• The hexagonal crystal structure was observed by XRD. • The nanoflakes and flower-like structure were obtained using FESEM analysis. • The electrode material prepared with 160 °C temperature exhibits excellent super capacitive performances. • A maximum specific capacitance of 691 Fg −1 at current density 1 Ag −1 and good cyclic stability of 89 % over 5000 cycles. This work describes the formation of two-dimensional Molybdenum di-sulfide (MoS 2 ) nanoflakes developed by temperature varying hydrothermal method from 140 °C to 200 °C and further applied as effective electrode material for high performance supercapacitor. The structural analysis confirms the formation of hexagonal crystal structure of MoS 2 by XRD. The surface morphological study revealed uniform growth of MoS 2 nanoflakes and flower-like structure. The chemical bonding and the location of Mo-S band was confirmed at 600 cm −1 through FTIR–spectrum. The electrochemical performances of the MoS 2 electrode were analyzed by Cyclic Voltammetry, Galvanostatic Charge/discharge and electrochemical impedance techniques. The electrode material prepared at 160 °C temperature exhibits excellent super capacitive performances when compared to other temperatures. This electrode recorded a maximum specific capacitance of 691 Fg −1 at current density 1 Ag −1 and good cyclic stability of 89 % over 5000 cycles. It exhibits very less charge transfer resistance 1 Ω which is lesser than other electrodes.