Imagine stepping into a place where history, art and religion converge in an amazing amalgamation. Well, that is exactly what you get to see at Kailasanathar Temple of Kanchipuram located in Tamil Nadu, India which is an ancient and interesting pilgrimage site. It is a newer temple that showcases beautiful ancient Indian design and culture, along with being a religious place. Here are seven incredible facts to know about the Kailasanathar Temple and understand what makes it absolutely stunning!
Aarti and Visiting Timings
- Temple Timings: The temple is generally open every day from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
- Aarti Timings:
- Morning Aarti: 6:00 AM
- Evening Aarti: 7:00 PM
- Puja Services: Regular poojas like Abhishekam, Archana, and Aarti are performed daily. Special poojas are performed during festivals like Shivaratri.
What is Kailasanathar Temple?
The Kanchi (Kailasanathar) Temple is one of the most ancient sanctuaries in India. Constructed in the 8th century by Rajasimha of Pallava, also known as NarashimaVarman II. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, one of the holy trinity in Hindu. The Hindu trinity consists of creator Brahma, protector Vishnu and destroyer Shiva.
7 Interesting facts about Kailasanathar Temple
1. Unique Ancient Design
Kailasanathar Temple, known for distinctive architecture. A technology that separates it from many of the temples in more later history and allows charms to be its sandstone light, yet definitive appearance. Here are some key features:
•Raja Gopuram: This is the gate tower that allows you to go in. While not as frilly and excessive in design as some of the other temples we saw here, you still have an idea of its grandeur.
•Prakaram: This is the wide empty space where people carry Mattals and Yagas.
•Mandapam: Temples have there are Mandapas, hall supported by large pillars. These Mandapams are said to have been consecrated for public rites and worships.
•Vimana: This is the tower that rises above the main shrine. Kailasanathar Temple is also famous for its pyramidal Vimana, that looks bold and attractive.
2. Fantastic Carvings & Sculptures
One of the coolest things about the Kailasanathar Temple is its carvings and sculptures. The walls and pillars are covered with detailed pictures of gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures. These carvings are not only beautiful but also tell interesting stories from Hindu mythology.
•Lord Shiva: There are many carvings of Lord Shiva in the form of a cosmic dancer (Nataraja) and meditating sage.
•Mythologies: Along with these, some of the characters or carvings explains mythological stories in epic tales such as Ramayana and Mahabharata, which gives an idea about Hindu culture.
3. Influential Design
The style of this temple later set the tone for many other Tamil temples in South India. Its simplicity and elegance established the architectural pattern for all future temples.
4. Cultural Treasure
Why temple is not just a place of worship, rather an integral part of Indian Cultural History? This aids us to know about the art and design of ancient India, so it is a much valuable historical site which we will find.
5. Peaceful Atmosphere
The Kailasanathar Temple is unique amongst many temple throughout India, in that it ah a peaceful and calm atmosphere (unlike more busy temples). The peaceful surroundings of Whitcomb -Mount Rest are ideal for solitude to enjoy its charm and reflect upon the lives laid there without a lot of human distractions.
6. Strong Construction
Made from sturdy sandstone, the temple has survived for centuries. Both the carvings and the structure of those temple’s walls have been well maintained by that sturdy material over years.
7. Ancient Inscriptions
This temple is also filled with ancient Tamil writing inscriptions. These inscriptions are very useful way of understanding the history written on stones about temple, and Pallava king build them.
Importance of The Kailasanathar Temple Today
The kailasanathar temple, is not only a testament of olden times but also an example the graft and piety of its craftsmens. Why does this still matter?
•Learning Tool: Thats right the temple is a good place also for students and for someone loving history & Art. She said it provides insight into classic construction techniques and religious occupancy.
•Preserving History: With public visits one of the top points for local or domestic, and when people talking more about Kailasanathar Temple it keeps that history alive. It helps for researching and enjoying our cultural traditions.
Visiting Kailasanathar Temple
So what might an outsider feel while stepping into the Kailasanathar Temple?
•Quiet and Reflective: The temple is tranquil environment where you can enjoy its beauty, nature surrounding it as well more about the history.
•Historical Exploration: Once you have your eyes in the place, all around appear carved walls and you can visualize how grand this temple must have looked when it was built. This related to students in the region as each carving yells history.
•Respectful Visit: Remember, this is a place of worship, so it’s important to be respectful. Dress modestly, speak softly, and follow any rules or customs.
Interesting Facts about Kailasanathar Temple
1. Kailasanathar Temple has no paintings: In marked contrast to the profusion of vivid color one sees in many other temples, most notably Chidambaram and Meenakshi Amman, Kailasantar has only unpainted stone carvings.
2. Made to Last: The sandstone used in the temple was built using a method that allowed it stand back for thousands of years.
3. Incredible Craftsmanship: The carvings were done by tools of the 8th century so it is hard to believe that modern day machine could do this kind of carving.
4. Ancient Tamil Writing: Some of the inscriptions found inside this temple contain ancient tamil writings.
How to Reach Kailasanathar Temple
- Location: The Kailasanathar Temple is located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, about 75 km southwest of Chennai. The temple is situated in the heart of Kanchipuram, easily accessible from various parts of the town.
- By Road:
- The temple is well-connected to Chennai and other nearby towns by road. You can travel by bus, private taxis, or hire a vehicle from Chennai to reach the temple. The temple is located in the central part of Kanchipuram.
- By Train:
- Kanchipuram Railway Station is the nearest railway station, about 2 km from the temple. Kanchipuram is connected by train to Chennai, Thanjavur, and other parts of Tamil Nadu. From the railway station, you can take a rickshaw or walk to the temple.
- By Air:
- The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, located around 75 km from Kanchipuram. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or private car to reach Kanchipuram and the Kailasanathar Temple.
Online Booking and Temple Services
Currently, the Kailasanathar Temple does not have an official online booking system for pooja reservations or aarti services. However, you can visit the temple directly to inquire about booking special poojas or other services. Special poojas can also be arranged during festivals like Maha Shivaratri.
Temple Services:
- Poojas and Rituals: The temple performs a variety of poojas, including Abhishekam (sacred ablution), Aarti, Archana, and Special Poojas for devotees.
- Prasadam: Devotees receive prasadam (blessed offerings) after performing pooja.
Nearby Attractions
- Kanchipuram: Known as the “City of Thousand Temples,” Kanchipuram is home to many famous temples, including the Ekambareswarar Temple, Varadaraja Perumal Temple, and Kachapeshwarar Temple.
- Kanchi Kamakshi Temple: This famous temple dedicated to Goddess Kamakshi is located near Kailasanathar Temple. It is an important center of Shakti worship.
- Devarajaswami Temple: A well-known Vishnu temple in Kanchipuram, dedicated to Devaraja Perumal.
- Crocodile Bank: A nature reserve near Chennai, featuring crocodiles and other reptiles.
Conclusion
Kailasanathar Temple — This amazing temple is a great example of ancient Indian architecture and art. Constructed in the 8th century, it demonstrates how hard its builder had worked creatively. The Kailasanathar Temple with its intricate carvings, elegant design and heritage significance is a gem in the crown of history and culture.
So when you hear about olden civilizations or go to a historical place, remember the Kailasanathar Temple. It’s a spectacular instance of how art, faith and history collaborate to form something indescribable.