Silk Route to Kanchipuram: A Cultural & Spiritual Day Trip
Description
Kanchipuram's oldest temple is its most impressive, not for its size but for its weight of historical presence and the intricacy of its stonework. As much monument as living temple, Kailasanatha is quieter than other temples in town, and has been heavily restored. Dedicated to Shiva, it was built in the 8th century by Pallava king Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha), who also created Mamallapuram's Shore Temple.
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Itinerary
Tour orientation
Kanchipuram's oldest temple is its most impressive, not for its size but for its weight of historical presence and the intricacy of its stonework. As much monument as living temple, Kailasanatha is quieter than other temples in town, and has been heavily restored. Dedicated to Shiva, it was built in the 8th century by Pallava king Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha), who also created Mamallapuram's Shore Temple.
Of South India's five Shiva temples associated with the five elements, this 12-hectare precinct is the shrine of earth. You enter beneath the 59m-high, unpainted south gopuram, whose lively carvings were chiselled in 1509 under Vijayanagar rule. Inside, a columned hall leads left into the central compound, which Nandi faces from the right. The inner sanctum (Hindus only) contains a lingam made of earth and a mirror chamber whose central Shiva image is reflected in endless repetition.
Kanchipuram, 80km southwest of Chennai, was capital of the Pallava dynasty during the 6th to 8th centuries, when the Pallavas created the great stone monuments of Mamallapuram. Today a typically hectic modern Indian town, it's famous for its numerous important and vibrant temples (and their colourful festivals), some dating from Pallava, Chola or Vijayanagar times. It's also known for its high-quality silk saris, woven on hand looms by thousands of families in the town and nearby villages. Silk and sari shops are strung along Gandhi Rd, southeast of the centre, though their wares are generally no cheaper than at Chennai silk shops.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(12)
We had a fantastic tour of Kanchipuram starting from Chennai. Tour guide Rajesh did great job explaining the Temple history and mythology. Visited Kanchi Kamakshi temple and Varadaraja Parimal/Lakshmi Narasimha temple ( massive construction with several deities ). Had private pujas n were very satisfied. The other two temples including Kailasanatar and Ekambaranathar temples are beautiful and auspicious as well. Had a great day. After decent lunch visited Silk weavers co-op and were very impressed that their Art of weaving continues on within families. We had purchased Fantastic silk saris with the wholesaler store, very much enjoyed. Worth doing the day tour for those interested in Art/ Archeology and history as well. Heading to Mahablipuram.
Hi We are happy that you enjoyed your Kanchipuram tour. It was our pleasure to hosting you. We are doing Multi-day tours in North and South India.We are waiting to do more tours with you and it definitely gives you a Wonderful experience. Cheers, The Wonder tours
A nice private tour day trip visiting 4 temples, guide explained along the way. Visited kanchi sari where they hand weave silk sari. They do try to sell you some at the end but easy to say no. Nice morning tea stop and lunch stop. Guide Rajesh was knowledgeable and friendly and helpful. Accommodating to limited mobility. Great driver. Good pre-trip planning communications.
Hi We are happy that you enjoyed your Kanchipuram tour. It was our pleasure to hosting you. We are doing Multi-day tours in North and South India.We are waiting to do more tours with you and it definitely gives you a Wonderful experience. Cheers, The Wonder tours
We highly recommend this tour for anyone who wanted to see the historic temples.First temple we saw having biggest entrance tower.Also visited silk weaving place and heritage temples.
Hi We are happy that you enjoyed your Kanchipuram tour. It was our pleasure to hosting you. We are doing Multi-day tours in North and South India.We are waiting to do more tours with you and it definitely gives you a Wonderful experience. Cheers, The Wonder tours
Rajesh was our guide done the fantastic job.We already took British architecture tour with same company.Both tours are awesome.
Hi We are happy that you enjoyed your Kanchipuram tour. It was our pleasure to hosting you. We are doing Multi-day tours in North and South India.We are waiting to do more tours with you and it definitely gives you a Wonderful experience. Cheers, The Wonder tours
Our guide rajesh done a great job! The tour was well-organiszed and and every detail was planned,making the day both enriching and relaxing.It was fantastic experience from tour start to finish.
Hi We are happy that you enjoyed your Kanchipuram tour . It was our pleasure to hosting you. We are doing Multi-day tours in North and South India.We are waiting to do more tours with you and it definitely gives you a Wonderful experience. Cheers, The Wonder tours team
We visited 4 temples and old Indian house name Kanchi Kudil.The city had lot of marvelous temples.Later lunch at local restaurant with our guide was fantastic.
Hi We are happy that you enjoyed your Kanchipuram tour . It was our pleasure to hosting you. We are doing Multi-day tours in North and South India.We are waiting to do more tours with you and it definitely gives you a Wonderful experience. Cheers, The Wonder tours team
Day trip to Kanchipuram was fabulous.Our Vijay guide made the tour interesting.We went 4 temples and silk weaving places.
Hi We are happy that you enjoyed your Kanchipuram tour . It was our pleasure to hosting you. We are doing Multi-day tours in North and South India.We are waiting to do more tours with you and it definitely gives you a Wonderful experience. Cheers, The Wonder tours team
The tour guide did a fantastic job, very detail friendly and professional. He has comprehensive knowledge.
Hi We are happy that you enjoyed your Kanchipuram tour . It was our pleasure to hosting you. We are doing Multi-day tours in North and South India.We are waiting to do more tours with you and it definitely gives you a Wonderful experience. Cheers, The Wonder tours team
Kanchipuram is the place we can see lots of temples and cultural places.After temples we visited to silk weaving place which was amazing.
Hi We are happy that you enjoyed your Kanchipuram tour . It was our pleasure to hosting you. We are doing Multi-day tours in North and South India.We are waiting to do more tours with you and it definitely gives you a Wonderful experience. Cheers, The Wonder tours team
We visited the city with lot of temples and history.Rajesh explained well about the temple and the culture.
Hi We are happy that you enjoyed your Kanchipuram tour . It was our pleasure to hosting you. We are doing Multi-day tours in North and South India.We are waiting to do more tours with you and it definitely gives you a Wonderful experience. Cheers, The Wonder tours team
