KANCHIPURAM
Are you tired of the same old touristy spots? Bored of visiting crowded places and standing in long queues? Well, let me introduce you to Kanchipuram - a hidden gem in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India.
Kanchipuram, also known as the "City of Thousand Temples," is a small town that packs a punch. It is home to some of the most exquisite and intricately designed temples in India. The town also boasts of its famous Kanchipuram silk sarees, which are a must-buy for all fashion enthusiasts.
But wait, there's more! Kanchipuram is also known for its mouth-watering delicacies, including idlis and dosas, which are guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. And if you're someone who loves adventure, then Kanchipuram has got you covered with its thrilling water sports activities.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Kanchipuram - a perfect blend of culture, tradition, and fun. And who knows, you might just get lucky enough to witness some of the most beautiful festivals like Pongal or Mahashivratri.
Trust us; this trip will be an experience of a lifetime!
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- History and Culture of Kanchipuram
- How to Reach and getting around Kanchipuram
- Weather of Kanchipuram
- Places to Visit in Kanchipuram
- Food Options and Local Cuisine of Kanchipuram
- Best areas for Accommodation in Kanchipuram
- Shopping in Kanchipuram
- Nightlife in Kanchipuram
- Festivals and Events in Kanchipuram
- Tips for Travelers travelling to Kanchipuram
- FAQs
History and Culture of Kanchipuram
Have you ever heard of Kanchipuram? It's a city in Tamil Nadu, India, known for its silk sarees and ancient temples. Legend has it that the city was founded by Lord Brahma himself. But let's not get too carried away with mythology. Kanchipuram has a rich history dating back to the 2nd century BCE when it was ruled by the Cholas. Pallavas, Chalukyas, and Vijayanagar Empire also left their mark on the city. The city became a center of learning and religion during the reign of Pallavas. Scholars from all over the country came to study at the Kanchi matha, a monastery that still exists today. But enough about history, let's talk about culture! Kanchipuram is famous for its silk sarees, which are handwoven and intricately designed. The sarees are so popular that even Hollywood celebrities have been spotted wearing them! The city is also known for its delicious street food, such as piping hot idlis and crispy vadas. And if you're in the mood for something sweet, try some payasam, a rice pudding made with jaggery and coconut milk. If you ever visit Kanchipuram, make sure to check out its ancient temples like Kailasanathar Temple and Ekambareswarar Temple. These architectural marvels will leave you in awe!
How to Reach and getting around Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram is a beautiful ancient city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Located in the state of Tamil Nadu, India, it attracts tourists from all over the world. If you're planning a trip to Kanchipuram, here are some ways to reach there.
By Air: The nearest airport to Kanchipuram is Chennai International Airport, which is approximately 70 km away. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to reach Kanchipuram.
By Train: Kanchipuram has its own railway station, and several trains run daily connecting it to major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. You can book your train tickets online or at the railway station.
By Road: Kanchipuram is well-connected by road with major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. You can either take a bus or drive down in a car. The roads are well-maintained and offer a comfortable journey.
By Cab: If you're traveling from Chennai or Bangalore, you can hire a cab for a hassle-free journey. Several cab operators offer different packages for one-way or round-trip journeys.
By Bike: If you're an adventure enthusiast and love riding bikes, then this is the perfect option for you. Renting a bike in Chennai or Bangalore and riding down to Kanchipuram will be an experience worth cherishing.
No matter which mode of transport you choose, reaching Kanchipuram will be an exciting journey that will give you memories that last a lifetime.
Weather of Kanchipuram
Extreme Winters
Mild Winters
Hot + DryHot + HumidRainyCool and PleasantKanchipuram, a city located in the southern part of India, experiences a tropical climate with high humidity. The summers in Kanchipuram are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 32°C to 42°C. Monsoons bring heavy rainfall to the city, which can be unpredictable and may cause inconvenience to tourists. The winter season is mild with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C.
