If you want to visit a destination that is cultural, religious, historical, and full of entertainment, then you must visit Kanchipuram. Kanchipuram is a major religious place located in the state of Tamil Nadu, which is also known as the golden city of a thousand temples. This city is also known as Kashi of South. Each temple here is a good reflection of the Dravidian heritage and the glorious history of the city. Kanchipuram is considered a center of spirituality, where many foreign tourists also come to experience Indian culture. Today in this episode we are going to tell you about the main temples of Kanchipuram where you will be forced to drown in the sea of spirituality by coming with your family. Let's know about these temples...
Varadaraja Perumal Temple
The Varadaraja Perumal Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is one of the 108 temples that were visited by the Alvars of Lord Vishnu. Varadaraja Perumal Temple is one of the oldest temples in Kanchipuram, hence the temple is surrounded by old stone pillars. According to historians, this temple was built in 1053 by the Chola dynasty. For this reason, this temple has become a center of attraction for religious travelers as well as history lovers and art lovers. Believe me, when you visit the Varadaraja Perumal Temple, you will be mesmerized to see Lord Vishnu as well as the grand architecture of the temple complex and the intricate carvings.
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 in the temple premises which is said to be about 3500 years old.
Kamakshi Amman Temple
The Kamakshi Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Kamakshi, the final form of the goddess Lalita Maha Tripurasundari. Kamakshi Amman Temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, which are sacred shrines built around the body parts that fell from the corpse of Goddess Sati from heaven. The Kamakshi Amman Temple is of great antiquity, dating back to the 7th century. It was established under the auspices of the revered Indian guru Adi Shankaracharya. The grand temple is a multi-tiered structure spread over an area of 5 acres. Its entrance has a signature gopuram, a massive structure decorated with frescoes of ancient deities. According to Tamil Hindu, the month of 'Masi' generally from February to March is considered auspicious for the worship of Lord Shiva. A Sunday morning visit would be ideal as one can see the goddess in her original, unadorned form as Nija Swaroopam.
Kailasanathar Temple
The Kailasanathar Temple is a testimony to the architectural excellence during the reign of the Pallava dynasty in South India. It is believed to be the oldest building in Rum and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is made of sandstone and is spread over a large area. The complex has 58 sub-shrines dedicated to various deities. The sculpture and beautiful paintings here can mesmerize visitors. Thousands of people visit this temple to offer prayers during the Maha Shivratri festival in February or March. It is believed that the Pallava kings were great lovers of art, so all the temples built during their time are known for their excellent architecture. There is no answer to the workmanship done by cutting stones and rocks in the temple. If you are a lover of historical architecture then definitely come here once. Kailasnath Temple is a unique example of carving and architecture.
Devarajaswamy Temple
One of the best places to visit in Kanchipuram, Devarajaswamy Temple is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This huge temple has a marriage hall which was built to commemorate the marriage of Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. There is also a water tank that has a large idol of Lord Vishnu inside the water. Once every 40 years, the tank is emptied during which the 10-meter-high idol can be seen, which is also installed for darshan for 48 days. 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. Along with the idol of Lord Vishnu, there is another deity known as Lord Ashthi Varadar made of Ashthi wood.
Prasanna Venkatesh Perumal Temple
This resplendent temple houses a unique idol of Lord Venkateswara who is seen standing on a Shiva Linga. The glorious temple was built around 500 years ago and has immense religious significance for the Hindu community. Devotees are often light ghee lamps, perform Tulasi puja, and offer flowers and garlands to please Lord Perumal. According to history, Chandra's wife did penance at a time when her luster was fading. Lord Perumal was pleased with his devotion and released Chandra from the curse on the day of Thiruvonam star. The temple has a serene and divine vibe which tourists often talk about as it brings them closer to the Almighty. A large number of tourists come here especially on the day of Vaikuntha Ekadashi to seek the blessings of the Lord. Prasanna Venkatesh Perumal Temple is easily accessible by road from any part of Kanchipuram. Tourists can take a bus ride to reach the temple, taxis and cabs are another way to reach their destination.
Vaikuntha Perumal Temple
One of the major pilgrimage centers of Kanchipuram, Vaikuntha Perumal Temple is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The Vaikuntha Perumal Temple was built during the 7th century by the Pallava king Nadivarman II. Whenever you visit the Vaikuntha Perumal Temple on your trip to Kanchipuram, you will come across inscriptions on the walls describing the history of the temple and the city along with the darshan of the Lord. Due to this, the Archaeological Department of India takes care of this temple. If you are searching for places to visit in Kanchipuram and are interested in knowing the history of Kanchipuram, then you must visit this temple.
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