Kapaleeshwarar Temple
கபாலீஸ்வரர் கோயில்
A Dravidian-style Shiva temple in the Mylapore district, with a painted gateway tower about 37 metres high. It is one of Chennai's most representative Hindu temples.
The temple is dedicated to Shiva and his consort Parvati, who took the form of a peacock. Most of the surviving structures date from the 16th century, and the eastern gateway tower is covered in brightly coloured sculptures of deities. Beside it lies a large temple tank. The surrounding old streets of Mylapore are lined with flower sellers, bronze shops and South Indian breakfast cafés. Entry is free, but you must remove your shoes. Non-Hindus can enter most areas, though the inner sanctum may be off-limits. The atmosphere is at its most vibrant during evening worship.
Opening hours
Approx. 05:30–12:00, 16:00–21:30
Nearby sights
- San Thome Basilica
- Vivekanandar Illam (Ice House)
- Parthasarathy Temple
- Theosophical Society Adyar
- Marina Beach
- Elliot's Beach (Besant Nagar)
- Valluvar Kottam
- Government Museum, Chennai