Kanchi Kamakshi Temple is one of the most famous temples in Tamil Nadu, dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, who is considered an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. The temple is located in Kanchipuram, a holy city also called the “City of Thousand Temples.” The temple has a history of more than 1000 years and is considered one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India. It is a center of Shakti worship and attracts lakhs of devotees every year, especially during festivals like Navratri and Pongal.
The main deity, Goddess Kamakshi, is seated in a yogic posture called Padmasana, which represents peace and prosperity. The temple was built in the Dravidian architectural style and has magnificent gopurams (towers) with detailed carvings. People believe that praying at Kanchi Kamakshi Temple brings blessings for education, marriage, health, and wealth. Devotees from across India visit this temple to seek the divine grace of the goddess. In 2025, the temple will continue to provide online and offline booking options for darshan and sevas, making it easier for pilgrims.
Overview of Kanchi Kamakshi Temple
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Kanchi Kamakshi Amman Temple |
| Location | Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu |
| Deity | Goddess Kamakshi (form of Parvati) |
| Architecture | Dravidian Style |
| Established | Over 1000 years ago |
| Important Festival | Navratri, Aadi, Pongal, Chariot Festival |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Darshan Booking | Online & Offline |
| Managed By | Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE), Tamil Nadu |
Kanchi Kamakshi Temple Timings
| Activity | Timing |
|---|---|
| Temple Opening | 5:30 AM |
| Morning Darshan | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Afternoon Break | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM |
| Closing | 8:30 PM |
Special timings may apply on festival days when the temple remains open longer for devotees.
Sevas and Darshans at Kanchi Kamakshi Temple
| Seva/Darshan | Timing | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Suprabhata Seva | 5:30 AM | ₹100 |
| Archana | 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM | ₹250 |
| Abhishekam | 6:00 AM & 6:00 PM | ₹500 |
| Kumkum Archana | 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM | ₹200 |
| Sahasranama Archana | 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM | ₹300 |
| Special Darshan | 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM | ₹50 – ₹100 |
How to Reach Kanchi Kamakshi Temple
- By Air: The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport (75 km). From the airport, taxis and buses are available to Kanchipuram.
- By Train: Kanchipuram Railway Station is connected to Chennai and other major cities in Tamil Nadu.
- By Road: Regular government and private buses run from Chennai, Bangalore, Vellore, and Tirupati to Kanchipuram. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are also available within the city.
How to Book Darshan Tickets
- Visit the official Tamil Nadu HR&CE website or temple’s official portal.
- Register with your mobile number and email ID.
- Select Darshan or Seva from the available options.
- Choose the date and time slot for your visit.
- Pay the ticket price online via UPI, Debit Card, or Net Banking.
- Download or print the e-ticket and carry it with a valid ID proof during your visit.
Offline tickets are available at the temple counters, but online booking is recommended during festivals to avoid long queues.
Nearby Attractions
- Ekambareswarar Temple – One of the Pancha Bhoota temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
- Kailasanathar Temple – A beautiful Pallava-era temple with ancient stone carvings.
- Varadaraja Perumal Temple – A major Vishnu temple famous for Vaishnavite traditions.
- Silk Saree Shopping in Kanchipuram – The city is world-famous for its handwoven silk sarees.
- Kanchi Kudil – A traditional heritage house showcasing Tamil culture.
Accommodation Options
| Hotel/Accommodation | Distance from Temple | Price Range (per night) |
|---|---|---|
| Tamil Nadu Tourism Hotel | 1 km | ₹800 – ₹1500 |
| Temple Guest Houses | Near Temple | ₹300 – ₹600 |
| GRT Regency Kanchipuram | 2 km | ₹2000 – ₹3500 |
| Private Lodges & Dharamshalas | Within 1 km | ₹500 – ₹1000 |
| Chennai City Hotels (if staying overnight) | 75 km | ₹2000+ |
Important Instructions for Devotees
- Wear traditional dress while visiting the temple (Men: dhoti/shirt, Women: saree/salwar).
- Photography inside the temple premises is strictly not allowed.
- Mobile phones must be switched off or kept in silent mode inside the sanctum area.
- Maintain discipline in queues and follow the guidance of temple staff.
- Special entry tickets are recommended during peak festival days.
Dos and Don’ts at the Temple
Dos:
- Take a bath and wear clean clothes before darshan.
- Offer flowers, coconuts, and kumkum at the temple counters.
- Respect temple rules and participate peacefully in rituals.
Don’ts:
- Do not bring leather items, alcohol, or tobacco products inside the temple.
- Avoid loud talking or pushing inside the queues.
- Don’t litter the temple premises.
FAQs on Kanchi Kamakshi Temple
Q1: Where is Kanchi Kamakshi Temple located?
A: It is located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu.
Q2: Who is the presiding deity of the temple?
A: Goddess Kamakshi, a form of Goddess Parvati.
Q3: What are the temple timings?
A: 5:30 AM – 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM.
Q4: How can I book darshan tickets?
A: Tickets can be booked online via HR&CE portal or offline at the temple counters.
Q5: What is the best time to visit the temple?
A: October to March is the best time.
Q6: Is there any dress code?
A: Yes, devotees should wear traditional Indian clothes.
Q7: Which festivals are famous at the temple?
A: Navratri, Aadi festival, and Chariot Festival.
Q8: Are accommodation facilities available near the temple?
A: Yes, guest houses, hotels, and dharamshalas are available nearby.
Q9: How far is the temple from Chennai?
A: Around 75 km from Chennai.
Q10: Is the temple open during festivals at night?
A: Yes, during big festivals, the temple may remain open for extended hours.