanni Amman Temple, a captivating destination for cultural immersion and tranquility.
Thiruvalluvar Statue Mylapore
3.4 km
Discover the iconic Thiruvalluvar Statue in Mylapore, a stunning tribute to Tamil literature and culture, and a must-visit landmark in Chennai.
NOCHIKUPPAM BEACH
3.8 km
Experience the calming beauty of Nochikuppam Beach, a serene escape in Chennai where culture meets the coastline.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple
0.4 km
Experience serenity at Chennai's Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple, a tribute to Lord Vishnu with Kerala-style architecture and peaceful ambiance.
Besant Gardens
0.9 km
Escape to tranquility in the heart of Chennai at Besant Gardens, a lush oasis of natural beauty and peaceful pathways.
Adyar Banyan Tree
0.9 km
Discover Chennai's hidden gem: the ancient Adyar Banyan Tree, a sprawling natural wonder within the serene Theosophical Society.
Adyar Eco-Park
1.1 km
Escape to Chennai's Adyar Eco Park: A revitalized urban oasis of biodiversity and tranquility by the Adyar River.
B.M. Birla Planetarium
1.7 km
Explore the universe at Chennai's B.M. Birla Planetarium: cosmic shows, science exhibits, and stargazing await!
Sunrise Point
1.7 km
Experience a peaceful escape at Sunrise Point in Chennai's Theosophical Society, offering stunning views and serene natural beauty.
Karl Schmidt Memorial
1.8 km
A tribute to bravery on Chennai's Elliot's Beach, commemorating a selfless act of heroism and sacrifice.
Edward Elliot's Beach
1.8 km
Escape to Chennai's tranquil Elliot's Beach: Serene sands, cultural landmarks, and stunning Bay of Bengal views await!
Besant Nagar Beach
1.8 km
Discover the beauty of Besant Nagar Beach, a must-visit destination in Chennai for sun, sand, and local cuisine.
Annai Vailankanni Shrine
2.0 km
Experience serenity and faith at the Annai Vailankanni Shrine in Chennai, a historic pilgrimage site dedicated to Our Lady of Good Health.
Anna Centenary Library
2.3 km
Explore a vast collection of books and resources at one of Asia's largest and most sustainable libraries in Chennai.
Shri Ashtalakshmi Temple
2.3 km
A vibrant temple dedicated to the eight forms of Lakshmi, offering a unique spiritual experience on the shores of Chennai's Besant Nagar Beach.
Chennai Snake Park
2.4 km
Explore India's first snake park in Chennai, home to diverse reptiles and dedicated to education and conservation.
Guindy National Park
2.4 km
Discover Chennai's hidden gem: A compact national park with surprising biodiversity and a tranquil escape from city life.
Kalakshetra Foundation
2.4 km
Explore Chennai's cultural heart at Kalakshetra Foundation, a haven for traditional Indian arts and a serene escape by the sea.
Essential places to dine
Rain forest
0.4 km
Discover an extraordinary buffet experience amidst enchanting rain forest themes in Chennai's premier dining destination.
Villa 77
0.5 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine at Villa 77 in Adyar, Chennai - a perfect blend of tradition and modernity awaits you.
Bombay Brasserie - Adyar
0.5 km
Savor the essence of India with exquisite dishes and vibrant ambiance at Bombay Brasserie in Adyar, Chennai.
Crescent Restaurant, Adyar
0.6 km
Experience authentic Keralan cuisine at Crescent Restaurant in Adyar—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Sorgam @ Crimson Chakra
0.6 km
Experience exquisite fine dining at Sorgam @ Crimson Chakra in Chennai with diverse Chinese and South Indian flavors in an elegant setting.
Sorgam- South Indian Dining
0.6 km
Discover authentic South Indian cuisine at Sorgam in Chennai – where every meal tells a story.
Azzuri Bay
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Azzuri Bay in Chennai's Adyar—where tradition meets modern taste in an elegant setting.
Munveedu Restaurant Adyar (மண்வீடு ரெஸ்டாரண்ட்)
0.6 km
Experience the rich flavors of authentic Chettinad cuisine at Munveedu Restaurant in Adyar, Chennai – A true gem for food lovers.
Hamsa
0.7 km
Experience the finest vegetarian Indian cuisine at Hamsa in Adyar, where culinary artistry meets elegance for an unforgettable dining experience.
Broken Bridge Cafe Indian Restaurant
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of India at Broken Bridge Cafe - where tradition meets modernity in every dish.
Zaitoon Restaurant, Adyar
1.6 km
Discover the rich flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine at Zaitoon Restaurant in Adyar – where every dish tells a story.
Based On A True Story
1.6 km
Experience culinary excellence at Based On A True Story in Chennai - where great food meets exceptional cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere.
Jonah's Bistro, Besant Nagar
1.6 km
Discover culinary excellence at Jonah's Bistro in Besant Nagar - where European flavors meet Asian finesse for an unforgettable dining experience.
