அருள்மிகு கபாலீசுவரர் திருக்கோயில், மயிலாப்பூர்
1. About Temple
Kapaleeswarar Temple Chennai is the beating spiritual heart of Mylapore, renowned for its vibrant Dravidian architecture, sacred history, and daily devotion to Lord Shiva and Goddess Karpagambal. A must-visit in any Chennai temples guide, this temple is celebrated for its towering gopuram, colorful festivals, and the magnetic spiritual aura that beckons devotees and tourists alike.
2. History of Temple
The Kapaleeswarar Temple was originally built by the Pallavas in the 7th century CE, but the present structure dates back to the 16th century under the Vijayanagara Empire after the original was destroyed. Rich legends describe Lord Shiva’s appearance as a peacock to please Parvati—giving Mylapore its name (“Mayil” means peacock in Tamil). The temple has witnessed royal patronage from numerous dynasties and continues to host grand festivities as it did centuries ago.
3. Architecture of Temple
Exemplifying Dravidian architectural brilliance, the temple is famed for its 37-meter-high eastern gopuram adorned with vibrant statues of mythological figures and gods. Expansive mandapams (pillared halls) serve as prayer spaces and dining halls for community feasts. Intricate granite carvings,, murals of deities, and the sacred temple tank showcase centuries-old craftsmanship and artistic devotion.
4. Presiding Deity and Divine Iconography
The presiding deity is Lord Shiva, worshipped here as Kapaleeswarar, symbolizing compassion and creation. The main shrine’s iconography includes Shiva as a Lingam; his consort, Goddess Parvati, is venerated as Karpagambal, the “Goddess of the Wish-Yielding Tree.” Local legend recounts Parvati taking the form of a peahen to worship Shiva at this very site. Devotees also worship other shrines within the complex, including Ganapati, Murugan, and Navagrahas.
5. Temple Festival
The temple’s grandest annual celebration is the Panguni Peruvizha festival in March-April, lasting 10 days and highlighted by the famous Arubathimoovar procession of 63 revered Nayanmar saints. Other lively festivals include Mahashivaratri, Vaikasi Visakam, Navaratri, and monthly pradoshams. Festivities immerse the temple in music, dance, and elaborate rituals.
6. Address
Kapaleeswarar Temple,
North Mada Street, Mylapore,
Chennai – 600004, Tamil Nadu, India.
Landmark: Near Mylapore Tank & Luz Corner
Phone: +91 44 2464 1670 / 2464 1674
7. Temple Opening and Closing Hours
- Morning: 5:30 AM – 12:00 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Open daily; special extended hours during festivals
- Pradosham and significant rituals may have individualized timings
- Closed only during rare maintenance or restoration work
8. Best Time to Visit
The ideal time for darshan is early morning (5:30–7:30 AM) or evening (after 5:00 PM) for a peaceful experience. October to March offers the best weather, while visiting during Panguni Peruvizha enables a unique festival atmosphere, though with large crowds. Early weekday visits allow for quiet spiritual moments and superb photography.
9. Entry Fee
- General Entry: Free
- Special Darshan: ₹50–₹100
- Photography: Usually not permitted inside sanctum; inquire locally
- Parking: Limited, charges vary (₹20–₹50 near temple tank)
- Donations for temple schemes and annadanam (free meals) are welcome
10. Special Pooja Details
Daily poojas are held six times as per the Saivaite tradition: Ushakkalam, Kalasanthi, Uchikalam, Sayaratchai, Irandamkalam, and Ardhajamam. Special abhishekams, archanas, Rudrabhishekam, and Karpaga Vinayagar offerings are available; advance booking is encouraged. Costs vary by ritual type (₹50–₹500), with details at the counter. Festive periods feature elaborate homams and vahana processions.
11. Website Link
Official site: https://mylaikapaleeswarar.hrce.tn.gov.in/
Follow on Facebook: @kapaleeswarartemple
HRCE Chennai district page for latest updates and online booking.
12. Nearby Landmarks
- San Thome Basilica (1.2 km): Historic church with colonial architecture
- Marina Beach (2 km): Famous stretch for leisure and sunrise strolls
- Ramakrishna Math (800m): Peaceful spiritual retreat
- Luz Corner and Mylapore Shopping Streets (within 1 km): Experience local culture
13. How To Reach Temple
- Metro: Nearest is Thirumayilai Metro Station (700 m)
- Train: Light House MRTS (1 km)
- Bus: Frequent city buses to Mylapore Tank / Luz
- Auto-rickshaw: Typical fare ₹40–₹80 from central Chennai
- Taxi: Ola/Uber available, ₹100–₹250 from most city points
- Parking: Public car/bike parking near temple tank
14. Top Hotels Near Temple
| Hotel Name | Type | Distance | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel Shelter | Mid-range | 250 m | Family-friendly; South Indian breakfast |
| Mylapore Guest House | Budget | 500 m | Simple & clean, for budget travelers |
| The Raintree Hotel, St Mary’s | Luxury | 1.5 km | Rooftop pool; popular for business stays |
| New Woodlands Hotel | Classic Veg | 2 km | Heritage property, pure vegetarian |
15. Other Temples Nearby
- Sri Madhava Perumal Temple (850 m): Ancient Vishnu temple, serene darshan
- Luz Anjaneya Temple (1 km): Hanuman shrine, known for unique idol
- Sri Ramakrishna Math Temple (800 m): Spiritual center, calm atmosphere
- Sai Baba Temple, Mylapore (900 m): Modern temple, inclusive space
- Parthasarathy Temple (2.5 km): Vaishnavite heritage, iconic gopurams
Experience the pulse of Chennai’s spiritual tourism at Kapaleeswarar Temple Chennai—a living testament to faith, art, and Tamil heritage.
