Watch divinity unfold at every step

Begin your pilgrimage at the Kamakshi Amman Temple, a spiritual jewel in the heart of Kanchipuram. The Kamakshi Amman Temple is dedicated to the enigmatic Goddess Kamakshi, considered the reigning deity of the city of Kanchi. Legend has it that the temple's origins trace back to the divine alliance of Goddess Kamakshi and Lord Shiva. Step into a realm of divine tranquillity at the Ekambareswarar Temple, one of India's largest temple complexes spanning 40 acres. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this majestic sanctuary will enthral you with its towering gateways and intricate sculptures, narrating tales of celestial splendour. The temple complex also houses the Nilathingal Thundam Perumal Temple, which is one of the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Continue your sacred journey to the Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple holds profound religious significance as one of the revered 108 Divya Desams. An extraordinary 40 ft long reclining idol of Lord Athi Varadaraja Perumal at the temple is brought out for darshan only once every 40 years. Prepare to be amazed at the Kailasanathar Temple, one of the oldest structures in Kanchipuram dedicated to Lord Shiva. It inspires awe with its striking 16-sided Shiva Linga made of black granite. As per legend, the Kailasanathar Temple served as a safe haven for the Pallava rulers during times of war and unrest. To ensure their safety, a secret tunnel was ingeniously constructed, providing a discreet escape route that remains visible to this day.

Uncover the harmonious union of Lord Shiva, Goddess Uma, and Lord Muruga at the Sri Subramaniya Swami Temple. As you traverse its sacred grounds nestled between the Sri Ekambareswarar Temple and Sri Kamakshi Amman Temple, feel the divine presence enveloping your soul. Legend has it that, while composing Kanda Puranam, Kachiappa Sivachariar's writings left near the idol of Lord Muruga were found modified and perfected the next morning, leading to the belief that the lord himself corrected and approved the Kanda Puranam.

The array of temples and places of spiritual significance in Kanchipuram are endless. These are not just confined with city limits, but also extend far into its surrounding landscape. The village of Mamandur, for instance, is renowned for its 7th-century rock-cut cave temples that bear witness to the ingenuity of the Pallava dynasty. The temples near the river Palar feature Tamil Brahmi inscriptions said to be dated sometime between 300 BC and 300 CE. Since Brahmi is the earliest Indian alphabetical script, its presence within these sacred walls adds incredible historic significance.

Dazzling festivities and divine processions

Kanchipuram is alive with festivities throughout the year with each festival steeped in tradition and spirituality. February heralds the auspicious Maha Shivaratri festival, drawing devotees from far and wide at the revered Kailasanathar Temple to pay homage to Lord Shiva, amidst an atmosphere brimming with devotion and reverence. A month later, the town is abuzz with the Panguni Brahmotsavam, a 10-day extravaganza at Sri Ekambareswarar Temple. Witness the streets come alive with colourful processions, culminating in the majestic Kalyanotsavam, a sight to behold. In May, the Varadaraja Perumal Temple hosts the Brahmotsavam, where prayers, decorations, and processions create an enchanting ambience that captivates all who partake. The festivities continue with Garudotsavam, a highlight of the Sri Vaikunda Perumal Temple's 10-day celebration in May. This ‘Garuda Sevai Festival’ dazzles spectators with divine processions from various temples across Kanchipuram. October brings the enchanting Navaratri Festival at the Kamakshi Amman Temple, where the goddess adorns herself in opulent attire, sparkling with gemstones and precious ornaments. Finally, the rare Devadhiraj Mahotsavam, occurring once every 40 years atop Athigiri Mountains. On this day, the idol of Lord Varadaraja Perumal reclining on his Adhisesha (five faced serpent) is brought out for darshan for 48 hours. It was last celebrated in 2019. In Kanchipuram, every festival is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted spirituality that defines this ancient town.

A haven for art lovers

Unveil the marvels of Kanchipuram's artistic heritage. This city is a veritable haven for art lovers. From the ethereal strains of classical Carnatic music, to the resplendent allure of Kanjeevaram sarees, to the mesmerising dance forms that encapsulate devotion and grace, Kanchipuram weaves a tale of artistic brilliance.

This is the home of the iconic Kanjeevaram sarees. Woven with the delicate threads of pure silk, the timeless Kanjeevaram sarees have been an integral part of South Indian women's wardrobes for centuries. These sarees hold a special place in cultural celebrations and weddings. Adorned with intricate designs and embellished with real gold zari threads, they radiate opulence and allure. Crafted from superior-quality silk, these sarees often feature heavy-plied mulberry silk yarn, enhancing their weight, durability and lustrous sheen. Passed down through generations, Kanjeevaram sarees are treasured as family heirlooms.

