Exploring the Sacred 15 Divya Desam Temples of Kanchipuram: A Spiritual Odyssey
Nestled in the heart of Tamil Nadu, Kanchipuram stands as a timeless testament to India’s spiritual and architectural grandeur. Revered as the “City of a Thousand Temples,” it holds immense significance in Hindu mythology and tradition. Among its treasures are 15 of the 108 Divya Desams—sacred temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, venerated by the 12 Azhvars (saints) who composed the Naalayira Divya Prabandham. These temples are not just places of worship but living embodiments of devotion, history, and artistry. Join us on a journey to explore these 15 divine abodes.
About the Divya Desams
The term Divya Desam refers to 108 holy abodes of Lord Vishnu that are celebrated in the hymns of the Alvars. Kanchipuram uniquely hosts 15 of these exalted temples — more than any other city in India — making it a paramount destination for Vaishnavite pilgrimage.
Each temple enshrines a distinct murti (form) of Vishnu, associated with various avatars, divine legends, and unique sthalapuranas (temple legends). These sacred sites transcend mere architecture — they are vibrant centers of worship, philosophy, and community life.
List Of Kanchipuram Divya Desam Temples
- Thiru Ooragam: Sri Ulagalanda Perumal temple
- Thiurkkaar Vaanam: Sri Thirukaar Vaanar temple
- Thiru kaaragam: Sri Karunakara Perumal temple
- Thiru Neeragam: Sri Jagadeeswara temple
- Thiru Parameswara Vinnagaram: Sri Vaikunda Perumal temple
- Thiru Pavala Vannam: Pachai vanna (or) Sri Pavala Vanna Perumal temple
- Thiruthanka (Thoppul): Vilakkoli Perumal temple
- Thiru Velukkai: Sri Azhagiya Perumal temple
- Thiruvekka: Sri Yathokthakari Perumal temple
- Thiru Ashtabhujakaram: Aadhikesava perumal temple
- Thirukachi: Varadharaja Perumal temple
- Thirukkalvanoor: Sri Aadhi varaha Perumal temple
- Thiru Padagam: Sri Pandava Thoothar Perumal temple
- Thiru Nilathingal Thundam: Sri Nilathingal Thundathan Perumal temple
- Thiruputkuli : Sri Vijayaraghava Perumal
Chennai to Kanchipuram Divya Desam Tour Package Duration 1 Night 2 days and Detailed Plan and Price Click Here
Why Visit the 15 Divya Desam Temples?
- Spiritual Liberation: Each temple is a gateway to moksha, the ultimate release from the cycle of rebirth.
- Divine Poetry: Experience the living legacy of the Alvars — their hymns echo in rituals, chants, and temple ceremonies.
- Architectural Marvels: From towering gopurams to intricate carvings and mandapams, these temples showcase Dravidian art at its finest.
- Festivals & Rituals: Celebrate the grand Brahmotsavam, Panguni Uthiram, and the rare Atthi Varadar Festival — a once-in-40-years event of profound significance.
- Soulful Pilgrimage: Walking from temple to temple in Kanchipuram is not just a journey across geography, but a transformative yatra of the soul.
Plan Your Pilgrimage
Whether you’re a devout follower, a spiritual seeker, or a cultural traveler, a visit to the 15 Divya Desams of Kanchipuram offers a profound experience of India’s living religious tradition.
📍 Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant weather)
🚆 How to Reach: Kanchipuram is well-connected by rail and road, just 75 km from Chennai.
🏨 Stay Options: Budget Hotel and Standard Hotel accommodations are available near Kanchipuram Temples
Embrace the Divine
Let the chants, the fragrant air, and the golden spires of Kanchipuram guide you on a journey of devotion, reflection, and inner awakening. Walk the sacred path once trodden by the Alvars and feel the grace of 15 Divya Desams — where earth meets the eternal.
Jai Sriman Narayana!