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Kapaleeswarar Temple is yet another splendid ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva situated in Mylapore,Chennai. Kapaleeswarar is a dravidian style temple’ one of which expresses the cultural and religious tenets of the people of the state of Tamil nadu. The temple is built in the form of a towering gopuram structure on its beach with intricate stone carvings and a wide complex of temples that gives peacefulness away from the congested city.
Location
Photo: Aleksandr Zykov / Wikimedia Commons
The Kapaleeswarar is built in the traditional Mylapore architecture located in the city of Chennai, Tamil Nadu. This grand temple is situated near the seaside making it accessible for the visitors. This temple is of great cultural and religious significance as it worships Lord Shiva in the form of Kapaleeswarar with Goddess Karpagambal by side. As the temple is situated in the middle of a busy area, many pilgrims come to the temple to seek the blessings of the divine and for peace.
How To Reach
Photo: Aleksandr Zykov / Wikimedia Commons
By Road: The visitors can take a taxi or drive within themselves. The approximate time taken to cover this distance from the city center of Chennai is 20 to 30 minutes in a normal rush.
By Public Transport: Buses and auto-rickshaws come in handy most of the time for reaching the temple from other areas of Chennai. To make the trip even easier, rent a vehicle which will enable the clients to make the trip.
Places To Visit In And Around Kapaleeswarar Temple
1. Thiruvanmiyur, Marundeeswarar Temple
Photo: எஸ். பி. கிருஷ்ணமூர்த்தி / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Positioned merely 4 kilometers away from Kapaleeswarar, Marundeeswarar Temple is also a Lord Shiva shrine but referred to as Marundeeswarar, the God of Wellness. The beautifully carved gopuram, as well as the still waters of the holy tank filled with an aura of tranquility, can be found here. The temple also has an alluring atmosphere where most of the time there are activities taking place and this makes the temple an added advantage after visiting Kapaleeswarar Temple.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
2. Santhome, Santhome Basilica
Photo: Joe Ravi / Wikimedia Commons
Santhome Basilica, approximately two kilometers from the Kapaleeswarar, is a beautiful white edifice built on the tomb of Saint Thomas the Apostle. The Basilica is famous across the globe for its Gothic beauty and tranquil surroundings as it attracts several pilgrims. Guests can visit the museum where artifacts and other objects related to St. Thomas are on display, or spend time in the tranquil gardens surrounding the church. The spiritual atmosphere of the basilica provides a peaceful setting that is best suited for meditation and prayers.
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
3. Mylapore, Ramakrishna Math
Photo: Srinivasan G / Wikimedia Commons
Ramakrishna Math is approximately 1.5 kilometers away from Kapaleeswarar Temple. It is a place of worship that works towards propagating the ideals and teachings of Sri Ramkrishna and Swami Vivekananda. The peaceful ambience of the math, with its meditation halls, manicured gardens, and other facilities, is conducive for reflection and spiritual practice. Ramakrishna Math provides relaxation away from the physical and dynamic nature of Kapaleeswarar.
Timings: 5 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. Parthasarathy Temple, Triplicane
Photo: Destination8infinity / Wikimedia Commons
Another Temple in Chennai That is Approximately Three Kilometer from Kapaleeswarar is the Parthasarathy Temple. This is among the older Vishnu Li temples found in Chennai. This temple constructed in honor of Lord Krishna has a lot of exquisite sculpture and unique architecture displaying the craftsmanship of the Pallava dynasty. The environment in and around the temple is serene and conducive to meditation and worship and in addition the temple is close to the beach which enhances the beauty of the temple visit. It is an ideal place for people interested in the diversity of culture and cosmology present in Chennai.
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
5. Fort St. George
Photo: L.vivian.richard / Wikimedia Commons
Another Temple in Chennai That is Approximately Three Kilometer from Kapaleeswarar is the Parthasarathy Temple. This is among the older Vishnu Li temples found in Chennai. This temple constructed in honor of Lord Krishna has a lot of exquisite sculpture and unique architecture displaying the craftsmanship of the Pallava dynasty. It is an ideal place for people interested in the diversity of culture and cosmology present in Chennai.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM (Closed on Fridays)
Entry Fee: ₹5 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners
Where To Stay
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Include Hotel Shelter located just a few minutes’ walk to the temple and the Treebo Trend Saravana Boutique both of which are highly rated for their services. Most of these establishments also have breakfast, wi-fi, and transportation within easy reach. Most of these hotels also offer excursions to the cultural and historical sites in the vicinity, making sure that the guests enjoy every bit of tourism that Mylapore and its environments have to offer.
Where To Eat
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Saravana Bhavan is one of the famous South Indian restaurant chains that is well known for the heterogeneity of its cuisines, serving different dishes with a lot of taste but a lesser degree of spiciness. A2B (Adyar Ananda Bhavan) which has good vegetarian and normal foods also falls into the same category. Dindigul Thalappakatti is for those who seek hell, as its credulous patrons line up for its biryani of lamb amongst other varieties. It is nice, but Mami Tiffin Stall focuses on a few quick service items and simple tiffin meals as well.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Vijay Krishnawat / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The most appropriate months to visit Kapaleeswarar are from October to March when the weather is good for excursions. During these periods, the temple observes a lot of movement among worshippers which makes it more vibrant as well as spiritually energized. The low temperatures during this time of the year creates an enabling environment.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Haley Black / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip:
The average cost of a trip to Kapaleeswarar Temple in Chennai can range from ₹500 to ₹2,000 per person. This includes transportation ₹200-₹800, food ₹300-₹600, and potential entry fees or donations ₹50-₹500. Costs may vary based on the mode of travel and personal preferences. Planning ahead can help manage expenses effectively.
Tips For The Travellers:
- Keep in mind to use sunscreen and carry enough water on your visit especially during hot weather sunshine.
- It Is best to have sturdy shoes as a lot of walking will be done both inside and outside the temple precinct.
- Plan your visit during the early hours to beat the horde and appreciate the tranquil surroundings within the temple.
A trip to the Kapaleeswarar Temple gives one a sense of spirituality mixed with a great appreciation for Chennai’s culture and architectural antiquities. The Dravidian architectural splendor, an injection of art, coupled with its peaceful surroundings draws religious and non-religious persons. This is one of the renowned temples of Lord Shiva and allows the devotees to stay calm away from the noises of the city. This temple gives peace of mind for those in need and also pleases those who simply want to sightsee the historic structures of the area. Plan a visit with TripXL and witness the beauty of it.
Cover Photo: Sailko / Wikimedia Commons
