Why Puthandu is Celebrated and When
The Tamil New Year marks the beginning of the Tamil calendar and is celebrated on the first day of the month of Chithirai, coinciding with the sun’s transition into Mesha (Aries).
The festival symbolises new beginnings, renewal, and prosperity. It is observed with prayers, home decorations, kolam, and the traditional viewing of the Kani—an arrangement of auspicious items believed to bring good fortune for the year ahead.
Sacred Temple Rituals During Tamil Puthandu
Among Chennai’s most revered sacred sites, Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore attracts large numbers of devotees during Tamil Puthandu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Karpagambal, this historic temple is an integral part of the city’s cultural fabric and follows a rich calendar of rituals and festivals.
On New Year mornings, worshippers arrive early to participate in traditional pujas, abhishekam (ritual bathing), and archanas (offerings), seeking blessings for prosperity and well-being in the year ahead.
Devotees also visit nearby temples, such as the Adi Kesava Perumal Temple and Madhava Perumal Temple, to seek Lord Vishnu’s blessings for a prosperous year.
A Centrally Located Stay for Tamil New Year 2026
Raj Park Hotel, Chennai, offers a calm and centrally located retreat for guests visiting the city during the occasion of Tamil New Year, 2026. Located on T. T. Krishnamachari Road in Alwarpet, our hotel provides easy access to several revered temples.
The Alwarpet Anjaneyar Temple is just a short walk away, the Adi Kesava Perumal Temple and Madhava Perumal Temple are about 3 km away, and the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore is approximately 4 km from our hotel.
This convenient location allows guests to take part in traditional Puthandu rituals while returning to a comfortable setting away from the city’s festive bustle. Our hotel also benefits from excellent connectivity to key travel hubs, with Chennai International Airport around 15 km away and Chennai Central Railway Station about 7 km from the property, ensuring smooth arrivals and departures even during peak festival days.
With T. Nagar and Express Avenue Mall only a short drive away, guests can seamlessly combine temple visits with shopping, cultural exploration, and leisure during their stay.
With T. Nagar and Express Avenue Mall only a short drive away, guests can seamlessly combine temple visits with shopping, cultural exploration, and leisure during their stay.
Comfortable and Spacious Rooms for Relaxed Stays
Our hotel offers 118 well-appointed rooms and suites designed for comfort, relaxation and ease, each equipped with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, a flat-screen TV, minibar, and work desk, making them ideal for families and long-stay guests visiting Chennai during Puthandu.
They also feature generous space and contemporary interiors, creating a restful retreat after a day of festive activities, while attentive housekeeping and thoughtful services ensure a calm and comfortable stay even during the city’s busiest celebrations.
Hospitality and Amenities that Enhance Your Stay
Our hotel combines modern hospitality with warm, personal service. Guests can enjoy a range of facilities that cater to both leisure and practical needs:
- Swimming Pool and Fitness Centre: Perfect for unwinding between temple visits or festive outings.
- Spa and Wellness Services: Relax and rejuvenate with our therapeutic treatments.
- Business Centre and Meeting Facilities: Convenient for business travellers and those needing connectivity.
- Dining Experiences: The Quintessence Restaurant serves delectable multi-cuisine meals, while the Alchemy bar lounge is ideal for informal gatherings or celebratory dinners during the festival.