Kapaleeshwara temple trail

This trail is a walk around the Kapaleeshwara in Mylapore. As Indian temples go, this one is not very ancient. But it is a very popular temple in Chennai and is a great place to observe everyday rituals from close quarters. As you walk around this colourful temple, you will discover that every sight you behold has a story to tell. Join us as we uncover these stories; stories of Hindu Gods and demons, of common customs and age-old traditions, and stories of local life. Ever wondered why there are so many Gods in India? Or what the stars have to do with your future? We’ll talk about all this and more on this trail.

Credits:

Voice: Dr Anita Ratnam

Script: Storytrails Research team

Consulting historian: Dr. Chitra Madhavan

Music and Sound effects: Raghu Ram and Priyanka Kumar

Free/Paid

Paid

Conveyance

80 mins

Timing & Ticketing

Timing

The Kapaleeshwara temple is open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM on all days of the week.
Best Time: Go as early as you can. The walk is most pleasant between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM and between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM.

Tickets

Entry into the temple is free. All are welcome. However only Hindus are allowed into the innermost sanctum. That innermost sanctum of the temple is not covered on this trail.

Camera Tickets: 25 INR

Before You Go

Attire: This is a place of worship, so please dress conservatively, keeping your shoulders and knees covered. You may be denied entry by the temple if your attire is considered inappropriate.

Footwear: You will have to take off your footwear at the counter outside before you enter the temple. You can keep your socks on if you want to. Even carrying footwear in your bags into the temple is not permitted.

Photography: Photography is permitted in the temple. A camera ticket has to be purchased at the counter inside the temple. However, photographing the idols of Gods is prohibited. Avoid pointing your cameras directly at the idols housed in any of the shrines in the temple.

Highlights

Look for the tall temple chariot outside the eastern entrance of the temple that is taken on a procession every year in April.
The western exit of the temple leads to a large temple tank.
The temple has a cowshed and you can feed the cows. Grass and bananas can be purchased from the flower sellers outside.