Mylapore: The Cultural Heart of Chennai

Discover Mylapore, Chennai's cultural heart, where ancient temples, bustling markets, and vibrant traditions offer an unforgettable experience.

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Mylapore

Mylapore is a vibrant and historic neighbourhood in Chennai, India, known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional charm. As one of the oldest areas in the city, Mylapore offers a fascinating glimpse into Chennai's past, with its blend of ancient temples, bustling markets, and colonial-era architecture. A visit to Mylapore is incomplete without exploring the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple. This centuries-old temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture and a hub of religious activity. The temple's towering gopuram, intricate carvings, and serene tank are sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors. For those interested in history, the San Thome Basilica is another must-see. Built by Portuguese explorers, this majestic cathedral is said to house the remains of St. Thomas the Apostle. Its stunning white facade and peaceful interiors provide a stark contrast to the lively streets outside. Mylapore's markets are a sensory delight. From flower stalls to spice vendors, the streets are filled with the vibrant colors and sounds of daily life. Don't miss the chance to sample local delicacies at the numerous eateries and street food stalls scattered throughout the area. In addition to its religious and historical sites, Mylapore is also a hub for classical music and dance. The neighbourhood hosts various cultural events and festivals, particularly during the Margazhi season, when the streets come alive with performances of Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam dance.

Local tips in Mylapore

Visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple early in the morning to avoid the crowds and experience the morning rituals.
Wear comfortable footwear, as you will be doing a lot of walking through narrow and busy streets.
Carry cash, as many small vendors and eateries may not accept credit cards.
Try the filter coffee at one of the local cafes for an authentic taste of Chennai.

File:Mylapore Kapaleeshwarar temple facade.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Luz church, Chennai.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Mylapore tank at dawn panorama.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Chennai City Centre.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Ramakrishna Mutt Chennai.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Chennai Lighthouse

Experience the charm of Chennai Lighthouse, a historic landmark offering stunning coastal views and a glimpse into the city’s maritime heritage.

Mahatma Gandhi Statue

Discover tranquility at the Mahatma Gandhi Statue in Chennai, a stunning tribute to peace located at iconic Marina Beach.

Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Explore the vibrant cultural heritage at Kapaleeshwarar Temple, a stunning landmark in Chennai's Mylapore, dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Arulmigu Mundakakanni Amman Temple

Explore the spiritual and cultural heritage of Chennai at the Arulmigu Mundakakanni Amman Temple, where devotion meets architectural beauty.

Nageswara Rao Park

Discover Nageswara Rao Park, a tranquil green oasis in Mylapore, Chennai, perfect for relaxation, family outings, and enjoying nature's beauty.

Sri Ramakrishna Math Chennai

Explore the spiritual heart of Chennai at Sri Ramakrishna Math, a sanctuary of peace, culture, and enlightenment in the bustling Mylapore district.

NOCHIKUPPAM BEACH

Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Nochikuppam Beach, a hidden gem in Chennai perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.

Thiruvalluvar Statue Mylapore

Explore the grandeur of the Thiruvalluvar Statue in Mylapore, a symbol of Tamil culture and philosophy, and a must-see landmark in Chennai.

Ramakrishna Mutt Old Temple

Explore the serene Ramakrishna Mutt Old Temple in Chennai, a spiritual haven with stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Amarajeevi Potti Sreeramulu Memorial Building

Discover the rich heritage of Chennai at the Amarajeevi Potti Sreeramulu Memorial Building, a tribute to a hero of India's independence movement.

Unmissable attractions to see

Santhome Cathedral Basilica

Discover the majestic Santhome Cathedral Basilica in Chennai, a stunning neo-Gothic architectural gem and sacred site of St. Thomas the Apostle.

Nageswara Rao Park

Discover the serenity of Nageswara Rao Park, a lush green retreat in the heart of Chennai, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Kamarajar Statue

Discover the Kamarajar Statue near Marina Beach: A stunning tribute to Tamil Nadu's visionary leader amidst vibrant Chennai culture.

Amarajeevi Potti Sreeramulu Memorial Building

Explore the Amarajeevi Potti Sreeramulu Memorial Building, a cultural landmark in Chennai dedicated to a pivotal leader in India's history.

Wall Art

Discover the vibrant murals of Wall Art in Mylapore, Chennai, showcasing the city's rich artistic heritage and cultural narratives.