The best time to visit Kanchipuram is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. During this time, tourists can explore the famous temples of the city without any discomfort due to heat or rain. Moreover, the period between December and February is considered the peak season when tourists flock to Kanchipuram for its cultural and historical significance.
Tourists planning a trip during off-season can enjoy a relatively peaceful atmosphere with fewer crowds, but they should be prepared for occasional showers. It is advisable to carry light cotton clothes during summers and monsoons and warm clothing during winters.
In conclusion, Kanchipuram's weather is primarily tropical, with hot summers and mild winters. The best time to visit this culturally-rich city is between October and March when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing.
Places to Visit in Kanchipuram
Kailasanathar Temple The Kailasanathar Temple is one of the oldest and most well-preserved temples in Kanchipuram. Built in the 8th century by Pallava King Rajasimha, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva and showcases exquisite carvings and sculptures. It is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Ekambareswarar Temple Another ancient temple in Kanchipuram, the Ekambareswarar Temple is one of the largest Shiva temples in South India. It has a 3500-year old mango tree inside its complex and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.
Varadharaja Perumal Temple The Varadharaja Perumal Temple is a famous Vaishnavite temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his form as Varadharaja Perumal. The temple has a majestic gopuram (tower) that rises to a height of 100 feet, and its inner sanctum houses a beautiful idol of the deity.
Kamakshi Amman Temple The Kamakshi Amman Temple is another important temple in Kanchipuram, dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. The temple has a striking golden chariot used during festivals, and its walls are adorned with intricate carvings depicting various mythological stories.
Devarajaswami Temple The Devarajaswami Temple is one of the largest temples in Kanchipuram, built by the Vijayanagara kings and dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Devarajaswami. The temple has several shrines dedicated to different deities, along with beautiful sculptures and paintings.
Ulagalantha Perumal Temple The Ulagalantha Perumal Temple is an ancient Vaishnavite shrine that dates back to the 7th century AD. It houses an impressive idol of Lord Vishnu reclining on his serpent bed, along with several other idols depicting various forms of the deity.
Thiruthani Murugan Temple Located on a hilltop near Kanchipuram, the Thiruthani Murugan Temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan (also known as Kartikeya), son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The temple offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests.
Sriperumbudur Sriperumbudur is a small town located close to Kanchipuram that holds great religious significance for Hindus as it was the birthplace of Saint Ramanuja, one of the most important philosophers of Vaishnavism.
Jain Temples Kanchipuram was also an important center for Jainism at one point, with several Jain temples built here during ancient times that showcase exquisite sculptures and carvings depicting Jain deities.
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary Located around 30 km from Kanchipuram, Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is home to over 40 species of migratory birds that flock here during winter months from as far as Siberia and Australia. It offers birdwatchers an opportunity to spot rare birds like painted storks, ibises, pelicans, etc., making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts visiting Kanchipuram.
Religious Shrines
Heritage Places
Food Options and Local Cuisine of Kanchipuram
Best areas for accommodation in Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram, a culturally rich city in Tamil Nadu, is famous for its ancient temples and silk sarees. When it comes to accommodation, Kanchipuram offers a range of options that cater to different preferences and budgets. Here are some of the best areas for accommodation in Kanchipuram:
- Gandhi Road: This area is located right in the heart of Kanchipuram and is close to most of the major attractions in the city. It has plenty of hotels and guesthouses that offer comfortable stay options.
- Sannathi Street: This area is known for its budget-friendly accommodations such as lodges and guesthouses. It is also close to many temples, making it an ideal place to stay for those who want to explore the religious sites in Kanchipuram.
Here are three properties for accommodation in Kanchipuram:
- Heritage Madras: This luxury hotel located on Gandhi Road offers elegantly designed rooms with modern amenities. It features an outdoor swimming pool, a restaurant, and a bar.
- Sri Hari Residency: This budget hotel located on Sannathi Street offers clean and cozy rooms at affordable prices. It features a 24-hour front desk and provides travel assistance to guests.
