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Temples #8 in Kanchipuram

Manimandapam, Orikkai

4.8 · 3,527 reviews
A quiet place for contemplation
Manimandapam, Orikkai, Arasu Nagar, Thandavaraya Nagar, Kanchipuram, Orikkai, Tamil Nadu 631502, India
Interesting facts
1

The complex is built on a plot spanning approximately 10 acres.

2

The central 100-foot tower symbolizes the 100 years of life of His Holiness Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi.

3

The mandapam contains exactly 27 pillars, each corresponding to a specific Nakshatra (star) in Vedic astrology.

4

The statue of the sage is crafted from a unique alloy and gold-plated.

5

The temple layout follows strict Vastu Shastra principles to align with cosmic energy.

6

The construction was entirely funded and managed by public donations and volunteers.

7

The structure includes a museum wing dedicated to the photographic history of the seer's travels.

Overview

Sri Maha Periyava Manimandapam in Orikkai is a sprawling memorial complex dedicated to the 68th Shankaracharya of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham, Jagadguru Chandrasekarendra Saraswathi. The structure is distinguished by its 100-foot-tall nine-tiered Rajagopuram, built in the traditional Dravidian style to reflect the 100 years of the seer's life. The complex features a central sanctum housing a life-size gold-plated statue of the sage. Architecturally, it incorporates diverse elements including a 27-pillared mandapam representing the 27 stars in Indian astrology. The grounds are meticulously landscaped and feature serene water bodies. It serves both as a functioning temple and a commemorative museum showcasing the life and teachings of the Kanchi Seer. The site is situated on the outskirts of Kanchipuram in the Orikkai region.

Photo spot

From the entrance gate, framing the full height of the 100-foot Rajagopuram against the sky.

Insider tips

Allocate time to walk through the museum wing to view the historical photographic exhibits.

Remove your footwear in the designated area before entering the inner sanctum.

Visit during the early evening to experience the oil lamp lighting ceremony.

What to avoid

Avoid taking photographs inside the sanctum, as this is strictly prohibited.

Etiquette

Modest traditional attire is required; shoulders and knees must be covered. Silence is strictly observed inside the sanctum.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-1.5 hours
Best time to visit
Early mornings or late evenings to avoid the peak heat of the Kanchipuram afternoon.
Address
Manimandapam, Orikkai, Arasu Nagar, Thandavaraya Nagar, Kanchipuram, Orikkai, Tamil Nadu 631502, India
12.799, 79.709
Get directions
Details
Architectural StyleDravidian
Key Features100-foot Rajagopuram and 27-pillar Mandapam

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-1.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early mornings or late evenings to avoid the peak heat of the Kanchipuram afternoon..

From the entrance gate, framing the full height of the 100-foot Rajagopuram against the sky.

Close by you'll find Arulmigu Sri Varadharaja Perumal Temple, Kanchipuram, Sri Kanchi Kamakshi Amman Temple, Ekambaranathar Temple.