
Chakrapani Temple Kumbakonam
A powerful Vaishnavite temple in Kumbakonam, dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Chakrapani, known for its unique deity form and Dravidian architecture.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peaceful darshan & divine energy

Chakrapani Temple Kumbakonam
Best Time
Peaceful darshan & divine energy

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A powerful Vaishnavite temple in Kumbakonam, dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Chakrapani, known for its unique deity form and Dravidian architecture.
"Visiting Sri Chakrapani Swamy Temple is a deeply spiritual journey—where divine lore, architectural elegance, and sacred ritual come together."

🎯 Early Morning Darshan
Visit early for a serene experience and to feel the temple's full spiritual grace.
👗 Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. It's a sign of respect in this sacred place.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lord Chakrapani's Unique Form
Main Sanctum
Witness Lord Vishnu as Chakrapani, a powerful eight-armed deity holding the Sudarshana Chakra. His fierce (Ugra) visage is a rare and awe-inspiring depiction.

Architectural Grandeur
Temple Exterior
Marvel at the towering, artistically designed Dravidian gopuram and intricate carvings that tell stories of divine lore.

The Sacred Chakra Theertham
Temple Tank
The temple tank, Chakra Theertham, is considered highly sacred and plays a significant role in the temple's rituals and mythology.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Understanding Temple Etiquette
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Early Morning Darshan
Visit early for a serene experience and to feel the temple's full spiritual grace.
👗 Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. It's a sign of respect in this sacred place.
👟 Shoe Keeping
Be prepared to leave your footwear at the designated counter before entering.
🗣️ Limited English Info
Information inside the temple may be limited in English; research beforehand.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Early Morning Darshan
Visit early for a serene experience and to feel the temple's full spiritual grace.
👗 Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees. It's a sign of respect in this sacred place.
👟 Shoe Keeping
Be prepared to leave your footwear at the designated counter before entering.
🗣️ Limited English Info
Information inside the temple may be limited in English; research beforehand.
💧 Sacred Temple Tank
The Chakra Theertham is a significant and sacred part of the temple complex.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors describe Chakrapani Temple as a deeply spiritual and peaceful place, highlighting the unique and powerful deity and the stunning Dravidian architecture. Many recommend an early morning darshan for the best experience, noting the temple is usually well-maintained and not overly crowded, though service can be lean during off-peak times.
"Beautiful and peaceful Lord Vishnu temple in Kumbakonam. The architecture is stunning with a tall gopuram and detailed carvings. The main deity, Chakrapani (with Sudarshana Chakra), is unique and powerful. Clean, well-maintained, and usually not crowded. A must-visit!"
Hari Trivedi
"Devotional Review
Visiting Sri Chakrapani Swamy Temple is a deeply spiritual journey—where divine lore, architectural elegance, and sacred ritual come together. As Lord Vishnu in the form of the Sudharshana Chakra, He offers refuge, protection, and blessings with unmatched power. The tranquil surroundings and spiritual energy make this temple an essential stop in Kumbakonam.
If you’re on a pilgrimage or seeking relief from life’s uncertainties, this temple’s blessings are profound. A must-visit for devotees and heritage admirers alike. Highly recommended for an early morning darshan to feel the full grace of Chakrapani. 🙏✨"
Navenbarathwaj K
"Chakrapani Temple is one of the most prominent Vaishnavite temples in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in the form of Chakrapani, the wielder of the Sudarshana Chakra (divine discus).
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🛕 Key Highlights
• Deity: Lord Vishnu as Chakrapani (சக்கரபாணி பெருமாள்)
• Location: Banks of the Cauvery River, in the town of Kumbakonam
• Temple Style: Dravidian architecture with a massive and artistically designed gopuram (tower)
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📜 Mythological Significance
🌠 The Legend:
• According to Vaishnava mythology, the Sudarshana Chakra (discus) of Lord Vishnu once came to Earth to destroy a demon named Jalandhara.
• After defeating the demon, the chakra arrived at this spot in Kumbakonam.
• The chakra, personified, took a divine form and settled here as Chakrapani (literally, “one who holds the chakra”).
• It is said that Surya (Sun God) worshipped Lord Chakrapani here to regain his lost radiance. Pleased with his devotion, the Lord appeared before Surya and blessed him.
• Hence, Surya is shown here with folded hands, facing Chakrapani.
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🌅 Special Features
• Unique Posture: Lord Chakrapani appears in a powerful posture with eight arms, holding different weapons, especially the Sudarshana Chakra.
• His face looks ferocious (Ugra) – a rare depiction of Vishnu.
• Chakra Theertham (temple tank) is considered highly sacred.
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📅 Festivals
• Brahmotsavam in the month of Chittirai (April–May) is the most famous.
• Other festivals: Vaikunta Ekadasi, Krishna Jayanthi, and Rathotsavam (Car Festival).
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🧭 Quick Facts
Feature Details
Main Deity Chakrapani (Lord Vishnu)
Location Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu
Architecture Dravidian style with colorful gopuram
Timing 6:30 AM to 12:00 PM, 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM
