A testament to tradition, Kanchipuram is situated 76 km southwest of
Chennai. Kanchipuram takes its name from ‘ka’ (Brahma), ‘nachi’ (worship), and ‘puram’ (home) and is one of the seven holy cities of India. It was the capital of the
Chola, Pallava and Vijayanagara empires, during the medieval period. Famous for silk sarees, it is also the nerve center of handloom industry. Kanchipuram has an area of 11.6 sq km and is located on the banks of the Vegavati River. It is the headquarters of
Kanchipuram District.
Kanchipuram has maintained its status as a temple town for ages. The temple of Kamakshi Amman, Kailasanatha, Ekambareshvara, Vaikuntha Perumal, Devarajaswami and Varadaraja are the prime attractions. The other interests in Kanchipuram are the weaver’s colony and looms. The car festival and Brahmotsavam are major festivals of Kanchipuram.
Tiruttani, Sriperumbudur, Vedanthangal bird sanctuary, Mahabalipuram, and
Uttiramerur are nearby places of interest.
The nearest airport is at Chennai. The Arrakonam Railway Station is located to the northeast of Kanchipuram and is well linked by train to Chennai. Kanchipuram is well connected by road to Pondicherry, Bangalore, Vellore and Chennai. The best time to visit is between October and February.