- Backpackers Villa: This hostel located on Gandhi Road offers dormitory-style accommodations with shared bathrooms. It features a common lounge area where guests can relax and socialize with other travelers.
Overall, Kanchipuram provides ample accommodation options that cater to different preferences and budgets. Whether you're looking for luxury hotels or budget-friendly guesthouses, you're sure to find something that suits your needs in this culturally rich city.
Shopping in Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram is a popular destination for silk sarees and traditional Indian clothes. The city is famous for its exquisite silk sarees, which are hand-woven and intricately designed with gold and silver threads. Besides sarees, there are many other things to buy in Kanchipuram as well. Here are some of the top things to buy, markets to visit, and things to avoid while shopping in Kanchipuram.
Things to buy
- Silk sarees
- Traditional Indian clothes like salwar kameez and lehenga choli
- Handicrafts like brass lamps, Tanjore paintings, and wooden carvings
- Spices like cardamom, cloves, pepper, and turmeric
Markets to visit
- Kanchipuram Main Market
- Gandhi Road Market
- Handloom Weavers Cooperative Society
What to avoid
- Buying from street vendors who sell cheap imitations of silk sarees
- Purchasing from shops without checking their authenticity
- Visiting shops that don't have fixed prices
- Paying more than the fair price for products
In conclusion, shopping in Kanchipuram can be an overwhelming experience if you don't know where to go or what to buy. It's essential to do your research before visiting the city so that you can make informed decisions while shopping. With this guide on hand, you can enjoy a hassle-free shopping experience in Kanchipuram.
Nightlife in Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram is a city in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, known for its ancient temples and silk sarees. Though Kanchipuram is not famous for its nightlife, the city offers a few places to spend the night with your friends or family.
The nightlife in Kanchipuram is relatively quiet and peaceful compared to other cities in India. However, there are some places where you can enjoy your night with friends or family.
1. Hotel Pine Tree - The hotel offers comfortable accommodation and amenities like a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar. You can have dinner at the restaurant, enjoy drinks at the bar or take a dip in the pool.
2. Regency Kanchipuram by GRT Hotels - This hotel provides spacious rooms with all modern amenities like Wi-Fi, TV, and minibar. You can enjoy dinner at their restaurant or relax at their rooftop lounge.
3. MGM Beach Resorts ECR Chennai - Located 30 km away from Kanchipuram, this resort offers luxurious beachfront accommodation with excellent facilities such as swimming pool, spa, fitness center, restaurant and bar.
Overall, Kanchipuram is not the ideal place for party-goers to experience an active nightlife scene. However, one can still find some good places for spending the night with their loved ones while enjoying all the comforts these places have to offer.
Outdoor Activities in Kanchipuram
After a day of exploring the temples and monuments, Kanchipuram offers some exciting outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts. The city is surrounded by scenic hills, forests, and lakes that offer ample opportunities for trekking, camping, bird watching, and boating.
Trekking: The hills surrounding Kanchipuram offer some breathtaking treks through lush forests, rocky terrains, and cascading waterfalls. The most popular trekking routes include the Nagalapuram Hills, Venkateswara Hills, and Thiruparuthikundram.
Camping: Camping under the starry sky near a lake or waterfall is a refreshing experience in Kanchipuram. Some of the popular camping sites include Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, Pulicat Lake, and Yelagiri Hills.
Bird Watching: Kanchipuram is home to several bird sanctuaries that attract a variety of migratory birds during winters. Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is one of the oldest and largest bird sanctuaries in India with over 40,000 birds of various species.
Apart from these activities, visitors can also indulge in boating at the picturesque Muttukadu Lake or take a leisurely stroll through the lush gardens at Ekambareswarar Temple. With its natural beauty and tranquil surroundings, Kanchipuram offers an ideal escape from the hustle-bustle of city life.
Festivals and Events in Kanchipuram
Kanchipuram, also known as the "City of Thousand Temples", is a holy place in Tamil Nadu. Festivals and events in Kanchipuram are an integral part of the city's culture. They reflect the rich tradition and heritage of the region. Many festivals and events are celebrated with great pomp and show, attracting a large number of tourists from all over the world.
