Weekend Getaway From Chennai: 4 Things To Do In Kanchipuram

Whether you are in Chennai for work or leisure, the great thing is that you can please your wanderlust soul by heading off to the numerous amazing places nearby, which make for a fun weekend getaway. And no, we are not talking about Mahabalipuram or ECR or even Puducherry. Apart from these popular tourist destinations, there are many other interesting picks. One such quick getaway is the little temple town of Kanchipuram. Located just about 75 kilometres away from Chennai, you can even plan a one-day trip to Kanchipuram to explore its rich cultural heritage and be mesmerised by its beautiful ancient temples.

If reading this has already got you excited and you are halfway there to planning our trip, then make a note of these four things that you should include in your itinerary for a memorable trip:

1. Explore the grand temples of the Cholas and Pallavas

Kanchipuram is an absolute treat for those who have a keen interest in ancient architecture. During the rule of the Cholas and the Pallavas, Kanchipuram thrived as a cultural hub, which is evident from the many temples that dot the little town. Each temple here is unique in structure and design elements, making it all the more interesting to visit them. The three most popular temples include Kamakshi Amman Temple (dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi), Ekambareswarar Temple (notice the grand pillars with beautiful stone-cut sculptures of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati), and Kailasanathar Temple (a spectacular sandstone temple that boosts Dravidian style of architecture).

(Also read: 11 Exciting Holiday Destinations In Tamil Nadu For Every Kind Of Traveller)

 

Temples of Kanchipuram #weekend #temple #southindia #kanchipuram #travelandchow #travelblogger #wanderlust #instalove #travel

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2. Enjoy a delightful temple meal at Kamakshi Amman Temple

Kamakshi Amman Temple is one of the oldest temples in Kanchipuram, which is also considered as one of the shakti peeths in India. As such, flocks and flocks of people make their way to visit the temple and pay their respect to the Goddess. The spectacular temple with four grand gopurams (ornate gate towers with sculptures of Gods and Goddesses), stone pillars, stone-cut motifs and the main mandapa make for insightful visit. Check the temple timings before heading there, and if you happen to land up around lunchtime, you can indulge in a hearty South Indian meal that's served on a banana leaf.

3. Witness the making of Kanjeevaram Silk Sarees

Apart from its temples, Kanchipuram is also renowned for its traditional craft of weaving Kanjeevaram silk sarees. These sarees are as expensive as they are gorgeous, but that's because it involves a labour intensive weaving process. You should in fact visit one of the weaving workshops and learn about the art of weaving Kanjeevaram sarees. Various tour operators in Chennai can organise them for you.

 

Spent the morning today learning the craft of weaving Kanjeevaram sarees. What an experience! I maybe broke now, but I am a proud owner of a pure Kanjeevaram saree #saree #kanchipuram #kanjeevaramsaree #thursday #thursdaymotivation #weaving #travelandchow #wanderlust #traveler #instalove #fashion #indianfashion

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4. Buy gorgeous Kanjeevaram sarees

Of course, you can't leave Kanchipuram without buying Kanjeevaram sarees. Here, you will get the best wholesale rates. Some of the most popular shops include Prakash Silk and Sarees and Sri Sarvalakshmi Silk.

Enjoy your weekend break to Kanchipuram and we won't be surprised if you fall in love with this beautiful temple town in South India.