Kanchipuram, famously known as the “City of Thousand Temples,” is one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations in South India. Revered for its deep spiritual roots, architectural brilliance, and ancient heritage, Kanchipuram Temple culture represents over a thousand years of uninterrupted devotion. The city holds immense importance for followers of Shaivism, Vaishnavism, and Shaktism, making it a rare spiritual confluence in Hinduism.
Located in Tamil Nadu, Kanchipuram is counted among the Sapta Puri the seven most sacred cities believed to grant moksha (liberation). From towering gopurams and intricately carved pillars to sacred tanks and ancient inscriptions, every temple here narrates stories of dynasties like the Pallavas, Cholas, and Vijayanagara rulers.
Kanchipuram Temple: Location & How to Reach
Kanchipuram Temple in Which State?
Kanchipuram is located in the Tamil Nadu state of South India, approximately 72 kilometers southwest of Chennai, the state capital. The city serves as the administrative headquarters of Kanchipuram district and is strategically positioned in the northern part of Tamil Nadu. This ancient city has been a significant cultural and religious center for centuries, drawing pilgrims and tourists from across the globe.
The city’s location makes it easily accessible from major South Indian cities, making it an ideal destination for both day trips and extended spiritual tours.
Kanchipuram Temple Distance from Major Cities
Planning your journey to Kanchipuram requires understanding the distances from various major cities. Here’s a comprehensive distance chart to help you plan your trip:
| Origin City | Distance to Kanchipuram | Approximate Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Chennai | 75 km | 1.5 – 2 hours |
| Bangalore | 330 km | 6 – 7 hours |
| Vellore | 80 km | 2 hours |
| Pondicherry | 115 km | 2.5 – 3 hours |
| Madurai | 380 km | 7 – 8 hours |
| Coimbatore | 410 km | 8 – 9 hours |
| Tiruvallur | 60 km | 1.5 hours |
| Mahabalipuram | 64 km | 1.5 hours |
The proximity to Chennai makes Kanchipuram an excellent weekend getaway or day-trip destination for residents of the metropolitan city.
How to Reach Kanchipuram Temple
Kanchipuram Temple Nearest Railway Station
Kanchipuram Railway Station is the primary railway station serving the temple city. The station is conveniently located just 1-3 kilometers from most major temples, making it the most practical entry point for rail travelers.
Key Railway Information:
➾ Station Code: CJ (Kanchipuram)
➾ Distance from Major Temples: 1-3 km
➾ Train Connectivity: Regular trains from Chennai, Bangalore, Tirupati, and other major cities
➾ Station Facilities: Waiting rooms, refreshment stalls, prepaid auto-rickshaw counters
Alternative Railway Station:
➾ Chengalpattu Junction (28 km from Kanchipuram): A major junction with more frequent trains from Chennai and other cities. From Chengalpattu, local buses and taxis are readily available to Kanchipuram.
Popular Train Routes:
➾ Chennai Beach to Kanchipuram: Multiple suburban trains daily
➾ Bangalore to Kanchipuram: Several express and passenger trains
➾ Tirupati to Kanchipuram: Connected via Chennai
By Air
The Chennai International Airport (Anna International Airport) is the nearest major airport to Kanchipuram, located approximately 72 kilometers away.
Airport to Kanchipuram Options:
➾ Taxi/Cab Services: Pre-paid taxis available at airport, cost approximately ₹1,500-2,000
➾ App-based Cabs: Ola, Uber services available
➾ Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic
➾ Bus Services: Limited direct bus services; better to change at Chennai
By Road
Kanchipuram is well-connected by an excellent network of roads, making it easily accessible by bus, taxi, or private vehicle.
