Kapaleeswarar Temple Tours and Activities

Kapaleeswarar Temple
Kapaleeswarar Temple
Kapaleeswarar Temple
Kapaleeswarar Temple showing a temple or place of worship
Kapaleeswarar Temple


Marvel at the Dravidian architecture of this centuries-old temple, spot intricately carved figurines, watch devotees pray and experience a lively Hindu festival.

A visit to the beautiful Kapalishvara Temple presents a fascinating glimpse into the life of a working Hindu temple. Admire the striking Dravidian architecture and a sacred tank. Watch as worshippers lay offerings to the deities and be part of a colourful Hindu celebration. Kapalishvara Temple honours the Hindu god Lord Shiva and his wife Parvati. The temple dates back to the 16th century and is the second edition. The original, built around 600 A.D., was demolished by Portuguese colonists.

Major highlights of the temple are the two towering and elaborately decorated gopuram (gateway entrances). The almost 131-foot-tall (40-metre) east gopuram is the most striking and a fine display of Dravidian architecture. Gaze up to see carvings of allegorical figures, gods and mythological creatures. See more detailed artwork on the smaller west gopuram. It faces a sacred lake, where pilgrims throw offerings to a multitude of fish.

Step inside the temple to feel a sense of calm. Observe respectfully as devotees ask for blessings at the various shrines. Look for bronze statuettes of the Nayanars, a group of 63 poet saints devoted to Shiva. Spot sculptures of revered Hindu gods such as Ganesh, Karpagambal, Muruga and Shiva. Visit on a Friday to see the Goddess Karpagambal decorated with garlands of gold coins during a ritual.

The temple hosts several festivals throughout the year, when thousands of pilgrims flock to celebrate Hindu traditions. Attend the Arubathimoovar Festival, a 10-day event held during March and April. It celebrates the Nayanars and includes a lively procession of brightly colored chariots.

Located in the Mylapore neighbourhood, Kapalishvara Temple is about a 20-minute drive from Chennai’s city centre. Taxis and auto-rickshaws provide easy access to the temple or you can catch a train to nearby Thirumayilai MRTS Station. While here, be sure to wander the surrounding streets to find shops that sell flowers, incense and religious souvenirs.

The temple is open daily, from dawn until dusk. It’s an active place of worship, so dress appropriately. Remove your shoes and leave them at the temple’s entrance. Find the complete opening times and a festival schedule on the temple’s official website.

Plan a trip to see Kapaleeswarar Temple

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Fabhotel saravana shelters residency - Near tambaram railway station
Hablis Hotel
Hotel Layalee Grande Chennai

Popular places to visit


Top Kapaleeswarar Temple Hotel & Accommodation Deals

The Leela Palace Chennai

The Leela Palace Chennai

5 out of 5
175 Sathya Dev Avenue Extn, MRC Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
The Leela Palace Chennai
Bedroom with Kitchen & Attached Bathroom in Heart of Chennai – AC & WiFi.

Bedroom with Kitchen & Attached Bathroom in Heart of Chennai – AC & WiFi.

Chennai
Bedroom with Kitchen & Attached Bathroom in Heart of Chennai – AC & WiFi.
Hotel Savera

Hotel Savera

No.146, Dr. Radhakrishnan Salai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Hotel Savera
Hyatt Regency Chennai

Hyatt Regency Chennai

5 out of 5
365 Anna Salai, Teynampet, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Hyatt Regency Chennai
Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Cathedral Road, Chennai

Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Cathedral Road, Chennai

4.5 out of 5
10 Cathedral Street, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, Cathedral Road, Chennai
FabHotel Colors Service Apartment

FabHotel Colors Service Apartment

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128, Santhome High Rd, Pattinapakkam, Santhome, Mylapore, Chennai
FabHotel Colors Service Apartment
Stayz Inn near Marina Beach

