Famous Temples in Kanchipuram: A Comprehensive Guide with Smart Holiday Travels 2025

Kanchipuram, often called the “City of Thousand Temples,” is one of India’s seven holiest cities and a major pilgrimage destination in Tamil Nadu. Located 72 km from Chennai, this ancient city, once the capital of the Pallava Kingdom, is renowned for its stunning Dravidian architecture, intricate carvings, and spiritual significance. Kanchipuram is a sacred hub for both Shaivism and Vaishnavism, housing some of the most revered Shiva and Vishnu temples, along with Jain and other religious sites. This guide explores the most famous temples in Kanchipuram, providing detailed information on their history, architecture, timings, best time to visit, festivals, and travel tips.

Ekambareswarar Temple History and Significance

The Ekambareswarar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the largest and most prominent temples in Kanchipuram. Dating back to 600 CE, it is one of the five Pancha Bhoota Sthalams, representing the element of Earth (Prithvi Lingam). Legend has it that Goddess Parvati worshipped a lingam made of sand under a 3,500-year-old mango tree, which still stands in the temple courtyard. This sacred tree is believed to bear fruits with four distinct tastes, symbolizing the four Vedas.

Architecture

Spanning 25 acres, the temple boasts a towering 57-meter Raja Gopuram, one of the tallest in South India, built by Vijayanagar king Krishnadevaraya. The Aayiram Kaal Mandapam (hall of a thousand pillars) is a highlight, featuring intricate carvings. The temple also houses the Sahasra Lingam, a single stone carved with 1,008 miniature Shiva lingams.

Timings

  • Morning: 6:00 AM to 12:30 PM

  • Evening: 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM

  • Note: Timings may vary during festivals.

Best Time to Visit

  • March to April: Ideal for the Panguni Brahmotsavam festival, a 10-day celebration with vibrant processions.

  • Shivratri (February-March): A significant festival attracting thousands of devotees.

Nearby Attractions

  • Kanchi Kamakshi Amman Temple

  • Kanchi Kudil Heritage Museum

  • Silk Sari Weaving Center

Kailasanathar Temple History and Significance

Built in the 7th century by Pallava king Rajasimha (Narasimhavarman II), the Kailasanathar Temple is the oldest temple in Kanchipuram and a masterpiece of Pallava architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is renowned for its 10-foot-high Shiva lingam and historical inscriptions. The temple is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India and is a UNESCO World Heritage tentative site.

Architecture

Constructed from sandstone, the temple features a magnificent vimana (tower over the sanctum) and 58 smaller shrines depicting various forms of Lord Shiva. The intricate frescoes, sculptures, and granite foundation showcase Pallava craftsmanship. The temple’s unique design includes a narrow tunnel around the sanctum, allowing only one worshipper at a time.

Timings

  • Morning: 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM

  • Evening: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Best Time to Visit

  • Mahashivratri (February-March): The temple is at its grandest with special rituals.

  • October to February: Pleasant weather for exploring the temple’s outdoor architecture.

Nearby Attractions

  • Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary (30 km)

  • Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham

Kamakshi Amman Temple History and Significance

The Kamakshi Amman Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi (an incarnation of Parvati), is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, where the navel of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen. Associated with Adi Shankaracharya, who established the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham, this temple is a major spiritual center. The goddess is depicted in a seated Padmasana pose, symbolizing love, fertility, and strength.

Architecture

Spread over 5 acres, the temple features a golden gopuram and four towers facing all cardinal directions. The Dravidian-style architecture includes detailed carvings and a serene pond, enhancing the temple’s spiritual ambiance. The absence of separate Parvati shrines in Kanchipuram underscores Kamakshi’s prominence.

Timings

  • Morning: 5:30 AM to 12:30 PM

  • Evening: 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM

  • Abhishekam: 5:30 AM to 6:00 AM (Free entry; tickets available at the counter)

Best Time to Visit

  • February to March: The annual chariot festival (Ther Vizha) is a vibrant event.

  • Navaratri (September-October): Celebrated with grandeur and devotional performances.

Nearby Attractions

  • Sri Ulagalantha Perumal Temple

  • Kanchipuram Silk Sari Weaving Center

Varadaraja Perumal Temple History and Significance

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Varadaraja Perumal Temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams, glorified by the Alwar saints. Built by the Chola dynasty and later enhanced by the Vijayanagar kings, it is famous for the 40-foot wooden idol of Lord Vishnu (Athi Varadar), submerged in a water tank and revealed once every 40 years for 48 days. The temple is also known for its association with elephants used in rituals.

Architecture

The temple complex features a 100-pillared hall with carvings depicting Ramayana and Mahabharata scenes. The Raja Gopuram and ornate pillars reflect Chola and Vijayanagar influences. The marriage hall commemorates the union of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.

Timings

  • Morning: 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM

  • Evening: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Best Time to Visit

  • Vaikasi Brahmotsavam (May-June): A 10-day festival with processions and rituals.

  • October to February: Mild weather ideal for temple visits.

  • Athi Varadar Festival (next in 2059): A rare event drawing massive crowds.

