What to expect
Chitragupta Temple
Built by the Cholas in the 9th century, this is believed to be the only separate temple in India dedicated to Chitragupta, the divine accountant who records the good and bad deeds of every human. Devotees visit to seek relief from the malefic effects of the planet Ketu. Its uniqueness draws pilgrims from across South India.
Practical guide
Plan Chitragupta Temple
Typetemple
Nearest baseKanchipuram
Best timeOctober to March is the cooler, drier season in the Cauvery delta
Time neededAbout an hour
EntryFree
Nearest town/baseKanchipuram
DistrictKancheepuram
Place typetemple
Time neededAbout an hour.
Built by the Cholas in the 9th century, this is believed to be the only separate temple in India dedicated to Chitragupta, the divine accountant who records the good and bad deeds of every human. Devotees visit to seek relief from the malefic effects of the planet Ketu. Its uniqueness draws pilgrims from across South India.
Chitragupta Temple is planned from Kanchipuram, one of the travel bases in Kancheepuram district. Use Kanchipuram for stays, food and local transport, then plan this place as a focused stop.
Visiting
Chitragupta Temple — at a glance
Timings6:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Best timeOctober to March; early morning or evening are most pleasant
Entry: Free
Getting here
How to reach Chitragupta Temple
Kanchipuram bus stand/railway station; Chennai airport ~75 km
Popular with those seeking Ketu dosha remedies.
Getting there
How to visit
- Base yourself in Kanchipuram or nearby in Kancheepuram, then confirm the last-mile route locally before travel.
- If access depends on temple, museum or seasonal rules, check on the day before you go.
Distance by road
- Chennai72 km
- Mahabalipuram (Mamallapuram)65 km
- Vellore70 km
- Puducherry110 km
- Tirupati115 km
Road km to Kancheepuram; ghat roads and traffic vary — allow extra.
Timing
Best time
October to March is the cooler, drier season in the Cauvery delta.
Weather in Chitragupta TempleSeasonal guide
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Visitor notes
Safety
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On the map
Where Chitragupta Temple is
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What’s near Chitragupta Temple
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Chitragupta Temple — frequently asked
When is the best time to visit Chitragupta Temple?
October to March is the cooler, drier season in the Cauvery delta.
What are the entry fee and timings at Chitragupta Temple?
Entry: Free. Timings: 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 4:00 PM - 8:30 PM. Fees and timings are indicative — confirm on site before you travel.
How do I reach Chitragupta Temple?
Base yourself in Kanchipuram or nearby in Kancheepuram, then confirm the last-mile route locally before travel. If access depends on temple, museum or seasonal rules, check on the day before you go.
How much time do I need for Chitragupta Temple?
About an hour.
What else is near Chitragupta Temple?
Nearby you can pair Ulagalantha Perumal Temple (120 m), Kachabeswarar Temple (120 m), Kachi Metrali Temple (120 m), Vazhukareeswarar Temple (230 m).
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Image credits
- Chitragupta Temple:Ssriram mt, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0