The largest temple in Kanchipuram, dedicated to Shiva in his form as Ekambaranathar — Lord of the Mango Tree. The 59-metre gopuram at the entrance is one of the tallest in Tamil Nadu and visible from much of the city; even if you don't go inside, it orients you through the town.
Inside, the scale is extraordinary. The 1,000-pillared mandapam is a vast columned hall with elaborately carved pillars that stretches into the dimness; the effect, particularly in the softer light of early morning, is genuinely memorable. The temple tank reflects the gopuram on calm days.
In the inner sanctum courtyard, a mango tree said to be 3,500 years old occupies a central position — it is the raison d'être of the entire complex. It is one of five elemental Shiva shrines in Tamil Nadu (this one representing earth), which gives Ekambaranathar a significance in Hindu pilgrimage that goes well beyond Kanchipuram itself.
The temple is actively worshipped and can be very busy on weekends and festival days. Non-Hindus are admitted. Dress conservatively; remove shoes at the entrance.