How old is Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple?

Built by Pallava king Rajasimha (Narasimhavarman II) in the early 8th century (around 700 CE), it is the oldest structural temple in Kanchipuram and one of the oldest stone temples in South India.

Is Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple still a functioning temple?

It functions both as a temple and an ASI-protected monument. Daily worship is conducted, but the temple is primarily visited for its exceptional Pallava-era architecture and sculptures.

What is unique about the architecture?

It is one of the earliest examples of Dravidian temple architecture in stone. The narrow circumambulatory passage for devotees to crawl through, the 58 sub-shrines along the outer wall, and the detailed mythological panels make it architecturally unique.

What is the entry fee?

Indian nationals: Free. Foreign nationals: A nominal ASI entry fee applies. The temple is open from sunrise to sunset.

How old is Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple?

Built by Pallava king Rajasimha (Narasimhavarman II) in the early 8th century (around 700 CE), it is the oldest structural temple in Kanchipuram and one of the oldest stone temples in South India.

Is Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple still a functioning temple?

It functions both as a temple and an ASI-protected monument. Daily worship is conducted, but the temple is primarily visited for its exceptional Pallava-era architecture and sculptures.

What is unique about the architecture?

It is one of the earliest examples of Dravidian temple architecture in stone. The narrow circumambulatory passage for devotees to crawl through, the 58 sub-shrines along the outer wall, and the detailed mythological panels make it architecturally unique.

What is the entry fee?

Indian nationals: Free. Foreign nationals: A nominal ASI entry fee applies. The temple is open from sunrise to sunset.

Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple

Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu

Main God

Lord Shiva

Timings

6:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Location

Kanchipuram

Type

MAJOR

Explore More Temples

Featured

Arunachaleswarar Temple

Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu

A Pancha Bhoota Stalam representing fire, at the foot of sacred Arunachala Hill.

Lord Shiva

6:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Plan Visit

Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple in Kanchipuram is the oldest Pallava-era temple, built in the late 7th century by Rajasimha (Narasimhavarman II). Carved entirely from sandstone, it features 58 sub-shrines, exquisite Pallava sculpture, and some of the earliest examples of Dravidian temple architecture.

Darshan Guide

Enter and Observe the Outer Wall

Enter the temple and observe the outer wall with 58 small shrines housing various forms of Shiva, each carved with exquisite detail.

Crawl Through the Narrow Passage

Experience the unique narrow passage around the inner sanctum that devotees crawl through - symbolizing spiritual rebirth.

Visit the Main Sanctum

Visit the main Kailasanathar (Shiva) shrine, studying the remarkable Pallava-era stone carvings depicting scenes from Shiva mythology.

Admire the Sandstone Sculptures

Walk around the entire complex, appreciating the oldest surviving structural temple in Kanchipuram with its stunning sandstone sculptures and panels.

How to Reach

By Bus

TNSTC and private buses from Chennai (2 hrs). Kanchipuram bus stand is about 2 km from the temple.

By Air

Chennai International Airport (MAA) - 75 km (2 hours by road)

By Rail

Kanchipuram Railway Station - 3 km from the temple

Local Transport

Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws from Kanchipuram town center. Walking distance from other Kanchipuram temples.

Temples & Travel

Services

Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple

Explore More Temples

Arunachaleswarar Temple

About Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple

Darshan Timings

Darshan Guide

Enter and Observe the Outer Wall

Crawl Through the Narrow Passage

Visit the Main Sanctum

Admire the Sandstone Sculptures

Location & Directions

How to Reach

About the Main God

Lord Shiva

Nearby Heritage Sites

Great Living Chola Temples

Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram

Frequently Asked Questions

Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga Temple

Dharmasthala Manjunatha Temple

Grishneshwar Temple (Ghrishneshwar)

Nearby Heritage Sites

Great Living Chola Temples

Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram