Machesa Perumal Temple is a historic Hindu temple located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is renowned for its architectural beauty and religious significance. It is believed to have been built during the Pallava or Chola period and features intricate carvings and sculptures that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage. The temple attracts devotees and tourists alike, especially during major Hindu festivals. Kanchipuram, known as the “City of Temples,” is home to many such ancient shrines, making it an important pilgrimage destination.
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- History/Legend of the Temple It is believed that this temple belongs to the Pallava period and that same was reconstructed later. The Rajagopuram was constructed in 1964. The Mukha mandapa with stucco images was built in 1966. Kumbhabhishekam was conducted in 1971 and 1989. In 2005, Kumbhabhishekam was conducted after renovation through the Thuluva Vellalar Community. As per the legend, the Demon Somukasuran stole 4 Vedas and hid under the sea. Vishu took the Macha – Fish – மீன் – avatar and retrieved back and gave it to Brahma. By this action, Vishnu got very happy and started playing ferociously in the sea. Due to this planet, the living have suffered. So Lord Shiva took the form of a sea stork and taught a lesson to Vishnu. Realized his mistake, as a parikara Vishnu stayed here and worshiped Lord Shiva for many years. Since the fish lives in water, it is believed that those who have the kandam – fear of death in water (as per astrology), to get rid of the kandam, worship Lord Shiva of this temple.
- Name of the Deities Macheeswarar(Lord Vishnu}. Goddess Lakshmi.
- Nearby Cities and Distance Chennai (Tambaram) (53.7 km). Vandavasi (41.4 km). Vellore (69.0 km).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Car. Bus. Train. Bike.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Chennai (Tambaram) 1 hr 11 min.
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... Car - RS.2000 - Rs.2500. Bus - Rs.100 - Rs.150. Train - Rs.50 - Rs.100.
- Temple Instructions It is advised that devotees dress traditionally. Visitors are expected to wear traditional attire. Men typically wear a dhoti, and women wear a saree or salwar kameez. Photography inside the sanctum is not allowed. Some temples may restrict mobile phone usage in certain areas.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Maha Shivaratri, Pradosham
- Rituals Available Not Available.
- Offerings Devotees can offer flowers, fruits, incense, Incense and Camphor, Abhishekam Items.
- Prasadham Neivedhyam is given to devotees once the pooja is finished.
- Benefits of Visiting Since the fish lives in water, it is believed that those who have the kandam – fear of death in water (as per astrology), to get rid of the kandam, worship Lord Shiva of this temple.
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? Yes
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year Thirugnanasambandar, Thirunavukkarasar (Appar), and Sundarar | Tevaram | 7th Century.
- Other things to do / places of interest Government Museum (600 m). Shakunthala Jagannathan Museum (1.6 km). Kanchi Kudil (1.4 km). Kanchi Kamakoti Peetam (1.0 km). Kailasanathar Temple (2.4 km).
- Nearby Temples Shri Chitragupta Swamy Temple (650 m) Sri Kachabeswarar Temple (1.2 km) Sri Ulagalanda Perumal Devastanam Temple (900 m) Arulmigu Sri Subramaniya Swami Temple (1.6 km) Sri Vaikunta Perumal Temple (750 m)
- Nearby Eateries Upashana Hotels. Nithya Amirtham - Kanchipuram. Sri Saravana Bala. Sri Kamakshi Mess. Adyar Ananda Bhavan - A2B.
- Hotels / Home stays: Sri Rams Residency. JENUKAL NILAYAM. Sree Sakthi Residency. Hotel SSK Grand. MM Hotels.
- Standard Weather Wet and dry climate. The weather in Kanchipuram is generally hot and humid.
- For the best experience / Must know This temple is unique because it is dedicated to Lord Machesa Perumal (a form of Lord Vishnu) and Lord Macheeswarar (a form of Lord Shiva). This combination is considered rare, and it emphasizes the harmonious relationship between Vishnu and Shiva in Kanchipuram. The temple reflects the significance of both deities and worshiping them is believed to bring balance to one's life.
- Not to miss One of the unique features is the Vishnu Fish Idol, representing Lord Vishnu's Matsya Avatar, symbolizing divine preservation and protection of wisdom. The temple attracts devotees seeking blessings for health, prosperity, spiritual growth, and family harmony.
- Note for Travelers The temple is about 350 meters from Kanchipuram Bus Stand, 1.5 Km from Kanchipuram Railway station, 28.0 KM from Arakkonam, and 68 KM from Chennai. Nearest Railway Station is Kanchipuram and Railway Junction is Arakkonam.
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FAQ's
Where is Machesa Perumal Temple located?
The Machesa Perumal Temple is situated in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India.
What is the significance of Machesa Perumal Temple?
Machesa Perumal Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known as Machesa Perumal. The temple is famous for its historical and religious significance, attracting devotees and pilgrims.
What is the history of the temple?
The temple is believed to be an ancient Vishnu temple with deep spiritual importance. It is associated with legends of Lord Vishnu and is a part of the rich temple heritage of Kanchipuram.
Which festivals are celebrated at the temple?
Vaikunta Ekadashi – Grand celebrations and special prayers Brahmotsavam – Annual festival with processions Panguni Uthiram – Special poojas and rituals Other Vishnu-related festivals like Krishna Jayanthi, Rama Navami, and Deepavali
Is there an entry fee for the temple?
No, there is no entry fee for visiting the temple. However, special darshan tickets may be available for quicker access.
How to reach the temple?
By Air: Nearest airport is Chennai International Airport (~75 km). By Train: Kanchipuram Railway Station is well connected. By Road: Frequent buses and private transport available from Chennai, Vellore, and other nearby cities.
Are there any special rituals performed here?
Devotees perform archana (special prayers) and abhishekam (holy bath) for Lord Vishnu. Matsya Avatar-related rituals are also observed.
What is the best time to visit the temple?
The best time to visit the temple is early in the morning or during the evening, as these are the times for pujas and aarti.
Is the temple accessible to people with disabilities?
While the temple is generally accessible, it is recommended to inquire locally about specific provisions or assistance for differently abled visitors.
