Ever wondered what it is like to enter a place where each of the stones narrates a story about devotion and divine art? Well, we are in the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, one of the most important and beautiful sights of Chennai. This temple, situated in Mylapore, is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture and a religious place dedicated to Lord Shiva, as Kapaleeshwarar, and Goddess Parvati is worshipped here as Karpagambal.
Kapaleeswarar Koil, with its towering gopuram, detailed carvings, peaceful ambience, the scent of jasmine, and temple bells, is the epitome of Tamil culture. You can find peace, faith, and seamless beauty in this temple as a history lover, as a spiritual seeker, or as a curious traveller. Keep reading to know everything about it for a seamless visit.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple History
The Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, Chennai, dates back to the 7th century CE, originally built by the Pallava kings and later rebuilt in the 16th century by the Vijayanagara rulers after the earlier structure was destroyed by the Portuguese.
The name of the temple is given after a lovely legend because the temple focuses on Lord Shiva, or Kapaleeshwarar, and also the goddess, Parvati, or Karpagambal. Goddess Parvati is said to have gained the form of a peahen (Mayil in Tamil) to repay her sins on earth, and clearly, this explains the naming of the place, after which it is known as Mylai Kapaleeswarar Koil, or the temple of the Lord of the peacock.
Showcasing classic Dravidian architecture, its 120-foot gopuram adorned with colourful deities and intricate carvings stands as a cultural landmark. Today, the temple remains a vibrant centre of devotion, especially during the grand Panguni Peruvizha festival, which draws thousands of devotees and visitors each year
Essential Information About Kapaleeshwarar Temple
If you’re planning to visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple, then you must be familiar with the following information to make your visit an easy one, with more fun and less hassle.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple Location: The temple is situated at Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It is among the oldest and most ancient beauties of the city.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple timings: From 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Major Festivals Celebrated:
March Panguni Peruvizha in March-April.
Arudra Darshan is in December/January.
Navratri in September‑October
Maha Shivaratri in February-March.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple Built By: The Kapaleeshwarar Temple was originally built by the Pallavas in the 7th century. Later, the Vijayanagara rulers reconstructed it in the 16th century after the earlier one was destroyed.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple Distance:
Chennai Central Railway Station: 7 km
Egmore Station: 5 km
Marina Beach: 2.5 km
Chennai International Airport: 16 km
Best Time to Visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Kapaleeshwarar Temple of Chennai can be visited throughout the year. You can also explore our guide on the best time to visit Chennai before planning your visit to this temple.
The best time to visit Chennai’s Kapaleeshwarar Temple is during winter (November to February), when the weather stays pleasant between 20°C and 28°C, perfect for exploring the temple and Mylapore’s lively streets. You can also plan a visit in March-April during the Panguni Peruvizha festival, a grand 10-day celebration of the divine wedding of Lord Kapaleeshwarar and Goddess Karpagambal, when the area comes alive with colourful processions, music, and lights.
Best Time: To have a quiet, more spiritual experience, go in the early morning (around 5:30 AM to 8:00 AM) or in the evening (around 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM).
How To Reach Kapaleeshwarar Temple
The temple is located in the centre of Mylapore, which has been one of the oldest and busiest regions of Chennai. Mylapore is accessible in Chennai either by road, by rail or by metro.
By Air
Chennai International Airport, which is approximately 16 km away, is the nearest airport. You can take a prepaid taxi, cab or ride using an app (Ola or Uber) from there.
By Train
Thirumayilai Station is the nearest train terminal, located only 1 km from the temple. If you’re coming from outside Chennai, the Central Railway Station (approximately 7 km) and the Egmore Railway Station (approximately 5 km) are the primary long-distance stations.
By Metro
The closest station on the metro is Thirumayilai, which is 1 km away. Auto-rickshaws and shared cabs will get you to the temple from there.
By Road
City buses are readily available in Mylapore. Take any bus that goes towards Luz Corner or Mandaveli, and it will drop you at a point close to the temple.
The 5 Best Places to Visit Near Kapaleeshwarar Temple
The trip to Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Mylapore, is not the end of the cultural experiences while exploring Chennai. The following are the five attractions around Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
1. Marina Beach
The temple is within a short drive from Marina Beach. It is the most extensive Indian city beach, covering 13 km. During mornings, one can observe the sunrise with fishermen going to the sea. In the evenings, you may have a stroll along the shore. The beach is full of snack kiosks, old statues and people that make the beach a busy location.
Location: Kamarajar Salai, which is approximately 2.5 km away or nearer to the temple.