சித்திரக்குளம்

Discover the spiritual and cultural heart of Chennai in the historic neighborhood of Mylapore, where ancient temples and local cuisine await.

Jasper aaya va ethuna idam

Discover the serenity and cultural richness of Jasper aaya va ethuna idam in Mylapore, a must-visit tourist attraction in Chennai.

Essential places to dine

Tovo Mylapore

Discover Tovo Mylapore: A premier destination for chicken lovers offering unique flavors and a vibrant dining atmosphere in Chennai.

Nithya Amirtham - Mylapore

Discover authentic vegetarian cuisine at Nithya Amirtham in Mylapore, Chennai - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Grill Box R K Salai

Savor mouthwatering barbecue delights at Grill Box R K Salai in Chennai - where every meal is a celebration of flavor and fun.

27 Culinary Street

Explore an exquisite buffet experience at 27 Culinary Street in Mylapore – where Indian flavors meet barbecue delights in a vibrant setting.

Kaidi Kitchen

Discover the exquisite flavors of North Indian cuisine alongside global delights at Kaidi Kitchen in Chennai's vibrant Mylapore.

V2 Privé Pure Veg Multi-cusine Restaurant Mylapore

Discover vibrant vegetarian flavors at V2 Privé Pure Veg Multi-cuisine Restaurant in Mylapore—where every meal is a celebration of taste.

The Pedreno's Global Fusion Restaurant

Discover exquisite Italian flavors blended with global influences at The Pedreno's Global Fusion Restaurant in Mylapore.

Vrindavan Restaurant

Experience the vibrant flavors of South India at Vrindavan Restaurant - a top culinary destination in Chennai offering diverse vegetarian delights.

Haunted Restaurant

Experience a unique blend of culinary delights and spooky ambiance at Chennai's Haunted Restaurant - where every meal tells a story.

Krishna Restaurant

Experience authentic South Indian cuisine at Krishna Restaurant in Mylapore – where tradition meets taste in every bite.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Sri Vijaya Stores

Discover the essence of spirituality at Sri Vijaya Stores, Mylapore's premier destination for authentic Pooja materials and religious goods.

Aishwarya Stores

Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Aishwarya Stores in Mylapore, Chennai – a shopper's paradise for souvenirs and more.

AISHWARYA STORES MYLAPORE

Explore the vibrant Aishwarya Stores in Mylapore, Chennai, for unique gifts and authentic handicrafts that embody the spirit of Indian culture.

N. Mada St. Mada St. Mylapore

Discover the vibrant shopping and rich cultural heritage of N. Mada Street in Mylapore, a must-visit destination in Chennai.

Amma Fancy Stores

Explore the enchanting Amma Fancy Stores in Chennai for a unique blend of bridal wear, stylish bags, and festive decorations.

Amutham Fancy Store

Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Amutham Fancy Store, a charming haven for souvenir shopping in the heart of Chennai’s Mylapore.

India Stores

Explore India Stores in Mylapore, Chennai - a vibrant haven for toys and stationery, perfect for families and cultural enthusiasts.

Mylapore

Discover the enchanting neighborhood of Mylapore in Chennai, where rich culture meets the sweetness of traditional Indian treats.

Ashok Emporium

Explore the captivating Ashok Emporium in Chennai, where unique antiques and religious artifacts await to enrich your travel experience and memories.

Om Sakthi Fancy & Gift Shop

Discover unique gifts and traditional handicrafts at Om Sakthi Fancy & Gift Shop, a hidden gem in the heart of Chennai's historic Mylapore.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Libarrel

Discover the vibrant flavors of Libarrel, a grill restaurant in Mylapore, Chennai, where traditional tastes meet modern dining experiences.

Bay 146

Experience the perfect blend of sophistication and flavor at Bay 146, a premier bar and lounge in Mylapore, Chennai, offering exquisite cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere.

Bronx Sea View Resto Bar

Discover the perfect blend of stunning views and exquisite cuisine at Bronx Sea View Resto Bar in Chennai.

Time Bar

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Time Bar in Mylapore, Chennai, where innovative cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you.

Akash Cool Bar

Discover Akash Cool Bar in Chennai - your ultimate destination for refreshing drinks and a vibrant atmosphere amidst the city's nightlife.

Murugan Cool Bar

Discover the lively Murugan Cool Bar in Mylapore, Chennai, where local flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.

