Kanchipuram

The City of Temples
How to Get There
Kailasanathar Temple
Ekambareswarar Temple
Kanchi Mutt
Varadaraja Perumal Temple

The City of Temples

At Kanchipuram, you will be regaled with the wondrous sight of many magnificent temples. The River Palar flows by the city adding a layer to the spiritual charm that exudes from the temples. The calm and tranquil environment is perfectly suitable for the spirituality of the place.

Heritage is an important facet of Kanchipuram. Many of these incredible temples have a rich historical past. These temples are filled with delicate designs. The architecture of the temples is steeped in tradition that date back to ancient times. Each of these temples offers you the chance to immerse yourself in the enchanting mythological stories that surround them. This incredible place was also a capital for three different empires. The Pallava, the Vijaynagar and the Chola dynasties used to rule their large empires from the beautiful city of Kanchipuram. Moreover, the traditional silk saris produced in this city are famous all over India.

How to Get There

By Air :

The closest airport to Kanchipuram is the Chennai Airport, with domestic connections to all the major cities in India.

By Rail :

Can be reached from Chennai central railway station and Arakkonam railway station.

By Road :

Kanchipuram is 75 kms away from Chennai and is well connected by a good network of roads.

Kailasanathar Temple

The oldest temple in Kanchipuram, the Kailasanathar Temple offers you a spectacular sight. Although its size is most certainly impressive, it is the immense importance in history that is more fascinating along with the stonework on the temples which is delicate. This legendary monument and Temple is interestingly quieter than many of the other temples in the city. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the ancient temple was constructed in the 8th century. The intricate carvings depict many interesting mythological creatures.

Ekambareswarar Temple

Ekambareswarar Temple, the biggest temple in Kanchipura, covers an area of 12 hectares. This temple is similarly majestic in its proportions and glory. Lord Shiva is worshipped in all his glory. The feature that you are bound be awestruck at is the hallway with a thousand pillars. Inside the temple, 1008 shivalingams cover the walls creating an atmosphere of sacred spirituality. The inner sanctum is unreasonably spectacular. Lord Shiva sits in the center while his image is reflected endlessly by the mirrors that cover the chamber. It is a symbol of his omnipresence. Outside, you will find a legendary mango tree. This majestic tree is considered to be around 3500 years old. Foreigners are not allowed in the inner sanctum of the temple.

Kanchi Mutt

The incredible temple stands just as proudly as the other majestic temples in Kanchipuram. The architecture of the temple is fascinating. Glorious sculptures fill the temple and decorate its shikara. The mutt is a center for Hindu monks and priests. According to certain sources, this place was established in the year 482 BC.

Varadaraja Perumal Temple

The huge Varadaraja Perumal Temple is a sight to see. It was built in the 11th century and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Although the temple is a fantastic piece of ancient architecture, you will be awestruck at the artistry of the marriage hall which contains 100 pillars. This particular hall was added later in the 16th century. These pillars are carved beautiful with innumerable creatures sourced from the rich mythology of the Hindu religion. At each corner of this hall you will find a stone chain carved out of a single rock each. A remarkable ritual is associated with the temple. Every 40 years, the temple tank will have its waters drained. Quite stunningly, a huge statue of Lord Vishnu, carved magnificently from wood, is revealed. The idol is worshipped for 48 days before being immersed in the water once again.