Chakrapani Temple

Chakrapani Temple is a prominent Vishnu temple in Kumbakonam and one of the few where the Sudarshana Chakra, the discus of Vishnu, is worshipped as the principal deity. The Lord appears with eight arms holding divine weapons and, unusually, with a third eye on his forehead.

Legend says that Sudarshana rose from the Cauvery and Lord Brahma installed it here. Its brilliance dimmed the Sun god Surya, who prayed to it and regained his radiance, and the town came to be called Bhaskara Kshetra. The exact origins of the temple are unclear, but it flourished under Nayak patronage.

Temple Timing

The temple is usually open from around 6 AM to 12:30 PM and from 4 PM to 9 PM, though some listings show slightly different hours, so please confirm before your visit. Modest clothing that covers the arms and legs is recommended.

Temple Festival

The ten-day Brahmotsavam in Chithirai (April–May) is the major festival, followed by the Pavitrotsavam and the float festival (Theppotsavam) in Vaikasi (May–June). Masi Magam is celebrated in memory of Surya’s worship of Sudarshana.

Architecture

Granite walls enclose the shrines, and carved pillars and a colourful gopuram show the Dravidian style of the Nayak era. Chakra Padithurai, a bathing ghat on the Cauvery, lies close to the temple.

How to Reach