Kanchipuram's temples are the main draw. The city has over a hundred, but a handful stand out as truly extraordinary — some of the oldest and finest surviving examples of Dravidian architecture anywhere in India. Beyond the temples, the silk-weaving quarters offer a rare chance to watch Kanchipuram's other great tradition at close range: the handloom production of the heavy, gold-bordered saris that have made the city famous across India.
Kailasanatha Temple (8th century) is the oldest surviving temple in Kanchipuram and one of the finest examples of early Pallava architecture. Built from sandstone by King Rajasimha, its compact courtyard of small shrines has a quietly beautiful quality that the larger later temples lack. Under Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) management, so no pressure from priests.
Vaikuntha Perumal Temple (8th century) is another Pallava gem, with carved narrative panels running around the mandapam depicting stories of the Pallava kings. Equally low-key and beautiful. Also under ASI.
Ekambaranathar Temple is the largest temple in the city, dedicated to Shiva. The 59-metre gopuram dominates the skyline. The 1,000-pillared mandapam and a mango tree in the compound said to be 3,500 years old are the highlights. Busy with local worshippers; the spiritual atmosphere is real.
Kamakshi Amman Temple at the town centre is a major Shakti pilgrimage site. Architecturally less striking than the Pallava temples, but religiously significant across south India. Expect crowds on festival days.