Described as a melodious symphony of divine inspiration, Carnatic music is an art form that transcends boundaries and offers a uniquely enchanting experience. Immerse yourself in the ethereal realm of this divine musical tradition. Encompassing three essential elements – raga, tala, and bhava – they create a tapestry of tuneful renditions, rhythmic precision, and heartfelt expressivity together. Drawing inspiration from mythological tales and captivating dances, the Carnatic artist transports listeners to a realm of spiritual resonance and profound emotions.

A ceremonial dance performed in reverence of Lord Murugan, the Kavadi Attam dance is a kind of offering to the God. Abounding with devotion and awe-inspiring choreography, it originated centuries ago during arduous pilgrimages undertaken by the Tamil communities. Exclusively performed by men, Kavadi Attam showcases their remarkable balance and coordination as they carry pots filled with milk or coconut water attached to long poles.

Prepare to be enthralled by the enchanting Mayilattam, a traditional dance form that pays homage to Lord Subrahmanya, the son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Translated as the "dance of peacocks," Mayilattam finds its essence in the rhythmic movements and artistic grace of these majestic birds. Exclusively performed by women, performers dress as peacocks and dance perched on long wooden sticks attached to their feet.

Home of the Kanjeevaram saree

Indulge in a delightful shopping experience in Kanchipuram. A haven for silk enthusiasts seeking pure luxury, Gandhi Road captivates with its dazzling array of silk sarees. The price of these splendid garments varies according to the intricacy of Zari interwoven with silk, where Zari is meticulously crafted from gold. The famous Nalli store itself stands as a testament to its reputation, beckoning shoppers with its extensive collection. Another delightful destination for silk saree shopping awaits at Mettupalayam Street. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and browse through an assortment of splendid silk creations. A crucial tip for discerning silk saree shoppers: Always look for the Silk Mark certification or the prestigious Geographical Indication (GI) certification to guarantee the authenticity and superior quality of your silk saree purchase.

Culinary heritage comes alive

The rich heritage of South Indian cuisine comes alive in Kanchipuram, offering a multitude of delectable dishes that are sure to leave you craving for more. From breakfast to dinner, Kanchipuram's culinary fare offers an array of flavours, textures, and aromas that capture the essence of the region's gastronomic prowess. Experience the exquisite charm of Kanchipuram Idli, a culinary masterpiece crafted from rice or suji. These fluffy delights are enhanced with a burst of colours and flavours, courtesy a variety of vegetables and spices. A drizzle of ghee adds a final touch of richness, ensuring that each morsel is a sublime explosion of taste and goodness. Be it the legendary Vada, or the quintessential dosa, or simply the soul-warming allure of Sambar, the cornerstone of South Indian cuisine, the art of culinary mastery unfolds in Kanchipuram.

Backwater sports and sun-kissed beaches

Discover the captivating natural beauty of Kanchipuram, with lush landscapes encased between pristine beaches and serene waters. Far from the hustle and bustle of urban life, Kanchipuram offers a tranquil escape into the lap of nature. Whether you seek the sun-kissed shores of Mahabalipuram beach, the adventurous water sports amidst the backwaters at Muttukadu, or the scenic charm of Mudaliarkuppam where you can go boating at the raindrop boat house, this enchanting city has something nearby to suit every taste. Nearby, you can escape to Mahabalipuram Beach, where serenity meets scenic beauty or indulge in the allure of Covelong Beach, the first surfing village in the country. Unwind amidst spectacular sunsets, take part in thrilling activities, and indulge in the rural environment of villages close by. Let the wonders of nature enthral your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories.

An oasis for birdwatchers and animal lovers

Just a short drive from Kanchipuram, the magnificent Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is an enchanting oasis for birdwatchers. Step into a world where colourful plumage dances through the air, as over 30,000 migratory birds such as open-billed storks, graceful egrets and majestic pelicans find solace here each year.

For the animal lovers, the Arignar Anna Zoological Park is a haven of wildlife set amidst a pristine reserve forest just 5 km from Kanchipuram. Take a journey through its fascinating nocturnal animal house, where elusive creatures come to life under the moonlit sky. Encounter majestic reptiles up close in their purpose-built enclosures, and marvel at the colourful aviaries that allow you to walk amidst the enchanting world of birds. Delight in the fluttering beauty of the butterfly house, where vibrant winged wonders dance in harmony. And for a truly unforgettable experience, embark on a thrilling lion safari.