State Transport Buses:
➾ From Chennai: Frequent buses from CMBT (Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus) and Koyambedu
➾ Frequency: Every 15-30 minutes
➾ Travel Time: 2-2.5 hours
➾ Fare: ₹50-100 (depending on bus type)
From Bangalore:
➾ Regular buses operated by Karnataka and Tamil Nadu state transport
➾ Travel Time: 6-7 hours
➾ Fare: ₹400-800
Private Taxis and Car Rentals:
➾ Available from all major cities
➾ Recommended for comfortable travel with family
➾ GPS-enabled routes via NH 48
Self-Drive Route from Chennai: Take NH 48 (Chennai-Bangalore Highway) → Exit at Walajabad → Follow signs to Kanchipuram (Well-marked route)
Kanchipuram Temple History:
The history of Kanchipuram Temple is not just the story of stone and sculpture. it’s a narrative of faith, devotion, and architectural brilliance spanning over 1,500 years. Understanding this rich heritage adds profound depth to your temple visit.
Ancient Origins and Religious Significance
Kanchipuram’s temple heritage dates back to the 4th century CE, though the city itself has been inhabited since much earlier. Ancient Tamil literature, including the Sangam texts dating to the 1st-3rd centuries CE, makes references to Kanchipuram as “Kanchi,” establishing its antiquity as a significant settlement.
Kanchipuram as Moksha-puri: Kanchipuram is one of the seven sacred cities (Sapta Puri) in Hinduism where liberation (moksha) can be attained. The seven cities are:
- Ayodhya
- Mathura
- Haridwar
- Varanasi
- Kanchipuram
- Ujjain
- Dwarka
This sacred status has made Kanchipuram a major pilgrimage destination for centuries, with devotees believing that visiting the temples here cleanses sins and brings spiritual merit.
List of All Major Temples in Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram boasts over 1,000 temples, earning its reputation as the “City of Thousand Temples.” While it’s impossible to cover every shrine, here’s a comprehensive list of the major and significant temples that define the spiritual landscape of this sacred city.
Major Shiva Temples (Shaivite Shrines)
1. Ekambareswarar Temple – One of the Pancha Bhoota Stalas representing Earth element
2. Kailasanathar Temple – Oldest temple in Kanchipuram, 8th century masterpiece
3. Onakanthan Tali Temple – Ancient Shiva shrine
4. Kumara Kottam Temple – Dedicated to Lord Murugan (Kartikeya)
5. Pachaivannar Temple – Featuring a distinctive green-hued deity
6. Konganar Koil Temple – Historical Shiva temple
Major Vishnu Temples (Vaishnavite Shrines)
7. Varadaraja Perumal Temple – One of the 108 Divya Desams
8. Vaikunta Perumal Temple – Unique four-tiered structure
9. Ulagalantha Perumal Temple – Celebrating Vishnu’s Trivikrama avatar
10. Ashtabujakaram Temple – Eight-armed Vishnu form
11. Pandava Thoothar Perumal Temple – Connected to Mahabharata legend
12. Thiruthanka Temple – Deepa Prakasha Perumal Temple
13. Deepaprakashar Temple – Temple of the Lord of Light
14. Pavala Vannaperumal Temple – Coral-hued deity
15. Thiruvelukkai Temple – Ancient Vishnu shrine
16. Thiruputkuzhi Temple – Vijayaraghava Perumal Temple
17. Thiruparameshwara Vinnagaram – Vishnu reclining posture temple
18. Thirunilathingal Thundam Temple – Jagadisa Perumal Temple
19. Thiruooragam Temple – One of the 108 Divya Desams
20. Thirukkarvaanam Temple – Karunakara Perumal Temple
Goddess/Devi Temples
21. Kamakshi Amman Temple – One of three major Shakti Peethas with Adi Sankara connection
22. Adi Sankara Mandapam – Memorial to Adi Shankaracharya
23. Kanakavalli Amman Temple – Goddess shrine
Other Significant Temples
24. Chitragupta Temple – Dedicated to the divine accountant
25. Jvarahareeswarar Temple – Shiva as remover of fevers
26. Eri-Katha Ramar Temple – Ram temple near temple tank
Jain Heritage Sites
27. Trilokyanatha Temple – Ancient Jain shrine
28. Several Jain caves – Dating to Pallava period
This list represents the major temples of religious, historical, and architectural significance. Each temple has its unique legends, architectural features, and ritual traditions that have been preserved for centuries.