Nearby Attractions

  • Devarajaswami Temple

  • Kanchi Kamakshi Amman Temple

Chitragupta Swamy Templ History and Significance

The Chitragupta Swamy Temple is a rare shrine dedicated to Chitragupta, the divine scribe of Yama, the god of death. According to Hindu mythology, Chitragupta was created by Lord Shiva to record human deeds. Built around 700 years ago, this temple is revered for blessings of harmony and justice.

Architecture

Located on Hospital Road, the temple features intricate sculptures and a serene ambiance. The Dravidian-style architecture includes detailed wall paintings and inscriptions, reflecting Kanchipuram’s artistic heritage.

Timings

  • Morning: 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM

  • Evening: 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM

Best Time to Visit

  • October to January: Comfortable weather for temple exploration.

  • Mahavir Jayanti (March-April): A significant festival for devotees.

Nearby Attractions

  • Kanchipuram New Bus Stand

  • Kailasanathar Temple

Ulagalantha Perumal Temple History and Significance

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Ulagalantha Perumal Temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams and is located near the Kamakshi Amman Temple. It is famous for its massive idol of Lord Vishnu in the Trivikrama form, symbolizing his cosmic stride. The temple is glorified in the Divya Prabandham by the Alwar saints.

Architecture

The temple’s Dravidian architecture includes a towering gopuram and intricate carvings. The sanctum features Lord Vishnu in three different poses across three levels, a unique feature among Kanchipuram temples.

Timings

  • Morning: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM

  • Evening: 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM

Best Time to Visit

  • Vaikunda Ekadasi (December-January): A major festival for Vishnu devotees.

  • October to February: Pleasant weather for temple visits.

Nearby Attractions

  • Kamakshi Amman Temple

  • Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham

Kumarakottam Temple History and Significance

The Kumarakottam Temple, dedicated to Lord Murugan (Subramanya), is located between the Ekambareswarar and Kamakshi Amman temples, forming the sacred Somaskanda formation. Revered by the hymns of saint Arunagirinathar, the temple is a sanctuary of divine grace and tranquility.

Architecture

The temple features vibrant Dravidian architecture with intricate sculptures and a peaceful ambiance. The recent Kumbabhishekam (re-consecration) in 2008 has enhanced its spiritual and aesthetic appeal.

Timings

  • Morning: 7:00 AM to 12:00 PM

  • Evening: 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM

Best Time to Visit

  • October to November: Ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

  • Thai Poosam (January-February): A major festival for Murugan devotees.

Nearby Attractions

  • Ekambareswarar Temple

  • Kanchi Kudil Heritage Museum

Best Time to Visit Kanchipuram

  • Peak Season (October to February): Pleasant weather with temperatures between 19°C and 29°C, ideal for temple visits and outdoor exploration.

  • Shoulder Season (March to May): Warm weather (21°C to 37°C), suitable for indoor temple visits but avoid midday heat.

  • Off-Season (June to September): Monsoon season with heavy rainfall, which may disrupt travel plans due to flooding or transport issues.

Major Festivals in Kanchipuram

  • Panguni Uthiram (March-April): Celebrated across temples with processions and rituals.

  • Mahashivratri (February-March): Specially significant at Shiva temples like Ekambareswarar and Kailasanathar.

  • Navaratri (September-October): Grand celebrations at Kamakshi Amman Temple.

  • Vaikasi Brahmotsavam (May-June): A vibrant festival at Varadaraja Perumal Temple.

  • Thai Poosam (January-February): Dedicated to Lord Murugan at Kumarakottam Temple.

Travel Tips

  • Dress Code: Wear modest clothing (preferably traditional attire) covering shoulders and knees. Remove footwear before entering temples.

  • Transportation: Kanchipuram is 72 km from Chennai International Airport and well-connected by buses and trains. Private taxis are available for temple tours.

  • Accommodation: Options include budget hotels, guesthouses, and Yatri Nivas near Kamakshi Amman Temple (Contact: +91 44 2723115, +91 9994346996).

  • Local Cuisine: Enjoy South Indian dishes at Saravana Bhavan or GRT Regency near temples.

  • Shopping: Kanchipuram is famous for its silk sarees. Look for GI-tagged Kanjeevaram sarees with authentic zari work.

  • Photography: Restricted in some temple areas; seek permission from authorities.

  • Crowd Management: Avoid weekends and festival days for shorter queues. Early morning visits offer a serene experience.

  • VIP Darshan: Available at some temples (e.g., Ekambareswarar) for expedited worship, but beware of unofficial offers for special darshan costing ₹3000 or more.

How to Plan Your Visit

  • One-Day Trip: Focus on major temples like Ekambareswarar, Kamakshi Amman, Varadaraja Perumal, and Kailasanathar. Start early (6:00 AM) to cover 4-5 temples, spending 1-2 hours at each.

  • Two-Day Trip: Include smaller temples like Chitragupta Swamy, Ulagalantha Perumal, and Kumarakottam, along with nearby attractions like Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary or Kanchi Kudil.

  • Travel Route: Begin with Kamakshi Amman (central location), move to Ekambareswarar and Kumarakottam, then visit Kailasanathar (west side), and end with Varadaraja Perumal and Ulagalantha Perumal.

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