Hidden Gems of Kanchipuram: Temples You Shouldn’t Miss

Kanchipuram, known as the “City of Thousand Temples,” is a collection of cultural riches, architectural wonders, temples, and history. Although some of the temples like the Ekambareswarar, Kailasanathar, and especially the Varadaraja Perumal temples are more popular because of their magnificent structures, there are various unknown temples that are equally unique. If you are a historian, a seeker of spirituality, or a person that loves hidden gems, this guide can be of guidance in passing along some of Kanchipuram's lesser-known gems.

1. Kamakshi Amman Temple - A Spiritual Abode

The Kamakshi Amman Temple is well-known as a temple itself but is overshadowed by larger temple complexes. The Kamakshi Amman Temple is devoted to Kamakshi Amman representing Parvati and is a great example of Dravidian Architecture.

The sanctum, left behind the closed doors, holds a hand-carved depiction of Kamakshi Amman that becomes alive when seen. When you step into the sanctum, you are transformed into the poetry of calm divine presence.

In the moments when you are surrounded by other devotees at the temple in the sacred early hours of the morning, forget all your worries and enjoy the relative peacefulness this temple provides.

Do not forget to look at the golden vimana on your way out, as it provides the classic sights of beauty of hearing Kanchipuram woken up by the beauty of the sun reflecting against the golden vimana.

2. Thoopul Perumal Temple – A Hidden Jewel

Located in a secluded place is the Thoopul Perumal Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This temple is much quieter than Varadaraja Perumal Temple, making for a more peaceful ambiance.

The God has an unusual depiction where a "thoo" (sacred thread) is hanging from his mouth, purportedly indicating the flow of spirituality. The architecture of the temple has amazing carvings and a calm surrounding, making it a great place to sit and reflect.

Why Go? One of the unassuming aspects of this temple is the "Sankaranarayan" deity of Vishnu and Shiva, showing that the same divine force may or may not be separate but unique to themselves.

3. Varadaraja Perumal Temple – Beyond the Sanctuary

Although many visitors come to the Varadaraja Perumal Temple because of its notoriety in Kanchipuram, few people spend the time seeing the smaller shrines on the temple grounds.

While the "Varadaraja Perumal" still is something to see, the smaller shrines to "Devi Lakshmi" and "Sundararaja Perumal" have some of the most exquisite and breathtaking sculptures and carvings you can possibly see.

The temple tank, "Ananta Theertham," also provides a tranquil spot for a moment of meditation.

4. Ulakanatha Perumal Temple – An Off-the-Beaten-Path Secret

The Ulakanatha Perumal Temple, located slightly off the beaten path, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his form of the cosmic deities.

The temple has a fantastic granite tower and beautiful carvings and sculptures that depict stories from the Puranas. The unique thing about this temple is its reclining (Sayanam) Vishnu deity, which is intricately carved and exquisitely detailed.

Reason to Visit the Ulakanatha Perumal Temple: The temple is generally less crowded, so the opportunity to have personal interactions with God is even more possible.

5. Ashtabhuja Perumal Temple – A Surprising Temple

This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his form that has eight arms (Ashtabhuja), and it is situated in a quiet location surrounded by a lot of greenery that gives it an almost magical feel.

The deity is unique, as it has a different object in each arm, with each one representing a separate life aspect and spiritual object.

6. Kachabeshwarar Temple – A Temple to Worship Shiva

This ancient shrine is dedicated to the worship of Shiva and is located near the busy streets while also being quiet.

The main deity of the temple, Kachabeshwarar, is said to have been worshipped by the sage Brahma as well. The temple’s architecture is wonderful, featuring well-carved pillars and detailed stories of cosmic significance sculpted into the temple.

7. Ekambareswarar Temple – The Smaller Shrines

Though the Ekambareswarar Temple is famous due to its grandeur, people should also take time to explore the small shrines on the temple grounds.

One of the hidden gems is the “Nadamuni” shrine, dedicated to the sage that composed hymns for the worship of Shiva. The carvings depict intricate stories from the Tirumandiram and sacred writings.

The charm of Kanchipuram lies not just in the grand temples, but also in the hidden gems within the city. Each temple has a story, architectural beauty, and essence that begs one to explore.

So, when you do visit, step away from the touristy things, wander down the ancient streets, and find the soul of Kanchipuram in the forgotten temples.

Plan your next spiritual tour with Soil2Soul Expeditions.