Kanchipuram: The City of Thousand Temples

Kanchipuram, often called the "City of a Thousand Temples," is a historic and spiritual center located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This ancient city is renowned for its exquisite silk sarees and a plethora of majestic temples that showcase the rich architectural and religious heritage of South India.

The Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a marvel of Pallava architecture, with intricate stone carvings and ornate gopurams. The Ekambareswarar Temple, one of the largest in the city, boasts a massive mango tree that is said to be over 3,000 years old. Kanchipuram silk sarees are renowned for their fine craftsmanship, and the city is a hub for silk weaving. The vibrant markets offer a wide range of silk products and intricate handwoven textiles.

The city also has a deep connection to Hindu spirituality and is considered one of the seven Moksha-puris, where salvation can be attained. The annual Chariot Festival and various religious rituals are an integral part of Kanchipuram's cultural tapestry. In essence, Kanchipuram is a city where art, culture, and spirituality harmoniously coexist, offering a glimpse into the rich traditions of South India and serving as a sanctuary for devotees and those who appreciate fine craftsmanship and timeless architecture.

Tourist Places in Kanchipuram

Kailasnatha Temple

Dedicated to Siva, Kailasanatha is one of the earliest temples. It was built by the Pallava king, Rayasimha, in the late 7th century, though its front was added later by his son, King Varman III. It is the only temple at Kanchi which isn't cluttered with the more recent additions of the Cholas and Vijayanagar rulers, and so reflects the freshness and simplicity of early Dravidian architecture. Fragments of the 8-th century murals which once graced the alcoves are a visible reminder of how magnificent the temple must have looked when it was first built.

Kamakshi Amman Temple

Dedicated to the goddess Paravati, this important temple is the site of the annual Car Festival, held on the 9th lunar day in February -March. When not in use, the ornately carved wooden car is kept partially covered in corrugated iron halfway up Gandhi Rd. The temple has a golden gopuram in the center.
IMP: Kanchipuram temples remain closed from 1300 hrs to 1600 hrs.

Sri Ekambarnath Temple

It is dedicated to Siva and is one of the largest temples in Kanchipuram, covering nine hectares. Its 59 m high gopuram and massive outer stone wall were constructed in 1509 by Krishna Devaraja of the Vijayanagar Empire, though construction was originally started by the Pallavas and the temple was later extended by the Cholas. The temple's name is said to be a modified form of Eka Amra Nathar - the Lord of the Mango tree and in one of the enclosure is a very old mango tree with four branches representing four Vedas. The fruit of each of the four branches is said to have a different taste.