Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram, also known as Kanchi, is a city in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and the administrative headquarters of Kanchipuram district. Located about 75 kilometers southwest of Chennai, it lies in the northern part of the state and sits near the Vegavathy river. The city has a long religious and cultural history and is widely regarded as a major temple town.

Kanchipuram is home to numerous Hindu temples that attract pilgrims and visitors year round. Notable sites include the Kamakshi Amman Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple, Varadharaja Perumal Temple and Kailasanathar Temple. These shrines reflect architectural styles from the Pallava and later periods and host several major festivals that draw devotees from across Tamil Nadu and beyond.

The city is also famous for its handwoven silk sarees, known as Kanchipuram silk. Weavers use mulberry silk and zari to produce sarees with distinctive borders and rich colors. The textile industry is a cornerstone of the local economy, supported by a network of workshops and shops that serve domestic and export markets. In addition to textiles, Kanchipuram's economy includes granite and stone carving, crafts, and tourism, all of which are tied to the city's historical and religious significance.