The Kanchi Kamakshi Temple, situated in the sacred town of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, India, stands as a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of the region. Dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi, a manifestation of divine feminine energy, the temple exudes an aura of serenity, devotion, and architectural magnificence. This article delves into the captivating details of the Kanchi Kamakshi Temple, unveiling its history, significance, architecture, rituals, and the spiritual experiences it offers to its devotees.

Kanchi Kamakshi Amman Temple Historical Significance

The origins of the Kanchi Kamakshi Temple can be traced back several centuries. Its history is intertwined with the religious and cultural evolution of Kanchipuram, one of India’s seven Moksha-puris (cities of salvation). The temple has withstood the test of time, witnessing various dynasties and rulers who contributed to its expansion and embellishment.

Architectural Marvel:

The Kanchi Kamakshi Temple showcases the finest examples of Dravidian temple architecture. Its towering gopurams (entrance towers) adorned with intricate sculptures and carvings welcome visitors into a realm of spiritual enchantment. The main sanctum houses the exquisite idol of Goddess Kamakshi, seated in a yogic posture, radiating grace and compassion. The temple complex includes various mandapas (halls), corridors, and shrines that exhibit the architectural prowess of the artisans of yore.

Spiritual Significance:

Goddess Kamakshi, the presiding deity of the temple, is revered as the Divine Mother who nurtures and bestows blessings upon her devotees. Her benevolent presence is believed to grant spiritual growth, prosperity, and liberation (moksha). Devotees from far and wide flock to the temple to seek her divine grace and seek solace in her compassionate gaze.

Rituals and Festivals:

The Kanchi Kamakshi Temple is a hub of religious activities and festivities. Daily rituals like the abhisheka (ritual bath) and puja (worship) are conducted with great devotion. The temple comes alive during major festivals like Navaratri, when the goddess is adorned in different forms each day, captivating the hearts of her devotees. The annual Kamakshi Jayanti is celebrated with fervor and devotion, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.

Spiritual Experiences

A visit to the Kanchi Kamakshi Temple offers not only a visual treat but also a profound spiritual experience. The serene ambiance, the rhythmic chants of Vedic hymns, and the fragrance of incense create an atmosphere conducive to introspection and connection with the divine. Many seekers report feelings of inner peace, rejuvenation, and a sense of being in the presence of a higher power.

Preservation and Continuity:

Efforts have been made over the years to preserve the sanctity and grandeur of the Kanchi Kamakshi Temple. Various trusts and organizations work diligently to maintain the temple’s heritage, conduct rituals, and ensure the spiritual well-being of the devotees.

Temple Festival at Kanchi Kamakshi Amman Temple:

The Kanchi Kamakshi Temple is renowned for its vibrant and spiritually enriching festivals that draw devotees and visitors from far and wide. One of the most prominent and eagerly awaited festivals celebrated at the temple is Navaratri. This nine-night festival pays homage to the goddess in her various forms and is marked by elaborate decorations, colorful processions, cultural performances, and religious rituals.

During Navaratri, the temple comes alive with fervent devotion as each day is dedicated to a specific manifestation of Goddess Kamakshi. The deity is adorned in exquisite jewelry and traditional attire that symbolizes the divine energy she embodies. Devotees engage in special prayers, pujas, and aarti (rituals of offering light), creating an atmosphere of joyous celebration and profound spiritual connection.

Other festivals celebrated at the Kanchi Kamakshi Temple include Kamakshi Jayanti (the birth anniversary of the goddess), Adi Shankaracharya Jayanti (commemorating the great philosopher and spiritual leader), and various other regional and religious observances.

Kanchi Kamakshi Amman Temple Timing

• The Kanchi Kamakshi Temple typically follows a schedule that allows devotees and visitors to partake in its rituals and experience the divine ambiance. While exact timings may vary based on the temple’s policies and specific dates, a general outline of the temple timing is as follows:

Morning: The temple usually opens early in the morning, providing devotees the opportunity to participate in the first rituals of the day. Morning timings are often around 5:30 AM to 12:00 PM.

Afternoon Closure: The temple closes for a few hours during the afternoon, allowing the priests and staff to perform various rituals and preparations. This break may last from around 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Evening: The temple reopens in the late afternoon, enabling devotees to engage in evening prayers and rituals. Evening timings are typically from around 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM.

Note:

Entry to kanchi kamakshi temple is free and the temple is open on all days. Visitors generally spend 1 to 2 hours here.

Men should generally remove their clothing from the upper body when they go to the main circle of this temple.

• Please note that these timings are indicative and subject to change based on specific circumstances, festivals, and local practices. It is recommended to check with the official sources of the Kanchi Kamakshi Temple or inquire locally for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding temple timings and festival schedules before planning your visit.

