Kanchipuram

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.

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

November to February.

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.