Kapaleeshwarar Temple Tourism

Kapaleeshwarar Temple is a vibrant and illustrious temple situated in Mylapore, Chennai, in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple showcases the Dravidian architectural style and is believed to have been originally built by the Pallavas in the 7th century, with later contributions from the Vijayanagar rulers. The present structure, however, was reconstructed in the 16th century after the destruction of the previous one by the Portuguese. The temple complex is adorned with intricately carved gopurams (towers), among which the 120 ft high main gopuram stands out with its profusely decorated sculptures depicting various deities and mythological tales. The temple precincts hold a sacred tank, numerous halls, and smaller shrines surrounding the main sanctum sanctorum of Lord Shiva, represented in the form of a lingam. Devotees flock to this sacred space to offer their prayers and witness the majestic ceremonies and temple festivals, with the 'Arubathimoovar' festival being the most celebrated, attracting thousands from across the globe.