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Mylapore Temple, also called Kapaleeshwarar Temple, is one of the most worshipped Hindu temples situated in the Mylapore area of Chennai, Tamil Nadu. This temple, a symbol of pride for the city, represents grand and colourful religious culture combined with authentic Dravidian architecture. The 7th-century CE temple of the Pallava dynasty celebrates its age with beautiful carvings, colourful gopurams, and a picturesque atmosphere. The temple has so much peacefulness within, coupled with history, that everybody exploring the cultural map of Tamil Nadu would want to visit this place.
Quick Facts About Mylapore Temple
Location: Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Mylapore Temple Address: Vadakku Maada Veethi, Ramakrishna Mutt Rd, Vinayaka Nagar Colony, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600004
Mylapore Temple Timings: 5 AM – 12 PM; 4 PM – 8:30 PM
Entry Fee: None
How To Reach: Buses, taxis, auto-rickshaws
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (17 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Chennai Egmore Railway Station (8 km)
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Location
Photo: Destination8infinity / Wikimedia Commons
The Mylapore Temple is situated in the centre of the historic and culturally rich locality of Mylapore in Chennai. The roads connected are Kumara Gurunathan St., Ponnambala Vathiyar St., and N Mada St., which is further connected to Ramakrishna Mutt Road. The vibrant streets are filled with shops that line up traditional South Indian crafts, shimmering silk sarees, sweet local delicacies, and other smaller cultural sites.
How To Reach
Photo: John McArthur / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, which is about 17 km from Mylapore. From there, you can reach the temple by hiring a taxi or an autorickshaw.
By Train: The nearest railway station to the temple is Chennai Egmore Railway Station, which is about 8 km away. You can hire a cab or take an autorickshaw from the station.
By Road: Public buses, taxis, and auto rickshaws are easily available. The nearest bus stop is the temporary bus stop at Mylapore Tank, and from there, it is just a short walk to the temple.
Things To Do At Mylapore Temple
1. Explore The Temple
Photo: Ramakrishnan Nataraj / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
In the Mylapore Temple, there is a gopuram that crowns itself with colourful sculptures of great Hindu gods and goddesses along with mythological figures. The invisible carvings on pillars, walls, and ceilings indicate the excellent craftsmanship of the whole dynasty of Pallava. You can take enough time to explore craftsmanship and details that depict stories from the ancient world of Hindu mythology and philosophy. Next to the temple, there lies a holy tank of water referred to as the “Mylai Kottai.” This water body is considered holy; devotees often bathe here ritually before entering the temple.
2. Participate In The Puja And Rituals
Photo: jly un / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
In the temple, offerings are made to Lord Kapaleeshwarar, the presiding deity, in the form of flowers, fruits, and traditional sweets. The rituals take place within the sanctum sanctorum, where divine energy resonates with the prayers of thousands. On Maha Shivaratri, Panguni Uthiram, and Brahmotsavam, a grand celebration is held in which the temple bustles. A host of events are held within the premises of the temple throughout the year, like classical music concerts, recitation and dance performances, and so on. Attending these performances may add immense depth to your understanding of local traditions and art forms.
Places To Visit Around Mylapore Temple
Some of the known places to visit around Mylapore Temple are listed below.
1. Sri Parthasarathy Temple
Photo: Destination8infinity / Wikimedia Commons
Sri Parthasarathy Temple is one of the oldest temples where Lord Vishnu is worshipped. The ancient temple leaves everyone amazed with its architecture, beautifully sculpted in every detail with vibrant colours adorning the intricate carvings and sculptures on its walls. Its beautiful murals explain several stories from Tamil Nadu’s rich cultural heritage of Hindu mythology. It organises different colourful festivals every year, including the popular Vaikunta Ekadasi, which attracts numerous devotees and tourists. Additionally, the serenity and antiquity of the place enhance the temple’s significance, making it a must-visit place for those travelling through the city of Chennai.
Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM, 4 PM – 8 PM
Location: 10 km from the temple
2. San Thome Basilica
Photo: Anugarg2000 / Wikimedia Commons
San Thome Basilica is built over the tomb of one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, St. Thomas. It’s a great church with an excellent neo-Gothic architectural style. It has magnificent spires and beautiful, intricate stained glass windows that give visitors an impressive view. When you enter the basilica, all will be covered by a serene ambience, inviting you to some quiet contemplation and reflection. The beautiful interiors of the church consist of great arts and religious things that speak about the life of St. Thomas and his contributions to Christianity in India.
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Location: 1 km from the temple
3. Theosophical Society
Photo: Aleksandr Zykov / Wikimedia Commons
The Theosophical Society in Adyar, Chennai, is one secluded place for meditation and thoughtful introspection. This place possesses variegated trees at the heart of lush greenery and sprawling gardens, among which is the famous Adyar Banyan tree, which is around 450 years old. The atmosphere here is peaceful for anyone who needs a break from the concrete jungle. You can visit guided tours here to learn more about the history of this society, its philosophy, and the role it has played in promoting understanding between the spiritualities from different parts of the world.
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Location: 6 km from the temple
4. Marina Beach
Photo: Socrates veeramani / Wikimedia Commons
This stretches for about 13 kilometres along the Chennai coastline, making it one of the world’s longest urban beaches. Just a little away from Mylapore Temple, this bustling beach attracts both locals and tourists. Leisurely walks on the sandy shores, taking in the freshness of the air close to the water, or sampling mouth-watering street food from many vendors are offered at this beach. You can have a lot of fun and relaxation by engaging in activities like beach volleyball, horseback riding, and others.
Timings: 24*7
Location: 2 km from the temple
5. Besant Nagar Beach
Photo: Aby Zachariah / Unsplash
Besant Nagar Beach, also simply known as Elliot’s Beach, is yet another popular beach destination near Mylapore. It is known for the cleanliness of its sandy shores, and its calm ambience makes it a perfect spot to look for a peaceful day by the sea. All sorts of cafes and eateries are available in the beach area, where visitors can enjoy delicious snacks, ice cream, and refreshing beverages. With the sun setting, the beach is an enthusiastic gathering place for family and friends under friendly evening breezes.
Timings: 24*7
Location: 7 km from the temple
Best Time To Visit
Photo: janardhana balaji / Unsplash
The best time to visit Mylapore Temple is between October and February. During this period, the weather in Chennai is relatively cooler and pleasant. Avoid visiting during the peak summer months of March to June. Many festivals fall during this period, like Maha Shivaratri and Panguni Uthiram.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: John Matychuk / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- You should visit the temple in traditional and modest attire.
- Wear comfortable shoes or slippers, as you have to walk through the temple to explore it.
- It is essential to take off your shoes before you enter the temple.
Mylapore Temple has an exemplary structure that speaks volumes about Tamil Nadu’s tradition and culture and its Dravidian architecture. Devotees and travellers come to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and learn about his stories. They become intrigued by understanding how culturally significant this region was for our ancestors. To give yourself an immersive spiritual experience, plan your visit to Tamil Nadu with TripXL today.
Cover Photo: SIBY / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