Top 5 Temples in Kanchipuram: Must-Visit Sacred Sites
While Kanchipuram has hundreds of temples, these five stand out as absolutely essential visits. Each represents the pinnacle of religious significance, architectural beauty, and spiritual experience. Here’s an in-depth look at each of these magnificent temples
1. Ekambareswarar Temple:
Deity: Lord Shiva in the form of Ekambareswarar (representing the Prithvi/Earth lingam)
Kanchipuram Temple Timing:
➾ Morning Session: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM
➾ Evening Session: 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
➾ Special Darshan: 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM (Morning abhishekam)
Architectural Splendor
Ekambareswarar Temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture sprawling across 23 acres, making it one of the largest temples in Kanchipuram. The temple’s most striking feature is its towering Rajagopuram (main gateway tower) that rises to an impressive height of 59 meters (194 feet), making it one of the tallest temple towers in India.
Key Architectural Features:
➾ 1,000-Pillar Hall: Though only about 540 pillars remain, this mandapa showcases intricate carvings
➾ Massive Outer Walls: Thick fortification walls surround the temple complex
➾ Five Prakarams: Concentric enclosures around the main sanctum
➾ Intricate Sculptures: Every pillar, wall, and gopuram features detailed stone carvings
The Sacred Mango Tree Legend
The temple’s most unique feature is the 3,500-year-old mango tree (Sthala Vriksham) in the courtyard, which is central to the temple’s legend. According to mythology:
Goddess Parvati was performing penance under a mango tree to reunite with Lord Shiva. The river Kampa (now Vegavathy River) flooded due to Lord Shiva’s test of her devotion. Parvati embraced the Shiva lingam to protect it from the floods. Pleased by her devotion, Shiva appeared before her and they united. The mango tree under which she prayed became sacred.
The Miraculous Tree: The ancient mango tree reportedly has four branches bearing four different varieties of mangoes, symbolizing the four Vedas. Devotees believe that childless couples who worship here are blessed with offspring.
Religious Significance
➾ One of the Pancha Bhoota Stalas (five temples representing the five elements)
➾ Represents the Prithvi (Earth) element
➾ One of the holiest Shiva shrines in South India
➾ 275 inscriptions from various dynasties found here
Major Festivals
➾ Panguni Uthiram (March-April): 10-day grand festival with chariot procession
➾ Maha Shivaratri (February-March): Night-long prayers and celebrations
➾ Arudra Darshan (December-January): Cosmic dance of Shiva celebration
Visitor Tips
➾ Visit during morning abhishekam for spiritual atmosphere
➾ Don’t miss the mango tree in the third prakara
➾ Photography is restricted inside; follow temple rules
➾ Prasadam (sacred food) is distributed after major pujas
2. Kamakshi Amman Temple:
Deity: Goddess Kamakshi (Parvati) in her benevolent form
Kanchipuram Temple Timing:
➾ Morning Session: 5:30 AM – 12:30 PM
➾ Evening Session: 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
➾ Special Occasions: Extended hours during festivals
Unique Religious Significance
Kamakshi Amman Temple holds a special place in Hindu theology as one of the three most important Shakti Peethas along with Madurai (Meenakshi) and Varanasi (Vishwanatha). What makes this temple truly unique is that Goddess Kamakshi is depicted in a sitting posture (Lalitasana), which is rare among Shakti temples where the deity is usually standing.
Adi Shankaracharya Connection: The great philosopher Adi Shankaracharya visited this temple in the 8th century and installed the Sri Chakra (mystical geometric diagram) in front of the Goddess. He also established one of his four mathas (monasteries) here, elevating Kanchipuram as a major center of Advaita Vedanta philosophy.
Architectural Features
Temple Structure:
➾ Ancient temple with Vijayanagara period expansions
➾ Five-tiered golden vimana (temple tower) over the sanctum
➾ Exquisitely carved mandapas with detailed pillars
➾ Multiple shrines within the complex
The Golden Chariot: The temple houses a magnificent golden chariot used during major festivals. The intricate craftsmanship and spiritual symbolism of this chariot make it a highlight of the temple.
