Kapaleeshwarar Temple

4.8

Location: 234, Ramakrishna Mutt Rd, Vinayaka Nagar Colony, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004, India.

Visiting time: 2-3 hours.

The Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a famous temple in Chennai dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is also known that the temple was built in the image of Shiva’s wife Parvati. All the more exciting information is known from ancient times.The locals have portrayed the temple as Parvati, the wife of Shiva. Inside the temple are numerous small temples and halls. Six rituals are celebrated daily and four festivals are celebrated annually.

Attraction

The rich in india Tamil religious culture is reflected in the Kapaleeshwarar temple. Sculptures depicting Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi may be found on the site. The temple also houses shrines of Tamil Shaivite saint poets known as Nayaars. These sanctuaries are distinguished by their high domes, known as Gopurams. During important events, every structure is illuminated. During the Brahmotsavam festival, which runs from March through April, Kapaleeshwarar honors religious feelings. Devotees go to this temple to witness the spiritual splendor and participate in Pooja rites. Ko Puja, Vaikarai Puja, Kaala sandhi Puja, Uchi Kaala Pooja, and Ardhajama Puja are among the five types of Pujas performed at Kapaleeswarar Temple. Puja rituals are often scheduled and attended by visitors. You can purchase temple offerings and perform rituals with the aid of local priests. Also, if you enjoy creative marvels, this location will capture your heart.

History

Colorful Gopuram tower of Hindu temple Kapaleeshwarar, Chennai, India.

The Pallavas built the first temple in the 7th century CE, which is now the site of the Santhome Church. The Vijayanagara rulers rebuilt the temple in the Dravidian style after it was demolished by the Portuguese in 1566 A.D.

According to legend, Goddess Uma worshipped Lord Shiva in the guise of a peacock, which is known as Mayil in Tamil. Lord Shiva was teaching Goddess Uma the meaning of the five-lettered Mantra Namah Shivaya and the grandeur of the holy ash when she became distracted by the apparition of a peacock.

He then cursed her to turn into a peacock. As a result, she came to this location and offered her prayers to him in order to be free of the curse. Lord Shiva renamed her Karpagavalli once she recovered her natural shape. Goddess Parvati handed Lord Muruga the Sakthi Vel spear to kill a demon at this sacred site.

Lord Brahma is also said to have done penance here in order to reclaim his creative power from Lord Shiva. Thalami, a Greek researcher, visited the location circa 2000 years ago and named it Malliarpa, which means “peacock habitat.”

The Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Tamil Nadu Government maintains and administers the Kapaleeswarar temple.

Inside/Outside Views

A Beautiful long shot of Gayetri Temple showing behind Sir Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Chennai, India.

The architecture of the Kapaleeshwarar temple is a remarkable work of Dravidian art, however, it is not the temple’s original construction, which has long since vanished or washed ashore. Even the greatest historians are unable to pinpoint the exact year of the first temple’s construction. The original temple, according to the temple authorities, was demolished by the Portuguese. The existing structure dates back over 300 years. The temple has two entrances, one on the east and the other on the west, both with colorful Gopurams [temple towers] that add to the overall splendor of the temple. The east Gopuram stands 40 meters taller than the western Gopuram. The temple also has a large water tank in front of the western entrance, which is a notable feature. This temple is one of the most beautiful temples in India.

Opening Hours

All days of the week, 5.00 am to 12.00 pm and 4.00 pm to 9.30 pm

Entry & Others Fees

There is no charge to visit this house of worship.

Near Restaurants

Near Hotels

How to Reach

By Air: Chennai International Airport is the nearest airport and it is very well connected to all the major cities. Mylapore is only 16 km from this airport.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is Chennai Central Railway station about 8 km from Mylapore.

By Road: Government buses are available in the state of Tamil Nadu and the temple is just 8 km from Chennai city which is well connected to other major cities by bus service.

Tips for Travellers

During the temple festivals, the temple might get quite busy.
To battle, the region’s heat and humidity, stay hydrated and bring hats, caps, and water bottles.