Welcome to Kanchipuram – the land of a thousand temples and one of the most popular tourist destinations in India!
If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in ancient culture and traditions, then Kanchipuram is the perfect place for you. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, this city is a must-visit for any tourist.
Some of the top sights that you can explore in Kanchipuram include the Kailasanathar Temple, Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple, and Kamakshi Amman Temple, to name just a few. Each of these temples is a true marvel of architecture and design, and will leave you in awe of the incredible talent and dedication of the artisans who built them.
In addition to its beautiful temples, Kanchipuram is also home to a number of other tourist places, such as the Kanchi Kudil, a traditional Brahmin house that offers a fascinating glimpse into the lifestyle and customs of the locals, and the Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, which is home to a diverse range of migratory birds.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply someone who wants to explore the beauty and culture of India, Kanchipuram has something for everyone. So why wait? Book your trip today and experience the magic of this incredible city for yourself!
About Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram is a city located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, about 70 kilometers from Chennai. Also known as Kanchi, it is one of the oldest cities in India, with a history dating back to the 3rd century BCE. It has been a center of learning, culture, and religion for over two thousand years, and is famous for its temples, silk sarees, and rich cultural heritage.
The city was ruled by various dynasties over the centuries, including the Cholas, the Pallavas, and the Vijayanagar Empire. During the Pallava period, Kanchipuram became a center of Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, and many of the city’s most famous temples were built during this time.
Kanchipuram is home to more than a thousand temples, each with its own unique history and architectural style. The city is also known for its silk sarees, which are handwoven and embroidered with intricate designs. The sarees are made from pure mulberry silk, and are renowned for their durability, elegance, and fine craftsmanship.
In addition to its temples and sarees, Kanchipuram is also famous for its cuisine, which is a blend of traditional Tamil, Andhra, and Karnataka dishes. Some of the most popular dishes include idli, dosa, vada, sambar, and rasam.
Today, Kanchipuram is a thriving city with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant economy. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to explore its temples, sample its cuisine, and experience its unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Architecture of Kanchipuram
The architecture of Kanchipuram is a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage and its status as a center of learning, religion, and art. The city is famous for its temples, which are built in a variety of architectural styles, including Dravidian, Pallava, Chola, and Vijayanagar.
One of the most famous temples in Kanchipuram is the Kailasanathar Temple, which was built by the Pallava king Rajasimha in the 8th century CE. The temple is a fine example of the Dravidian style of architecture, with a pyramidal tower, or gopuram, at the entrance, and intricate carvings of gods, goddesses, and mythological scenes on the walls.
Another famous temple is the Ekambareswarar Temple, which is one of the largest temples in Kanchipuram. The temple was built by the Pallava, Chola, and Vijayanagar kings, and is famous for its 1000-pillared hall and its towering gopuram.
The Kamakshi Amman Temple is another famous temple in Kanchipuram, dedicated to the goddess Kamakshi, who is believed to have the power to grant wishes. The temple is built in the traditional Dravidian style, with a towering gopuram and intricate carvings on the walls.
Apart from the temples, Kanchipuram is also famous for its traditional Brahmin houses, or Kanchi Kudil, which are built in a unique architectural style that is a blend of Dravidian and European styles. The houses are characterized by their wooden pillars, ornate carvings, and spacious courtyards.
Overall, the architecture of Kanchipuram is a fine example of the city’s rich cultural heritage and its status as a center of learning, religion, and art.
35 Places to Visit in Kanchipuram
- Kailasanathar Temple – A famous Hindu temple built by the Pallava dynasty in the 8th century CE, known for its intricate carvings and pyramidal tower.
- Ekambareswarar Temple – One of the largest temples in Kanchipuram, built by multiple dynasties and known for its 1000-pillared hall and towering gopuram.
- Kamakshi Amman Temple – A Dravidian-style temple dedicated to the goddess Kamakshi, famous for its towering gopuram and intricate carvings.
- Varadharaja Perumal Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its magnificent architecture and intricate carvings.
- Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham – A revered Hindu religious institution, known for its association with Adi Shankara and the pontiffs who succeeded him.