The Sri Chakra: At the heart of the temple worship is the Sri Chakra installed by Adi Shankaracharya. This geometric diagram represents the cosmos and the union of Shiva and Shakti. Daily worship includes elaborate rituals to this sacred yantra.
Temple Legends
According to mythology, when Kamakshi (the goddess of love and desire with eyes that fulfill desires) performed severe penance to win Lord Shiva as her consort, her fierce devotional fire threatened to destroy the world. Shiva appeared before her, and they united. After their marriage, Shiva requested her to be benevolent, and she assumed her peaceful, sitting form in Kanchipuram.
The temple is believed to represent the Manipura Chakra (solar plexus) in the cosmic body of India.
Worship and Rituals
Daily Pujas: Six elaborate puja ceremonies are conducted daily:
➾ Ushatkala Puja (6:00 AM)
➾ Kalasanthi (8:00 AM)
➾ Uchikala (12:00 PM)
➾ Sayaratchai (6:00 PM)
➾ Rendam Kalam (8:00 PM)
➾ Arthajama Puja (9:00 PM)
Special Offerings:
➾ Kumkum (vermillion) archana
➾ Flower offerings
➾ Oil lamp lighting
➾ Abhishekam on special occasions
Major Festivals
Navaratri (September-October): The grandest festival celebrating the nine forms of Durga. The temple comes alive with:
➾ Special alankaram (decorations) of the deity
➾ Cultural programs
➾ Thousands of devotees
➾ Kolu (doll displays) throughout the temple town
Aadi Pooram (July-August): Celebrating the birth of Goddess Kamakshi
Vasantha Utsavam (Spring Festival): Celebrating the divine marriage of Kamakshi and Ekambareswarar
Visitor Experience
Darshan Tips:
➾ Morning darshan offers a peaceful atmosphere
➾ Friday evenings see larger crowds (auspicious day for Goddess worship)
➾ Festival times require patience due to crowds
➾ Photography strictly prohibited inside sanctum
Dress Code: Traditional attire strongly recommended. Men: Dhoti or full pants with shirt; Women: Saree or salwar kameez
Prasadam: Famous for the sweet prasadam distributed after pujas. The temple also has a special annavadiram (food offering hall) during festivals.
3. Varadaraja Perumal Temple:
Deity: Lord Vishnu as Varadaraja Perumal (the one who grants boons)
Kanchipuram Temple Timing:
➾ Morning Session: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
➾ Evening Session: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
➾ Special Darshan: Available during morning hours
Architectural Marvel
Covering an impressive 23 acres, Varadaraja Perumal Temple is renowned for its extraordinary architecture and is considered one of the finest examples of Dravidian temple design.
The 100-Pillar Mandapa (Oru Nurai Mandapam): While commonly called the 100-pillar hall, it actually contains 96 intricately carved pillars. Each pillar is a masterpiece featuring:
➾ Rearing horses with riders
➾ Lions in various poses
➾ Mythological scenes
➾ Floral and geometric patterns
The acoustic properties of these pillars are remarkable tapping them produces different musical notes.
The Hastigiri (Elephant Hill) Vimana:
The temple is built on an elevated platform called Hastigiri, which gives the temple its distinctive appearance. According to legend, this hill was once an elephant that was cursed and turned to stone.
Temple Gopurams: The temple has multiple magnificent gopurams:
➾ Raja Gopuram: Main entrance tower with 11 tiers
➾ Exquisitely decorated with stucco images of deities
➾ Vijayanagara-period architectural style
The Legend of the Golden Lizards
One of the most fascinating aspects of this temple is the legend of two lizards on the inner roof of the sanctum one gold and one silver. The legend states:
Two celestial beings cursed to become lizards sought redemption by embracing the deity. Devotees believe that seeing these lizards and offering prayers brings good fortune, particularly relief from effects of Rahu and Ketu (lunar nodes in Vedic astrology).
