Kanchi Kamakshi Mandir is one of the most revered temples in South India, dedicated to Devi Kamakshi, an incarnation of Devi Parvati. The temple also known as Kanchi Kamakshi Amman Temple. It is located in the sacred city of Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu — one of the seven Moksha-puris (holy cities that grant liberation). The temple is also considered one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, where the navel (nabhi) of devi Sati is believed to have fallen. The Kamakshi Amman represents Shakti (divine feminine power).
History and Architecture of Kanchi Kamakshi Temple
The main idol of Devi Kamakshi is seen in a Padmasana (lotus position) posture — symbolizing peace and prosperity. She holds a sugarcane bow, flower arrows, a noose (pasha), and a goad (ankusha). Temple built by Pallava Kings (around 6th century CE) in Dravidian style.
The Sri Chakra (Meru) is installed in front of the deity — a powerful geometric representation of the Goddess’s energy. The name Kamakshi means “She whose eyes awaken desire and compassion” — Kama (desire) + Akshi (eyes).
The temple complex features four entrances, gold-plated vimana (tower) above the sanctum, and large temple tanks (Pushkarini). The Sanctum Sanctorum (Garbhagriha) is always serene, filled with the fragrance of sandal and camphor. Nearby are shrines for Adi Shankaracharya, who is believed to have established the Sri Chakra here.
The story of Kamakshi teaches that true devotion (bhakti), patience, and love can melt even the hardest of hearts — and that divine grace comes to those who remain steadfast in faith, even through trials.
It is one of the three major Shakti centers in India:
❀ Madurai – Meenakshi
❀ Kanchi – Kamakshi
❀ Kashi (Varanasi) – Vishalakshi
According to legend’s goddess Parvati performed penance under a Mango Tree (Bilva Vriksha) in Kanchipuram, on a Sri Chakra drawn on the ground. Lord Shiva, pleased with her devotion, appeared as Ekambareswarar and married her — symbolizing the union of Shiva and Shakti.
Connection to Adi Shankaracharya
In later times, Adi Shankaracharya, the great saint-philosopher, visited the Kamakshi Temple and installed a Sri Chakra (Meru form) before the deity to stabilize her Ugra (fierce) energy — making her appear in her present Saumya (calm) form as Lalita Tripurasundari.
Kanchi Kamakshi Temple Darshan Timings
The temple is open throughout the week and darshan timings are from 5:30 am to 12:15 pm and from 4:00 pm to 8:15 pm. Best time to visit the temple: February-March (during the Panguni festival) or Navratri.
Kanchi Kamakshi Temple Prime Festivals
Navaratri (Dussehra) – the grandest festival, lasting nine days. Aadi Utsav and Panguni Uthiram – special processions and rituals are celebrated. Annual Chariot Festival (Ther Thiruvizha) – the Goddess is carried through the streets of Kanchipuram on a beautifully decorated chariot.
How to Reach Kanchi Kamakshi Mandir
The Kanchi Kamakshi Amman Temple is located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. Kanchipuram is 75 km from Chennai. It is well connected by road. Kanchipuram Railway Station is located at a distance of 850 metres, from where it takes hardly three minutes to reach the temple.
Things to consider:
❀ While you're planning to visit Kanchi Kamakshi, also plan to visit Ekambareswarar Kanchipuram and Varadharaja Perumal Temple.
❀ Kanchipuram is famous for Tamilnadu’s iconic kanjeevaram saree, after temple darshan you can go for shopping. Don’t forget to try mouthwatering Kanchipuram Idli.
5:30 AM - 8:30 PM
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