Kanchipuram

Mythological Significance of Kanchipuram

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma performed intense penance in Kanchipuram to seek the blessings of Goddess Shakti. It is believed that anyone who visits this holy city attains inner peace and ultimately moksha (liberation). For this reason, Kanchipuram is counted among the Sapta Puris, the seven cities believed to grant salvation. The other six sacred cities are Ayodhya, Mathura, Dwarka, Haridwar, Varanasi (Kashi), and Ujjain.

Kanchipuram is considered a Hari-Hara Kshetra, symbolizing the divine presence of both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. The city is traditionally divided into two parts:

• Shiva Kanchi – dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Vishnu Kanchi – dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

The Kamakshi Amman Temple is regarded as one of the prominent Shakti Peethas. There are differing opinions regarding the Prithvi (Earth) Lingam among the Pancha Bhoota Lingas. Some believe that the Ekambareswarar Lingam in Kanchipuram represents the Earth element, while others consider the Tyagaraja Lingam at Tiruvarur to hold that distinction.

History of Kanchipuram

Historical evidence suggests that Kanchipuram was an important city during the early centuries CE and emerged as one of the greatest cultural and religious centers of South India. The famous Buddhist scholar Dharmapala, a contemporary of Buddhaghosa, is believed to have been born here, indicating that Kanchipuram was once an important center of Buddhist learning.

The city's magnificent temples stand as testimony to its long-standing role as a hub of religious and cultural activity. From the 7th to the 9th century, Kanchipuram served as the capital of the Pallava Empire.

Beginning under the patronage of the Pallava rulers in the 6th century and continuing through the reign of the Vijayanagara kings during the 15th and 16th centuries, Kanchipuram witnessed nearly a thousand years of remarkable growth in Dravidian temple architecture.

The Kailasanathar Temple is considered one of the finest examples of this architectural tradition, while the Vaikuntha Perumal Temple, built in the 7th century, beautifully reflects the artistic excellence and craftsmanship of the Pallava dynasty.

Places to Visit in Kanchipuram

The Kailasanathar Temple is the most famous attraction in Kanchipuram. Other important temples worth visiting include:

• Vaikuntha Perumal Temple
• Kamakshi Amman Temple
• Varadaraja Perumal Temple
• Ekambareswarar Temple

Kailasanathar Temple

The Kailasanathar Temple is the oldest temple in Kanchipuram and one of the most beautiful temples in South India. The temple features sculptures depicting the divine dance competition between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.

According to historical records, the temple was built in the 8th century by the Pallava king Rajasimha (Narasimhavarman II) at the wish of his queen. The temple's front hall was later completed by his son Mahendravarman III.

Vaikuntha Perumal Temple

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the Vaikuntha Perumal Temple was constructed in the 7th century by the Pallava ruler Nandivarman II Pallavamalla.

The temple houses Lord Vishnu in seated, standing, and reclining postures. Its walls feature detailed carvings depicting battles between the Pallavas and the Chalukyas. One of the temple's main attractions is its grand 1,000-pillared hall, where each pillar is adorned with exquisite carvings that showcase exceptional craftsmanship.

Kamakshi Amman Temple

The Kamakshi Amman Temple is dedicated to Goddess Shakti and is considered one of the three most sacred shrines of the Divine Mother. The other two sacred centers are Madurai and Varanasi.

Spread across 1.6 acres, the temple is located in the heart of Kanchipuram. It was originally built by the Pallavas and later renovated during the 14th and 17th centuries.

Varadaraja Perumal Temple

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped here as Devarajaswamy, the Varadaraja Perumal Temple is one of the most revered Vaishnavite temples.

The temple features a magnificent 100-pillared hall, constructed during the reign of the Vijayanagara kings. The intricate sculptures on these pillars are outstanding examples of the artistic excellence of that period.

Ekambareswarar Temple

The Ekambareswarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Originally built by the Pallavas, it was later expanded and renovated by the Cholas and the Vijayanagara rulers.

The temple's impressive 11-tiered gopuram (tower) is among the tallest in South India. The temple is adorned with beautiful sculptures, and its famous 1,000-pillared mandapam remains a major attraction for devotees and visitors alike.

How to Reach Kanchipuram

Devotees and tourists can reach Kanchipuram by air, rail, or road.

By Air

The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, located approximately 75 km from Kanchipuram. The city can be reached from Chennai in around 2 hours by road. Chennai is well connected to all major cities across India.

By Rail

Kanchipuram Railway Station is well connected to Chennai, Chengalpattu, Tirupati, and Bengaluru, making rail travel convenient for pilgrims and tourists from different parts of the country.

By Road

Kanchipuram enjoys excellent road connectivity with almost every major city in Tamil Nadu. Regular government and private buses operate to and from the city, and it is also connected through several major highways.