As one of the seven holiest cities of India, Kanchipuram housed thousand temples of which only 200 are extant. These temples are the epitome of flourishing Pallava art and architecture with the embellishments from the Chola, the Vijayanagara and Chalukyas kings. Some of the most important temples are as follows
Ekambaranathar Temple
Dedicated to Lord Shiva, Ekambaranathar Temple was built by the Pallavas and later reconstructed by the Chola and Vijayanagar kings. This temple makes excellent trip to Kanchipuram. Sprawling over 11 stories and one of the tallest temple towers in South India, it has some of the most awe-inspiring sculptures, and features a thousand pillared mandapan (hall).
Vaikuntha Perumal Temple
Dating back to the 8th century, Vaikuntha temple was built by Nandivarma Pallava and dedicated to Lord Vishnu. There are scenes from battle carved on the panels encircling the main parikrama of this Vaishnavite temple. These scenes depict the bravery of Pallava kings.
Varadaraja Temple
Dedicated to Lord Vishnu who is worshipped as Devarajaswamy here. This temple has a 100-pillared hall, built by the Vijayanagar kings presenting the skillfulness of their artists.
Kailasanathar Temple
The Pallava kings constructed the Kailasanathar Temple in the 8th century AD. It has a captivating panel portraying Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati in the midst of one of their many dance competitions. The architecture of this temple resembles the Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram.
Kamakshi Amman Temple
Dedicated to goddess Parvati in her incarnation as Kamakshi, the goddess of Love, this is one of the three holy places of Shakti worship in India. The other two are in Madurai and Varanasi. The Cholas built the temple in its present form, during the 14th century AD.
Tiruttani
Very close to Kanchipuram, Tiruttani is one of the six abodes of Lord Subramanya, perched on a hilltop. The temple has 365 steps, leading to the hill, with each step representing the days of the year.
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary (Approx 60 kms from Kanchipuram)
Those in love with birds may plan an exclusive trip to Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary,. The sanctuary is home to many migratory birds like the sandpiper, white ibis, spoonbill, swan and gray wagtail etc. Plan your visit between November and February.
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