Thirukachi

Thirukachi

108 Divya Desam Temples

God

Varadaraja Perumal, facing west

Goddess

Perundevi Thaayar, facing east.

Other Deities

to be updated

Thirukachi is one of the largest temples in Kancheepuram. Situated in about 20 acres of land the temple measures 1050 feet in length and 675 feet in width. A 9 tier, 180 feet tall Rajagopuram in the east, 7 tiered 160 feet tall Gopuram in the west, a large temple tank inside, huge walls all around, 5 Prakarams and Sanctum Sanctorum at 40 feet are some of the most important features of this grand temple. Athivaradar idol which is submerged in the Anandasaras temple tank is taken out once in 40 years and worshiped. The rays of the sun fall upon the Lord’s face for 15 days during the Tamil month of Chithirai (April-May). Chakrathazhwar shrine is at a height of 7 feet. The details of the architecture, sculptures and carvings at Thirukachi can fill huge volumes of books and research papers. A golden lizard idol here has important significance.

Holy Water (Theertham) – Vegavati River, Anandasaras (temple tank), Porthamarai Theertham, Sesha Varaha Theertham, Brahma Theertham

Vimaanam – Punyakoti Vimaanam

History

9 of the 12 Azhwars (5th to 10th Century CE) have rendered Mangalasasanam here. Thirukachi is a treasure of history with many stone inscriptions.

Legend

Airavata (Indra’s white elephant mount) supported the lord in the form of a mount, hence the name of the place is also called Athigiri. The lord appeared in reply to his Yaga in his Punyakoti Vimaana. Sage Brihu, Adisesha,Narada, Indra and Saraswathi have worshiped the lord here. Brahma in Kridayuga, Gajendra in Threthayuga, Brahaspati in Dwaparayuga and Adisesha in Kaliyuga are belived to have worshiped here.

Directions

Thirukachi is about 2.5 kilometers in the Chengalpet road inside Kancheepuram town.

Stay and Food

Kancheepuram town has innumerable temples which could be combined as preferred. Refer our map to plan your day. Good hotels and restaurants are available.

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