Kanchipuram is 75 km southwest of Chennai and most visitors arrive from there.
By train: The most comfortable option. Several trains a day run from Chennai Egmore station to Kanchipuram; the journey takes around 75–90 minutes. The railway station in Kanchipuram is about 2 km from the main temple area; auto-rickshaws are available outside. Book tickets on the Indian Railways website or at the station.
By bus: State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) buses leave frequently from Chennai's Koyambedu bus terminus (CMBT). The journey takes around 2 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Kanchipuram's bus stand is centrally located, within walking distance of the Kamakshi Amman Temple.
By car or taxi: The most flexible option for a day trip. The drive from Chennai takes 1.5–2 hours depending on traffic leaving the city. Cab services (Ola, Uber, local operators) charge a fixed outstation fare. Having your own vehicle means you can reach all four of the major temples at your own pace without depending on auto-rickshaws.
The nearest airport is Chennai International (MAA), about 80 km away. No direct public transport connects the airport to Kanchipuram; the practical option is a prepaid taxi.