Kanchipuram tour

We went for a one day tour to Kanchipuram on Friday, Nov 21.

Mango tree, Ekambareswarar temple: Parvathi worshiped Lord Shiva under this tree. The tree, said to be more than 3500 year old, lost its trunk/roots a few years ago. The Horticulture department salvaged plant cells for culture growth and restored a new sapling which is now a big tree. Of the panchbootha sthalas, Earth is Kanchi with Sakthi's presence and Tiruvaarur with Siva's presence. Eka-Amram means single mango tree.

Kamakshi temple: We performed abishekam to the goddess around 10.30am. Adisankarar installed a Meru chakram in front of the goddess in 7AD. Darshan was a divine beauty in fullness! The temple is under renovation.

Varadarajar temple: A massive temple with intricate sculptures. Enjoyed puliyodhari and pongal. The temple record says that Sir Thomas Munro fulfilled his vow by donating huge silver vessels (Munro gangaalm) and gold ornaments to the lord. Perhaps, a pious saint among the British governors of Madras.

Ulagalandha perumal temple: Very huge moorthy with hands and legs spread across to measure the universe. Marvelous!

Kumarakotam: Murugan temple where various saints from Arunagiri, pamban swamigal and others composed and sang hymns on the lord.

Orirukkai: 6 kms from temple town. Mani mandapam for Mahaperiyavar is under construction. Many young students of the Vedha patasalas were learning under big trees in traditional atmosphere and dress code. Very nice to see such things of cultural value and heritage.

On the return phase we visited Adhikesavaperumal temple/ Sriperumpudur and Vallakotai Murugan temple. The day was useful and mind rested in peaceful satisfaction. 12 hours package will do.