- Devarajaswami Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its grand architecture and intricate carvings.
- Sri Ulagalandha Perumal Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its impressive gopuram and beautiful carvings.
- Karchapeswarar Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its unique architecture and intricate carvings.
- Thiruthani Murugan Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, known for its hilltop location and breathtaking views.
- Kanchi Kudil – A traditional Brahmin house, known for its unique architecture and ornate carvings.
- Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary – A popular birdwatching spot, home to a variety of migratory and resident bird species.
- Jalakandeswarar Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its impressive architecture and intricate carvings.
- Kumarakottam Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, known for its unique architecture and beautiful carvings.
- Sri Kachapeswarar Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its unique architecture and intricate carvings.
- Vaikunta Perumal Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its grand architecture and intricate carvings.
- Tiruparamechura Vinnagaram Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture.
- Sri Yathothkari Perumal Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its grand architecture and intricate carvings.
- Thennangur Panduranga Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
- Thiru Ooragam Sivan Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its unique architecture and intricate carvings.
- Kanchi Varadaraja Swamy Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its grand architecture and intricate carvings.
- Sri Sanjeevi Raya Perumal Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
- Sri Adikesava Perumal Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its grand architecture and intricate carvings.
- Madurantakam Lake – A large lake famous for its picturesque scenery and migratory birds.
- Sri Pandava Thoothar Perumal Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its impressive architecture and intricate carvings.
- Sri Prasanna Venkatesa Perumal Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its grand architecture and intricate carvings.
- Thiru Neeragam Vanjinathar Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known for its unique architecture and intricate carvings.
- Sri Karunagara Perumal Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its impressive architecture and intricate carvings.
- Sri Satya Narayana Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
- Sri Vijayaraghava Perumal Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its grand architecture and intricate carvings.
- Sri Vaikuntha Perumal Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its impressive architecture and intricate carvings.
- Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
- Sri Sthala Sayanaperumal Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its grand architecture and intricate carvings.
- Sri Tiruvekkaa Vinnagaram Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
- Sri Vijayaraghava Swami Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its grand architecture and intricate carvings.
- Sri Vaikunda Perumal Temple – A Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its impressive architecture and intricate carvings.
Overall, Kanchipuram is a city steeped in history and religion, with a wide variety of ancient temples and architectural wonders to explore. Each of these 35 places to visit offers its own unique beauty and significance, making Kanchipuram a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of India.
Weather and Best Time to Visit Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram is a city located in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. It has a tropical climate with hot summers and humid winters. The best time to visit Kanchipuram is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is relatively pleasant with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 25°C. The humidity levels are also low during this time, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring the city’s many temples and historical landmarks.
During the summer months from March to May, the weather in Kanchipuram can be hot and humid with temperatures reaching up to 40°C. It can be challenging to explore the city during this time due to the high heat and humidity levels. Monsoon season in Kanchipuram starts from June and lasts until September, with heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. While the rains may provide some respite from the heat, the city may not be ideal for sightseeing during this time due to the heavy rainfall.
Overall, the best time to visit Kanchipuram is from November to February, when the weather is pleasant, and the city is at its most vibrant.
How To Reach Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram is well connected to various parts of Tamil Nadu and other major cities in India. Here are the different ways to reach Kanchipuram:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Kanchipuram is the Chennai International Airport, which is located around 70 km away. From there, you can take a taxi or hire a car to reach Kanchipuram.
- By Train: Kanchipuram has its own railway station, which is well connected to Chennai and other major cities in Tamil Nadu. Trains like the Kanchipuram Express, Chengalpattu-Kanchipuram Passenger, and Chennai-Kanchipuram Suburban trains operate on this route.
- By Bus: Kanchipuram is well connected by road to major cities in Tamil Nadu and neighboring states. State-run buses, as well as private buses, operate regularly from Chennai, Bangalore, and other cities. You can also hire a taxi or take a self-drive car from Chennai to Kanchipuram.
- By Car: Kanchipuram is located around 70 km from Chennai, and the drive takes around 2 hours. The route is well connected, and the roads are in good condition. You can hire a car or take a self-drive car from Chennai to Kanchipuram.
