FACTS & FIGURES
Built | Between 3rd to 17th centuries AD |
Location | Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu) |
Kanchipuram is a holy town and is most popular for a large number of temples. The magnificent structures of these temples point towards the Dravidian style of architecture. The temples of Kanchipuram were built by the rulers of various dynasties, each elevating and refining the architecture more and more.
Architectural Style:
The architectural pattern exhibited through these temples is typical south Indian and feature high roofs surmounting the sanctum sanctorum and gopurams. The temple gateways are elaborately carved out and are the chief features of the temples.
Major temples of Kanchipuram:
The Kanchipuram temples are the outstanding instances of a number of ancient dynasties making their contributions towards the art and architecture. The typical Pallava art is reflected through these temples with significant contributions by the Chola, Vijayanagara and Chalukyan dynasties. Some of the famous temples of Kanchipuram are:
Kailasanatha Temple: It is one of the oldest temples and was built in the 8th century by Rajasimha and his son Mahendra. You will find numerous small shrines located around the main shrine. The fresco-style paintings embellish the inner walls of the shrines and it is constructed using sandstone. The murals which once graced the alcoves are evident reminders of how wonderful the temple must have been when it was built initially.
Kamakshi Amman Temple: This temple is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful ones among the various temples of south India and is dedicated to the presiding deity of Kanchi, Goddess Kamakshi. You will find an exquisite golden �gopuram� in the centre of this temple.
Devarajaswami Temple: Built by the Vijayanagar rulers, this temple is devoted to Lord Vishnu and features elaborately sculpted pillared halls. The prime highlight of the temple is a massive chain carved out of a single piece of stone. There is also a statue of Vishnu submerged in a large water tank within the temple.
Vaikuntha Perumal Temple: This temple is a must watch on your south India temple tour; built in the 7th century by the Pallava king Nandhivarman Pallavamalla it is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple has a number of inscriptions depicting the battles between the Pallavas and Chalukyas. Inside the temple the presiding deity (Lord Vishnu) is shown in the sitting, standing and reclining postures.
How to reach Kanchipuram:
The nearest airport to Kanchipuram is in Chennai and one can reach here from the major destinations of south India and the other cities of India.
You can get the regular trains for Kanchipuram from Chennai, Chengalpattu, Tirupati, and Bangalore. Besides, it is well connected both by the broad gauge and meter gauge as well. The motorable network of roads makes road transport also quite convenient. The state transport corporation buses connect Kanchipuram and various neighboring destinations.
Touristplacesinindia.com offers online information on Temples of Kanchipuram and offers the various tour packages also. For more information on the tourist destinations of India, keep browsing through this site.
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