Ekambareswarar Temple: Beauty Of Tamil Nadu

Posted on Tuesday, May 21st, 2024 by Sidakbir Singh

Ekambareswarar Temple is located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. This is one of the largest and oldest temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It dates back to the Pallava dynasty and is renowned for its towering gopuram and vast temple complex. The temple is associated with the Pancha Bhoota Stalam concept, representing the element of Earth. Devotees flock to Ekambareswarar Temple to seek blessings, especially during festivals like Panguni Uthiram and Thai Poosam.

It’s a place of HEALING and PEACE!🌸

History and Origins Of The Temple 

The Ekambareswarar Temple’s history traces over 1,200 years to the Pallava dynasty in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India. It’s believed that the temple was originally constructed by the Pallava kings, with subsequent expansions and renovations by Chola and Vijayanagara rulers.

 Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple’s name “Ekambareswarar” signifies the deity as the Lord of the Mango Tree. The temple complex showcases rich architectural heritage and spiritual significance, attracting devotees and tourists alike.

Architecture of Ekambareswarar Temple

The architecture of Ekambareswarar Temple is characterized by its impressive gopurams (gateway towers) adorned with intricate sculptures depicting Hindu mythology. The main sanctum, or garbhagriha, has the lingam, symbolizing Lord Shiva. 

The temple complex spans vast grounds with numerous halls, shrines, & courtyards. Its design reflects a blend of Pallava, Chola, & Vijayanagara architectural styles, making it a stunning example of South Indian temple architecture.

How to Reach Ekambareswarar Temple  

• By Bus – First book a direct flight to Chennai from the USA then book a bus to  Ekambareswarar Temple. 
• By Flight – Book a direct flight to Chennai and then book a taxi or rent a car to the temple. 
• By Train – You can also opt for the train, First you have to book a flight to Delhi or any other state and then book a train to the temple. 

Which is the Best Time To Visit Ekambareswarar Temple

The best time to visit Ekambareswarar Temple is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat. It’s also ideal to visit during festivals like Panguni Uthiram and Thai Poosam for a vibrant cultural experience. Avoid visiting during peak summer months to stay comfortable while exploring the temple grounds.

Interesting facts about Ekambareswarar Temple

1. Ekambareswarar Temple Kanchipuram is one of the oldest temples in Kanchipuram, dating back over 1,200 years.
2. The temple’s main deity, Lord Shiva, is worshipped in the form of a lingam under a 3,500-year-old mango tree, which is believed to be the embodiment of the deity.
3. The temple complex covers an area of 25 acres and is known for its impressive architecture, including towering gopurams (gateway towers) and intricately carved pillars.
4. Ekambareswarar Temple Kanchipuram is one of the Pancha Bhoota Stalams, representing the element of Earth (Prithvi).
5. The temple hosts grand celebrations during festivals like Panguni Uthiram and Thai Poosam, attracting devotees from far and wide.
6. The temple underwent significant expansions and renovations under the patronage of Chola and Vijayanagara rulers, leaving behind architectural marvels that blend different styles.
7. Ekambareswarar Temple has been mentioned in ancient Tamil literature and inscriptions, highlighting its cultural and historical importance.
8. The temple is known for its Sarpa Samskara Pooja, a ritual performed to appease the serpent deity and seek blessings for fertility and prosperity.

Ekambareswarar Temple Kanchipuram Timings/Entry Fee

The Entry fee of the Ekambareswarar Temple Kanchipuram is FREE.

Nearby Attractions in the Ekambareswarar Temple Chennai

1. Kailasanathar Temple – An ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Kailasanathar Temple is just 0.5 km away from the Ekambareswarar Temple. 
2. Kamakshi Amman Temple – Sacred Hindu shrine devoted to Goddess Kamakshi. Kamakshi Amman Temple is just 1km away. 
3. Varadaraja Perumal Temple – Prominent Hindu temple honoring Lord Vishnu.Varadaraja Perumal Temple is 1.5 km from the Ekambareswarar Temple. 
4. Kanchi Kudil – Traditional house museum showcasing Tamil culture. Kanchi Kudil is 2 km far from the Temple. 
5. Kanchipuram Silk Sarees Showroom- This offers famous silk sarees from Kanchipuram which is just 1.2 km away. 
6. Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary – It is known for its diverse bird species, especially migratory birds. It offers a peaceful environment. Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary is just 47 Km away. 
7. Chitragupta Swamy Temple – This Temple is dedicated to Chitragupta, the divine accountant and assistant of Yama, the god of death. Chitragupta Swamy is just 1.5 Km away from the temple.

Visitor Guidelines and Pro Tips 

• Wear traditional attire like dhoti for men and saree or salwar kameez for women. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, and tight-fitting clothes.
• Remove your footwear before entering the temple complex. There are designated areas to leave them. Carry a bag to keep your footwear safe.
• It’s customary to offer Bilva leaves, flowers, coconuts, and incense sticks at the temple. You can buy these offerings outside the temple complex.
• The temple gets crowded during festivals and weekends. For a peaceful darshan, visit early in the morning or during weekdays.
• Circumambulate the main sanctum (pradakshina) in a clockwise direction. It’s believed to be auspicious and symbolizes reverence to the deity.
• Opt for guided tours provided by the temple authorities to understand the history, architecture, and significance of various shrines within the complex.
• Maintain silence inside the temple premises. Avoid loud conversations, mobile phone usage, and any disrespectful behavior.
• After darshan, partake in the prasadam offered by the temple. It’s considered blessed and brings good fortune.
• Seek permission before taking photographs inside the temple. Some areas may be restricted for photography, especially near the sanctum sanctorum.
• Carry a water bottle and some light snacks, as there might not be food stalls inside the temple complex.
• Follow the instructions of temple priests and volunteers. Be respectful towards fellow devotees and maintain decorum during rituals.

Other Activities To Do in Chennai

Discover more about Chennai beyond its history and culture. Engage in water sports at Marina Beach, stroll through Mylapore’s streets for local cuisine, and find peace on a Coovum River boat ride. Experience the lively tourism in Chennai with its busy nightlife and vibrant shopping districts. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Where is the Ekambareswarar Temple located?

A: The Ekambareswarar Temple Chennai is located in the city of Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India.

Q: Who is the main deity worshipped at the Ekambareswarar Temple?

A: The main deity worshipped at the Ekambareswarar Temple Kanchi is Lord Shiva, known as Ekambareswarar or Ekambaranathar.

Q: What is unique about the Ekambareswarar Temple?

A: One unique feature of the Kanchi Ekambareswarar Temple is its massive mango tree, believed to be several centuries old, and one of the five sacred trees of Pancha Bootha Sthalams.

Q: When was the Ekambareswarar Temple built?

A: The Ekambareswarar Temple has ancient origins, with parts of the temple dating back to the Pallava dynasty in the 6th century CE.

Q: What are some festivals celebrated at the Ekambareswarar Temple?

A: The Ekambareswarar Temple celebrates various festivals, including Maha Shivaratri, Panguni Uthiram, &Thai Poosam, with grand processions and rituals.

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