Kanchipuram, often referred to as the “City of Thousand Temples,” is one of the seven sacred cities in India and a prominent cultural and religious center in Tamil Nadu. The city is renowned for its rich history, magnificent temples, and exquisite silk sarees. Here are some of the best places to visit in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu:
Best Places to Visit
Kailasanathar Temple
Kailasanathar Temple is one of the oldest and most famous temples in Kanchipuram, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built in the 8th century by the Pallava dynasty, the temple is known for its stunning Dravidian architecture, intricate carvings, and unique fresco-style paintings. The temple complex features numerous small shrines and is a significant site for both religious worship and architectural appreciation.
- Key Attractions: Dravidian architecture, ancient carvings.
- Activities: Worship, exploring temple architecture.
- Location: Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu.
Ekambareswarar Temple
Ekambareswarar Temple is another major Shiva temple in Kanchipuram, famous for its massive gopuram (gateway tower) and vast temple complex. The temple is one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalams, representing the element of earth. The temple’s main sanctum houses a lingam made of sand, and the temple also features a sacred mango tree believed to be over 3,500 years old. The annual Panguni Uthiram festival is a major event at the temple.
- Key Attractions: Massive gopuram, sacred mango tree.
- Activities: Worship, attending festivals.
- Location: Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu.
Kamakshi Amman Temple
Kamakshi Amman Temple is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. The temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas and is a significant pilgrimage site for devotees of the goddess. The temple’s architecture features a gold-plated vimana (tower) and beautifully carved pillars. The annual Navaratri festival is celebrated with great fervor at the temple.
- Key Attractions: Gold-plated vimana, spiritual significance.
- Activities: Worship, attending festivals.
- Location: Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu.
Varadharaja Perumal Temple
Varadharaja Perumal Temple is a prominent Vishnu temple in Kanchipuram, known for its rich history and architectural splendor. The temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams, the sacred abodes of Vishnu. The temple complex includes a large tank, a hundred-pillared hall, and a shrine dedicated to Lord Varadaraja Perumal. The temple’s annual Brahmotsavam festival attracts devotees from all over the region.
- Key Attractions: Hundred-pillared hall, sacred tank.
- Activities: Worship, exploring temple complex.
- Location: Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu.
Ulagalanda Perumal Temple
Ulagalanda Perumal Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Trivikrama form, where he measures the universe in three strides. The temple is notable for its unique architecture and the large idol of Lord Vishnu with one foot raised. The temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams and holds significant religious importance. The temple’s annual Vaikunta Ekadasi festival is a major event.
- Key Attractions: Unique architecture, large idol of Vishnu.
- Activities: Worship, attending festivals.
- Location: Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu.
Kanchi Kudil
Kanchi Kudil is a heritage house that offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle and culture of Kanchipuram. The house showcases traditional architecture, household items, and artifacts that reflect the rich heritage of the region. Visitors can learn about the local customs, traditional attire, and the famous Kanchipuram silk sarees.
- Key Attractions: Heritage house, cultural exhibits.
- Activities: Exploring traditional lifestyle, learning about local culture.
- Location: Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu.
Devarajaswami Temple
Devarajaswami Temple, also known as Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is famous for its massive tank, known as Anantha Saras, and the large idol of Lord Varadaraja. The temple complex also includes a shrine dedicated to Goddess Perundevi Thayar. The annual Chariot Festival is a significant event celebrated with much grandeur.
- Key Attractions: Anantha Saras tank, large idol of Varadaraja.
- Activities: Worship, attending Chariot Festival.
- Location: Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu.
Vaikunta Perumal Temple
Vaikunta Perumal Temple is another important Vishnu temple in Kanchipuram, known for its historical and architectural significance. The temple was built by the Pallavas in the 7th century and features beautifully carved pillars and sculptures. The temple’s sanctum houses a unique three-tiered idol of Lord Vishnu. The temple is a significant site for devotees and history enthusiasts.
- Key Attractions: Pallava architecture, unique idol of Vishnu.
- Activities: Worship, exploring historical architecture.
- Location: Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu.
Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham
Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham is a prominent Hindu monastic institution established by Adi Shankaracharya. The matha has played a significant role in preserving and promoting Hindu philosophy, culture, and tradition. The institution is a major pilgrimage site and attracts devotees seeking spiritual guidance. The matha also engages in various cultural and educational activities.
- Key Attractions: Spiritual significance, monastic institution.
- Activities: Seeking spiritual guidance, attending cultural events.
- Location: Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu.
Chitragupta Swamy Temple
Chitragupta Swamy Temple is a unique temple dedicated to Chitragupta, the assistant of Yama (the god of death), who keeps records of human deeds. The temple is one of the few dedicated to this deity and holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. The temple is known for its unique rituals and the belief that worshipping here can absolve one’s sins.
