You will be picked up from your hotel in Chennai and driven to Kanchipuram, about 45 minutes away. Historically, Kanchipuram was a center of education and was known as the “ghatikasthanam”, or place of learning. The city was also a religious center of advanced education for Jainism and Buddhism between the 1st and 5th centuries. Located on the banks of the Vegavathy river, it incorporates many temples. In Vaishnavism Hindu theology, Kanchipuram is one of the seven Tirtha (pilgrimage) sites. Fourteen temples dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu are located in Kanchipuram. We will visit the three temples that exemplify this sacred town. Kailasantha Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and represents a high point in Indian architecture. Ekambareshwara Temple represents the earth form of the five form-element abode of Lord Shiva. The ancient Vaikuntaperumal Temple has beautiful pillared corridors around the sanctum dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Next, visit Kanchi Kudi, a 90-year-old house, authentic in old-style architecture and functionality. It affords a glimpse of the life of an agricultural family in a small town. While temples and monuments index the cultural life of a city, the real soul of a place is to be found in its people and their homes.
The city of Kanchipuram is well known for its hand woven silk saris. Most of the city's workforce is involved in the weaving industry. We will watch a traditional silk weaving demonstration. Lunch is included at a local restaurant (beverages at own expense). Your private tour ends when you are returned back to your hotel in Chennai.