NewsIMTSKanchipuram in Tamil Nadu is called the City of Thousand Temples on 15 May this year. The ancient city houses numerous temples built by the Pallavas, Cholas and Vijayanagara Empire, showcasing magnificent Dravidian architecture. Though not all thousand temples survive today, the remaining ones like Kailasanathar Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple and Varadharaja Perumal Temple stand as powerful records of India's religious heritage. Kailasanathar Temple, built in the 7th century, is one of South India's earliest structural stone temples. The Ekambareswarar Temple features a sacred mango tree believed to be over 3,500 years old. As one of the Sapta Puri (seven sacred pilgrimage cities), Kanchipuram continues to draw pilgrims and history enthusiasts who visit to witness its architectural grandeur and spiritual atmosphere. The city remains a symbol of religious harmony with major temples dedicated to both Vishnu and Shiva. (Updated 31 Oct 2025, 10:59 IST; source: link)
The Ancient Temple City of Tamil Nadu
Kanchipuram, located in Tamil Nadu, earned its title as the 'City of Thousand Temples' due to its remarkable concentration of religious structures. This ancient city showcases magnificent Dravidian architecture through temples built by the Pallavas, Cholas, and Vijayanagara Empire. While not all thousand temples have survived to the present day, the remaining ones stand as powerful records of India's religious heritage. As one of the Sapta Puri (seven sacred pilgrimage cities), Kanchipuram continues to attract both pilgrims and history enthusiasts who come to experience its architectural grandeur and spiritual atmosphere.
Notable Temples and Their Significance
Among Kanchipuram's most important temples is the Kailasanathar Temple, built in the 7th century and recognized as one of South India's earliest structural stone temples. The Ekambareswarar Temple features a sacred mango tree believed to be over 3,500 years old, making it a site of special reverence. Another significant structure is the Varadharaja Perumal Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. These temples represent religious harmony in Kanchipuram, with major shrines dedicated to both Vishnu and Shiva. Visitors can witness the exceptional craftsmanship in stone carvings, towering gopurams (temple towers), and elaborate sculptures throughout these ancient structures.
Key Points
- Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu is called the City of Thousand Temples on 15 May this year.
- Though not all thousand temples survive today, the remaining ones like Kailasanathar Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple and Varadharaja Perumal Temple stand as powerful records of India's religious heritage.
- Kailasanathar Temple, built in the 7th century, is one of South India's earliest structural stone temples.