Overall, Kanchipuram is well connected to major cities in South India, and reaching the city should not be a problem.
Accommodation Options in Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram is a popular tourist destination in Tamil Nadu, and it offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the accommodation options in Kanchipuram:
- Budget Hotels and Guesthouses: Kanchipuram has a range of budget hotels and guesthouses that offer comfortable and affordable accommodation. Some popular options include Hotel Jaybala International, Hotel SSK Grand, and Hotel Baboo Soorya.
- Mid-Range Hotels: Kanchipuram has several mid-range hotels that offer comfortable rooms and good facilities. Some popular options include Regency Kanchipuram by GRT Hotels, Hotel Pallava Dynasty, and Hotel Milestonnez.
- Luxury Hotels: If you are looking for a luxurious stay, Kanchipuram has some excellent options. The Regency by GRT Hotels and The Bangala are popular luxury hotels that offer world-class amenities and services.
- Homestays: Kanchipuram has several homestays that offer a unique and authentic experience of staying with a local family. Some popular homestays include Villa 63, Ira Homestay, and Manickam Villa.
- Resorts: There are a few resorts located on the outskirts of Kanchipuram that offer a peaceful and relaxing stay amidst nature. Some popular resorts include MGM Beach Resorts, Green Meadows Resort, and Ideal Beach Resort.
Overall, Kanchipuram offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season from November to February.
Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Kanchipuram As per users Reviews and Ratings
Based on user reviews and ratings, here are the top 10 hotels to stay in Kanchipuram:
- Regency Kanchipuram by GRT Hotels: This is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Kanchipuram. It has excellent amenities, including an outdoor pool, spa, fitness center, and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
- The Bangala: This is another luxury hotel in Kanchipuram that offers a unique and authentic experience of staying in a traditional South Indian mansion. It has beautiful rooms, a pool, and a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine.
- Hotel Jaybala International: This is a budget hotel located close to Kanchipuram’s main temples. It offers comfortable rooms and basic amenities at an affordable price.
- Hotel Pallava Dynasty: This is a mid-range hotel located close to Kanchipuram’s main attractions. It offers clean and spacious rooms, a restaurant, and other basic amenities.
- Hotel SSK Grand: This is a budget hotel located close to Kanchipuram’s main temples. It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and other basic amenities at an affordable price.
- Regency Kanchipuram by GRT Hotels – Serviced Apartment: This is a serviced apartment located near Kanchipuram’s main attractions. It offers spacious and well-furnished rooms, a kitchenette, and other amenities.
- Villa 63: This is a homestay located in a quiet residential area of Kanchipuram. It offers comfortable rooms, a garden, and a restaurant serving delicious home-cooked food.
- MGM Beach Resorts: This is a resort located on the outskirts of Kanchipuram, close to the beach. It offers comfortable rooms, a pool, and other amenities for a relaxing stay.
- Green Meadows Resort: This is another resort located on the outskirts of Kanchipuram, amidst lush greenery. It offers comfortable rooms, a pool, and other amenities for a peaceful stay.
- Ideal Beach Resort: This is a beach resort located on the outskirts of Kanchipuram. It offers comfortable rooms, a pool, and other amenities for a relaxing stay by the beach.
These are some of the top hotels to stay in Kanchipuram, as per user reviews and ratings
Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Kanchipuram
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit Kanchipuram is between November and February when the weather is cool and pleasant.
- Clothing: Kanchipuram is a religious city, and it is advisable to dress conservatively, especially when visiting temples. Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, and revealing clothing. It is also a good idea to carry a shawl or scarf to cover your head and shoulders when visiting temples.
- Footwear: In many temples in Kanchipuram, visitors are required to remove their footwear before entering. So, it is advisable to wear slip-on shoes or sandals that are easy to remove and put back on.
- Local transport: Kanchipuram has a good network of local buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis for getting around the city. It is advisable to negotiate the fare before getting into an auto-rickshaw or taxi.
