YOUR ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE TO KANCHIPURAM

Essential Information

Country, State: India, Tamil Nadu
Timezone: GMT +5:30
Languages Spoken: Tamil, English
Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)

Weather and Climate

January – February: Pleasant, 20°C to 30°C; ideal for temple visits
March – May: Hot and dry, 30°C to 40°C; avoid midday, hydrate well
June – September: Monsoon, 25°C to 35°C; occasional heavy rain
October – December: Post-monsoon, 22°C to 32°C; another great window

Discover Kanchipuram: A City Overview

Kanchipuram, fondly called Kanchi, is a historic jewel of Tamil Nadu and one of Hinduism’s seven holiest cities, celebrated for its soaring gopurams, sublime Dravidian temples, and world-famous silk sarees. A center of learning and spirituality for centuries, its temple corridors echo with mythology carved in stone, while vibrant markets showcase handloom traditions perfected over generations.

From the intricately woven Kanchipuram silks to the serene sanctums of Kamakshi Amman, Varadharaja Perumal, Ekambareswarar, and Kailasanathar, the city offers a deep immersion in South Indian art, architecture, and ritual. Festivals animate the streets, artisans at looms preserve living heritage, and every lane hints at dynastic legacies that shaped its skyline. Kanchipuram beautifully blends history, craft, and devotion into a richly layered cultural experience.

Best Time to Visit Kanchipuram for Optimal Weather

October – March (Winter):
- Pros: Pleasant weather for temple hopping and silk shopping
- Cons: Peak season crowds and higher rates
June – September (Monsoon):
- Pros: Lusher surroundings, fewer tourists, potential deals
- Cons: Rains can disrupt outdoor plans
March – May (Summer):
- Pros: Thinner crowds, accommodation savings
- Cons: Heat and humidity make midday sightseeing tough

How to Get to Kanchipuram & Visa Requirements

Flights: Nearest major airport: Chennai International Airport (MAA), ~75km.
Trains: Kanchipuram (CJ) connects to key South Indian cities; book ahead.
Visa Requirements: Rules vary by nationality; e‑Visa available for many travelers—check current guidance before applying.
Airport Transfers: Taxis and pre-booked cars from Chennai are convenient; reserve in advance for smoother arrivals.

Fun/Historical Facts

Tradition hails Kanchipuram as a renowned seat of learning where the four Vedas were once recited in unison, underscoring its stature as a spiritual and scholarly hub.

Famous People from Kanchipuram:

C. N. Annadurai: former Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu
Varadaraja Iyengar: noted mathematician

Top Things to See and Do: Kanchipuram Attractions

Top 10 Attractions in Kanchipuram

Kamakshi Amman Temple: Major Shakti shrine with the goddess in a seated posture
- Address: Kamakshi Amman Sannathi Street, Periya Kanchipuram, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631501
Varadharaja Perumal Temple: Renowned Vishnu temple with exquisite carvings and a famed 100-pillared hall
- Address: Nethaji Nagar, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631501
Ekambareswarar Temple: Shiva temple noted for its towering gopuram and ancient mango tree
- Address: Ekambaranathar Sannathi St, Periya Kanchipuram, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631501
Kailasanathar Temple: Early Dravidian masterpiece from the Pallava era
- Address: Pillaiyarpalayam, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631501
Devarajaswami Temple: Revered Vishnu temple with beautiful sculptures
- Address: West Raja Street, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631501
Ulagalantha Perumal Temple: Vishnu in Trivikrama form; features multiple Divya Desams within the complex
- Address: Near Kanchipuram Bus Stand, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631501
Sri Agatheeswarar Temple: Historic Shiva temple with serene ambience
- Address: Near Kanchipuram, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631602
Thiruparameswara Vinnagaram (Vaikunta Perumal Temple): Vishnu temple with a rich Pallava legacy
- Address: Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631502
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary: Migratory bird haven in season; great for birding and photography
- Address: Madurantakam Taluk, Kanchipuram District, Vedanthangal, Tamil Nadu 603111
Thennangur Panduranga Rukmani Temple: Distinctive temple known for its peaceful setting
- Address: Thennangur Village, Vandavasi Taluk, Tiruvannamalai District, Tamil Nadu 604407

Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path in Kanchipuram

Kanchi Kudil: Restored heritage home offering insights into traditional local life
- Address: 74, Salai Street, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631501
Local Silk Weaving Workshops: Observe master weavers crafting Kanchipuram silk sarees
- Address: Various locales; inquire locally for timings
Kamakoti Peetam (Kanchi Mutt): Revered monastery and spiritual institution
- Address: 48, East Raja Street, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631501