Managed by TN HR&CE Department
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🌍 Nearby Temples
• Sarangapani Temple – another famous Vishnu temple in Kumbakonam
• Adi Kumbeswarar Temple – Shiva temple connected to the Mahamaham legend
• Nageswarar Temple, Ramaswamy Temple, etc."
Balaji N
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chakrapani Temple is located on the banks of the Cauvery River in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu. You can reach Kumbakonam by train or bus from major cities like Chennai and Trichy. From the town center, auto-rickshaws and local buses are readily available to take you to the temple.
While specific dedicated parking lots might be limited, you can usually find space for vehicles on the roads surrounding the temple. It's advisable to arrive early if you're driving to secure a convenient spot.
For visiting multiple temples like Chakrapani, Sarangapani, and Adi Kumbeswarar, hiring a local auto-rickshaw or a taxi for a half-day or full-day tour is a convenient option. This allows you to easily hop between sites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no entry fee to enter the main temple complex of Chakrapani Temple. However, special darshan tickets might be available for quicker access during peak times, though this is not always the case.
Chakrapani Temple is typically open from 6:30 AM to 12:00 PM and then again from 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM. It's always a good idea to confirm these timings locally as they can sometimes vary.
Photography rules can vary. While general photography might be allowed in some areas, it's often restricted inside the inner sanctum. It's best to observe local customs and check for signage or ask temple authorities.
No, advance booking is generally not required for regular darshan at Chakrapani Temple. You can visit during the opening hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Chakrapani Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Chakrapani, the wielder of the Sudarshana Chakra. It's a prominent Vaishnavite temple with a legend involving the chakra defeating a demon and Surya worshipping the deity.
The main deity, Lord Chakrapani, is depicted with eight arms, holding various weapons, and has a fierce (Ugra) expression, which is a rare and powerful representation of Vishnu.
Besides Lord Chakrapani, the temple also houses the shrine for Thayar (Goddess Lakshmi). The presence of Surya, shown with folded hands, is also a significant feature.
Chakra Theertham is the sacred temple tank associated with Chakrapani Temple. It is considered highly holy and is an integral part of the temple's spiritual significance.
The most famous festival is Brahmotsavam, celebrated in the month of Chittirai (April-May). Other significant festivals include Vaikunta Ekadasi and Krishna Jayanthi.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Kumbakonam town offers various dining options, from local eateries serving South Indian thalis to more contemporary restaurants. You can find places serving traditional Tamil cuisine within a short distance from the temple.
Temples often offer prasadam (blessed food) for devotees. It's advisable to inquire at the temple counter or with the priests about the availability and timings for prasadam distribution.
📸 📸 Photography
The towering gopuram and the intricate carvings on the temple exterior offer excellent photographic opportunities. The temple tank and the surrounding architecture are also picturesque.
Photography is typically restricted inside the inner sanctum of most South Indian temples, including Chakrapani Temple. Always check for signage or ask for permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that temples require a certain level of decorum. Ensure children are dressed modestly and are supervised. The relatively peaceful atmosphere, especially during non-peak hours, can make it manageable for families. Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the midday heat.
🙏 Devotees and Pilgrims
The temple's significance as a Vaishnavite shrine, coupled with its unique mythology, makes it a key destination for pilgrims. The Brahmotsavam festival is a particularly auspicious time to visit if you wish to witness grand religious celebrations.
🏛️ History and Architecture Enthusiasts
The temple's history, dating back to the fifteenth century with subsequent additions, provides insights into the evolution of temple construction in the region. The mythological stories associated with the temple, such as the one involving Surya, add a fascinating layer to its historical and cultural significance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Chakrapani
Another significant tale involves Surya, the Sun God. It is said that Surya worshipped Lord Chakrapani here to regain his lost radiance. Pleased with Surya's devotion, the Lord appeared and blessed him, a testament to the deity's immense power and grace. This is why Surya is often depicted in the temple facing Chakrapani with folded hands.
Architectural Marvels and Unique Iconography
The most striking feature within the sanctum is the idol of Lord Chakrapani. Unlike typical depictions of Vishnu, this deity is shown with eight arms, holding an array of weapons, with the Sudarshana Chakra prominently displayed. His face is described as ferocious (Ugra), a rare and powerful representation that signifies his protective and destructive prowess against evil. This unique iconography makes the darshan a truly memorable experience for devotees.
The Significance of Chakra Theertham
Its presence is intrinsically linked to the legend of the Sudarshana Chakra, making it a focal point of worship and devotion within the temple complex. The tank's sanctity adds another layer to the spiritual experience of visiting Chakrapani Temple, reinforcing its status as a significant pilgrimage site.






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