- Food: Kanchipuram is famous for its traditional South Indian cuisine, and there are several local restaurants and street food stalls where you can try it. However, be cautious about the hygiene and cleanliness of the food and water you consume.
- Temples: Kanchipuram is known for its ancient temples, and it is advisable to plan your visit in advance to avoid crowds and long queues. Also, be respectful of the customs and traditions followed in the temples.
- Shopping: Kanchipuram is famous for its silk sarees and traditional handicrafts. However, be wary of touts and shopkeepers who may try to sell you counterfeit products. It is advisable to buy from reputed stores and ask for a bill.
By keeping these travel tips in mind, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Kanchipuram.
Travel Mistakes to Avoid in Kanchipuram
Here are some travel mistakes to avoid in Kanchipuram:
- Not checking the weather: Kanchipuram can get quite hot and humid, especially during the summer months. It is important to check the weather forecast and plan your activities accordingly.
- Not carrying enough cash: While Kanchipuram has several ATMs and banks, some local vendors may only accept cash. It is advisable to carry enough cash with you for small purchases and tips.
- Not dressing appropriately: Kanchipuram is a religious city, and it is important to dress conservatively when visiting temples and other religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, shorts, and sleeveless tops.
- Not carrying a water bottle: It can get quite hot and humid in Kanchipuram, and it is important to stay hydrated. Carry a refillable water bottle with you to avoid buying bottled water and contributing to plastic waste.
- Not carrying sunscreen and insect repellent: Kanchipuram is a tropical region, and it is important to protect yourself from the sun and insects. Carry sunscreen and insect repellent with you to avoid sunburn and insect bites.
- Not planning your temple visits in advance: Kanchipuram is known for its ancient temples, and some of them may have specific visiting hours or dress codes. It is important to plan your temple visits in advance and check the rules and regulations.
- Not respecting local customs and traditions: Kanchipuram has a rich cultural and religious heritage, and it is important to respect the local customs and traditions. Be mindful of your behavior and avoid doing anything that may offend the locals.
By avoiding these travel mistakes, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Kanchipuram.
Best Places for Shopping in Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram is famous for its silk sarees and traditional handicrafts. Here are some of the best places for shopping in Kanchipuram:
- Kanchipuram Silk Sarees: Kanchipuram Silk Sarees is a popular store that sells authentic silk sarees made in Kanchipuram. The store has a wide range of sarees in different designs and colors, and the staff is knowledgeable and helpful.
- Kumaran Silks: Kumaran Silks is another popular store that sells silk sarees and other traditional clothing. The store has a vast collection of sarees in different designs and price ranges.
- Sri Sarvalakshmi Silk Sarees: Sri Sarvalakshmi Silk Sarees is a store that specializes in silk sarees and other traditional clothing. The store has a wide range of sarees in different colors and designs, and the staff is knowledgeable and helpful.
- Government Silk Weaving Factory: The Government Silk Weaving Factory in Kanchipuram is a popular destination for silk saree shopping. The factory sells a wide range of sarees at affordable prices.
- Handicraft Shops: Kanchipuram has several handicraft shops that sell traditional handicrafts, including brass and bronze statues, wooden carvings, and Tanjore paintings. Some popular handicraft shops in Kanchipuram include Gopalan Handicrafts and Kanchi Handicrafts.
- Street markets: Kanchipuram has several street markets where you can buy traditional handicrafts, clothing, and other souvenirs. Some popular street markets in Kanchipuram include Gandhi Road and Anna Salai.
By visiting these places, you can indulge in some authentic shopping experiences in Kanchipuram.
Food To Eat in Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram is known for its delicious South Indian cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Kanchipuram:
- Kanchipuram Idli: Kanchipuram Idli is a popular breakfast dish in Kanchipuram. It is made with rice flour, urad dal, and spices and is steamed in a traditional idli pot. It is usually served with coconut chutney and sambar.
- Kanchipuram Dosa: Kanchipuram Dosa is a crispy dosa made with rice flour, urad dal, and spices. It is usually served with coconut chutney and sambar.
