Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a renowned Hindu temple located in Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, known here as Kapaleeshwarar, and his consort Parvati, referred to as Karpagambal, the temple exemplifies Dravidian architecture and is believed to have been constructed around the 7th century CE. The temple stands as one of the most significant and architecturally impressive ancient monuments in Chennai, attracting devotees and tourists from across the world.
According to local legends, Parvati, due to a curse, transformed into a peahen and performed penance at this site to regain her original form. This tale contributes to the name 'Mylapore,' derived from 'Mayil' in Tamil, meaning peacock. The temple has been a center of worship for centuries and represents the rich cultural and religious heritage of South India. The temple complex showcases the architectural excellence of the Dravidian style, with intricate carvings and sculptures that reflect the artistic traditions of ancient Tamil Nadu.
Eastern Gopuram: A towering gateway tower approximately 40 meters high, adorned with intricate stucco figures depicting various deities and mythological scenes
Temple Tank: The Kapaleeshwarar Tank or Mylapore Tank, one of the oldest and well-maintained temple tanks in the city, measuring about 190 meters in length and 143 meters in breadth
Dravidian Architecture: Exemplifies classic Dravidian temple architecture with elaborate carvings, sculptures, and structural elements
Main Deities: Lord Shiva as Kapaleeshwarar and Goddess Parvati as Karpagambal
Intricate Carvings: The temple features detailed stucco work and stone carvings throughout the complex
The Kapaleeshwarar Temple holds immense religious significance as one of the most revered Shiva temples in Chennai. The temple hosts six daily rituals from 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., ensuring continuous worship throughout the day. The most prominent festival is the Arupathimoovar festival during the Tamil month of Panguni (March–April), featuring processions of 63 Nayanar saints' idols alongside the deities. The temple celebrates four major annual festivals, attracting thousands of devotees who come to seek blessings and participate in the vibrant religious celebrations.
Visiting Hours: Daily from 5:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Entry Fee: Free entry for all visitors
Aarti Timings: Ushathkalam (6:00 a.m.), Kalasanthi (9:00 a.m.), Uchikalam (1:00 p.m.), Sayarakshai (5:00 p.m.), Irandamkalam (7:00 p.m.), Ardha Jamam (9:00 p.m.)
Dress Code: Traditional attire is recommended; modest clothing is expected
Festival Periods: The temple experiences high footfall during Arupathimoovar festival and other major festivals
Location: Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport, Chennai – approx. 16 km
Major Railway Stations:
Chennai Central Railway Station – approx. 8 km
Chennai Egmore Railway Station – approx. 6 km
Suburban Railway: Thirumayilai Station (Chennai Beach–Velachery MRTS line) – approx. 500 meters
Metro Station: Teynampet Metro Station – approx. 3 km
The temple is located in the heart of Mylapore, one of Chennai's oldest and most culturally significant neighborhoods, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city.
Kapaleeshwarar Temple is well connected by road, rail, and metro. The temple is located in Mylapore, which is easily accessible from Chennai city center. The Thirumayilai suburban railway station on the Chennai Beach–Velachery MRTS line is approximately 500 meters from the temple, providing convenient rail access. The Teynampet Metro Station is about 3 km away, from where visitors can take an auto or taxi to reach the temple. Public bus services operated by the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) provide regular connectivity, with buses stopping near Mylapore Tank or Luz Corner, both within walking distance of the temple. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services operate regularly, offering convenient access for devotees and visitors. The temple is easily accessible from major railway stations and the international airport, making it convenient for both local devotees and tourists.