A jewel in the cultural and religious supremacy of Tamil Nadu is the city of Kanchipuram. Popularly known as “The Temple City of India”, Kanchipuram is home to the most architecturally beautiful and ancient temples. Also known for its Kanchipuram Sarees, this city will fill you up with respect for Indian art and culture. So come along with me to witness some of the marvels that this city has to offer:-
Ekambareswarar Temple
Dominating the skyline of Kanchipuram is Ekambareswarar Temple. The religious, historical, and architectural influence of this temple makes it a prominent tourist attraction of this city. Built by the Pallavas and renovated by the Cholas, the temple complex covers 40 acres of land, one of the largest in India.Being in existence since at least 600 CE, this temple is one amongst the “Pancha Bhoota Stalam” (Five Shiva temples each representing five elements of life- earth, water, fire, air, and space).
Here Lord Shiva symbolizes earth. This makes this temple quite revered by Saivait saints and devotees. The temple is proof of the architectural splendour of India in the bygone era. The entrance of the temple itself can get connoisseurs hooked to its beauty.Being one of the tallest RajaGopuram(entrance) to any temple in south india, it has beautifully sculpted poses representing different forms of art.While Aayiram Kaal Mandapam or the hall of thousand pillar is another awe inspiring feature of the temple.It is so stunning symmetrical in its construct that you can’t resist being mesmerised by it.
Kamakshi Amman Temple
A temple that worships Goddess Shakti, as Kamakshi is this temple in Kanchi. Being one of the 51 Shakti Peeths, which are sacred shrines built around the falling body parts from the corpse of Goddess Sati, this temple is a religious and cultural hotspot. Both the devotees and travelers flock to this temple throughout the year.
Ancient as it is, it still has preserved its majestic charm. The Gopuram, a towering structure that is decorated with murals of Gods and Goddesses is one of its signatures. While the tiny sculptures carefully shaped to depict stories surrounding the deity inside the temple is a symbol of Dravidian architecture. These will surely pique your interest in the architectural mastery of south Indian architects that crafted such gems in past times.
Kailasanathar Temple
The Pallavas kings are known for their love for art and architecture. One glance at this temple and you will know what I am talking about. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is one of the oldest heritage sites of the city. The architectural beauty of this temple is remarkably different from other temples in Tamil Nadu. One striking feature that appeals the most to the devotees and other visitors is the sixteen-sided Shiva Lingam made of black granite at the main shrine.
The entire architecture of the temple is surrounded by the sculptures of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati in different dancing poses. This makes the visitors praise the meticulous work of the sculptors and the temple also stands as a symbol of eternal love. Visiting this temple is mandatory on your trip to Kanchi otherwise you will miss out on one of the most beautiful temples of this country.
Kanchi Kudil
Experiencing the life of locals is the essence of traveling. Kanchi Kudil, an actual ancestral house turned into a museum, in Kanchipuram gives them an excellent opportunity to do the same. Having an exclusive collection of ancient relics- wooden swings, rocking chairs, utensils, and furniture, this traditional house will surely make you go down the lane in history. As the house is 90 years old, one can even witness the construction style of the houses in the past.
A great source of information about the city, the life, the culture, and the people, this place hosts many evening programs that can prove really enticing especially for children. So if children are accompanying you on this trip, make sure you don’t miss out on it. A word of advice for all the foodies out there, the place exhibits authentic, traditional, and tasty Tamil food. Roam around the place, eat your heart out and have your best time here.
“Places can be visited touring the monuments and the temples but they can be known by visiting the people and their homes.”
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary
One of the ancient cities in India is home to the oldest bird sanctuaries in India, Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary. Protected by the locals, this sanctuary is spread over a sprawling area of 74 acres. Having been blessed with more than 30,000 birds during the migratory season of November to March, this place is capable of entrancing anyone who wishes to see these gorgeous and exotic feathered creatures. A tourist supportive destination, the sanctuary offers accommodation facilities, safaris, and watchtowers. A must-visit place in Tamil Nadu is this sanctuary where you can spend some time away from the man-made jungle amidst the natural flora fauna. Capture some beautiful scenic pictures and admire God’s beautiful creations.
Come to Kanchipuram because this place, steeped in tradition, enriches your soul with divine experience. Appreciate the excellence of Indian sculptors , take polaroids to brag about on instagram and spend time in peace with your family. All the Shiva devotees do visit this city during Mahashivratri as the aura of this city is different during this grand celebration. Spend some time off the grid in God’s lap, spend some time in Kanchipuram.
