Ekambareswarar Temple, Hindu temple in Kanchipuram, India
Ekambareswarar is a large temple complex in Kanchipuram with multiple courtyards, halls of carved pillars, and an 11-story southern gateway tower. Inside, a sprawling pillared corridor runs beside the central shrine, while an ancient mango tree grows within its own enclosed courtyard.
The earliest structures date to the Pallava dynasty around 600 CE, when local rulers began building stone monuments for Shiva. Chola kings expanded the complex significantly in the 9th century, adding new halls and towers.
The name translates to "Lord of the Mango Tree" and links the deity directly to the ancient tree that dominates the inner courtyard. Devotees walk around this tree as part of their worship, believing each direction represents one of the four Vedas.
The grounds open in the morning and late afternoon, allowing visitors to avoid the heat of the day. Most areas are accessible on foot, but the large grounds require some time to explore.
A single mango tree inside is said to be over 3,500 years old and produces four different fruits, each with a distinct taste. Devotees see each branch as representing a sacred scripture, believing the fruits carry spiritual properties.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