Things to do: Take a morning walk, eat local snacks, such as sundal and murukku, and visit the lighthouse.
Famous for: long seashore and scenic sunsets.
2. San Thome Basilica
San Thome Basilica is constructed on top of the burial site of San Thome, one of the apostles of Jesus Christ. It is a large white Gothic church near Kapaleeshwarar Temple. It is a special spiritual place because of its tranquillity and stained glass windows. One can also visit the church museum and the underground crypt.
Location: Santahome High Road. 1.5 km away from the temple.
Things to do: Go to mass, visit the museum, and visit the tomb of St Thomas.
Famous for: Neo-Gothic architecture and spiritual significance.
3. Luz Corner Market
Luz Corner is referred to as the heart of Mylapore. You can notice the ordinary life of Chennai here with flower sellers, vegetable sellers and the local stores in the crowded lanes. The atmosphere is fragrant with jasmine, filter coffee, and incense. One should visit Kapaleeshwarar Temple and buy temple jewellery, crafts, and souvenirs.
Location: Luz Church Road. 500 m away from the temple.
Things to do: Shopping, street photographing, and tasting local delicacies.
Famous for: South Indian gifts from markets and temples.
4. Vivekananda House
Ice House, which is also known as Vivekananda House, was built to store ice imported to America in the 19th century. Subsequently, it became the residence of Swami Vivekananda, who came back to the West. It is currently a museum which exhibits photos, objects, and his teachings. It gives the visitors inspirational tales of purpose and peace.
Location: Kamarajar Salai. 3 km from Mylapore.
Things to do: Go to a museum, have sea views, and meditate.
Famous for: Swami Vivekananda and old colonial architecture.
5. Elliot Beach (Besant Nagar Beach)
Elliot Beach is a peaceful and soothing place. It is a little more south than Marina Beach and is more peaceful. One can visit it after a temple visit and relax. People like to sit here during sunset or can eat at beachside cafes. The Ashtalakshmi Temple and Velankanni Church give it a spiritual appeal.
Location: Besant Nagar, 6 km from the temple
Things to do: You can relax on the beach, pay a visit to the local temples, and enjoy seafood restaurants.
Famous for: Serene location, clean beach, and local places to hang out.
Top 5 Things to Do in Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Chennai
A visit to the Kapaleeshwarar Temple of Mylapore is not just an act of praying but also an opportunity to get a glimpse of Chennai, its long traditions, spirituality and beautiful constructions all in one. These are five good things to do at the temple and make your visit to it even more special.
1. Seek Blessings From Lord Kapaleeshwarar and Goddess Karpagambal
The primary sanctum is in memory of Lord Shiva in the form of Kapeleeshwarar and the goddess Parvati in the form of Karpagambal. Under the roof of the sanctum, the atmosphere is very serene and revered. A good number of individuals pray here, wishing to be prosperous and for their desires to bear fruit.
2. Admire the Dravidian Architecture and Gopuram
The shape of the temple is impressive. Its 37-metre-tall gopuram (gateway tower) has colourful carvings which narrate Hindu myths. Every sculpture, column and corridor is evidence of ancient artisans. Spend a couple of minutes to see the gopuram, particularly at sunrise, or when there is a festival, when it is illuminated.
3. Attend the Panguni Peruvizha festival
A large festival is held in March-April every year called Panguni Peruvizha. During a period of ten days, the temple pays wedding homage to Shiva and Parvati through the processes, music, and dancing. The atmosphere is reeking with hymns and worship, making it one of the best things to do in Chennai.
4. Go to Temple Tank and Participate in Sacred Rituals
The temple complex has a temple tank that brings peace. Believers are of the opinion that the water purifies the soul. Watching a reflection of the gopuram while sitting near the tank will provide relief after the noise of the city.
5. Explore The Streets of Mylapore
The life of Mylapore streets is very alive. You will see flower peddlers, bronze lamp vendors, and jasmine garlands and sacred ashes stalls. Food stalls sell South Indian snacks such as filter coffee, idlis, and pongal. As one walks through these lanes, one seems to go back in time, into the real culture of Chennai.
Conclusion
Chennai Kapaleeshwarar Temple is not merely a temple, it is a place of worship, and a breathing image of the soul of the city, religious beliefs and heritage. It seems to be a very different place, with every moment being special, whether it is the high tower of its entrance or its halls filled with the rhythmic chants. By going through the Kapaleeshwarar Koil, you not only feel the history, but you also see it in each pillar and listen to it in each prayer.
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