Kailasanathar Temple
Kailasanathar Temple in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, is the city's oldest surviving structural shrine, built of sandstone with rare early Pallava wall paintings.
Photos of Kailasanathar Temple
- Presiding Deity
- Shiva
- Established
- Early 8th century CE
- Architecture
- Pallava
- Address
- Pillaiyarpalayam, Kanchipuram 631501
- Timings
- 06:00–12:30, 16:00–20:00
History of Kailasanathar Temple
Built by Pallava king Rajasimha (Narasimhavarman II) around 700 CE, with a Nandi shrine added by his son Mahendravarman III.
Festivals Celebrated at Kailasanathar Temple
- Maha Shivaratri
- Panguni Uthiram
How to Reach Kailasanathar Temple
Kanchipuram is 75 km southwest of Chennai; regular buses and trains connect the two.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kailasanathar Temple
Where is Kailasanathar Temple located?
- Kailasanathar Temple is located at Pillaiyarpalayam, Kanchipuram 631501, in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Kailasanathar Temple?
- The presiding deity at Kailasanathar Temple is Shiva (also known as Mahadev, Bholenath), worshipped in the Shaiva tradition.
What are the timings of Kailasanathar Temple?
- Kailasanathar Temple is generally open 06:00–12:30, 16:00–20:00. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Kailasanathar Temple built?
- Kailasanathar Temple was established Early 8th century CE. Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Kailasanathar Temple?
- Kailasanathar Temple is built in the Pallava style, characteristic of Shiva shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Kailasanathar Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Kailasanathar Temple include Maha Shivaratri, Panguni Uthiram. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Tamil Nadu and beyond.
How can I reach Kailasanathar Temple?
- Kanchipuram is 75 km southwest of Chennai; regular buses and trains connect the two.
Why is Kailasanathar Temple significant?
- Kailasanathar Temple in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, is the city's oldest surviving structural shrine, built of sandstone with rare early Pallava wall paintings.
Is there an entry fee at Kailasanathar Temple?
- Entry to the main shrine of Kailasanathar Temple is generally free for darshan. Special sevas, abhishekams and priority queues may carry a nominal fee — check with the temple office on arrival.
What is the dress code at Kailasanathar Temple?
- Kailasanathar Temple follows the traditional dress code observed at Tamil Nadu temples — modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Many shrines in the region also expect men to remove upper garments before entering the sanctum.