Explore the historic and spiritual richness of Mylapore, Chennai, where ancient temples and revered sites offer a glimpse into Tamil Nadu’s vibrant cultural heritage. From the grand Kapaleeshwar Temple to the tranquil Sri Ramakrishna Math, discover the area’s divine landmarks and timeless traditions.

About Mylapore

Mylapore is a historic neighborhood in central Chennai, India. As one of the city’s oldest residential areas, it boasts a rich cultural heritage. Mylapore is well-known as the birthplace of the Tamil philosopher Valluvar and the Hindu saint Peyalvar.

Mylapore, also known as Veda Puri and Shukra Puri, is famous for its rich temple complex and historical significance. The name “Mylapore” comes from the Tamil word “Mayil,” which means peacock. According to Puranas, Goddess Parvati worshipped Lord Shiva in the form of a peacock at this sacred site, giving the area its unique name. The locality is also called Shukra Puri, as it is believed that Shukracharya regained his sight in this place. Further, the name “Veda Puri” originates from the tradition that the four Vedas were worshipped in this region.

Places to Visit in Mylapore

Kapaleeshwar Temple

Kapaleeshwar Temple is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is the main deity. The temple also venerates Shiva’s consort, Karpagambal, a form of Goddess Parvati. Shiva is worshipped in the form of a Linga, and Parvati as Karpagambal, which means “goddess of the wish-yielding tree.” Legend has it that Parvati worshipped Shiva in the form of a peahen here. The Kapaleeshwar Temple is one of the Sapta Sthana Shiva temples in the Mylapore area.

Built by the Pallavas in the 7th century, the Kapaleeshwar Temple in Mylapore features two distinct entrance gopurams. The western gopuram, situated in front of the Mylapore tank, leads directly to the main sanctum, while the taller eastern gopuram rises to an impressive height of 40 meters.

In addition to the main sanctum, the temple complex includes shrines for various deities such as Ganesha, Subramanya along with his consorts Valli and Devasena, Navagraha, Shani Dev, Jagadeeshwara, Sundareshwara, Vinayaka, Anna Malaiyar, Vayilar Nayanar, and Mukundavanar Nayanar. The temple compound also houses a Goshala, where visitors can engage with and feed the cows.

The Mylapore tank, also known as the Kapaleeshwar tank, is one of the oldest and well-maintained tanks in the city. It boasts a storage capacity of 119,000 cubic meters and remains filled with water throughout the year. The tank features a 16-pillared granite mandapa at its center. It is renowned for its role in the annual float festival. During this three-day celebration, idols of Kapaleeshwar and other deities are paraded around the tank in a grand procession.

Velleeshwar Temple

Velleeshwar Temple honors Velleshwara, a manifestation of Lord Shiva, and his consort, Goddess Kamakshi. According to legend, Shukracharya tried to stop King Mahabali from granting a wish to Vamana, suspecting foul play. However, King Bali insisted on fulfilling his promise to the young Brahmachari Brahman. To interfere, Shukracharya transformed into a bee and entered the kamandal’s nozzle, blocking the flow of water. In response, Lord Vamana used Dhurva grass to clear the nozzle, blinding Shukracharya in the process. Shukracharya then performed penance to Lord Shiva at this temple, ultimately regaining his sight. The term “Velle” refers to Shukra, and “Velleeshwara” means Lord of Shukracharya, which is how the temple got its name.

As you enter the temple, you will first encounter a sanctum dedicated to Lord Ganesha, depicted in a rare standing posture alongside his consorts, Siddhi and Buddhi. The next shrine houses Lord Velleeshwara in the form of a Linga facing east. Adjacent to this, you will find the sanctum of Goddess Kamakshi, who faces south beside the Shiva Linga and Ganesha. Further, behind Lord Shiva’s idol, there is an idol of Lord Vishnu in the Trivikrama pose and an icon of Goddess Durga Devi. The inner sanctum also features idols of the Sapthamathrikas, statues of Subramanya as Shanmukha with six heads, and Muthukumaraswamy, accompanied by his consorts Valli and Devasena.

Proceeding to the outer courtyard, you will discover additional sanctuaries dedicated to Lord Sarabeshwara, Goddess Pratyangira Devi, Lord Shaneeshwara, and the Navagrahas. The temple complex also includes a unique idol of Shukracharya worshipping Lord Shiva, reflecting the rich mythological heritage of the site.

Sri Ramakrishna Math

Sri Ramakrishna Math in Chennai is a prominent monastic organization and a branch of the Sri Ramakrishna Mission. Established in 1897, it is the first branch in South India, founded by Swami Ramakrishnananda, a direct disciple of Sri Ramakrishna, who was sent to Madras by Swami Vivekananda. Sri Sharada Devi, consort of Sri Ramakrishna, blessed this Math, and several of Sri Ramakrishna’s direct disciples consecrated the site. Before the establishment of the ashram, Swami Vivekananda preached from the Ice House, now known as Vivekananda House, located near Marina Beach.

The Sri Ramakrishna Math is located next to the Velleeshwar Temple, and the path between them passes by a quaint Ashram shop. The shop displays photographs of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sharada Devi, and Swami Vivekananda, and offers a selection of books on meditation, yoga, and teachings of Swami Vivekananda. Visitors are welcome to browse and purchase these items. Near the entrance of the Math, you’ll find a spacious hall with an idol of Sri Sharada Devi prominently placed at the center. Steps from this hall lead to a smaller, serene upper chamber. The chamber houses idols of Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sharada Devi, and Swami Vivekananda, perfect for silent meditation.

The Ramakrishnananda Mandapam is a small mantapa located in front of the Ashram, built to commemorate the 150th birthday of Swami Ramakrishnanda. This mantapa marks the very spot where Swami Ramakrishnanda worshipped Sri Ramakrishna, adding historical and spiritual significance to the site. Inside, you’ll find images of Swami Vivekananda, Sri Shankaracharya, Sri Madhvacharya, and Sri Ramanujacharya arranged in a clockwise direction.

How To Reach Mylapore

• Mylapore, located approximately 8 km from Chennai Central, is easily accessible by city buses or autos.
• To reach the area by public transport, take a city bus to Mylapore and alight at the Mylapore Tank stop. The Kapaleeshwar temple is about 500 meters from the bus terminal.
• Moreover, if you opt for an auto or cab, be sure to negotiate the fare in advance to avoid inflated charges.

I have also added a route map for walking between the three prominent temples in Mylapore below.

Travel Tips To Visit Mylapore

• All temples in Mylapore are open from 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, closing for a few hours in the afternoon. Plan your visit accordingly to make the most of your time.
• While there is no strict dress code, it is advisable to wear modest clothing when visiting the temples.
• Parking is available near both the Kapaleeshwar Temple and Sri Ramakrishna Math, but there is no dedicated parking area for Velleeshwar Temple.
• You can purchase coconuts, flowers, and garlands from local vendors outside the temple complex.
• Accommodations are available near the temple complex, and you can also book a stay in Chennai’s central area. Numerous hotels cater to various preferences and budgets.
• Given the extreme heat and humidity during the summer months, it is better to visit Mylapore between November and January.
• You can also visit the Marundeeshwar Temple in Chennai, located near the Mylapore area.

Mylapore’s rich temple heritage offers a profound cultural experience and spiritual insight. Its temple grounds comprise various stories that come alive, which you can enjoy exploring while receiving divine blessings.