Full-Day Private Tour to the Kanchipuram Temples from Chennai
Description
Kanchipuram is one of the seven sacred cities of Hinduism. The Pallava kings who ruled here between the 4th and 9th centuries invented the Dravidian stone temple tradition that went on to define religious architecture across South and Southeast Asia for a thousand years. The Kailasanathar Temple is the oldest surviving structural temple in Tamil Nadu and the largest sandstone temple in the world. The Ekambareswarar Temple is one of the five Pancha Bhuta Stalas, with a mango tree inside said to be over 3,500 years old. The city is equally famous for its silk sarees, woven from pure mulberry silk with gold zari borders by over 5,000 weaving families. This tour takes you into the home of a master weaver to see how they are made. Private car from Chennai, expert cultural guide, entry fees and South Indian lunch included. 5 Senses Tours is recognised by the Department of Tourism, a winner of the Outlook Responsible Tourism Award and the Tripadvisor Travellers Choice Award.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Kanchipuram was the capital of the medieval South Indian Kingdom of Pallavas. The Pallavas were instrumental in the transition from rock-cut architecture to stone temples. We visit Kailasanathar temple of Pallava dynasty to appreciate these architectural wonders built in the 7th century by by Pallava king Rajasimha known as Narasimhavarman II. The Kanchi Kailasanathar temple is famous for its magnificent Vimana, the gopuram over the Sanctum Sanctorum. It speaks volumes of architectural beauty that flourished in the reign of Pallava King.
Ekambareswarar Temple is one of the famous Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the five major Shiva temples or Pancha Bootha Sthalams (each representing a natural element) representing the element - Earth. The other four temples in this category are Thiruvanaikaval Jambukeswara (water), Chidambaram Natarajar (ether), Thiruvannamalai Arunachaleswara (fire) and Kalahasti Nathar (wind).
Next in our agenda is to meet the legendary Silk Saree Weavers of Kanchipuram. Kanchipuram is renowned for its magnificent Silk Sarees. Silk Sarees are a cultural icon in South India. Ranging in length from 6-9 yards, these Sarees are worn by women during auspicious occasions like a wedding or a birthday. There are more than 5000 families who are into the business of silk weaving. The sarees are weaved from pure mulberry silk thread. The traditional loom is an incredible machine used by the silk weavers to magically convert the silk threads into a beautiful Kanchipuram Silk Saree. We will visit one such Weaver and it will be a memorable experience. It will be a fascinating experience to see how the sarees are weaved from pure mulberry silk thread.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
All hotels in chennai
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Since we will be visiting temples, the dress code is covering knees and shoulders
- Minimum age is 18 years
- A valid international driving license for riding motorcycle in India is required (if option selected)
- A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
Reviews(78)
Kannan was truly a pleasure to tour with. He was very accommodating to my tour, helped me capture the trip exactly as I envisioned, and so much more enjoyment than I expected to begin with. A truly kind person who had such passion for the work he does. The next time I tour, I will ask to tour with Kannan again specifically.
Today we visited Kailasanadhar Temple Ekambareeswar Temple Kanchi Kudil - a century old house Single Stone chains in a Vishnu Temple With tour guide Mr. Jainath the visit was interesting, many facts about Indian cultures, and the delicious lunch at the end.
Cannan was an informative, engaging tour guide. We visited two incredible temples and had a delicious South Indian vegetarian lunch. I’d highly recommend booking this excursion!
The best thing I enjoyed from this tour was learning about the south indian history and cultures related to temples. As a foreigner, I always had a doubt of whether I am being not aporopriate or not following the rules or about temple manners. All of my curiosity had been solved today. Thank you Kannan
My sister and I had such a wonderful time with Kannan, whose knowledge and storytelling instantly captivated us . We not only explored the temples and silk factories, we got to learn the historical and spiritual significance of the city itself. If you wish to take some magnificent photos, explore and make memories in Kanchipuram, look no further, Kannan is your guide.
It was a very interesting trip. Harri picked us up from our hotel right on time, and on the way to Kanchipuram we stopped for a quick lunch. The temple visits were fascinating and, luckily, not too crowded. The car rides between the different places were also memorable, we had some great conversations along the way. The silk weaving process at the factory was interesting, although unfortunately quite short. It quickly led into a showroom where high-quality silk saris were presented for sale.
It was an excellent tour, interacting with Harish was enjoyable. He was well versed with subject and knowledgeable. Overall his performance was excellent, I wish him success in his present career.
"I booked a Kanchipuram tour for my parents, and I couldn't be happier with the experience. From the moment they started, Mr Hareesh Ramachandran took exceptional care of them. They were deeply impressed by his/her profound knowledge of the temple architecture and the city's history. Beyond just the facts, it was the patience and genuine care shown toward them as senior travelers that made this trip truly special. If you want a guide who is both an expert and a true professional, look no further. Highly recommended!"
We went to Kanjepuram on the 25 th December and our tour guide was Kannan. He was very knowledgeable and explained everything in detail to us. We went with children and he was very good with them which made us feel comfortable. We also went to a weaving place to see how Kanjipuysarees are weaved and ended up buying some sarees. Good experience, He also took us to Vivekananda house which was extra. We were all fascinated by swami Vivekananda’s history and the museum. I think it is a must to see in Chennai. Overall a very good and pleasant experience. Thanks to Kannan and five senses tours. Well done. Highly recommend this private tour! Sakuntala
Fantastic day trips with Kannan! His passion and knowledge made the trip a great learning experience and enjoyable!! Transportation and access to clean toilets and food was well planned ahead of time.
