- Kanchipuram- The City of a Thousand Temples
Kanchipuram is one of the seven greatest cities of ancient India.
Shrouded in myths and legends, the city is an important center of Hindu
pilgrimage. Kanchipuram has served as an imperial capital for many
powerful dynasties, dating back to early 2nd century B.C, each leaving
their distinct mark on its glorious past. The city appears as a
brilliant canvas painted by the hands of time. The city, brimming with
medieval charm, has numerous magnificent temples and historic buildings
from different eras carrying an aura of timeless glory. A treat for the
eyes, this city enwraps a traveler in its mystique charms, offering a
virtual time travel to the India of the ancient days.
Kanchipuram has withstood the tests of time and the numerous
invasions, and remains today as an eternal citadel of Hindu Dravidian
culture. Kanchipuram also has a thriving handloom industry, being the
home of intrically hand-woven silk, known throughout the world as
Kancheevaram silk. Kanchipuram, in ancient times had been a place of
thriving Buddhism and Jainism. The city has always fostered a passion
for erudite pursuits. The Kanchi Kama Kodi Peetham, a center of higher
learning established in B.C 482 by Sri Adi Shankara, a Hindu saint, has
one of its four seats in Kanchipuram.
- Place of Interest
The Ekambareshwara temple, spread over a sprawling 20 acres is one of the biggest in Kanchipurams. The temple dedicated to Lord Shiva with imposing gopuras towering to a height of 57 meters, stand as an example of Pallava style of architecture. Another major tourist attraction is the Sri Kailasanathar temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple built in the 8th century has numerous beautiful Pallava carvings.
The Devarajaswamy temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu offers an exemplary example of Vijayanagara architecture. The 10 meter high statue of Lord Vishnu is immersed in a huge tank located inside the temple premises. The tank is drained once in 40 years to view the statue. The Kamakshi Amman temple, dedicated to Goddess Parvati, is one of the holiest places of Shakti Worship in India.
The temples of Sri Vardaraja Perumal, Sri Kamakshiamman, Sri Ulagalandar, Sri Vaikunda Perumal, Sri Kacchapaeswarar, Sri Vijayaraghava Peruma, and Sri Subramaniya Swami attract hoards of tourists and pilgrims throughout the year.
Jain Temples at Tirupparuthikkundram with beautiful frescoes built in the 9th century offers a glimpse into the history of Jains in Kanchipuram.
Must See
Ekambareshwara temple
Sri Kailasanathar temple
The Devarajaswamy temple
The Kamakshi Amman temple
Sri Vardaraja Perumal temple
Sri Kamakshiamman temple
Sri Ulagalandar temple
Sri Vaikunda Perumal temple
Sri Kacchapaeswarar temple
Sri Vijayaraghava Perumal temple
Sri Subramaniya Swami temple
Jain Temples at Tirupparuthikkundram
- Best Time To Visit
November to February.
- How to Reach
By Flight
The nearest airport is in Chennai at a distance of 75 km.
By Rail
Well connected to all South Indian cities.
By Road
Well linked with all major cities in the south.