Ekambareswarar Temple in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, is one of the most sacred and ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple holds immense religious, historical, and architectural significance. As one of the revered Pancha Bhoota Sthalams representing the element of Earth (Prithvi), it attracts thousands of devotees and tourists every year. The temple not only stands as a spiritual beacon but also as a testament to South Indian temple architecture and tradition.
Temple About
Ekambareswarar Temple is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Kanchipuram. It is one of the five elemental Shiva temples known as the Pancha Bhoota Stalas, representing the Earth element.
Temple Description
Spread across 25 acres, this temple features majestic Dravidian architecture. Its 57-meter high Rajagopuram (main tower) is among the tallest in South India. The temple houses a sacred mango tree believed to be over 3,500 years old, bearing four types of mangoes on its branches—symbolizing the four Vedas. Parvati is believed to have worshipped the Lingam here, made of sand (Prithvi Lingam), under the mango tree.
Temple Speciality
One of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalams representing Earth (Prithvi).
Shiva Lingam is made of sand.
Ancient mango tree with four varieties of mangoes.
No separate shrine for Parvati; she is merged with the Lingam.
Revered in the Tevaram hymns by Tamil Shaivite saints.
Temple Address
Ekambareswarar Temple, Sannathi Street, Periya Kanchipuram, Kanchipuram – 631502, Tamil Nadu, India.
Temple Location (Latitude & Longitude)
12.8395° N, 79.7052° E
Temple Timings
Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:30 PM
(May vary on festivals and special days)
Temple Sevas
Abhishekam
Archana & Deepa Aradhana
Rudrabhishekam
Pradosha Pooja
Special rituals on Mondays & Shivratri
Traveling Facilities
Well connected by road, rail, and air.
Regular buses from Chennai, Vellore, and Tirupati.
Auto-rickshaws, cabs, and rental vehicles available.
Food Facilities
Plenty of vegetarian restaurants around the temple.
Prasadam distributed inside the temple.
Local South Indian cuisine is widely available.
Stay Facilities
Budget to premium hotels available nearby.
Temple guest houses and choultries for pilgrims.
Best to book in advance during festivals.
Nearby Railway Station
Kanchipuram Railway Station – 1.5 km
Nearby Airport
Chennai International Airport – 75 km
Nearby Bus Station
Kanchipuram Bus Stand – 1 km
Bus Routes to Temple
Frequent TNSTC and private buses from:
Chennai via NH48
Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Tirupati
Train Routes to Temple
Direct trains from Chennai Egmore, Chengalpattu, Arakkonam, Vellore.
Airways to Temple
Land at Chennai International Airport.
Continue by road (approx. 2-hour drive).
Nearby Cities
Chennai (75 km)
Vellore (60 km)
Tiruvannamalai (125 km)
Pondicherry (130 km)
Nearby Temples and Attractions
Kamakshi Amman Temple
Varadaraja Perumal Temple
Kailasanathar Temple
Vaikunta Perumal Temple
Kanchi Kudil (Heritage Home Museum)
Ulagalantha Perumal Temple
Preferable Visiting Season
October to March – pleasant climate
Ideal during Mahashivaratri & Panguni Uthiram festivals
Shopping Famous For
Kanchipuram Silk Sarees
Handloom textiles
Traditional jewelry & temple souvenirs
Ekambareswarar Temple is more than just a place of worship it's a spiritual journey through time, tradition, and devotion. Whether you are seeking divine blessings, admiring ancient architecture, or exploring South India’s rich culture, this temple offers an unforgettable experience. A visit here truly connects you to the essence of Hindu spirituality and the legacy of Tamil heritage.
