Here’s a detailed 1-day itinerary for visiting Kanchipuram with a structured table of key attractions, their popularity rank, average visit duration, and fees.
- Morning
- Start with Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple, an ancient Shiva temple known for beautiful 8th-century carvings and peaceful ambience.
- Enjoy a South Indian breakfast at a local eatery—try dosas, idlis, and filter coffee.
- Midday
- Visit Ekambareswarar Temple, famous for its massive gopuram, sacred mango tree, and sprawling courtyards.
- Explore silk saree shops, witnessing the weaving process and picking a souvenir.
- Afternoon
- Lunch at popular restaurants like Saravana Bhavan or Upasana for authentic Tamil flavors.
- Head to Varadharaja Perumal Temple, a major Vishnu temple with striking architecture and historic pillars.
- Evening
- End at Kamakshi Amman Temple, a vital pilgrimage site with strict traditional dress code and serene evening rituals.
- Before leaving, grab sweets or snacks at Sree Gupta Bhavan or local shops.
Top Temples and Attractions
| Place Name | Avg. Time | Entry Fee | Special Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kailasanathar Temple | 1 hr | ₹10 | Oldest temple, carvings |
| Ekambareswarar Temple | 1 hr | Free/₹10 | Huge gopuram, mango tree |
| Kamakshi Amman Temple | 45 min | Free | Dress code enforced |
| Varadharaja Perumal Temple | 45 min | Free | Pillared halls |
| Silk Saree Shops | 1 hr | Free | Weaving demos |
Tips
- Temples open 6 am–12 pm and 4 pm–8 pm
- Wear modest, traditional clothing
- Silk saree shopping is a highlight
- Local auto-rickshaws handy for travel