The town of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, India, is home to the Hindu temple known as Ekambareswarar Temple, which is devoted to the god Shiva.As one of the temples connected to the five elements, the Pancha Bhoota Stalas, and more especially the element of earth, or Prithvi, it holds significance for the Hindu sect of Saivism. Shiva is revered as Rajlingeswaram, Ekambareswarar, or Ekambaranathar, and is symbolized by the lingam as Prithvi lingam. Elavarkuzhali represents his consort, Parvati.
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- History/Legend of the Temple Pallavas were the first to build the temple. At the temple, Kachiyapper, a Vedantist, was a priest. According to legend, the Vegavati River overflowed and threatened to swallow the Shiva Lingam, so the subsequent Chola Kings demolished the previous edifice and rebuilt it. Parvati, as Kamakshi, then hugged the Lingam. Shiva, moved by the gesture, came to earth and wed her. Tazhuva kuzhainthaar, which translates to "He who melted in Her embrace" in Tamil, is the term used in this context.
- Name of the Deities Shivan & Parvathy and Prithvi Lingam
- Nearby Cities and Distance Chennai (Tambaram) 50.9 km. Vellore 67.1 km. Vandavasi 4l.5 km.
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Car. Bus. Train.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Chennai (Tambaram) 1 hr 30 min.
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... Car Rs.2500. Bus Rs.150. Train Rs.100.
- Temple Instructions Traditional clothing is required for both men and women. Keep quiet, follow the dress code, and refrain from being disruptive. Inside the shrine, cell phones are not allowed.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Festivals with vibrant colors, like Ani Tirumanjanam (June-July) Avani Moolam (August to September), Adi Kritikai (July to August), and Navaratri (September to October) January–February is Thai Poosam, November–December is Kartikai Deepam, and March–April is Panguni Uthiram. May–June is Vaikashi Vishakam, and April–May is Chitra Pournami.
- Rituals Available Not Available.
- Offerings Annadana is used for food, and some people pay for it. For annadana, the priests might demand at least Rs. 500. Archana is performed on your name by the priests.
- Prasadham Sweet pongal: A prasadam that is available at the temple Chakrapongali: A type of prasadam that costs 30 rupees. Tamarind rice: A prasadam that can be purchased from a shop inside the temple courtyard . Curd rice: A prasadam that some say is very good. Pulihora: A type of prasadam that costs 30 rupees .
- Benefits of Visiting Ambience of spirituality Some claim that the temple exudes a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? Yes
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year Tamil saint poets known as the Nayanar's | Tevaram | 7th century
- Other things to do / places of interest Kanchi Kudil (1Km). Shakunthala Jagannathan Museum of Folk Art (260.0 m). Pachaiyappa Silks (2.8Km).
- Nearby Temples Sri Ulagalanda Perumal. Vaikunta Perumal Temple. Sri Kanchi Kamakshi Amman Temple. Chitragupta Swamy Temple. Kumarakottam Temple.
- Nearby Eateries Upashana Hotel. Hotel Shanmugapriya. Nithya Amirtham - Kanchipuram.
- Hotels / Home stays: Hotel Aalayam - Kanchipuram. GSR Residency. Chakravarthi Holidays. Selva Homestay.
- Standard Weather The climate in Kanchipuram, India, is tropically wet and dry.
- For the best experience / Must know The temple complex is one of the biggest in India, spanning 10 hectares (25 acres). It has four gopurams, or gateway towers. With 11 storeys and a height of 58.5216 meters (192 feet), the southern tower is the tallest and one of India's tallest temple structures.
- Not to miss The old mango tree Huge the Amazing Architecture of Nandi and Shiva Linga Lawns that are well-kept and expansive Tank Temple Beautiful parrots will occupy your cameras with their chirping sounds. silk sarees, massive temple towers, halls with a thousand pillars, and temple architecture.
- Note for Travelers The Kumarakottam Murugan Temple is 1.5 km away and the bus stop is 2 km away. Between Sankara Mutt and 0.5 kilometers
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FAQ's
What is the significance of Ekambareswarar Temple?
The Ekambareswarar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his form as Ekambareswarar. It is an ancient and revered temple that plays an essential role in Hindu spirituality, particularly as a center of worship for the Earth element. The temple is also closely associated with the goddess Parvati, as she is worshipped here as Kamakshi.
How old is the Ekambareswarar Temple?
The temple has a history of over 1,300 years, with evidence suggesting that it was built in the 8th century CE by the Pallava kings, with subsequent additions by later dynasties like the Cholas and Vijayanagar kings.
What are the temple timings?
The Ekambareswarar Temple is typically open from: Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM Afternoon: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM However, timings can vary on special occasions or festivals.
Is there any dress code for visitors?
Yes, visitors are advised to dress modestly. Traditional Indian attire is preferred (especially for women to wear sarees or salwar kameez), but casual attire is allowed as long as it’s respectful.
What is the temple’s architectural style?
The temple follows the Dravidian architectural style with a massive Rajagopuram (tower) of 172 feet and an expansive courtyard covering 25 acres.
Is there any entry fee?
There is no entry fee for general visits to the temple. However, there might be charges for special poojas or services.
What should I know before visiting?
Photography is allowed in most areas, but some places may restrict it. It’s recommended to visit the temple in the early morning or evening to avoid large crowds, especially during festival times. Do carry water and comfortable footwear as the temple complex is vast.
What are the special poojas performed at the temple?
Rudrabhishekam – Sacred bath for Lord Shiva. 108 Kalasa Abhishekam – Offering sacred water-filled pots to Lord Shiva. Pradosham Pooja – Held twice a month on Trayodashi (13th day of the lunar cycle).
How can I reach Ekambareswarar Temple?
By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport (around 75 km). By Train: Kanchipuram Railway Station is well connected to Chennai and other cities. By Road: Frequent buses and taxis are available from Chennai, Vellore, and Bangalore.
