Tourist Map Guide of Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram

Here is a complete tourist map guide to Kanchipuram, designed for travelers and city visitors needing all essential information in one place:

Key Tourist Attractions

  1. Ekambaranathar Temple – Magnificent Dravidian architecture, sacred mango tree over 3,500 years old, open daily until 8 PM.
  2. Kanchi Kudil – Living heritage home-museum, open from 9 AM.
  3. Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple – Over 1,000 years old, a must for spiritual travelers.
  4. Kamakshi Amman Temple – Center of worship for the goddess Kamakshi.
  5. Sri Kailasanathar Temple – Oldest structure in Kanchipuram, classic Pallava architecture.
  6. Jain Temples at Tirupparuthikkundram – Ancient Jain heritage, accessible from city center.
  7. Sri Ulagalanda Perumal Temple – Large Vishnu statue, famous devotional site.​
  8. Kanchi Kamakodi Peetham – Spiritual headquarters, open for public visits.
  9. Nearby Sites – Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary, Alamparai Fort, Muttukkadu, Covelong Beach for day trips.

Transportation & City Layout

  • Railway: Kanchipuram Railway Station connects to Chennai and major Tamil Nadu cities.
  • Bus Stand: Central bus stand offers city and regional routes.
  • Auto Rickshaws/Taxis: Readily available at station, markets, and temples.
  • Parking: Major attractions and shopping zones provide visitor parking.
  • Navigation: Most key sites are within a few kilometers of the city center and laid out around the major temples. Walking and cycling are recommended for heritage exploration.

Shopping & Local Experiences

  • Main Silk Market: Heart of Kanchipuram’s silk industry—sarees, fabrics, and souvenirs. Best deals directly from weavers.
  • Local Street Markets: Home décor, textiles, jewelry, and food stalls. Bargain-friendly and vibrant local atmosphere.
  • Modern Shopping Centers: Fixed-price outlets and air-conditioned retail destinations with parking and amenities.
  • Recommended Shops: All major silk shops are easily found on Kanchipuram’s shopping streets (see previous shopping guide for details).

Traveler Tips & Services

  • Language: Tamil and English widely spoken; signage available in English.
  • Hospital/Medical Help: Kanchipuram GH and private clinics centrally located.
  • Wi-Fi/Internet: Major hotels, malls, and public areas offer Wi-Fi.
  • Banking/ATMs: Multiple branches near main bus stand and markets.
  • Tourist Information Centers: Located at bus stand and Ekambaranathar Temple.

Recommended Activities

  • Walking tours (heritage sites, temples, town markets)
  • Guided silk weaving workshops
  • Local cuisine tasting
  • Temple photography and architecture tours
  • Bird sanctuary day trips