- Mahashivaratri (February/March): This festival is celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva. Devotees fast throughout the day and offer special prayers at the Ekambareswarar Temple.
- Panguni Uthiram (March/April): This festival is celebrated in honor of Lord Murugan. Devotees take a sacred bath in the Kamakshi Amman Temple tank.
- Brahmotsavam (April/May): This festival is celebrated at the Varadaraja Perumal Temple. The presiding deity, Lord Varadaraja, is taken out in procession on a different vahanam (vehicle) every day.
- Kanchi Kamakshi Temple Car Festival (April/May): This festival is celebrated at the Kamakshi Amman Temple. The goddess Kamakshi is taken out on a chariot around the temple streets.
- Deepavali (October/November): This festival of lights is celebrated all over India. In Kanchipuram, people light diyas, decorate their homes with rangolis, and distribute sweets.
These festivals and events are an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience Kanchipuram's vibrant culture and traditions firsthand. It's advisable to check for exact dates before planning a trip to Kanchipuram as they may vary slightly each year based on lunar calendar calculations.
Tips for Travelers while travelling to Kanchipuram
- Research and plan ahead: Before traveling to Kanchipuram, do some research on the festivals and events that are happening in the city. This will help you plan your trip accordingly and ensure that you don't miss out on any of the cultural experiences.
- Respect local customs and traditions: Kanchipuram is known for its rich cultural heritage, so it's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions while visiting. Dress modestly, remove your shoes before entering temples, and be mindful of your actions in public places.
- Try the local cuisine: Kanchipuram is famous for its delicious vegetarian cuisine, so make sure to try some of the local dishes while you're there. Some must-try dishes include idli, dosa, vada, sambar, and rasam.
- Stay hydrated: The weather in Kanchipuram can get quite hot and humid, so it's important to stay hydrated while you're out exploring. Make sure to carry a water bottle with you at all times and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
- Take care of your belongings: Like any other tourist destination, Kanchipuram can attract pickpockets and thieves. Be vigilant with your belongings at all times, especially in crowded areas like markets and festivals. Keep your valuables close to you and avoid carrying large sums of cash or expensive items with you.
FAQs
What is Kanchipuram famous for?
Kanchipuram, also known as Kanchi, is a famous temple town located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is renowned for its beautiful silk sarees, which are handwoven and intricately designed. It is also known for its ancient temples, which are built in Dravidian architectural style.
How to reach Kanchipuram?
Kanchipuram is well connected by road, rail and air. The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, which is around 75 km away. The nearest railway station is Kanchipuram Railway Station, which is well connected with major cities in India. One can also reach Kanchipuram by bus as it has good road connectivity with other cities.
What are the best places to visit in Kanchipuram?
Kanchipuram has many ancient temples that are worth visiting. Some of the popular ones include Kamakshi Amman Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple, Varadaraja Perumal Temple and Kailasanathar Temple. Apart from these temples, one can also visit the Silk Weaving Centers to witness the process of weaving silk sarees.
What is the best time to visit Kanchipuram?
The best time to visit Kanchipuram is from October to March when the weather remains pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The temperature during this time ranges between 20°C to 28°C.
What are some famous dishes of Kanchipuram?
Kanchipuram has a unique cuisine that is influenced by Tamil Nadu's traditional food culture. Some of the famous dishes include Idli Sambar, Vada Sambar, Pongal, Kesari Bath and Dosa.
Where can I buy silk sarees in Kanchipuram?
Kanchipuram is known for its handwoven silk sarees that are popular all over India. One can buy silk sarees from various shops located near the temples or from Silk Weaving Centers where one can witness the process of weaving silk sarees.
Are there any accommodation options available in Kanchipuram?
Yes, there are plenty of accommodation options available in Kanchipuram ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Some of the popular ones include GRT Regency Hotel, Hotel Baboo Soorya and Citrus Sriperumbudur.