- Pongal: Pongal is a popular rice dish made with rice, lentils, and spices. It is usually served with sambar and coconut chutney.
- Murukku: Murukku is a popular snack in Kanchipuram. It is made with rice flour, urad dal, and spices and is deep-fried until crispy.
- Filter Coffee: Filter Coffee is a popular beverage in Kanchipuram. It is made with freshly brewed coffee and milk and is served in a traditional steel tumbler and saucer.
- Vadai: Vadai is a popular South Indian snack made with lentils and spices. It is usually served with coconut chutney.
- Kuzhi Paniyaram: Kuzhi Paniyaram is a popular breakfast dish in Kanchipuram. It is made with rice flour, urad dal, and spices and is cooked in a special paniyaram pan.
By trying these dishes, you can get a taste of the delicious South Indian cuisine in Kanchipuram.
Things You Can Buy as a Tourist
Kanchipuram is known for its traditional handicrafts and silk sarees. Here are some of the things you should buy as a tourist in Kanchipuram:
- Silk Sarees: Kanchipuram is known for its authentic silk sarees, which are handwoven and embroidered by skilled artisans. You can find a wide range of sarees in different designs and colors, ranging from simple and elegant to ornate and elaborate.
- Tanjore Paintings: Tanjore paintings are a popular form of traditional South Indian art. These paintings are made with gold leaf, semi-precious stones, and vibrant colors and depict scenes from Hindu mythology.
- Brass and Bronze Statues: Kanchipuram is known for its brass and bronze statues, which are intricately carved and polished by skilled artisans. These statues depict Hindu gods and goddesses and are popular souvenirs for tourists.
- Wooden Carvings: Kanchipuram is also known for its wooden carvings, which are made from teak and rosewood. These carvings include wall hangings, sculptures, and furniture.
- Jewelry: Kanchipuram is known for its gold and silver jewelry, which is handcrafted by skilled artisans. You can find a wide range of jewelry, including necklaces, earrings, bangles, and bracelets.
- Handicrafts: Kanchipuram has several handicraft stores that sell traditional handicrafts, including textiles, pottery, and basketry. These handicrafts are made by local artisans and are popular souvenirs for tourists.
By purchasing these items, you can take home a piece of Kanchipuram’s rich cultural heritage and support local artisans and craftsmen.
Nightlife in Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram is a temple town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, and it is not known for its nightlife. As a religious destination, the town primarily caters to spiritual and cultural tourism.
However, there are a few options available for those who want to spend their evenings in Kanchipuram:
- Visit local markets: Kanchipuram is famous for its silk sarees and handicrafts. You can visit the local markets such as the Kanchi Kamakshi Silk Emporium, the Silk Weaving Centre, or the Gandhi Road market to shop for souvenirs and gifts.
- Explore the temples: Kanchipuram has many ancient temples that are worth visiting. Some of the popular temples are the Kailasanathar Temple, the Varadharaja Perumal Temple, and the Ekambareswarar Temple. You can spend your evenings exploring these temples and experiencing the spirituality and culture of the town.
- Dining options: There are a few restaurants and eateries in Kanchipuram that offer traditional South Indian cuisine. You can try some of the local delicacies such as idli, dosa, vada, and filter coffee.
It is important to note that Kanchipuram is a conservative town, and alcohol is not widely available. If you are looking for a vibrant nightlife, you may need to consider visiting nearby cities like Chennai or Bangalore.
Activities and Things to Do in Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram is a historic and cultural city in Tamil Nadu, India, known for its ancient temples and handwoven silk sarees. Here are some of the top activities and things to do in Kanchipuram:
- Visit the temples: Kanchipuram is home to several ancient temples, including the Kailasanathar Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple, Kamakshi Amman Temple, and Varadharaja Perumal Temple. These temples are known for their intricate carvings, architecture, and rich history.
- Explore the Silk Weaving Industry: Kanchipuram is famous for its handwoven silk sarees. You can visit the silk weaving factories and learn about the process of weaving silk sarees.