Sri Devi Cool Bar

Discover the vibrant Sri Devi Cool Bar, where locals and tourists enjoy refreshing drinks and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Mylapore, Chennai.

Kabali Karpagambal Cool Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Chennai at Kabali Karpagambal Cool Bar, where refreshing drinks and local culture come together.

Hari Cool Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Hari Cool Bar, the perfect retreat in the heart of Chennai's Mylapore.

Sree Lakshmi Cool Bar

Experience the vibrant spirit of Chennai at Sree Lakshmi Cool Bar, your go-to spot for refreshing drinks and local culture.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Mylapore

Discover Mylapore with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- Helloவணக்கம்
  [Vaṇakkam]
- Goodbyeபிரியாவிடை
  [Piriyāviṭai]
- Yesஆம்
  [Ām]
- Noஇல்லை
  [Illai]
- Please/You're welcomeதயவுசெய்து/வணக்கம்
  [Tayavuceytu/Vaṇakkam]
- Thank youநன்றி
  [Naṉṟi]
- Excuse me/Sorryமன்னிக்கவும்
  [Maṉṉikkavum]
- How are you?நீங்கள் எப்படி இருக்கிறீர்கள்?
  [Nīṅkaḷ eppaṭi irukkiṟīrkaḷ?]
- Fine. And you?நல்லது. நீங்கள் எப்படி?
  [Nallatu. Nīṅkaḷ eppaṭi?]
- Do you speak English?நீங்கள் ஆங்கிலம் பேசுகிறீர்களா?
  [Nīṅkaḷ āṅkiḷam pēcu kiṟīrkaḷā?]
- I don't understandஎனக்கு புரியவில்லை
  [Eṉakku puriyavillai]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseமெனுவைப் பார்க்க விரும்புகிறேன்
  [Meṉuvai pārkka virumpukiṟēṉ]
- I don't eat meatநான் இறைச்சி சாப்பிட மாட்டேன்
  [Nāṉ iṟaicci sāppiṭa māṭṭēṉ]
- Cheers!வாழ்க!
  [Vāḻka!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseஎனக்கு பணம் செலுத்த விரும்புகிறேன்
  [Eṉakku paṇam celutta virumpukiṟēṉ]
- Help!உதவி!
  [Utavi!]
- Go away!போய் விடு!
  [Pōy viṭu!]
- Call the Police!கோபுரத்துக்கு அழைக்கவும்!
  [Kōpurattukku aḻaikkavum!]
- Call a doctor!மருத்துவனை அழைக்கவும்!
  [Maruttuvaṉai aḻaikkavum!]
- I'm lostநான் தொலைந்துவிட்டேன்
  [Nāṉ tolaintaviṭṭēṉ]
- I'm illநான் நோயுற்றேன்
  [Nāṉ nōyuṭṭēṉ]
- I'd like to buy...நான் வாங்க விரும்புகிறேன்...
  [Nāṉ vāṅka virumpukiṟēṉ...]
- I'm just lookingநான் பார்ப்பதற்காகவே இங்கு இருக்கிறேன்
  [Nāṉ pārppataṟkākavē iṅku irukkiṟēṉ]
- How much is it?இதன் விலை எ столько?
  [Itaṉ vilai eṉṉa?]
- That's too expensiveஅது மிகவும் விலையுயர்ந்தது
  [Atu mikavum vilaiyuyaṉtatu]
- Can you lower the price?விலையை குறைக்க முடியுமா?
  [Vilaiyai kuṟaikka muṭiyumā?]
- What time is it?என்ன நேரம்?
  [Eṉṉa nēram?]
- It's one o'clockஇது ஒன்று மணிக்கு
  [Itu oṉṟu maṇikku]
- Half past (10)பத்து மணிக்குப் பிறகு
  [Pattu maṇikkup piṟaku]
- Morningகாலை
  [Kālai]
- Afternoonமதியம்
  [Matiyam]
- Eveningமாலை
  [Mālai]
- Yesterdayநேற்று
  [Nēṟṟu]
- Todayஇன்று
  [Iṉṟu]
- Tomorrowநாளை
  [Nāḷai]
- 1ஒன்று
  [Oṉṟu]
- 2இரண்டு
  [Iraṇṭu]
- 3மூன்று
  [Mūṉṟu]
- 4நான்கு
  [Nāṉku]
- 5ஐந்து
  [Ainthu]
- 6ஆறு
  [Āṟu]
- 7ஏழு
  [Ēḻu]
- 8எட்டு
  [Eṭṭu]
- 9ஒன்பது
  [Oṉpatu]
- 10பத்து
  [Pattu]
- Where's a/the...?எங்கு ஒரு ...?
  [Eṅku oru ...?]
- What's the address?என்ன முகவரி?
  [Eṉṉa mukavari?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?நீங்கள் எனக்கு (வரைப்படத்தில்) காட்ட முடியுமா?
  [Nīṅkaḷ eṉakku (varaiyappaṭattil) kāṭṭa muṭiyumā?]
- When's the next (bus)?அடுத்த (பஸ்) எப்போது?
  [Aṭutta (pas) eppōtu?]
- A ticket (to ....)ஒரு டிக்கெட் (க்கு ...)
  [Oru ṭikkeṭ (kku ...)]

