The Varadaraja Perumal Temple, located in the sacred city of Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, is one of the most revered temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Also known as Perumal Kovil, this ancient temple is a significant pilgrimage site for devotees of the Vaishnavite tradition and is counted among the 108 Divya Desams. With its majestic architecture, centuries-old history, and divine presence, the temple attracts thousands of devotees and tourists from across India and abroad. It is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of Tamil culture, spiritual heritage, and artistic excellence.
Temple About Varadaraja Perumal Temple is one of the Divya Desams, the 108 temples of Vishnu revered by the Alwars. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped here as Varadaraja Perumal. The temple holds immense religious importance for Vaishnavites.
Temple Description
Built in Dravidian architecture, this vast temple complex covers 23 acres and includes numerous mandapams, gopurams, and sacred tanks. It is believed to have been originally constructed by the Cholas in the 11th century and expanded by later dynasties like the Vijayanagara rulers. The temple's highlight is the lizard sculptures plated in gold and silver on the ceiling, believed to cure ailments when touched.
Temple Speciality
One of the 108 Divya Desams.
Home to the Devaraja Swamy idol and the Aththi Varadar, a wooden idol brought out only once in 40 years for public darshan.
The 100-pillared hall (Kalyana Mandapam) is an architectural marvel.
Belief: Touching the golden and silver lizard sculptures cures ailments and brings blessings.
Temple Address
Sri Varadaraja Perumal Temple,Vishnu Kanchi, Kanchipuram,Tamil Nadu – 631501, India.
Temple Location (Longitude and Latitude)
12.8345° N, 79.7094° E
Temple Timings
Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Temple Sevas
Archana & Abhishekam
Thirumanjanam
Sahasranama Archana
Special Poojas on Ekadashi, Vaikunta Ekadashi, and Brahmotsavam
Traveling Facilities
Well-connected by road, rail, and air.
Local autos and taxis are available for internal movement.
State and private buses frequently run to and from Kanchipuram.
Food Facilities
Free Annadhanam (meals) provided by the temple at specific hours.
Many vegetarian hotels and restaurants are available in Kanchipuram.
Stay Facilities
TTDC hotels, private lodges, and guesthouses are available.
Temple choultries also provide basic accommodation for pilgrims.
Nearby Railway Station
Kanchipuram Railway Station – 2.5 km from temple
Nearby Airport
Chennai International Airport (MAA) – approx. 75 km
Nearby Bus Station
Kanchipuram Bus Stand – approx. 2 km
Bus Routes to Temple
From Chennai: Buses 76, 576, or private buses via NH48
From Bangalore: KSRTC and TNSTC buses via Vellore
Frequent local buses from Arakkonam, Vellore, and Chengalpattu
Train Routes to Temple
Trains from Chennai Egmore / Tambaram to Kanchipuram
Trains from Arakkonam Junction, Chengalpattu, and Vellore
Air Ways to Temple
Fly to Chennai International Airport (MAA)
From airport, hire a taxi or take a train/bus to Kanchipuram (approx. 2 hrs)
Nearby Cities to Temple
Chennai – 75 km
Vellore – 65 km
Tiruvannamalai – 110 km
Pondicherry – 125 km
Nearby Visiting Temples and Other Places
Ekambareswarar Temple (Shiva)
Kamakshi Amman Temple (Shakti)
Kailasanathar Temple (Oldest stone temple in TN)
Ulagalantha Perumal Temple
Silk weaving centers and Heritage temples
Preferable Visiting Season
November to February (Winter) – Pleasant climate
Festival seasons like Vaikunta Ekadashi and Brahmotsavam are spiritually vibrant.
Shopping Famous For
Kanchipuram Silk Sarees – world-renowned hand-woven traditional sarees
Pooja articles, brass idols, and handicrafts
A visit to the Varadaraja Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram is a deeply spiritual and culturally enriching experience. Whether you’re a pilgrim seeking divine blessings, an admirer of ancient architecture, or a traveler exploring Tamil Nadu’s sacred destinations, this temple offers a perfect blend of devotion, history, and serenity. Surrounded by other important shrines and traditional silk markets, Kanchipuram ensures a fulfilling visit for both heart and soul. Make sure to plan your trip during the right season to enjoy both the spiritual and cultural essence of this divine city.
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