Kailasanathar Temple
Kailasanathar Temple is the oldest Shiva temple in Kanchipuram, Kailasanathar means Lord of Mount Kailash. It is one of the must visit temples in Kanchi to view the beauty of the sculptures around it.
Shiva Ratri Bramhotsavams is the best time to visit this temple during March month. Stunning sculptures mark this temple. The pillars on the outer walls are all carved with magnificent roaring lions.
Around the main sanctum is a narrow passage like a tunnel. You can go through this tunnel and emerge at the other side. This circumambulation is said to end the cycle of birth and death for the devotee.
Temple Legend:
When the sage Narada and Aadhi buddhan, a manifestation of Vishnu, wished to eliminate their sin of killing 3 asuras who also were Saivite devotees, they prayed to Shiva. Shiva informed them they could get rid of this sin by repeated births. Else , they should enter and exit a narrow passageway around a Shiva lingam in a cave in Kanchipuram (while this would mimic access and exit from life) often. Vishnu and Narada followed His advice and had absolved their sins.
Kailasanathar Temple Timings:
- Morning : 6 AM – 12 PM
- Evening : 4 PM – 7 PM
How To Reach Kailasanathar Temple:
- By Road : Temple is around 5 KMs from Kanchipuram Bus Stand. Frequent buses will be available from Chennai and Tirupati.
- By Rail : Kanchipuram Railway Station is 8 KMs away from temple
- By Air : Chennai and Tirupati are the nearest Airports to this temple.