- Key Attractions: Unique deity, spiritual significance.
- Activities: Worship, performing rituals.
- Location: Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu.
Summary Table
| Place | Description | Key Attraction | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kailasanathar Temple | Oldest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva | Dravidian architecture, ancient carvings | Kanchipuram |
| Ekambareswarar Temple | Major Shiva temple with massive gopuram | Sacred mango tree, Pancha Bhoota Stalam | Kanchipuram |
| Kamakshi Amman Temple | Renowned temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi | Gold-plated vimana, spiritual significance | Kanchipuram |
| Varadharaja Perumal Temple | Prominent Vishnu temple with hundred-pillared hall | Sacred tank, Divya Desam | Kanchipuram |
| Ulagalanda Perumal Temple | Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu’s Trivikrama form | Unique architecture, large idol | Kanchipuram |
| Kanchi Kudil | Heritage house showcasing traditional lifestyle | Cultural exhibits, traditional architecture | Kanchipuram |
| Devarajaswami Temple | Famous Vishnu temple with Anantha Saras tank | Large idol of Varadaraja, Chariot Festival | Kanchipuram |
| Vaikunta Perumal Temple | Historical Vishnu temple with Pallava architecture | Unique idol of Vishnu, sculptures | Kanchipuram |
| Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham | Prominent Hindu monastic institution | Spiritual significance, cultural events | Kanchipuram |
| Chitragupta Swamy Temple | Unique temple dedicated to Chitragupta | Spiritual significance, unique rituals | Kanchipuram |
How to Reach Kanchipuram
By Air
The nearest airport to Kanchipuram is Chennai International Airport (MAA), approximately 70 km away. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Kanchipuram.
By Train
Kanchipuram has its own railway station, Kanchipuram Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in Tamil Nadu and India. Trains from Chennai, Bangalore, and other major cities stop at Kanchipuram, making it easily accessible by rail.
By Bus
Kanchipuram is well-connected by road, with regular bus services operated by the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC) and private operators. Buses are available from Chennai, Vellore, and other nearby cities.
By Car
Kanchipuram is accessible by road via National Highway 48 (NH 48) and other state highways. The city has good road connectivity, making it convenient for visitors traveling by car.
Best Time to Visit Kanchipuram
The best time to visit Kanchipuram is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant. These months are ideal for exploring outdoor attractions and enjoying sightseeing activities. The monsoon season (June to September) brings moderate rainfall, while the summer months (
March to May) can be hot and dry.
Travel Tips
- Local Cuisine: Kanchipuram offers a variety of traditional South Indian dishes, including dosas, idlis, vadas, and filter coffee. Don’t miss trying the local specialty, Kanchipuram idli.
- Cultural Etiquette: Kanchipuram has a rich cultural and religious heritage. When visiting temples, shrines, and other religious sites, dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.
- Language: Tamil is the primary language spoken in Kanchipuram, but English and Hindi are also widely understood.
- Currency: The official currency in India is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it is advisable to carry some cash for small transactions.
Itinerary Suggestions
One-Day Trip
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Kailasanathar Temple to admire its stunning Dravidian architecture. Then, head to the Kamakshi Amman Temple for worship and to explore the temple’s intricate carvings.
- Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before visiting the Varadharaja Perumal Temple to explore its hundred-pillared hall and sacred tank. In the afternoon, explore the Kanchi Kudil to learn about the traditional lifestyle and culture of the region.
- Evening: Conclude your day with a visit to the Ulagalanda Perumal Temple to admire the unique architecture and attend the evening aarti.
Weekend Getaway
- Day 1: Begin with a morning visit to the Ekambareswarar Temple for a spiritual experience and to explore the massive temple complex. In the afternoon, visit the Devarajaswami Temple to explore the Anantha Saras tank and the large idol of Lord Varadaraja. In the evening, explore the local markets for shopping and enjoying traditional cuisine.
- Day 2: Start with a morning visit to the Vaikunta Perumal Temple to explore the Pallava architecture and unique idol of Lord Vishnu. Then, head to the Sri Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham for a spiritual experience and to attend cultural events. In the afternoon, visit the Chitragupta Swamy Temple to learn about its unique rituals and spiritual significance. End your trip with a visit to a local restaurant to savor authentic South Indian dishes.
Kanchipuram’s blend of historical landmarks, spiritual sites, and cultural heritage makes it a captivating destination in Tamil Nadu. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient temples, enjoying local cuisine, or experiencing the serene environment, Kanchipuram offers a variety of experiences for every traveler.
