Kamakshi Amman Temple, Kanchipuram

Sthala Puranam

After being separated from Shiva, Kamakshi did penance under a mango tree near the Vegavati river to win him back. She then married him as Ekambareswarar.

Another story says the devas, tormented by the demon Bhandasura, prayed as parrots perched on champaka trees. The Goddess rose from the sacrificial fire and killed him.

A Sri Yantra is placed in front of the idol. Tradition says the sage Durvasa first consecrated one, and Adi Shankara consecrated the present Sri Chakra.

Speciality

• Counted among the Shakti Peethas. Tradition says Sati's navel fell here, so the place is called Nabhi Peetham.
• The shrine is flanked by Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. Other shrines include Varaha, Bangaru Kamakshi, Anjana Kamakshi (Lakshmi), Adi Shankara, Saraswati and Hayagriva.
• The Shankaracharya of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham is the hereditary trustee.
• Fridays are sacred here, especially in the months of Adi and Thai.

Festivals

• Masi Pooram Mahotsavam (February–March), with chariot and float festivals
• Navaratri
• Aadi Pooram and Aippasi Pooram
• Sankara Jayanthi
• Vasanta Utsavam (Vaikasi)

How to reach

Before you go

• Dress modestly. Leave footwear outside the temple.
• Timings, ticket rules and dress codes change. Check the temple's own notice or website before you travel.
• Book darshan, rooms and special poojas only at the official counter or website, not through agents.
• Fridays and festival days are crowded. Early morning is calmer.
• Kamakshi and Ekambareswarar temples are close together, so many pilgrims visit both on one day.

Prayers for this temple

• Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu
• Devi Suktam
• Durga Gayatri