Kailasanathar Temple
Temple
Kailasanathar Temple
Kailasanathar Temple, also known as Kailasanatha Temple, is a historic Hindu temple in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Built around 700 CE by Narasimhavarman II of the Pallava dynasty, it is one of the oldest surviving monuments in Kanchipuram and a prime example of Dravidian architecture.
The temple features a square-plan layout with a mukha-mandapa (entrance hall), maha-mandapa (gathering hall), and a primary sanctum (garbha-griya) topped with a four-storey vimana.
Surrounding the main sanctum are nine shrines, each depicting different forms of Shiva. The temple’s outer walls are adorned with intricate carvings, showcasing themes from Shaivism, Vaishnavism, Shaktism, and Vedic deities.
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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Kailasanathar Temple is located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu.
The temple was built by Pallava King Narasimhavarman II (Rajasimha) during the late 7th and early 8th century CE. His successor, Mahendravarman III, completed parts of the temple complex.
The temple is generally open: For morning: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM and for evening: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
The best time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and temple visits.
The presiding deity is Lord Shiva, worshipped as Kailasanathar, while Goddess Parvati is worshipped as Kamakshi Amman in associated traditions.
The temple is built in the Dravidian architectural style, showcasing early Pallava craftsmanship.
It is approximately 75 km from Chennai and can be reached in about 2 hours by road.
Kanchipuram Railway Station is approximately 3 km from the temple.
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