Local Festivals and Events in Kanchipuram

Brahmotsavam (Varadharaja Perumal Temple; May/June): Ten-day celebration with Garudotsavam and a grand chariot procession
Kamakshi Amman Temple Festival (March/April): Annual festivities with processions and special rituals
Pongal (January): Harvest festival marked by traditional rites and community celebrations

Day Trips from Kanchipuram: Explore Beyond the City

Mahabalipuram (approx. 1 hour): Ancient rock-cut monuments and the iconic Shore Temple
Chennai (approx. 2 hours): Coastal capital with museums, temples, and urban attractions
Vellore (approx. 2.5 hours): Historic Vellore Fort and the luminous Golden Temple

Photography Hotspots: Insta-Worthy Locations in Kanchipuram

Kamakshi Amman Temple Gopuram: Classic Kanchi skyline capture
Varadharaja Perumal Temple’s 100-Pillared Hall: Richly carved stone details
Kailasanathar Temple: Sandstone shrines and Pallava-era sculptures
Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary at Sunset: Silhouettes and reflections with migratory flocks (seasonal)
Silk Weaving Workshops: Vivid threads, looms, and artisan portraits

Planning Your Stay in Kanchipuram

Recommended Length of Stay

2–3 days are sufficient for major temples, silk workshops, and a nearby day trip.

Top Places to Stay in Kanchipuram

Budget-Friendly Hotels

Hotel Tamil Nadu Kanchipuram
- Address: 47/12-A, Gandhi Road, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631501
MM Hotel
- Address: 48, Gandhi Rd, Opp. Police Booth, Nellukara Street, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631501
Hotel Arunaachalaa
- Address: No. 40, Opp. Railway Station Road, Railway Road, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631501

Mid-Range Hotels

GRT Regency Kanchipuram
- Address: 314/2A, Chennai–Bengaluru Highway, Near Toyota Showroom, Thimmasamudram, Tamil Nadu 631501
Hotel SSK Residency
- Address: No. 31, 100 Feet Rd, Near Anna Statue, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631501
Pine Tree Hotels Kanchipuram
- Address: No. 100 Feet Rd, Opp. Anna Statue, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631501

Luxury Hotels

Radisson Temple Bay Mamallapuram
- Address: 57 East Coast Road, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104
Ideal Beach Resort
- Address: East Coast Road, Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu 603104

Getting Around Kanchipuram: Transportation Options

Public Buses: Budget-friendly but often crowded at peak hours
Taxis & Auto-rickshaws: Widely available; agree fares in advance
Walking: Ideal for the central temple cluster and bazaar lanes

Preparing for Your Trip to Kanchipuram: Practical Information

What to Pack for Your Kanchipuram Adventure

Light, breathable cottons for warm weather
Comfortable walking shoes for temple complexes
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses for daytime outings
Modest attire for religious sites (cover shoulders and knees)
Insect repellent, especially in the monsoon

Useful Apps for Travel in Kanchipuram

Google Maps: Navigation and traffic
Ola/Uber: App-based rides where available
Google Translate: Quick Tamil/English phrases

Local Customs, Safety Tips, and Cultural Etiquette

Remove shoes before entering temples; dress modestly
Ask permission before photographing inside sanctums or ceremonies
Avoid public displays of affection; respect queues and rituals
Scams to Avoid: Persistent touts or unsolicited “guides”—confirm prices and services upfront

Food, Fun, and Finds: Experiencing Kanchipuram

Top Restaurants in Kanchipuram

Hotel Saravana Bhavan: Classic South Indian vegetarian fare. Reliable, authentic tiffin and meals
- Address: 84/1, Gandhi Rd, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631501
The Dakshin Restaurant: Multi-cuisine menu spanning Indian and Chinese
- Address: 22A, West Raja Street, Kanchipuram 631501, Tamil Nadu
Adyar Ananda Bhavan (A2B): Sweets, snacks, and quick bites
- Address: Bangalore–Chennai Hwy, Near Toyota Showroom, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631501

Must-Try Dishes

Idli & Dosa: Tiffin staples across eateries
Pongal: Comforting rice-and-lentil breakfast
Vada: Crispy lentil fritters
Kanchipuram Idli: Spiced, cylindrical idli steamed in leaves

Nightlife and Entertainment in Kanchipuram

Evenings are culture-forward—stroll bazaars, enjoy calm dinners, or attend temple/cultural programs when scheduled

Souvenirs and Markets: What to Buy in Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram Silk Sarees: Handwoven silks with rich borders and motifs (citywide showrooms and cooperatives)
Temple Figurines: Small deity statues from stalls near major temples
Handicrafts: Wood and stone crafts from local markets