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Ekambaranathar Temple is an extremely ancient Hindu temple, situated in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, dedicated to Lord Shiva, whom it is called Ekambareswarar. Of the five Pancha Bhoota Stalam, which translate to the five elements of nature – which are Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Ether or Space – this temple represents the element of Earth. Known for its beautiful Dravidian style of architecture as well as intricately carved sculptures, it also lies adjacent to a holy mango tree considered to be nearly 3,500 years old. It attracts thousands of devotees, especially during Mahashivaratri and Panguni Uthiram, among others.
Ekambaranathar Temple Location
Photo: Lodo / Wikimedia Commons
The Ekambaranathar Temple in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India, is devoted to Lord Shiva in a city noted for its rich cultural and religious heritage. The temple is located 72 kilometres southwest of Chennai, making it conveniently accessible to both pilgrims and tourists
How To Reach Ekambaranathar Temple.
By Air: Kanchipuram’s nearest international airport is Chennai, approximately 75 kilometres away. The airport can handle both public and private transportation.
By Rail: Kanchipuram also has rail connections to the rest of the southern rail network, albeit with only a few trains stopping there. A suburban train runs at regular intervals from Kanchipuram to Chennai’s coastline.
By Road: Kanchipuram is easily accessible by car from anywhere in the country thanks to its proximity to the Quadrilateral National Highway. You might take one of the many buses from Chennai that arrive every hour or two. These services are provided by the Chennai Metropolitan and State Express Transport.
Places To Visit In And Around Ekambaranathar Temple
There are many places and attractions around this temple including other local temples and museums for a vibrant holiday.
1. Kailasanathar Temple
Photo: SriniGS / Wikimedia Commons
Kailasanathar Temple is a Shiva Kanchi, one of three Kanchis in Kancheepuram, the other two being Vishnu Kanchi and Jain Kanchi. The temple is located on the banks of the Vedavathi River near Kanchipuram’s western boundaries, facing east. This is Kancheepuram’s oldest temple. The most prominent celebration here is Maha Shivratri. It is commemorated every year on the 13th and 14th day of the Hindu calendar’s Magha month, or February/March. Visiting this temple during Maha Shiv Ratri is very auspicious. Every year, hundreds of devotees attend the temple on this occasion.
Temple Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM , 4 PM – 7 PM
Distance: 3 km from Ekambaranathar
2. Kamakshi Amman Temple
Photo: Ananthmohanram18 / Wikimedia Commons
The Kamakshi Amman Temple is a significant historical site in Southern India. This centre of devotion, located in the heart of Kanchipuram, also known as the City of Temples, is dedicated to the celestial Goddess Kamakshi, who is thought to be a manifestation of Parvati, the Hindu goddess of love, fertility, and strength. The Kamakshi Amman temple is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, or sacred shrines built around the fallen bodily parts of Goddess Sati from heaven. Shaktism is based on a Hindu tradition that worships the Goddess.
Temple Timings: 5:30 AM – 12:15 PM, 4 PM – 8:15 PM
Distance: 2 km from Ekambaranathar
3. Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple
Photo: Jmadhu / Wikimedia Commons
One of the nicest temples to visit in Kanchipuram, it is set out on a 23-acre compound with a 400-pillared hall and 32 shrines. Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple. Kanchipuram is home to 15 Divya Desams, out of 108 worldwide. Sri Varadaraja Perumal temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams, or the residence of Lord Vishu, one of Hinduism’s three deities. The temple celebrates Brahmostsavam, a great festival held in May/June. Thousands of pilgrims have gathered at the shrine to celebrate the event. The golden and silver lizards at the temple are touched by devotees, who believe it will cure them of doshas or impurities.
Temple Timings: 6 AM – 12 PM , 4 PM – 9:30 PM
Distance: 5 km from Ekambaranathar
4. Vaikunta Perumal Temple
Photo: Nandhinikandhasamy / Wikimedia Commons
The Vaikuntha Perumal temple, located in the heart of Kanchipuram, is an eighth-century Pallava shrine. It is one of 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Vishnu, known as Vaikunthanathan (Lord Paramapadanathan) and his consort Lakshmi as Vaikundavalli. There are three tiers. On the first tier, Moolavar Vaikunda Perumal sits gracefully facing west. Araganadha Perumal, on the second tier, reclines with his head to the north, showering grace. Paramapadanadhar, on the third tier, stands gracefully. Perumal therefore favours his devotees in three postures: sitting, reclining, and standing in this three-tiered temple.Vaikunda Ekadasi is the temple’s most important festival.
Temple Timings: 7 AM – 12 PM, 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Distance: 3 km from Ekambaranathar
5. Kanchi Kudil
Photo: Destination8infinity / Wikimedia Commons
Kanchi Kudil, situated on Sangeetha Vidwan Nainar Pillai Street in Kancheepuram, is a heritage museum that displays the town’s typical culture and previous legacy. Kanchi Kudil was an ancestral home that greets you with magnificent and traditional interiors. The old-fashioned 90-plus-year-old home has been properly preserved and maintained. Exhibits such as dishes, furniture, and costumes are well-maintained for tourists to view. Many paintings depicting villagers’ life are on display, shedding light on the social traditions that existed back then. There are images of women wearing stunning South Indian jewellery. The building where families resided has a master bedroom, children’s room, a worship area, open courtyards, verandahs, and a backyard.
Temple Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Distance: 2 km from Ekambaranathar
Where To Stay
Photo: Derek Jensen / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If planning to visit Ekambaranathar Temple in Kanchipuram, there are quite a few good options for lodging with regard to whatever your budget or interest level happens to be. Mid-range accommodations with regard to comfort come well-equipped and conveniently close to all of the major attractions at the Heritage Inn and Regency Kanchipuram by GRT Hotels. For an even more budget-conscious choice, there’s the Hotel Aalayam Kancheepuram and Hotel Baboo Soorya, offering clean no-frill accommodations.
Where To Eat
Photo: Karthick / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
When you visit the Ekambaranathar Temple, in Kanchipuram you’ll find a variety of dining spots offering South Indian and multi cuisine options that’re worth trying out. If you’re craving vegetarian fare consider checking out Saravana Bhavan, Sangeetha and A2B (Adyar Ananda Bhavan) which are well known for their delicious dosas idlis and thalis. For a blend of South and North Indian flavours Sri Krishna Inn is a go to spot. If you’re looking for dining options, in the area like Hotel SakthI Ganapathi and New Arya Bhavan offer traditional dishes.
Best Time To Visit
Visit the Ekambaranathar Temple in Kanchipuram between November and February when the winter season sets in the region at that time. It is better not to head out during peak summers during the months of March to June, for the reason that the temperatures may cross over 40°C. During monsoon times from July to October, there is moderate to heavy rainfall.
Other Factors To Consider
Other than the weather, one needs to consider other factors when visiting Ekambaranathar Temple. Early mornings and evenings are the best times to avoid crowds. Festivals such as Panguni Uthiram and Maha Shivaratri are pretty vibrant and crowded so it is better to go there during the week for a quiet visit. Allow additional time to visit nearby temples and Kanchipuram’s silk markets, and book ahead in advance, particularly around festival times.
The Ekambaranathar Temple in Kanchipuram is a wonderful site to see spiritual beauty and rich cultural legacy. The temple’s architecture and peaceful surroundings make it a must-see destination. To make the most of your trip, aim to visit during the colder months, dress modestly, and seek out local foods while browsing the famous silk markets. So, are you ready to arrange that trip? Let TripXL provide you with the finest travel offers and information to make your trip to Ekambaranath Temple and beyond unforgettable!y
Cover Photo: கி. கார்த்திகேயன் / Wikimedia Commons
