Excursion Temple city of kanchipuram tour at Chennai

Embrace the spiritual essence of sothern India during this picturesque, full-day sightseeing excursion with lunch.

Chennai, Kanchipuram

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 2.5-hour drive to Kanchipuram, one of Hinduism's seven most sacred cities. Also known as the 'City of a Thousand Temples', Kanchipuram dates from the 2nd century and Chola Dynasty. Buddhism is believed to have reached this area in the 3rd century B.C.; however, none of the original Ashoka Stupas remain. Visit two of the main temples for which Kanchipuram is renowned, beginning with the Ekambareswara Temple.

Ekambareswara Temple, Hallway with 1,000 Pillars, Siva Lingams, Kailasanatha Temple, Hindu Art

The largest temple in the city, Ekambareswara dates from 600 A.D., and was originally built by Pallava rulers. At a height of approximately 193 feet (about 59 metres), its gopuram (gateway tower) is the tallest temple tower in southern India. Notable temple features include its hallway with a thousand pillars, and the inner walls decorated with 1,008 Siva lingams. Following your visit, head to the early-8th century Kailasanatha Temple. Another Pallava-era architectural legacy, Kailasanatha contains 58 small shrines, all dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is also noted for its intricately-carved Hindu and mural art.

Regency Hotel Kanchipuram, Lunch, Silk-Weaving Unit & Demonstration

Next, re-board your coach and proceed for lunch at a local hotel. After lunch, a final stop is made at a small silk-weaving producer. Also known as the 'Silk City', Kanchipuram is renowned for its silk fabric. Hand-woven from pure mulberry silk yarn, Kanchipuram silk enjoys a reputation for texture, lustre, durability, and finish. During your visit, observe this centuries-old tradition. Whilst weaving, each thread is made up of three silk fibres twisted together, making the cloth more durable, and, of course, expensive, than those from weaving centres elsewhere. Kanchipuram saris are world-famous, and a treasured part of every southern Indian bride's trousseau. Your tour concludes with an approximately 2.5-hour drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Chennai, Kanchipuram, Ekambareswara Temple, Hallway with 1,000 Pillars, Siva Lingams, Kailasanatha Temple, Hindu Art, Lunch, Silk-Weaving Demonstration

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 525 yards (about 480 metres), at times over uneven surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, two steps at the silk-weaving unit, five steps at the Kailasanatha Temple, three steps at the Ekambareswara Temple, and six steps at the Regency Hotel Kanchipuram. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, raingear, bottled water, and local currency for camera fees at the Ekambareswara Temple, and in case they want to purchase silk fabric at the silk-weaving unit. Vehicles cannot be parked near the entrance of the temples; guests must walk for approximately five minutes. Proper attire is required to enter religious sites; shorts, short skirts, and bare shoulders are not permitted, and trousers should be of minimum mid-calf length. Hats and shoes must be removed prior to entering the temples; we suggest bringing along a pair of thick socks, because the pavement may be hot. Guests must be at least 16 years old to participate on this tour; minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old. Guests must be at least 21 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. Local conditions may be challenging; therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding as we visit unique and somewhat remote destinations. Coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other excursions. We thank you for your understanding. The driving distance between the pier and sites visited is approximately 2.5 hours in each direction. Videography is prohibited at the Ekambareswara Temple, and inside the sanctum sanctorum of the temples. Photography may also be prohibited, depending on the current management. Guests are not permitted to enter the sanctum sanctorum of the temples. The tour sequence, timings, and itinerary are subject to change without prior notice.