Kanchipuram is a great destination for those seeking religious, historical, cultural, and entertainment experiences. The city of thousands of temples—considered the religious capital of South India—has much to offer. Kanchipuram’s temples will impress you regardless of what faith you follow, due to their sheer architectural skill. Scattered throughout the city are temples which are examples of Dravidian heritage and the glory of the days when it was governed by rulers who loved and patronised art.
You can reach Kanchipuram:
By Air: Chennai International Airport (Meenambakkam) is the nearest airport to Kanchipuram. It is just a 75 km or two hours drive away.
By Road: An excellent road network connects Kanchipuram with Chennai, which is 75 km away. A bus service connects Kanchi with Chennai, Bangalore, Thiruvannamalai, Pondicherry, Thiruppathi, and other cities.
By Rail: The Kanchipuram railway station has limited connectivity since only a few trains cross here. It is connected by rail routes to Chennai, Nagercoil, Pondicherry, and Madurai.
For your next journey, we’ve compiled a list of the best tourist places in Kanchipuram to make your vacation unforgettable!
12 tourist places in Kanchipuram you must visit
Varadharaja Perumal Temple
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Varadharaja Perumal Temple—also called Attiyuran or Hastagiri—is one of the most important temples in Kanchipuram. This is one of the 108 temples that Lord Vishnu’s Alwars visited. It is surrounded by stone pillars that date back hundreds of years.
This temple existed during dynasties such as Chola, Pandya, Kakatiya, Cheras, Hoysala, and Vijayanagara. It is thought to have been built in 1053 by Chola rulers.
Kamakshi Amman Temple
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A jewel from the past, the Kamakshi Amman Temple represents a renowned cultural heritage in southern India and is one of the important Kanchipuram tourist places. The divine Goddess Kamakshi is worshipped here, who is considered an incarnation of the Hindu goddess of love, fertility, and strength: Parvati.
There are 51 Shakti Peethas scattered throughout India and its neighbouring countries, which are holy shrines built around the remains of Goddess Sati after she fell from heaven. Kamakshi Amman temple is one of these Peethas. The naval part of her body is believed to have fallen at this spot, which is why it is considered a sacred place.
See also: Top 15 places to visit in Chennai and things to do
Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam
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Located in Kanchipuram, in the South-Indian state of Tamil Nadu, Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam is a monastic institution for the Hindu community. An eminent attraction in Tamil Nadu, this monastery was founded by Adi Shankara. Travellers looking for a place to meditate should check out the Kanchi Math. There is no discrimination among people of various castes and creeds when it comes to visiting and participating in the traditional poojas.
Kailasanathar Temple
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In Kanchipuram, the Kailasanathar Temple is another famous pilgrimage site. A stunning example of Tamil architecture, this temple is a wonder to behold. During the period of 687-705 AD, Rajasimha ordered the construction of this magnificent temple. Every year, thousands of devotees flock to this temple, which has 58 shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The walls of this temple are carved with half-animal deities. This temple has a tranquil ambience that you can relax in after exploring the whole complex.
Kanchi Kudil
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Kanchi Kudil is an excellent choice if you’re looking for places to visit in Kanchipuram besides temples. All visitors can take a peek into Kanchipuram’s history at this heritage museum. It provides an insight into the traditional way of life of the locals. Among the exhibits in this museum are utensils, furniture, wooden swings, and rocking chairs dated back thousands of years. The museum is a must-see for history enthusiasts who want to learn about the lives of the locals.
Timings: Monday to Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM
Ekambareswarar Temple
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The Pallava and Chola Kings built the stunning Ekambareswarar Temple. Devotees of Lord Shiva make a pilgrimage to this temple in Kanchipuram all the time. The Ekambareswarar Temple is a popular temple throughout Tamil Nadu and is one of the largest in the state. Visit this temple during Shivratri for an extra special experience. There is a wonderful celebration of Shivratri at the temple, and it is beautifully decorated.
Ekambaranathar Temple
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Kanchipuram’s largest temple is the Ekambaranathar Temple. The area is massive, covering 20 acres of land. Lord Shiva is worshipped in this temple which was constructed by the Pallavas and then renovated by the Cholas and Rayas.
One of the most notable features of this temple is the fact that all 1000 lingas are carved from a single stone. In addition, the temple contains a thousand pillared halls. Outside of the Ekambaranathar Temple lies an old mango tree that dates back over 3500 years. On the tree, there are four separate limbs, each representing one of the four Vedas (Rig, Yajur, Sama, Atharvana). The fruit on each limb is said to taste differently, though they are all on the same tree.
Vaikunda Perumal Temple
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Nadivarman II built the Vaikunda Perumal Temple during the 7th century. Lord Vishnu is worshipped in this temple.
Vishnu’s image can be seen on towering vimanas throughout the temple in various forms—including standing, sitting, reclining, and chanting positions. The walls of the temple are covered with inscriptions telling of both the temple’s and the city’s history. The temple is cared for by the Department of Archeology of India.
Thennangur Panduranga Temple
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Panduranga Temple is located in Thennangur village, a village known as the birthplace of Goddess Meenakshi and located in the district of Tiruvannamalai. Panduranga and his consort Rukmayee are honoured in Thennangur Panduranga Temple. Many tourists from around the world come here to view the Panduranga and Rukmini idols, considered sacred and unique in architecture.
Jain Temples
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Kanchipuram’s Jain Temples, located in the village of Thiruparuthikundram, are of great religious significance to Jain devotees. In one temple, Bhagwan Mahavir is worshipped. And in the other, Jain Tirthankaras.
A majority of the temple’s architecture is of the Dravidian type from the 9th century. There are many beautiful paintings detailing deities and stories relating to the Jain culture in these temples. The frescoes and mural paintings within the architecture will captivate visitors as they explore. In addition to Jain devotees, this structure attracts visitors from all over the world who are interested in art and architecture.
Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal Temple
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Lord Venkateswara is revered at the Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal temple. There is a gorgeous idol of Lord Venkateswara in this temple which stands on a Shivalinga. Hindus, especially followers of Lord Perumal, hold immense religious respect for this magnificent temple, built around 500 years ago.
A representation of the two deities like this is not seen anywhere else in the world, and it implies that both Lord Venkateswara/Perumal and Lord Shiva represent equal values and ways of life. The divinity is believed to grant every wish sincerely asked for and is highly powerful.
Eri Katha Ramar Temple
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Eri Katha Ramar Temple, located in Kanchipuram, is dedicated to Lord Rama or Ramanuja. In the eyes of Lord Rama’s devotees and followers, the temple holds a great deal of religious significance. It is a major attraction in Kanchipuram to see the idol of Lord Ramanuja here, which stands about 8 feet high.
At this site, Ramanuja learned the Pancha Samskara Mantra from Peria Nambigal, his teacher. Thirumalisai Alvar also achieved enlightenment here. This is the only temple in which Ramanuja represents Grihastha, the family man.
FAQs
What is the old name of Kanchipuram?
In the 2nd century, the city was known as Conjeevaram.
How many days are enough to explore Kanchipuram?
Kanchipuram for at least two days as it is a very holy place, and you will not be able to see all the temples in one day.
What are the best places to visit in Kanchipuram besides temples?
Apart from the temples, other places you can visit in Kanchipuram include Kanchi Kudil, Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, Shakuntala Jagannathan Museum, and Anna Memorial.
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