History:

, is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in Kanchipuram, TamilNadu. Built by the Pallavas rulers, the temple is said to have been constructed in 7th century AD. The temple consists of a series of shrines and its architectural style is a blending of different styles such as of the temples of the Pallava and the Chola Periods. The temple is considered to be one of the most important Shiva temples in the state and is known for some of its ornate sculptures. The main deity within the temple is the Shiva Lingam, which is believed to be over 1000 years. The temple also has several small shrines dedicated to other Hindu gods and goddesses. The temple is visited during special Hindu festivals such as Panguni Uthiram, Shivaratri and Vinayaka Chaturthi. It is one of the best temple in TamilNadu which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Iravatanesvara Temple located at Kanchipuram is an important Shaiva temple in the state of Tamil Nadu. 2. It is dedicated to the family deity of the Pallava rulers and was completed in 685-706CE. 3. The temple has a unique seven-storeyed vimana with elaborate architectural details and carvings. 4. The temple's main deity is the Lord Shiva, known here as Iravatanesvara and was also the family deity of the Pallavas. 5. The holy tank of the temple, called the Arunai Teertham, is believed to be full of healing properties. 6. An annual festival known as the Moolavar Chitrai Festival is celebrated in the temple, which is attended by thousands of devotees. 7. The temple is also known for its holy bears, called dvarapalakas, which are believed to be the guardian deities of the temple. Here are some facts about the TamilNadu temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in TamilNadu

Worship Method:

The worship of Iravatanesvara Temple in Kanchipuram follows the traditional norms established by the rules of Agama Shastra. This temple follows the Vaikhanasa tradition of daily rituals and occasional festivals. The temple priests begin the day by performing a puja to their presiding deity, Iravatanesvara Swami. This is followed by a morning puja where the priests chant mantras and offer flowers and fruits to the deity. This is followed by an Aarati ceremony where the deity is honored and offerings of milk and rice are made to the deity. The afternoon puja includes offerings of sandalwood paste and flowers. Aarti and poojas are performed through the day at regular intervals. On the final day of the puja, a Laksharchana, Maha Naivedya and Japa Homam is performed. Occasional festivals are also celebrated in this temple. These festivals include Maha Shivaratri, Navaratri, Skanda Shashti and other occasions. On these occasions, special poojas and Aaratis are performed and devotees offer their prayers to the deity. Iravatanesvara Temple also follows Shamashana Parihara tradition during the Tamil month of Purattasi. Devotees offer their prayers on teerthams and perform abishekams with various kinds of grains and flowers. This temple is known for its unique and ancient architecture. A magnificent Rajagopuram and five enclosures around the temple protect the sanctity of the temple and also attract devotees from all over the world. Grand festivals are celebrated throughout the year in this temple with much grandeur and antiquity. This most visited temple in TamilNadu

Opening Timing:

The Iravatanesvara Temple in Kanchipuram is open from 5:00 AM to noon and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on all days of the week. top temples in TamilNadu

How to reach:

The Iravatanesvara temple is located in Kanchipuram city of Tamilnadu. The nearest airport is the Chennai International Airport, which is located about 60 kms away from the temple. To reach the Iravatanesvara temple from the airport, you can take a cab or a bus. The nearest train station is Kanchipuram railway station which is only 10kms away. Regular buses ply from the railway station to the temple. If you are driving, follow the Chennai – Vellore highway and take the exit towards Kancheepuram. famous temples in TamilNadu