Eden Vegetarian
1.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of vegetarian cuisine at Eden Vegetarian in Besant Nagar, Chennai—your gateway to exquisite continental and Italian dishes.
Jamavar
1.7 km
Experience luxury dining at Jamavar in Chennai - where North meets South in exquisite culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
99 Store
0.6 km
Explore 99 Store in Chennai for unique gifts, toys, and stationery, perfect for souvenirs or special occasions.
Fabindia, Adyar
0.7 km
Discover authentic Indian clothing and home decor at Fabindia in Adyar, where tradition meets contemporary style.
MINISO ADYAR
0.8 km
Discover affordable gifts, trendy bags, and delightful toys at MINISO ADYAR in Chennai, a must-visit shop for unique souvenirs.
VS Boutique, Adyar, Chennai
0.8 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at VS Boutique in Adyar, Chennai – where contemporary style meets local charm.
Westside - Adyar, Chennai
0.9 km
Discover Westside in Adyar, Chennai - your one-stop destination for trendy clothing and accessories for all ages.
Adyar Variety Choice
1.1 km
Explore Adyar Variety Choice in Chennai for trendy lingerie and stylish clothing, offering a unique glimpse into local fashion culture.
R.S shopping centre
1.1 km
Discover a treasure trove of art supplies and books at R.S Shopping Centre in Chennai, where creativity comes to life.
Adyar Shopping Point
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant Adyar Shopping Point in Chennai, where unique gifts, trendy clothing, and delightful toys await every shopper.
Unique Collections
1.1 km
Immerse yourself in Chennai's fashion scene at Unique Collections, where tradition meets contemporary style in a delightful shopping experience.
Soch
1.2 km
Discover the essence of Indian fashion at Soch, a premier women's clothing store in Chennai offering exquisite designs and quality materials.
ADYAR SHEFRIN COLLECTIONS
1.6 km
Explore Adyar Shefrin Collections for unique gifts and clothing that capture the essence of Tamil Nadu's culture and artistry.
Amutham Fancy Store
2.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Amutham Fancy Store, a charming haven for souvenir shopping in the heart of Chennai’s Mylapore.
Aishwarya Stores
2.6 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Aishwarya Stores in Mylapore, Chennai – a shopper's paradise for souvenirs and more.
Ashok Emporium
2.7 km
Explore the captivating Ashok Emporium in Chennai, where unique antiques and religious artifacts await to enrich your travel experience and memories.
GIRI - Giri Trading Agency Private Limited
2.8 km
Explore GIRI Trading Agency in Mylapore for unique gifts, books, and cultural treasures that capture the heart of Indian heritage.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
& COOL BAR
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Chennai's Cool Bar in Gandhi Nagar, where unique cocktails and lively atmosphere await.
THE PIRATES BAR (HIX)
0.3 km
Discover The Pirates Bar in Chennai, where nautical themes meet exquisite cocktails and delightful cuisine for an unforgettable evening.
MAGESH COOL BAR
0.5 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and refreshing drinks at MAGESH COOL BAR, a must-visit for tourists in Chennai's vibrant Urur, Adyar neighborhood.
Shastri Nagar Sharks
0.5 km
Experience the thrill of sports at Shastri Nagar Sharks, Chennai's premier sports bar with delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere.
Limited Edition - The Premium Lounge
0.8 km
Experience a culinary delight at Limited Edition - The Premium Lounge, where grill perfection meets a sophisticated atmosphere in Chennai.
Black Pearl
0.8 km
Experience the lively ambiance and exquisite flavors at Black Pearl - a must-visit bar and restaurant in Chennai.
Vani Cool' Bar
0.9 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Vani Cool' Bar in Chennai, where refreshing drinks meet the serene beauty of the Theosophical Society.
Malola bhawan
1.4 km
Discover the lively Malola Bhawan bar in Adyar, Chennai, where vibrant nightlife meets local flavor in a welcoming atmosphere.
99 Bar & Grill
1.9 km
Discover a culinary haven at 99 Bar & Grill in Chennai, where flavorful grilled dishes and refreshing drinks create a perfect dining experience.
The Velveteen Rabbit
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Velveteen Rabbit, Chennai's charming pub with delightful food and drinks in a cozy atmosphere.
Black Orchid Restobar
2.0 km
Discover the culinary delights and vibrant nightlife at Black Orchid Restobar in Chennai, where every meal is a celebration.
The Cycle Gap Adyar
2.1 km
Discover the vibrant culinary experience at The Cycle Gap Adyar, Chennai's premier grill destination, known for its delectable dishes and unique cocktails.
Kabali Karpagambal Cool Bar
2.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Chennai at Kabali Karpagambal Cool Bar, where refreshing drinks and local culture come together.
Hari Cool Bar
2.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Hari Cool Bar, the perfect retreat in the heart of Chennai's Mylapore.
Murugan Cool Bar
2.7 km
Discover the lively Murugan Cool Bar in Mylapore, Chennai, where local flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.