Kamakshi Amman Temple, Hindu temple in Kanchipuram district, Tamil Nadu, India
Kamakshi Amman Temple is a Hindu temple in Kanchipuram district, Tamil Nadu, and ranks among the most important religious sites in this region. The complex spreads across several courtyards with stone pillared halls, wall niches, and reliefs showing scenes from Hindu tradition.
The temple was established in the 8th century by Adi Shankaracharya, who designated it as one of the important Shakti Peethas. Later rulers from the Chola and Vijayanagara dynasties expanded the structure with additional halls and towers.
The name Kamakshi combines Kama, the god of desire, with Akshi meaning eyes, as the goddess fulfills wishes through her gaze. Pilgrims often bring fresh jasmine garlands and coconuts to offer during morning rituals at the main shrine.
The shrine opens daily in the early morning hours and closes at midday for several hours before reopening in the evening. Visitors should remove footwear at the entrance and make sure shoulders and knees are covered.
The main statue of the goddess inside the shrine stands upright, while depictions of Shakti in most other temples across India show her seated. This golden nose ring weighs several grams and is placed only during special festival days.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
