Famous Temples in Kanchipuram
Introduction:
Kanchipuram, a city steeped in history and spirituality, is often referred to as the “City of Thousand Temples.” Nestled in the state of Tamil Nadu, this sacred destination is a treasure trove of architectural wonders and religious significance. In this spiritual odyssey, we embark on a journey to explore the famous temples that adorn the cultural and spiritual landscape of Kanchipuram.
Ekambareswarar Temple:
Our journey begins with the Ekambareswarar Temple, one of the largest and most ancient temples in Kanchipuram. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is known for its towering gopurams and the vast mango tree within the temple complex, believed to be as old as the temple itself. Devotees believe that the Shiva Linga here was originally worshipped by the goddess Parvati under a mango tree, adding a unique charm to the temple’s sacred ambiance.
Kailasanathar Temple:
As we traverse the ancient lanes of Kanchipuram, the Kailasanathar Temple beckons with its timeless allure. This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is renowned for its Dravidian architectural brilliance. The intricately carved sculptures and the exquisite vimana make it a visual feast for devotees and connoisseurs of art alike. Dating back to the Pallava dynasty, the Kailasanathar Temple stands as a living testament to the artistic and religious zenith of ancient Tamil Nadu.
Varadaraja Perumal Temple:
The Varadaraja Perumal Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is a majestic shrine that echoes with divine vibrations. The presiding deity, Lord Varadaraja, is believed to grant the wishes of devotees. The temple’s Rajagopuram, standing tall at 96 feet, is a testament to the architectural grandeur of the Vijayanagara era. The annual “Garuda Sevai” during the Brahmothsavam festival, where the deity is taken on a procession atop a magnificent Garuda vahana, is a spectacle that attracts pilgrims from far and wide.
Kamakshi Amman Temple:
Dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, the Kamakshi Amman Temple is a divine abode that exudes feminine grace and energy. The sanctum sanctorum houses the goddess in a seated posture, radiating tranquility and compassion. The temple’s vibrant annual festival, the “Ther Thiruvizha,” is a celebration of spirituality and tradition, drawing devotees who seek the blessings of the benevolent goddess.
Devarajaswami Temple:
The Devarajaswami Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is renowned for its annual “Azhagar Festival” which reenacts the celestial wedding of Lord Vishnu’s brother, Lord Azhagar, with the goddess. The colorful processions and the elaborate rituals during this festival add a festive fervor to the temple’s sacred atmosphere. The temple’s architecture, adorned with intricate carvings, reflects the grandeur of Vijayanagara artistry.
Karchapeswarar Temple:
Hidden amidst the lesser-explored corners of Kanchipuram, the Karchapeswarar Temple is a mystical gem dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its unique architecture, with the Shiva Linga placed inside a small well. Devotees believe that the lingam emerged from the well on its own, adding an element of divine mysticism to this sacred site.
Ulagalandha Perumal Temple:
The Ulagalandha Perumal Temple, also known as Thoopul Vilakoli Perumal Temple, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his cosmic form as Trivikrama. The grandeur of this temple lies in its portrayal of Lord Vishnu measuring the three worlds with his foot. The temple’s architecture and the annual “Brahmothsavam” are a visual and spiritual treat, attracting devotees and tourists alike.
Vaikunta Perumal Temple:
Situated on the outskirts of Kanchipuram, the Vaikunta Perumal Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Vaikuntanathan. The temple is an architectural marvel with three tiers representing Earth, Heaven, and Vaikuntha (the celestial abode of Lord Vishnu). The annual “Vaikunta Ekadasi” festival, where devotees believe that the gates of heaven are open, is a time of heightened spiritual fervor.
Kachapeshwarar Temple:
Tucked away in a peaceful corner of Kanchipuram, the Kachapeshwarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of a tortoise. The temple’s serene ambiance and the tranquil pond adjacent to it create an atmosphere of spiritual retreat. Devotees visit this temple seeking peace and solace, making it a hidden sanctuary within the city.
