Shakti Peeth
Kamakshi Amman Shakti Peeth
Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
One of South India's three great Shakti seats — where Kashi, Kanchi, and Kamakshi converge
At a glance
- Location
- Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
- Presiding deity
- Goddess Kamakshi (a form of Parvati)
- Temple type
- Shakti Peeth
- Tradition
- Shakta
- Nearest railway station
- Kanchipuram railway station (~1 km)
- Nearest airport
- Chennai International Airport (~75 km)
- Best time to visit
- November to February; Navratri is celebrated with special festivities.
History
The Kamakshi Amman temple in Kanchipuram is one of South India's oldest and most significant Shakta pilgrimage sites, traditionally linked to Sati's navel. Kanchipuram itself is one of the seven sacred Sapta Puri cities and is often called the "Kashi of the South." Adi Shankaracharya is closely associated with the temple — tradition holds that he pacified the goddess's fierce energy and installed a Sri Chakra yantra here.
Spiritual significance
Kamakshi is regarded as a form of Tripurasundari, and the temple is a fine example of Dravidian architecture. Kanchipuram is also world-famous for its silk sarees (Kanjeevaram), making a visit here both a spiritual and cultural experience.
Plan your visit
Darshan timings
5:30 AM to 9:00 PM, with a brief midday break.
Timings change on festivals and special occasions. Confirm with the temple's official source before you travel.
Kanchipuram railway station has regular local trains from Chennai; the temple is a short walk or auto ride from the station.
Continue your Durga bhakti
Devotional texts for this deity, already on the site.