Kanchipuram Ekambareswarar Temple

Kanchipuram Ekambareswarar Temple

• Location: Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India
• Deity: Shiva
• Architecture: Dravidian
• History: The temple is believed to have been built in the 7th century CE by the Pallava king Mahendravarman I.
• Significance: The temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams, the holy shrines of Vishnu. It is also one of the Pancha Bootha Sthalams, the five temples dedicated to the five elements.
• Highlights: The temple is notable for its large gopurams, its intricate carvings, and its sacred tank.

Key Points

• The temple is dedicated to Shiva in the form of Ekambareswarar, the Lord of the Sacred Fig Tree.
• The main shrine is located in the center of the temple complex. It is a square-shaped structure with a pyramidal roof.
• The walls of the shrine are covered with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
• The temple has a number of other shrines dedicated to other deities, including Vishnu, Parvati, and Ganesha.
• The temple also has a number of sacred tanks, including the Pushkarani Tank, which is believed to have healing powers.

History

The temple is believed to have been built in the 7th century CE by the Pallava king Mahendravarman I. The temple was later expanded by the Chola kings and the Vijayanagara kings.

The temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams, the holy shrines of Vishnu. It is also one of the Pancha Bootha Sthalams, the five temples dedicated to the five elements.

Significance

The temple is considered to be one of the most important Shiva temples in India. It is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus from all over the world.

The temple is also a major tourist attraction. It is one of the most visited temples in India.

Highlights

The temple is notable for its large gopurams, its intricate carvings, and its sacred tank.

The gopurams are the tallest in Kanchipuram. They are decorated with sculptures of gods, goddesses, and mythological figures.

The carvings on the walls of the temple depict scenes from Hindu mythology. They are some of the finest examples of Dravidian art.

The temple also has a number of sacred tanks, including the Pushkarani Tank, which is believed to have healing powers.

Visiting the Temple

The temple is open to the public all day long. The best time to visit is during the early morning or evening hours.

The temple is located in the center of Kanchipuram. It is easily accessible by public transportation.

There is a large parking lot near the temple.

Tips for Visiting

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
• Remove your shoes before entering the temple.
• Cover your head with a scarf or shawl.
• Be respectful of the temple and its devotees.
• Do not take photographs inside the temple.

Additional Information

• The temple website is www.kanchipuramtemple.org.
• The temple phone number is +91 44 2794 0000.
• The temple email address is info@kanchipuramtemple.org.

Architecture of Kanchipuram Ekambareswarar Temple

The Kanchipuram Ekambareswarar Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva located in the city of Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the Pancha Bootha Sthalams, the five temples dedicated to the five elements. The temple is believed to have been built in the 7th century CE by the Pallava king Narasimhavarman II. It is one of the largest temples in India and is considered to be one of the most important Shiva temples in the country.

The temple complex is spread over an area of 15 acres and is surrounded by a moat. The main temple is built in the Dravidian style of architecture and has a five-tiered gopuram (gateway tower). The sanctum sanctorum houses a Shiva lingam, which is the main deity of the temple. The temple also has a number of other shrines dedicated to other deities, including Vishnu, Ganesha, and Murugan.

The temple is a popular pilgrimage destination and is visited by thousands of devotees every day. It is also a major tourist attraction and is one of the most visited temples in India.

Key architectural features

The Kanchipuram Ekambareswarar Temple is a complex of buildings that include the main temple, a number of shrines, and a number of other structures. The main temple is built in the Dravidian style of architecture and has a five-tiered gopuram (gateway tower). The sanctum sanctorum houses a Shiva lingam, which is the main deity of the temple. The temple also has a number of other shrines dedicated to other deities, including Vishnu, Ganesha, and Murugan.

The temple complex is spread over an area of 15 acres and is surrounded by a moat. The main temple is built on a raised platform and is approached by a flight of steps. The temple has a number of mandapas (pillared halls) that are used for worship and other religious activities. The temple also has a number of water tanks, which are used for bathing and other religious rituals.

Significance

The Kanchipuram Ekambareswarar Temple is one of the Pancha Bootha Sthalams, the five temples dedicated to the five elements. The temple is dedicated to Shiva, who is the god of destruction and regeneration. The temple is believed to have been built in the 7th century CE by the Pallava king Narasimhavarman II. It is one of the largest temples in India and is considered to be one of the most important Shiva temples in the country.

The temple is a popular pilgrimage destination and is visited by thousands of devotees every day. It is also a major tourist attraction and is one of the most visited temples in India.

References

• <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KanchipuramEkambareswararTemple" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Kanchipuram Ekambareswarar Temple