1. Pooja is a Hindu ritual of worship that involves offering prayers, flowers, incense, and other symbolic items to deities or divine entities. There are numerous types of poojas performed in Hinduism, each with its significance, purpose, and rituals. Here are some of the different types of poojas commonly practiced:

Archana: This is a simple form of worship where a devotee recites the names of the deity while offering flowers, rice, or other items. It is a personal and direct way of seeking the blessings of the deity.

Abhishekam: Abhishekam involves the ritualistic bathing of the deity’s idol with water, milk, honey, ghee, and other liquids. It is believed to cleanse the deity and bestow blessings upon the devotee.

Aarti: Aarti is the waving of a lamp or camphor flame in front of the deity’s idol in a circular motion. It symbolizes the dispelling of darkness and ignorance, while the light represents the divine presence.

Havan (Homam): Havan is a fire ritual where offerings are made into a sacred fire accompanied by recitations of Vedic hymns. It is believed to purify the surroundings and invoke the blessings of deities.

Pradakshina: Devotees circumambulate around the deity or sacred object in a clockwise direction as an act of reverence and seeking blessings. It is often done in temples and around sacred trees or rocks.

Pushpanjali: Pushpanjali is the offering of flowers to the deity, often accompanied by recitation of prayers or mantras. It is a gesture of offering one’s love and devotion.

Navagraha Pooja: This is a worship dedicated to the nine celestial bodies or planets in Hindu astrology. It is performed to appease and seek the blessings of these celestial forces for a harmonious and prosperous life.

Vrat Pooja: Vrat or fasting rituals involve observing a specific fast and performing poojas to seek blessings for a particular desire or wish. Examples include Karva Chauth, Ekadashi, and Shivaratri Vrat.

Satyanarayan Pooja: This is a popular pooja performed to invoke the blessings of Lord Vishnu, specifically in the form of Lord Satyanarayan. It is often done to mark auspicious occasions, like housewarming or birthdays.

Durga Pooja: Dedicated to Goddess Durga, this pooja is performed during Navaratri and involves elaborate rituals, including invoking the goddess in various forms and offering prayers.

Ganesh Chaturthi Pooja: This pooja is performed during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.

Diwali Pooja: The festival of lights, Diwali, involves special poojas to invoke the blessings of deities like Goddess Lakshmi (goddess of wealth) and Lord Ganesha.

• These are just a few examples of the many types of poojas practiced in Hinduism. Each pooja has its rituals, mantras, and significance, contributing to the diverse tapestry of worship within the religion.

1. Kanchipuram, where the Kanchi Kamakshi Temple is located, is a city rich in history, culture, and spirituality. There are several nearby places of interest that you can explore to enhance your visit. Here are some notable places to consider covering:

Varadaraja Perumal Temple: Also known as the Devarajaswamy Temple, this is another prominent temple in Kanchipuram dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple complex is known for its intricate carvings and sculptures.

Kailasanathar Temple: This ancient temple is one of the oldest structural temples in Kanchipuram, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple’s architecture and carvings provide insights into the artistic and cultural heritage of the region.

Ekambareswarar Temple: One of the Pancha Bhoota Stalas representing the element Earth, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It features a massive temple tower and a sacred mango tree.

Kamakshi Amman Temple: While you’re already visiting the Kanchi Kamakshi Temple, you can explore the Kamakshi Amman Temple nearby. It is another important temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi.

Ulagalanda Perumal Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his Trivikrama (Vamana) avatar. It is known for its colossal image of Lord Trivikrama.

Vaikunta Perumal Temple: Another significant Vishnu temple, it is known for its architectural grandeur and sculptures depicting stories from Hindu mythology.

Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary: If you’re interested in nature and wildlife, this bird sanctuary is a great place to visit. It’s home to a diverse range of migratory birds.

Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram): Located around 65 kilometers from Kanchipuram, this UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its ancient rock-cut temples, sculptures, and shore temple.

Chennai: The capital city of Tamil Nadu is approximately 70 kilometers from Kanchipuram. You can explore attractions like Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Fort St. George, and more.

Vedanthangal Lake: Another bird-watching destination, this lake attracts a variety of migratory birds, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.

Kanchi Kudil: This heritage village showcases traditional Tamil Nadu architecture and culture. It offers insights into the way of life of the region’s past.

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Dates: 27Feb 2020 – 10Mar 2020

During Brahmotsavam Adi Sankaracharya Utsava deity will be taken out daily on a procession.

Expected Darshan Duration: 45 – 60 mins.

Dress Code: Any decent outfit.

Darshan: Foreigners not allowed inside the temple for the deity Darshan.

Kanchi Kamakshi Brahmotsavam 2020 Dates

Dwajarohanam will be performed on 28Feb between 4:30 am – 5:45 am.