History of Mylapore

Mylapore is one of the oldest inhabited areas in Chennai, with references dating back to the 2nd century BCE. The neighborhood is renowned for its ancient temples, particularly the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and showcases Dravidian architecture. The temple's history is steeped in mythology, believed to have been originally built over the site where the goddess Parvati worshipped Shiva.
During the colonial period, Mylapore became a focal point for European traders, particularly the Portuguese and the Dutch, who established settlements and trading posts. The influence of these traders can still be seen in the architecture and urban layout of Mylapore, where colonial-era structures coexist with ancient temples and traditional homes.
The 19th century marked a significant cultural renaissance in Mylapore, with the establishment of numerous educational institutions and cultural organizations. The neighborhood became a hub for Tamil literature and the arts, with notable figures like the poet Subramania Bharati becoming part of its vibrant cultural scene. This period saw the rise of the Bharatanatyam dance form and the establishment of music academies.
Mylapore played a vital role during the Indian independence movement, serving as a meeting ground for leaders and activists. The area was home to several prominent freedom fighters, and the spirit of resistance was palpable in the local community. Events such as the Salt March, initiated by Mahatma Gandhi, found support in Mylapore, where residents actively participated in protests and movements against colonial rule.
In recent decades, Mylapore has experienced rapid urbanization and development, yet it has managed to retain its cultural heritage. The neighborhood is known for its traditional festivals, such as the annual Kapaleeshwarar Temple festival, which attracts thousands of devotees. Efforts to preserve the area's historical sites and promote arts continue, making Mylapore a vibrant blend of the old and the new within Chennai.

Mylapore Essentials

Mylapore is well-connected to other neighbourhoods in Chennai. You can reach Mylapore by taking a bus from various parts of the city, with multiple routes including the MTC buses. The nearest railway station is the Chennai Egmore Railway Station, from where you can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw to Mylapore. If you are coming from the Chennai International Airport, the most convenient way is to hire a taxi or use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Ola, which take approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
Mylapore is a walkable neighbourhood, especially around its cultural landmarks. Auto-rickshaws are a popular means of transportation for short distances. MTC buses run frequently, connecting Mylapore to other parts of Chennai. For a more local experience, consider renting a bicycle, as several shops offer rentals for a few hours or the entire day.
Mylapore is generally safe for tourists, but like any urban area, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit areas. While Mylapore does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded places. Stay vigilant and keep your belongings secure.
In case of an emergency, dial 100 for police assistance or 108 for ambulance services in Chennai. The nearest hospital is the Apollo Hospital, located a short distance away. Familiarize yourself with the location of nearby pharmacies for minor health issues, and consider having travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting temples. Avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless tops. Religion: Do respect local customs, such as removing your shoes before entering temples. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly passengers; don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a polite 'Vanakkam'; don't use overly casual greetings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Tamil dishes; don't refuse food offered by locals, as it may be considered impolite.
To experience Mylapore like a local, visit the vibrant Mylapore market in the early morning for fresh produce and local delicacies. Attend a traditional music or dance performance at the kapaleeshwarar temple during festivals. Engage with local residents, who are often friendly and eager to share stories about the area. Don’t forget to try the famous filter coffee at a nearby café, and explore the numerous small eateries serving authentic South Indian cuisine.

Mylapore: The Cultural Heart of Chennai

Local tips in Mylapore