- Visit the Kanchi Kudil: Kanchi Kudil is a heritage house that has been preserved to showcase the traditional lifestyle of the people of Kanchipuram. You can explore the various rooms, artifacts, and tools used in daily life.
- Take a Heritage Walk: Kanchipuram has a rich history, and taking a heritage walk around the town is a great way to explore the ancient architecture, monuments, and culture of the city.
- Attend a Cultural Festival: Kanchipuram is home to several cultural festivals, including the Pongal Festival, Brahmotsavam, and the Natyanjali Dance Festival. These festivals offer an excellent opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions.
- Taste the Local Cuisine: Kanchipuram is known for its unique cuisine, including the famous Kanchipuram idli, dosa, and vada. You can visit the local restaurants and food stalls to taste the delicious local delicacies.
- Enjoy Nature: There are several parks and gardens in Kanchipuram, including the Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, which is home to many migratory birds. You can also visit the Madurantakam Lake, a beautiful freshwater lake that offers boating and fishing opportunities.
Overall, Kanchipuram is a perfect destination for history and culture lovers who want to experience the rich heritage and traditions of South India.
Lesser Known Facts About Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram is a historic town in Tamil Nadu, India, known for its ancient temples and handwoven silk sarees. Here are some lesser-known facts about Kanchipuram:
- Silk Sarees: Kanchipuram is renowned for its silk sarees, which are handwoven using pure mulberry silk and zari. The sarees are known for their rich colors, intricate designs, and durability.
- City of Temples: Kanchipuram is also called the “City of Temples” and is home to more than 1000 temples, including several ancient temples that date back to the Pallava and Chola periods.
- Jainism: Kanchipuram has a significant Jain population, and there are several Jain temples in the city, including the Tiruparuthikundram Jain temple, which is believed to be more than 1000 years old.
- Famous Personalities: Kanchipuram has produced several famous personalities, including Rukmini Devi Arundale, a famous Bharatanatyam dancer, and Subramanya Bharathi, a famous Tamil poet and freedom fighter.
- Kanchi Mutt: Kanchipuram is the headquarters of the Kanchi Mutt, one of the oldest and most prominent Hindu monasteries in India.
- Scientific heritage: Kanchipuram has a rich scientific heritage, and ancient texts such as the Siddha medicine and Ayurveda originated in the town.
- Historic significance: Kanchipuram has played a significant role in the history of South India, and it was the capital of the Pallava dynasty in the 6th century CE. The town was also an important center for trade and commerce during the Chola period.
Overall, Kanchipuram is a town with a rich history, culture, and tradition, and there are several fascinating facts about the town that are worth exploring.
FAQ About Kanchipuram
Q: Where is Kanchipuram located?
A: Kanchipuram is a town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, about 72 km southwest of Chennai.
Q: What is Kanchipuram famous for?
A: Kanchipuram is famous for its ancient temples, handwoven silk sarees, and rich culture and tradition.
Q: How do I reach Kanchipuram?
A: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, which is about 70 km away from Kanchipuram. You can also reach Kanchipuram by train or bus from Chennai.
Q: What are the top tourist attractions in Kanchipuram?
A: The top tourist attractions in Kanchipuram are the Kailasanathar Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple, Kamakshi Amman Temple, Varadharaja Perumal Temple, and Kanchi Kudil.
Q: What is the best time to visit Kanchipuram?
A: The best time to visit Kanchipuram is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing.
Q: What are the popular local foods in Kanchipuram?
A: The popular local foods in Kanchipuram include Kanchipuram idli, dosa, and vada.
Q: What is the significance of Kanchi Mutt?
A: Kanchi Mutt is one of the oldest and most prominent Hindu monasteries in India, and it is known for its spiritual and social contributions.
Q: Are there any shopping options in Kanchipuram?
A: Yes, Kanchipuram is famous for its handwoven silk sarees, and you can shop for silk sarees and handicrafts at the local markets such as the Kanchi Kamakshi Silk Emporium, the Silk Weaving Centre, and the Gandhi Road market.
Q: Is alcohol available in Kanchipuram?
A: Kanchipuram is a conservative town, and alcohol is not widely available.