Viswaroopa Chandana Alankarana will be performed on 9Mar 2020.

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The Sri Kamakshi Temple is situated at Siva-Kanchi, in the center of Kanchipuram, next to the railway station and bus stop. Situated in the middle of all the other significant temples, it is primarily placed near the Sankara Math. Within the four maın streets known as Rajaveedhi are the temples of Sri Kamakshi, Kumarakottam, Ulagalanda Perumal, and four other Vishnava divya desas, including the shrine of Kalikambal.

Legend Associated with Kanchi Kamakshi Temple

Legends in the Brahmandapurana state that Kamakshi became ugly due to Siva’s disapproval after closing his eyes during a dice game. She was able to regain her beauty and grace through her penance under a single mango tree and the blessing of Vishnu. As a result, she received the name Kamakshi, meaning one with wonderful eyes. She stuck to Siva’s image (Sivalinga) when he unleashed the Ganga flow to test her, and they had a joyful reunion beneath the mango tree or Ekamba. This is the location’s Sthalapurana or religious significance. Sundaramurti Nayanars and Thirugnana Sambandar sing at this shrine.

Kanchi Kamakshi Temple 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.
• The traditional dress code applies to Seva ticket holders.

Kanchi Kamakshi Temple Timings

Kanchi Kamakshi Temple Darshan Timings

• 6 a.m to 12 p.m.
• 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Darshan Waiting Time: 45–90 minutes.
• Darshan Ticket Cost: Free entry for all the devotees.
• Darshan’s timing might differ on special days.
• The rush will be high on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Navaratri festival day, Sivaratri days, and Karthiga Month.

Kanchi Kamakshi Temple Pooja Timings

• 5.30 a.m. to 6.00 a.m: Abhishekam
• 6.00 a.m to 10.30 a.m.: Asttotara Archana
• 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m: Abhishekam
• 11.00 a.m to 12.00 p.m: Sahasra Namarchana
• 4.30 p.m: Chandana Alankarana
• 6.00 p.m to 8.00 pm: Asttotara Archana
• 7.00 p.m to 8.00 p.m: Sahasra Namarchana

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Pooja Dates: All Fridays, 1st of Tamil Months, Amavasya Day, Pournami day and On Poora Nakshatra Day.

Timings: Evening Hours.

The devotees are allowed to pull the Golden Chariot around the temple. Processional Deity will be seated on top of the Chariot.

Dress code: Please wear
Men: White Pancha, Dhoti/ Kurta, Pyjama.
Female: Saree with blouse/ Punjabi Dress with Dupatta / Chudidhar with Dupatta/ Half saree

Ticket can be purchased on arrival at the counter for the same day Pooja. Online Booking is not available for the Pooja tickets.

Reference Link: Temple History

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The above-mentioned timings might change on festival days and on special days.

Dress code: Please wear
Men: White Pancha, Dhoti/ Kurta, Pyjama.
Female: Saree with blouse/ Punjabi Dress with Dupatta / Chudidhar with Dupatta/ Half saree

The ticket can be purchased on arrival at the counter for the same day Pooja. Online Booking is not available for Pooja tickets.

Reference Link: Temple History

For more details, Please call @ 85000 85151

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Pooja is performed on all Pournami days. The above-mentioned timings might change on festival days or special days.

Dress code: Please wear
Men: White Pancha, Dhoti/Kurta, or Pajamas.
Female: Saree with blouse/Punjabi Dress with a dupatta/chudidar with a dupatta/half-saree

The ticket can be purchased at the counter on the same day, Pooja. Online booking is not available for Pooja tickets.

Kanchi Kamakshi Navavarana Pooja

Each of the nine layers of the Sri Chakra, which symbolize different aspects of the cosmos and the human experience, is worshipped during the Navavarana Puja. It is said that participating in this sacred worship will awaken the inner divine energy, purify the body and mind, and promote a closer relationship with cosmic awareness. In addition to worshipping the deity, the painstaking Navavarana Puja is a meditation exercise that leads believers to enlightenment.

Navavarana Pooja Benefits

1. The puja will bestow upon you excellent health and wealth.
2. Overall prosperity in one’s life.
3. Removes hurdles in their tasks
4. It has the potential to remove one from the birth cycle.
5. This puja removes the negative energy.
6. It promotes family well-being and mental peace.
7. This puja aids in recovering from long-standing illness.
8. It blesses the Sadhak with emotional balance.
9. This puja removes stress.
10. It drives the Sadhak toward spirituality.

Reference Link: Temple History

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The above-mentioned timings might change on festival days.

