South India is known for its beauty and culture and that is why it holds a special place in tourism. Part of this culture of South India is the temples here which are one of the favorite places of tourists. Today in this episode we are going to talk about the temples of Kanchipuram, the oldest city in Tamil Nadu. Kanchipuram is one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage centers in India, considered one of the seven holiest cities in India. There are many temples to visit in Kanchipuram. The magnificent architecture, religious significance, and rich history of these temples attract devotees, and archaeological and religious enthusiasts from all over the world. When you also go to visit Kanchipuram, then definitely visit these temples mentioned here.
Ekambareswarar Temple
Ekambareswarar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is counted among the famous temples of Kanchipuram. This particular temple has been described extensively by the Tamil poets of the 2nd century. The temple has undergone many structural changes since its inception. During the reign of the Pallava kings, the initial original form of this temple was removed and given a new look. Many changes were made to this temple even during the reign of the Chola dynasty. The last change in the structure of the temple was done during the time of Krishnadevaraya. Krishnadevaraya is considered the most famous king of South India. The huge 40 feet tall doors of the temple are worth seeing. This grand temple presents a unique example of ancient architecture. There is a mango tree on the temple premises which is said to be about 3500 years old.
Kamakshi Amman Temple
This temple is located in the heart of Kanchipuram and is one of the must-visit places in Kanchipuram. On one side of the temple is Shiv Kanchi with Shiva temples, and on the other side is Vishnu Kanchi with Vishnu temples. The annals of history about this temple tell the time when Adi Shankaracharya installed the Sri Chakra inside the temple. In the sanctum sanctorum of the temple, Goddess Kamakshi Amman is seated in Padmasana. It is believed that King Dasaratha also came here to pray for children. In front of the idol is a curved stone, known as the Sri Chakra. If you visit this temple in the month of Phalgun, i.e. February to March, you can witness the wedding celebration of Shiva and Kamakshi.
Kailasanathar Temple
The Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple is an important religious site located on the banks of the Vedavathi River, on the western border, east of the city of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu. The temple holds great importance for Hindu devotees and you can see a large number of tourists throughout the year, especially during Mahashivratri. The Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple is adorned with beautiful paintings and splendid sculptures. The construction of this magnificent temple was started by the Pallava ruler Rajasimha and was completed by his son Mahendra Varma Pallava.
Devarajaswamy Temple
The Devarajaswamy Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and was built during the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire. It has a 10-meter-high Vishnu idol. The temple has two towers or gopurams. These towers are said to be around 1000 years old. Different rulers from different dynasties have contributed to the construction of this temple. These include Chera, Chola, Vijayanagara Empire, etc. There are five big corridors in the temple. Apart from this, there are two tanks named Golden Lotus Tank and Anand Sar. Magnificent corridors and large tanks add to the grandeur of the temple complex. There is also a large chain carved out of a single rock. Along with the idol of Lord Vishnu, there is another deity known as Lord Ashthi Varadar made of Ashthi wood. Once in 40 years both the idols are taken out of the water so that the devotees can have a glimpse of the Lord. The annual Brahmotsavam is held in the temple for 10 days.
Ulagalantha Perumal Temple
The "Ulagalantha Perumal Temple" dedicated to Lord Vishnu is one of the major tourist places and temples of Kanchipuram. This temple is also known as one of the oldest temples in Tamil Nadu which was built and rebuilt during the time of Chola Empire, Vijayanagara Empire, and Madura Nayak kingdom. Please tell that an idol of Vishnu ji in the form of Vamana is installed near the main deity in the temple. One of the 108 Divyadesam established in India, this temple holds significant historical and religious importance in Kanchipuram tourism, due to which thousands of tourists and devotees from all over the world visit this famous temple every year.
Varadaraja Perumal Temple
The Varadaraja Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram is of immense religious importance. It is one of the most important places for people practicing Vaishnavism. This huge temple complex was built by the Chola kings, who were devotees of Lord Vishnu. Lakhs of people participate in the 10-day Brahmotsavam festival held every year at this temple. The majestic architecture and intricate carvings on the temple are major attractions for tourists. There are a total of 32 temples in this huge complex. The idol of Lord Vishnu installed here is made of wood and is kept in a silver box.
