Kanchi Temple Timings: Shiva and Vishnu, Puja, Abhishekam, and Darshan details
One of the seven Mukti Kshetras, also known as Moksapuris, is Kanchipuram. These are “cities of liberation from the bondage of births and deaths.” Ayodhya, Mathura, Harādvar, Kasi, Avantıka or Ujjain, and Dwaraka are the other cities. Except for Kanchi, all other locations are found in northern India; hence, Kanchi is referred to as the Dakshina (Southern) Mokshapuri. Saivites consider Gaya, Kası, and Ujjain to be sacred sites. For Vaishnavites, the sacred sites are Ayodhya, Madhura, and Dvaraka; however, Kanchi is a holy and sacred area for both Saivites and Vaishnavites. In addition, the Sakti cult (also known as Kamakshi Temple or Kamakotı Pitha) is worshipped there. Inscriptions from the 4th century A.D. mention Kanchi as the seat of learning and the Ghatika (university) for Vedic studies in this holy city.
Vishnu Kanchi Temple Timings
- 6 a.m to 12 p.m
- 4.00 p.m to 8.30 p.m
- The temples remain closed between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. on all days.
- Kindly note that the temple timings might change on festival days.
Vishnu Kanchi Temple History
- In the past, the Vaishnavite community’s efforts were focused mainly on the Sri Varadaraja Perumal temple at Vishnu Kanchi. Even now, Vishnu Kanchi is the only center for Vadakalai and Tenkalai activities, despite their internal conflict and differences.
- A large number of Vaishnavites remain in the area and continue to worship nearby temples such as Ashtabujam, Yatotakarı, Vaikunthaperumal, etc., which are older and have Alvars singing in them. There is a specific group that these temples belong to, and that is the Tenkalai.
Shiva Kanchi Temple Timings
- 6.00 am to 12.30 p.m
- 4.00 p.m to 8.30 pm
- Temple darshan remains closed from 12 p.m. to 4 pm daily
- Kindly note that the temple timings might change on festival days.
- January to October is the best time to visit Kancheepuram Temples
Preferable Darshan Dress Code
- Gents: dhoti (white) and shirt, or kurta and pyjama.
- Ladies: Saree or Salwar Kameez (with Pallu Compulsory).
- All pilgrims are requested not to wear clothes such as T-shirts, jeans, etc.