Kanchipuram One-Day Tour

  1. 8:00 AM: Kamakshi Amman Temple
    Located in the heart of Kanchipuram, Kamakshi Amman Temple is a famous shrine dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi. The temple has beautifully carved pillars and a golden vimana, making it a must-visit location.
    Estimated time and distance from the next location: 15 minutes (1.2 miles)
  2. 9:30 AM: Ekambareswarar Temple
    Ekambareswarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the five major Shiva temples of Tamil Nadu. The temple has a majestic 1000-pillar hall and a sacred mango tree believed to be over 3,500 years old.
    Estimated time and distance from the next location: 15 minutes (1.2 miles)
  3. 11:00 AM: Kanchi Kudhil
    Located within walking distance from the Ekambareswarar Temple, Kanchi Kudhil is a restored heritage house that gives visitors a glimpse of the traditional lifestyle of a Brahmin family from Kanchipuram. The house has a beautiful courtyard and intricate wood carvings.
    Estimated time and distance from the next location: 10 minutes (0.5 miles)
  4. 12:00 PM: Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple
    Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is one of the 108 divya desams (sacred shrines). The temple has six daily rituals that visitors can witness, and the main deity is believed to be a powerful healer.
    Estimated time and distance from the next location: 20 minutes (2.5 miles)
  5. 2:00 PM: Lunch at Murugan Idli Shop
    Murugan Idli Shop is a popular eatery in Kanchipuram known for serving authentic South Indian cuisine. The must-try items include their fluffy idlis, crispy vadas, and refreshing filter coffee.
    Estimated time and distance from the next location: 20 minutes (1.5 miles)
  6. 3:30 PM: Kailasanathar Temple
    Kailasanathar Temple is one of the oldest structural temples in South India and is renowned for its architectural beauty. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has intricate carvings of various Hindu gods and goddesses.
    Estimated time and distance from the next location: 15 minutes (1.5 miles)
  7. 5:00 PM: Shopping at Silk Saree Weaving Factories
    Kanchipuram is famous for its silk sarees, and visitors can witness the weaving process at various factories around the city. Some of the popular ones include the Kovai Brothers and Pachaiyappas Silks.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Kamakshi Amman Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Ekambareswarar Temple (1.5 hours, free)
  • Kanchi Kudhil (1 hour, INR 50)
  • Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Murugan Idli Shop (1 hour, INR 200)
  • Kailasanathar Temple (1 hour, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 250

Useful tips

If you have more time, you can add a visit to the Varadharaja Perumal Temple, known for its 100-pillar mandapam. Those interested in history can also visit the Kanchipuram Government Museum, which exhibits sculptures and artifacts from the surrounding areas.

If you have less time, you can skip the Kanchi Kudhil and the shopping at silk saree weaving factories. Alternatively, you can combine both and visit the Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple and the Kamakshi Amman Temple instead.

Remember to wear comfortable footwear and appropriate clothing while visiting the temples. It is also advisable to carry drinking water and sunscreen, especially during summers.

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