Vijayaraghava Perumal Temple:
Our spiritual odyssey concludes with the Vijayaraghava Perumal Temple, a site that preserves ancient traditions and rituals. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple boasts a unique Navaratri celebration known as “Azhwar Thirunal Utsavam,” where devotees honor the 12 Alvars (saints) through devotional songs and prayers. The temple’s commitment to preserving the cultural and spiritual heritage of Kanchipuram makes it a fitting conclusion to our exploration.
Conclusion:
Kanchipuram, the “City of Thousand Temples,” stands as a living testament to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Tamil Nadu. Each temple, with its unique architecture, divine legends, and vibrant festivals, adds a layer to the city’s narrative. From the grandeur of the Kailasanathar Temple to the mysticism of the Kachapeshwarar Temple, Kanchipuram’s temples offer a spiritual odyssey that transcends time, inviting pilgrims and enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the divine energy that permeates every stone and sanctum.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1 What are the famous temples in Kanchipuram?
Ekambareswarar Temple.
Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple.
Kanchi Kamakshi Amman Temple.
Varadaraja Perumal Temple.
Ulagalantha Perumal Temple.
Trilokinath Temple.
Chitragupta Swamy Temple.
Sathyanatheswarar Temple.
2 Which temple in Kanchipuram is 1000 pillar?
A: Ekambareswarar Temple (Ekambaranathar Temple) is a Hindu temple dedicated to the deity Shiva, located in the town of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, India.
3 Which is the oldest temple in Kanchipuram?
A: The Kailasanathar Temple, Kanchipuram, also referred to as the Kailasanatha temple, is a Pallava-era historic Hindu temple in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India. Dedicated to Shiva, it is one of the oldest surviving monuments in Kanchipuram.
5 Who is the god of Kanchipuram?
A: Varadharaja Perumal Temple, also called Hastagiri and Attiyuran, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu located in the city of Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the Divya Desams, the 108 temples of Vishnu believed to have been visited by the 12 poet saints, or the Alvars.
6 Which is the biggest temple in Kanchipuram?
A: There are 11 padal petra stalams in Kanchipuram. The temple is the largest in the town of Kanchipuram and is located in the northern part of the town.
7 What is special in Kanchipuram?
A: Known as the City of Thousand Temples, Kanchipuram is known for its temple architecture, 1000-pillared halls, huge temple towers, and silk saris.
8 Which temple is full of gold?
A: Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Kerala: 1,300 tonnes of gold. Venkateshwara Temple, Tirumala: 4.5 tonnes of gold. Vaishno Devi Temple: 4.5 tonnes of gold with banks as deposits (some maybe fake Gold too). Siddhivinayak Temple, Mumbai: Around 160 kg of gold.
9 Which temple has an elephant in Kanchipuram?
A: Kanchipuram, Varadharaja Perumal temple elephant.
10 How many temples does Kanchipuram have?
A: The ensemble of religious, cultural, social, and political efflorescence for several centuries made Kanchipuram a vibrant center of built heritage, particularly temples dedicated to Siva and Vishnu, in all more than one hundred and fifty temples.
11 Which temple opens once every 40 years?
A: Sri Varadraj Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram, Tamilnadu, India has main deity as Lord Atthi Varadraj Perumal. The original deity, made of the Atthi or the fig tree and stored in an underground chamber inside the temple tank is brought out for worship for 48 days, once every 40 years.
12 What is the old name of Kanchipuram?
A: Conjeevaram is the English name of the ancient Kancheepuram. Like all ancient cities, Kancheepuram is also situated on the banks of a river, Vegavati. The city was the capital of the Early Cholas as far back as the 2nd century BC and a Pallava capital between the 6th and 8th centuries.
13 Is one day enough for Kanchipuram?
A: In such a case please plan at least 2 days to visit Kanchipuram as it’s a very holy and sacred place and you will not be able to visit all the temples in this itinerary in 1 day. c) It is a belief to always start your temple visit with Kamakshi Amman Temple as the first temple. Plan to be at Kanchipuram at least by 7:00 AM.
14 What is the rare temple in Kanchipuram?
A: Chitragupta Temple located in Kanchipuram is dedicated to Chitragupta who is a Hindu Deity. It is a rare temple in India that is dedicated to Chitragupta who is also known as the assistant of The God of Death, Yamaraja.