Devotees look up at the ceiling and try to spot these lizards, believing that sighting them brings blessings and prosperity.
The Sacred Temple Tank
Ananthasaras: This temple has one of the most beautiful and largest temple tanks in Kanchipuram. The tank is surrounded by ornate mandapas and stone steps. During the annual float festival, the deity is taken in a procession around this tank on a beautifully decorated raft.
The Secret Deity: Athi Varadar
The temple houses one of Hinduism’s most mysterious deities Athi Varadar, an idol made from the wood of the sacred fig tree (Athi tree). This deity is kept immersed in the temple tank for 40 years and is brought out for darshan only once every 40 years for 48 days.
Last Appearance: 2019 Next Appearance: 2059
When Athi Varadar appears, millions of devotees from around the world visit Kanchipuram for this rare darshan, making it one of the most significant religious events in South India.
Spiritual Significance
➾ One of the 108 Divya Desams (sacred Vishnu temples)
➾ Mentioned in the hymns of the Alvar saints
➾ Represents Tamo Guna (the quality of inertia) among the trinity
➾ Believed to grant moksha (liberation) to devotees
Temple Complex Features
Other Shrines Within:
➾ Andal shrine
➾ Nammalvar shrine
➾ Ramanuja memorial
➾ Various processional deities
Sculptures and Carvings: The temple walls and pillars feature:
➾ Scenes from Ramayana and Mahabharata
➾ Avatars of Vishnu
➾ Dancing figures and celestial beings
➾ Intricate floral patterns
Major Festivals
Brahmotsavam (May-June): The grandest 10-day festival featuring:
➾ Daily processions with deity on different vahanas (vehicles)
➾ Garuda Sevai (procession on eagle vehicle)
➾ Rathotsavam (chariot festival)
Vaikunta Ekadasi (December-January): Celebrating the opening of the gates of Vaikunta (heaven)
➾ The deity is taken through the Paramapada Vasal (gateway to heaven)
➾ Thousands of devotees participate
Pavitrotsavam (August-September): Annual purification festival of the deity
Visitor Information
Photography: Generally not allowed inside main sanctum
Prasadam: Famous for the sweet prasadam (panchamirtham – mixture of five nectars)
Facilities:
➾ Shoe stand at entrance
➾ Separate queues for special darshan
➾ Rest houses for pilgrims
➾ Temple auditorium for religious discourses
4. Kailasanathar Temple: The Ancient Architectural Gem
Deity: Lord Shiva as Kailasanathar
Kanchipuram Temple Timing:
➾ Morning Session: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
➾ Evening Session: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
➾ Best Time to Visit: Early morning for soft lighting, ideal for photography
Historical Significance
Kailasanathar Temple holds the distinction of being the oldest surviving temple in Kanchipuram, built between 700-728 CE by the Pallava King Narasimhavarman II (also known as Rajasimha), with contributions from his son Mahendra III.
This temple is considered the prototype for all later South Indian temple architecture and served as the inspiration for the famous Kailasa Temple at Ellora.
Architectural Brilliance
Construction Material: Unlike most South Indian temples built with granite, Kailasanathar is constructed entirely of sandstone, giving it a distinctive golden-beige hue, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Temple Layout:
➾ Main Shrine (Maha Mandapa): Houses the primary Shiva lingam
➾ Nandi Mandapa: Features a massive Nandi bull facing the sanctum
➾ 58 Small Shrines: Surrounding the main temple, each containing a Shiva lingam
➾ Prakara (Circumambulatory Path): Allows devotees to walk around the entire complex
Sculptural Excellence: The temple is a treasure trove of Pallava sculpture:
➾ Somaskanda Panels: Depicting Shiva with Uma and Skanda (their son)
➾ Dance Forms: Various poses of Shiva in cosmic dance
➾ Mythological Scenes: Stories from Hindu epics carved in stone
➾ Lion Motifs: Particularly prominent as royal emblems
➾ Dwarf-Gana Figures: Playful sculptural elements
Inscriptions: The temple walls contain valuable inscriptions in Grantha script (ancient South Indian script), providing insights into:
➾ Pallava dynasty history
➾ Temple administration
➾ Land grants
➾ Ritual practices
Unique Features
Photography Allowed: Unlike most South Indian temples where photography is prohibited inside, Kailasanathar Temple allows photography throughout, making it a favorite among architecture enthusiasts and photographers.