Dress code: Please wear
Men: White Pancha, Dhoti/ Kurta, Pyjama.
Female: Saree with blouse/ Punjabi Dress with Dupatta / Chudidhar with Dupatta/ Half saree

Pooja Procedure

Chandan is applied to the Goddess Kamakshi. The devotees are allowed to sit and watch the Pooja. This special ticket can be purchased 30 mins before the pooja at the counter.  Online Booking is not available for this Pooja ticket.

Reference Link: Temple History

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Ekambareswarar Temple

As per the Legend, Uma Devi playfully covered the eyes of Lord Siva at Kailas once; the eyes of Siva are the Sun and the Moon. The whole world went into darkness. To get rid of the Sin, Lord Siva ordained Goddess to go to Kanchi and worship Him. As instructed, Parvati accordingly stayed in Pilakasam, the cave of a serpent at Kamakottam. To make mankind understand Parvati’s strength of will and relentless devotion to Siva, He bade the heavenly river Kampa to flow in spate on Earth. As the overwhelming floods of the river were flowing fast, Parvati was alarmed and held the deity in a tight embrace to protect Her Lord from being damaged by the floods. The scars left by the bracelets and the breasts of Parvati during the divine union are left on the deity.

Kacchi Mayanam

The Tirtha of the deity is Sivaganga Tirtha found in the North of the Dwajasthamba. Kacchi Mayana Perumal is said to have used the Devas as Samith while performing a sacrifice to destroy Pandasura. The Sivaganga Tirtha is said to be the holy vessel of ghee used for the sacrifice.

Kanchi Kamakshi Amman

Ka denotes Brahma; ‘A’ denotes Lord Vishnu and ‘Aksha’ denotes eyes. Thus the term Kamakshi. She is also called Kamakoti, for any prayers to the Goddess for a particular blessing (Kamya) results in manifold blessings showered on her devotee. The goddess is seen here in the Padmasana Posture in the Sannidhi facing South-East; her figure is endowed with four hands; a Sugarcane and a Pasa are found on her left hands and an Ankusa and a bow of flower on her right; There is a Sri Chakra before the deity which was installed by Adi Sankaracharya. The Pida of Goddess Kamakshi is called Kamakoti Pida.

Kumara Kottam

The Sthala is dedicated to Lord Murugan. This temple located is between the temples of Ekambareswarar and Kanchi Kamakshi Amman. As per the Legend, Murugan refused to free Brahma, whom he knuckled on the head and kept as a prisoner for being ignorant of the meaning of the Pravana ‘Om’. He did not obey even Lord Siva’s command to give freedom to Brahma, thereupon Murugan is said to have made amends of his sin of disobedience by worshipping a Siva Linga which he formed and named ‘Devasenapadisar’. This Linga was worshipped by Lord Vishnu also.

Tirukanchi Melthali

Thali means temples in Tamil. As this temple is situated west of Kanchi Ekambareswara. It is called Thirukacchi Mel Thali. As per the Legend, Lord Vishnu did penance here longing for the form of Siva. Saint Tirugnanasambarar blessed Him that he would attain Sivasaroopa and when Lord Vishnu listened to the devotional hymn of Tirugnanasambarar, He melted into the form of Siva Linga.

Kancheepuram temples Reference Link:  Temple History

Ekambareswarar Temple: Temple History

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On Festival Days

The above-mentioned Kanchi Kamakshi Pooja charges can be revised without prior intimation.

Ticket to be purchased at Sankar Matam.

Devotees who wish to offer Saree for Kamakshi Amman

1. Have to carry new saree
2. Normal Saree and Rs.5 to be paid at the counter at the time of submission
3. Pattu Saree and Rs.10 to be paid at the counter at the time of submission.

How to reach Kanchi Kamakshi Temple?

1. Temple is 111 km from Tirupati. Direct bus to Kanchipuram is available from Tirupati Central bus station.
2. Temple is 1.3 km from Kanchipuram Bus station
3. Temple is 2.9 km from Kanchipuram Railway station
4. The nearest airport is at Tirupati which is 110 km away

Reference Link: Temple History

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Timings: 5:30 am, 10:30 am and 4:00 pm

Abhishekam will be performed daily

Advance booking is not available. It is on arrival booking at the counter for the same day Abhishekam or a day in advance booking allowed.

2 months advance booking got cancelled as many are not presenting even after an early booking.

Temple Timings on Sun and Sat

Morning Hours: 5:00 am – 12:00 pm

Evening Hours: 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Please wear
Men: White Pancha, Dhoti/ Kurta, Pyjama.
Female: Saree with blouse/ Punjabi Dress with Dupatta / Chudidhar with Dupatta/ Half saree

The above-mentioned timings might change on special days and festival days.

Interesting places near Kamakshi Amman Temple

1. Ekambareswarar Temple is 1 km away
2. Sri Kailasanathar temple is 1.7 km away
3. Sri Varadaraja Perumal temple is 3.9 km away

Reference Link: Temple History

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