Top 5 Temples To Visit In Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu’s Kanchipuram is a treasure trove of spiritual heritage and stunning Dravidian architecture. Here are some of the must-visit temples in Kanchipuram. 
Best Temples To Visit In Kanchipuram Tamil Nadu

Best Temples To Visit In Kanchipuram Tamil Nadu: Kanchipuram, fondly known as the ‘City of a Thousand Temples’, is one of the oldest and most sacred cities in South India. Located in Tamil Nadu, this spiritual hub is steeped in history, culture, and devotion. From ancient Shiva and Vishnu temples to stunning stone architecture, Kanchipuram offers a unique blend of divine beauty with rich culture. If you’re someone who loves temples or gets fascinated by heritage, exploring Kanchipuram’s temples is an experience that stays with you long after your visit. Take a look at the must-visit temples in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu:

Top 5 Temples In Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu

1. Ekambareswarar Temple, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu

Ekambareswarar Temple is one of the five elemental Shiva temples, representing the Earth. This temple spans nearly 40 acres and features a thousand-pillared hall in Dravidian architecture.

Ekambareswarar Temple, Kanchipuram

According to the Government of Tamil Nadu, “It is one of the five major Shiva temples of Pancha Bootha Sthalams (each representing a natural element) representing the element – Earth. The Single Mango tree in the outer court is revered as most sacred and it is believed, if worshipped by a childless couple will be blessed with a child.”

2. Kailasanathar Temple, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu

Kailasanathar Temple,also known as the KanchiKailasanathar Temple,is one of the oldest surviving temple in the town, built around 700 CE by Pallava King Narasimhavarman II. Tamil Nadu Tourism highlights, “There is a grand entrance hall, a splendid gathering hall, the sanctum sanctorum which is topped with a four-storey Vimana. There are nine shrines around the main sanctum, seven outside and two inside, with each shrine depicting different forms of Shiva.”

Maha Shivaratri, Thai Poosam, and Brahmotsavam are the most significant festivals of this temple.

3. Kamakshi Amman Temple, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu

Kamakshi Amman Temple is a central shrine of the Kamakoti Peetham, deeply tied to spiritual traditions like Adi Shankaracharya’s Sri Chakra. Highlights: A gold‑plated vimana crowns the goddess Kamakshi in a serene sitting posture. It is spread across 5 acres and it’s one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. The best time to visit Kamakshi Amman Temple is during Masi (February–March) for the lively chariot festival and street markets.

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4. Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu

The Varadharaja Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram is a stunning example of Dravidian architecture and deep devotion. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams, making it a sacred spot for Vaishnavites.


Incredible India Ministry of Tourism, (Government of India) official portal states, “The Varadharaja Perumal Temple, known as Thiru Katchi or Athhigiri Koil, is a beacon of devotion to Lord Vishnu. The temple shines with the joyous echoes of various festivals, including the Purattasi Navarathri and Vaikunda Ekadasi.” This temple offers a peaceful yet powerful atmosphere in the heart of Tamil Nadu.

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5. Ulagalantha Perumal Temple, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu

Ulagalantha Perumal Temple

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Vaman avatar), it is made in the Dravidian design, featuring four Divya Desams within one large complex. Tamil Tourism portal states, “Considered one among the 108 sacred ‘Divya Desams’ dedicated to Lord Vishnu, Sri Ulagalantha Perumal Temple is built in the Indo-Dravidian architectural style. It is believed that the temple was built by the Pallavas and later modified many times during the reigns of Medieval Cholas, Vijayanagara Kings and Madurai Nayaks.”

The temple celebrates several festivals, with the annual chariot festival, Brahmotsavam, Vamana Jayanthi, and Vaikuntha Ekadashi being the most celebrated ones.

Whether you’re a pilgrim or a history lover, Tamil Nadu’s Kanchipuram offers a soulful journey for every traveller.



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Image credit: Incredible India (Ministry of Tourism),Tamil Nadu Tourism and Anuradha Goyal/Twitter

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