Serene Atmosphere: Despite its historical importance, the temple sees fewer crowds compared to other Kanchipuram temples, offering a peaceful and contemplative environment.
Original Paintings: Traces of original frescoes and paintings from the 8th century can still be seen on some walls and ceilings, though faded. These provide rare glimpses into Pallava-period painting techniques.
No Major Rituals: Unlike the busier temples of Kanchipuram, Kailasanathar has minimal ritual activity, functioning more as an archaeological monument under ASI protection, though regular worship does occur.
Archaeological Importance
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) maintains the temple as a protected monument. Various restoration and conservation efforts have been undertaken to preserve:
➾ Original stone structures
➾ Sculptural integrity
➾ Ancient inscriptions
➾ Architectural authenticity
Temple Legends
According to mythology, the temple was built by the Pallava king after he had a divine vision of Lord Shiva. The 58 small shrines represent the 58 forms of Shiva worshipped in various contexts.
The temple’s name “Kailasanathar” means “Lord of Mount Kailash,” connecting it to Shiva’s Himalayan abode.
Visitor Experience
Best Visiting Strategy:
➾ Duration: Allow 45-60 minutes for thorough exploration
➾ Photography: Bring a good camera; sunrise and sunset offer best lighting
➾ Guides: ASI-approved guides available for detailed historical information
➾ Walking: Comfortable footwear recommended for exploring all 58 shrines
What to Observe:
➾ The main sanctum’s Somaskanda panel
➾ Variations in the 58 surrounding shrines
➾ Sculptural details on pillars and walls
➾ Remains of ancient paintings
➾ Pallava-period inscriptions
➾ The architectural precision and symmetry
Accessibility:
➾ Well-maintained pathways
➾ Less crowded than other temples
➾ Clean and well-preserved premise
➾ Minimal commercial activity around temple
Cultural and Educational Value
For students, architects, and history enthusiasts, Kailasanathar offers:
➾ Understanding of Pallava architectural evolution
➾ Study of early Dravidian temple design
➾ Insights into 8th-century religious practices
➾ Examples of ancient sculptural techniques
➾ Evidence of Tamil-Sanskrit cultural synthesis
5. Vaikunta Perumal Temple
Deity: Lord Vishnu as Vaikunta Perumal
Kanchipuram Temple Timing:
- Morning Session: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Evening Session: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Unique Architectural Design
Built by the Pallava King Nandivarman II in the 8th century CE, Vaikunta Perumal Temple is architecturally unique with its three-tiered structure, each level housing a shrine with Vishnu in different postures:
Three Levels of Vishnu:
- Ground Floor: Vishnu in sitting posture (seated)
- Middle Floor: Vishnu in standing posture (standing)
- Top Floor: Vishnu in reclining posture (lying down)
This three-level design is rare in South Indian temple architecture and symbolizes the omnipresence of Vishnu in all states of being.
Living Chronicle of Pallava History
What makes Vaikunta Perumal Temple truly extraordinary is that it serves as a historical document carved in stone. The temple walls contain elaborate bas-relief panels and inscriptions that narrate the history of the Pallava dynasty, making it an invaluable resource for historians.
Historical Panels Include:
- Royal coronations
- Military victories
- Diplomatic relations
- Palace scenes
- Royal court proceedings
- Warfare and battles
These narrative panels provide detailed information about:
- Pallava kings and their achievements
- Political relationships with other dynasties
- Court life and royal customs
- Military strategies and conquests
- Administrative systems
Lion-Mounted Pillars
The temple is famous for its lion-mounted pillars (Simha Stambhas), which are architectural and sculptural marvels. These pillars feature:
- Rearing lions with warriors
- Intricate carved details
