Varadharaja Perumal Temple

here’s more information about Varadharaja Perumal Temple:

The Varadharaja Perumal Temple, also called Hastagiri and Attiyuran, is a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu located in the city of Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the Divya Desams, the 108 temples of Vishnu believed to have been visited by the 12 poet saints, or the Alvars.

Here are some of the sight-seeing places you can visit at the Varadharaja Perumal Temple:

• The Seven Precincts: The temple complex has seven enclosures or precincts, each with its own walls and gateway. The most significant one is the innermost precinct where the sanctum sanctorum (the most sacred part of the temple) is located.

• Rajagopuram: The temple has a magnificent seven-tiered gopuram (gateway tower) that is about 130 feet tall. The gopuram is adorned with intricate sculptures depicting various Hindu deities and stories.

  

  Varadharaja Perumal Temple Rajagopuram

• Stone Chain: A fascinating feature of the temple is a stone chain that was sculpted from a single piece of black granite. It is believed to be a marvel of engineering and craftsmanship.

• Carvings of Lizards: There are two sculptures of lizards on the walls of the temple, one made of gold and the other made of silver. Touching these lizards is believed to ward off evil omens.

• Maha Mandap: This large hall with 100 pillars is located in the fifth precinct of the temple. The pillars are adorned with intricate carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, the two great Hindu epics.

• Wooden Idol of Varadaraja: There is a 40-foot tall wooden idol of Lord Varadaraja within the temple complex. This idol is taken out in a procession only once every 40 years, making it a rare sight to see.

• Sanctum Sanctorum: The innermost sanctum sanctorum houses the main idol of Lord Vishnu in his reclining posture as Varadaraja Perumal.

  

  Varadharaja Perumal Temple Sanctum Sanctorum

Since the Varadharaja Perumal Temple itself offers a rich experience, there might not be many “must-see” sights directly within the temple grounds beyond what was already mentioned. However, here are some interesting things you can do to enhance your visit:

• Witness Temple Rituals (Sevas): The temple conducts various rituals (sevas) throughout the day. You can inquire about the timings and witness these rituals for a deeper understanding of the temple’s traditions.

• Explore the Temple Tank (Pushkarani): The temple complex likely has a temple tank (pushkarani). Taking a dip in these tanks is considered holy, and you can observe the rituals associated with it.

• Visit the Temple Museum (if available): Some temples have museums within the complex that showcase temple artifacts, history, and temple construction techniques. Check if such a museum exists and explore it for a more enriching experience.

• Seek Blessings from Priests: Priests (pandits) are usually present within the temple complex. You can seek their blessings and ask questions about the temple’s significance and stories.

Now, let’s explore places around the temple that you can visit to extend your experience:

• Kanchipuram Silk Sarees: Kanchipuram is famous for its silk sarees. After visiting the temple, you can explore the town’s many shops and showrooms to witness the weaving process and purchase exquisite silk sarees.

• Ekambareswarar Temple & Kamakshi Amman Temple: Kanchipuram is known as the “City of Temples.” Close to the Varadharaja Perumal Temple are two other prominent temples – Ekambareswarar Temple (dedicated to Lord Shiva) and Kamakshi Amman Temple (dedicated to Parvati). Visiting these temples will give you a well-rounded experience of Kanchipuram’s temple heritage.

• Kanchipuram Museum: The Kanchipuram Museum houses a collection of archaeological artifacts, sculptures, and bronzes related to the region’s history and culture. This is a great place to learn more about Kanchipuram’s past.