Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram is a religious city in Kanchipuram district, Tamil Nadu, India. The place sits along the Palar River and spreads across several neighborhoods centered around large stone temple complexes with tall gopurams and wide courtyards.

The settlement served as the capital under the Pallava dynasty from the 3rd to the 9th century and later became an administrative center for the Chola rulers. During this period, many of the stone temples that still shape the cityscape were built.

The name traces back to the worship of Shiva and Vishnu, reflected in the many shrines that draw pilgrims throughout the year. Artisans work in small workshops along the streets, weaving silk threads in age-old patterns while devotees walk through narrow lanes toward temple complexes.

Regular train connections run to Chennai, and a main road links the town to the nearest major city. Many temple complexes open early in the morning and close in the late afternoon, so starting early helps when visiting several sites.

Local weavers use techniques passed down for centuries to produce saris with specific geometric patterns. This craftsmanship received a Geographical Indication tag in 2005, recognizing the special quality and style of silk made here.