Kanchipuram, in Tamil Nadu's Kancheepuram district, is one of India's seven sacred cities and a historic Pallava capital, about 72 km south-west of Chennai. It is known for its large stone temples and for hand-woven silk saris. The journey takes roughly 2 to 2.5 hours each way. TNSTC buses leave Koyambedu CMBT for the Kanchipuram bus stand at about ₹50 to ₹100, while a taxi for a return day trip costs about ₹2,500 to ₹4,000. A suburban train to Chengalpattu followed by a bus is a cheaper alternative but involves a change.
The main temples sit 10 to 15 minutes by auto from the bus stand. Ekambareswarar Temple, dedicated to Shiva, has a tall gopuram and a hall of a thousand pillars, and a mango tree associated with the site is revered. Kailasanathar Temple, built by the Pallavas in sandstone, is one of the oldest structures in the city and is noted for its carved shrines. Kamakshi Amman Temple is the main goddess shrine, and Varadharaja Perumal Temple is a major Vishnu temple. Many temples close in the early afternoon and reopen in the evening, so the schedule needs planning.
A sensible day begins with an early departure so that Ekambareswarar and Kailasanathar are visited in the morning. Lunch can be a vegetarian meal at one of the local restaurants, which serve South Indian thali meals. The afternoon, when many temples are closed, suits a visit to the weaving cooperatives and showrooms where silk saris are sold, with prices ranging from about ₹3,000 to ₹30,000 or more depending on the zari work. Visitors who want to see looms in operation can ask at a cooperative society or look for weavers' streets in the town. Kamakshi Amman can be visited in the late afternoon before the return journey.
November to February is the most pleasant season, because Kanchipuram is hot between April and June. Temple entry is free or by small donation, and modest dress covering shoulders and knees is expected. A budget of ₹1,000 to ₹3,000 covers transport and food, excluding any sari purchase. Sriperumbudur lies on the same road and can be combined with this trip.
| Distance | About 72 km south-west of Chennai |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 2-2.5 hours each way |
| Getting there | Bus: TNSTC buses from Koyambedu CMBT to Kanchipuram bus stand, about ₹50-100 (approx $0.52-1.04 USD) |
| Cost | Temple entry is free or by small donation; silk saris ₹3,000-30,000 (approx $31-313 USD); allow ₹1,000-3,000 (approx $10-31 USD) for travel and food |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Address | Ekambareswarar Temple, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631502, India |
How to get there
- Train: EMU to Chengalpattu then bus (about ₹10-30 (approx $0.10-0.31 USD) for the train leg)
- Taxi: about ₹2,500-4,000 (approx $26-42 USD) for a return day trip
- Bus: TNSTC services from Koyambedu
Location
Ekambareswarar Temple, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu 631502, India
12.8472, 79.6998 View on map
Highlights
- Ekambareswarar Temple, a large Shiva temple with a tall gopuram and pillared halls
- Kailasanathar Temple, an early Pallava sandstone temple with carved shrines
- Kamakshi Amman Temple, the town's main goddess shrine
- Silk weaving cooperatives and showrooms selling Kanchipuram saris
- South Indian vegetarian thali meals in town
Tips for visiting
- Take an early bus from Koyambedu CMBT so the temples are visited before their midday closure.
- Check temple timings locally, since many close in the early afternoon.
- Wear modest clothing and expect to remove footwear at temple entrances.
- Buy silk from cooperative societies or established showrooms and ask about the zari content.
- Combine with Sriperumbudur if travelling by taxi along the same road.
When to visit
November to February, with arrival in the morning before the temples close for the midday break.
Accessibility
Temple precincts have uneven stone floors, steps and require walking barefoot, which can be hard for those with limited mobility. Autos and taxis can reach most entrances.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Kanchipuram from Chennai?
It is about 72 km south-west of Chennai. Buses and cars take roughly 2 to 2.5 hours each way.
Is Kanchipuram worth a day trip?
Yes. Several major temples and the silk-weaving industry can be covered in a long day with an early start.
How much do Kanchipuram silk saris cost?
Prices are reported at about ₹3,000 to ₹30,000 depending on the weave and zari work. Fine bridal pieces can cost more.
When is the best season to visit?
November to February is the most comfortable. Summers are hot, and mornings are best at any time of year.