The Hindu temple known as Vaikunta Perumal Temple, which is situated in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, in Southern India, is devoted to the god Vishnu. The early medieval Tamil canon of the Alvar saints from the sixth to the ninth centuries CE, Nalayira Divya Prabandham, extols the temple, which was built in the Dravidian architectural style. Known as Vaikundanathan (literally, “Lord of Vaikunta”) and Sri Vaikundavalli, it is one of the 108 Divya Desams devoted to the god Vishnu and his wife, the goddess Lakshmi. The Kailasanathan temple is thought to be the oldest temple still standing in Kanchipuram.
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- History/Legend of the Temple The Pallava King Nandivarman II constructed this temple, Thiru Parameswara Vinnagaram. He assumed power at the young age of 12 (731 AD) and ruled for 65 years, which is a significant period in the Pallava dynasty's history. Following the king Parmeshwara's original name, the temple was named Parmeshwara Vishnugriham. Later Chola dynasty monarchs and Vijayanagara kings also made contributions to the construction and maintenance of this temple. One of the few locations in India where temples dedicated to both Vaishnavite (followers of Lord Vishnu) and Shaivite (followers of Lord Shiva) are found is Kanchipuram. These are two of Hinduism's four sects. Bhagwan Vishnu is the object of devotion in the Vaikunta Perumal temple. It was constructed by Pallava King Nandivarman in the middle of the eighth century, not long after Kailasanatha Temple was completed.
- Name of the Deities Lord Vishnu & Vaikuntha Valli Thayar.
- Nearby Cities and Distance Chennai (Tambaram) (49.9 km). Vandavasi (41.7 km). Vellore (69.5 km).
- Mode of Transport(from the nearest city) Car. Bus. Train. Bike.
- Duration (from the nearest city) Chennai (Tambaram) 1 hr 5 min.
- Estimated cost of the travel (from the nearest city) car,auto,bus... Car - Rs.2000-2500. Bus -Rs.100-150. Train - Rs.50-100
- Temple Instructions Traditional attire is recommended. Maintain the sanctity of the temple by avoiding littering. Wash your hands and feet before entering the sanctum. Photography may be restricted inside the temple premises, especially near the sanctum. Always seek permission from temple authorities before taking pictures. Avoid consuming non-vegetarian food or alcohol before visiting the temple. Do not touch the idols or enter restricted areas.
- Special Days and Special Happenings Vaikuntha Ekadashi December/January. Brahmotsavam Celebrated annually; specific dates vary based on the Tamil calendar. Panguni Uthiram March/April. Ekadasis Occurs twice a month (the 11th day of both waxing and waning phases of the moon).
- Rituals Available Not Available.
- Offerings People offer Sakarai Pongal, curd rice and flakes (Aval) Nivedhanas to Lord and Mother.
- Prasadham After darshan, collect the prasadam (holy sacrifice) at the specified counters.
- Benefits of Visiting Devotees can gain a variety of spiritual, emotional, and cultural advantages from visiting the Sri Vaikunta Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram. Prayer in the temple cleanses the devotees of all their sins. Those seeking wedding and child boons pray to Perumal.
- Is this temple a Paadal Petra Sthalam? No
- Who Sang | Song and its Meaning | Year No
- Other things to do / places of interest Kanchi Kudil (1.7 km). Sankara mutt (1.6km). Shakuntala Jagannathan Museum (2.2 km). Anna Memorial (3.7 km). Chitragupta Temple (1 km).
- Nearby Temples Ekambareswarar Temple. Varadharaja Perumal Temple. Ulagalantha Perumal Temple. Kailasanathar Temple. Kamatchi Amman Temple.
- Nearby Eateries Hotel Saravana Bhavan. Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant. Hotel New Sri Balaji Bhavan. Hotel Arusuvai. Adyar Ananda Bhavan.
- Hotels / Home stays: Sree Sakthi Residency. Sri Rams Residency. Hotel SSK Grand. Nitheesh Residency. Eagle Inn Stay.
- Standard Weather Climate is dry and wet. In general, Kanchipuram experiences hot, muggy weather.
- For the best experience / Must know The most impressive and unique feature if the temple were the pillars, each one had a lion carved on it. They support the enclosed passage inside the temple. The walls too were carved depicting the schemes between Pallavas and Chalukya's. The information here is not found in any other temples of India.
- Not to miss There are 3 partitions in this temple in Astaanga Vimana style. Bottom Floor - Emperumaan in standing thirukkolam. Middle Floor - Periya Pirattiyar and Bhoomi Piratiyar in Kidantha Thirukolam. Top Floor - Nindra Thirukkolam no pooja for them.
- Note for Travelers The temple is well-connected by road and rail. Kanchipuram is approximately 72 kilometers from Chennai, and visitors can take a bus or train to reach the city. The temple is situated in the heart of Kanchipuram and is easily accessible from other temples in the area.
Opening Hours
FAQ's
What are the temple timings?
The temple is generally open from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. However, timings may vary on special occasions or festivals.
Is there an entry fee to visit the Sri Vaikunta Perumal Temple?
There is no entry fee to visit the temple. Devotees can freely enter and offer prayers. However, donations for temple maintenance are always welcomed.
How can I reach the Sri Vaikunta Perumal Temple?
By Road: Kanchipuram is well connected to Chennai and other cities in Tamil Nadu by bus and taxi services. By Train: Kanchipuram has a railway station with good connectivity to Chennai and other major towns. By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, about 72 km from Kanchipuram.
What facilities are available for pilgrims?
The temple offers basic facilities like drinking water, and some temples in the vicinity offer accommodations and food for pilgrims.
What is special about Sri Vaikunta Perumal Temple?
Sri Vaikunta Perumal Temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is a significant site for Vaishnavites. The temple is renowned for its three-tiered sanctum, which enshrines the deity Lord Vishnu in three different postures: seated, reclining, and standing. The temple is also notable for its historical inscriptions and Pallava architecture.
What is the architectural significance of the temple?
The temple showcases a blend of Dravidian and Pallava architectural styles. Its highlights include: Three sanctum levels: Depicting Lord Vishnu in seated, reclining, and standing forms. Sculptures and bas-reliefs: Depicting scenes from the Pallava dynasty's history, including coronations and battles. Ornate pillars and carvings: Intricate stonework that reflects Pallava craftsmanship.
Are there any festivals celebrated at the temple?
Yes, several festivals are celebrated here, including: Vaikunta Ekadasi: A major festival attracting thousands of devotees. Brahmotsavam: Annual celebrations with processions and rituals. Panguni Uthiram: Associated with divine marriages.
Is photography allowed in the temple?
Photography is generally not allowed inside the sanctum or temple premises due to its sacred nature. However, you may take pictures of the exterior architecture with prior permission.
Are there any specific dress codes or rules?
Yes, as with most traditional South Indian temples: Modest attire is recommended. Footwear must be removed before entering. Visitors are advised to maintain silence and respect temple customs.