Stayz Inn near Marina Beach

2 out of 5
9/4 Muthu Pandian Ave Mylapore, Chennai, Tamilnadu
Stayz Inn near Marina Beach
The Park Chennai

The Park Chennai

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601 Anna Salai Road, Near US Embassy, Chennai, Tamil Nadu
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SUPREME STAY

SUPREME STAY

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Kapaleeswarar Temple

Near Kapaleeswarar Temple, visitors can explore vibrant art and theatre scenes, making it a cultural hub. Additionally, indulge in relaxation at wellness centres, and consider joining Chennai tours to discover the city’s rich heritage and attractions. This blend of activities offers a delightful experience for tourists looking to immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying a relaxing getaway.

Shopping

Chennai Citi Center Mall, located 1.1km from Kapaleeswarar Temple, offers a mix of business and family vibes. For a vibrant experience, head to Pondy Bazaar, just 3.2km away. If you're up for a drive, Express Avenue, also 3.2km away, combines entertainment and family-friendly shopping.

Recreation

M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, two miles from Kapaleeswarar Temple, offers an energetic atmosphere perfect for sports enthusiasts. Meanwhile, Oz Golf Academy, located 1.6km away, provides a tranquil golfing experience amidst nature. For those seeking more excitement, Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, four miles distant, buzzes with sporting events.

Adventure

At Muttukadu Boat House, enjoy thrilling water sports and soak in the vibrant outdoor atmosphere, located 25.7km from Kapaleeswarar Temple. Experience indoor fun at VGP Snow Kingdom, just 12.9km away, perfect for skiing with family. For some excitement, head to Kart Attack, 16.1km away, for an exhilarating karting experience.

Nightlife

Near Kapaleeswarar Temple, Inox Theatre, just 1.1km away, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly films and romantic atmospheres. For a cinematic experience, Devi Cineplex, located 6.4km away, provides an engaging setting perfect for family outings and entertainment-filled nights.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Kapaleeswarar Temple

While visiting the Kapaleeswarar Temple in Chennai, you'll find a blend of cultural experiences and family-friendly activities. Explore the stunning temple itself, relax at nearby beaches, or check out modern civic buildings. Just a short walk from the temple, you can delve deeper into the local culture and attractions, making your visit both enriching and enjoyable.

  • Marina Beach: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Marina Beach, just 3.2km from Kapaleeswarar Temple. Enjoy the golden sands, local snacks, and the stunning views of the Bay of Bengal as you take a leisurely stroll along the coastline.
  • Consulate General of the United States, Chennai: Located 3.2km away, this modern civic government building offers a glimpse into the diplomatic landscape of Chennai. While primarily a functional space, its architecture reflects contemporary design and serves as a hub for international relations.
  • Sankara Nethralaya: Situated 4.8km from the temple, this esteemed institute is renowned for its contributions to eye care and research. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural and educational environment that champions healthcare innovation.

Best time to go to Kapaleeswarar Temple

The best time to visit Kapaleeswarar Temple is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain (dry).

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January77.4°F (25.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
February78.8°F (26.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
March82.6°F (28.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
April86.5°F (30.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
May89.6°F (32.0°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
June88.9°F (31.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
July86.9°F (30.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
August85.6°F (29.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September84.7°F (29.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
October83.1°F (28.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November79.7°F (26.5°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December77.7°F (25.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kapaleeswarar Temple

To save money during your visit to Kapaleeswarar Temple, consider travelling in the off-peak months of May, June, and September, when accommodation prices drop. Sundays are the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays are pricier. Use Expedia to compare rates, filter by budget, and look for package deals that bundle accommodation with flights and activities. Additionally, explore public transport options, as Chennai has a reliable bus system, making it easy to get around without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Kapaleeswarar Temple are May to June and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February, July and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Kapaleeswarar Temple is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Kapaleeswarar Temple is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You might find that bundling your hotel stay at Kapaleeswarar Temple with your flights and activities through an Expedia package could help you save some cash.