Vaikunta Perumal Temple, Kanchipuram - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Vaikunta Perumal Temple

At a distance of 1 km from Kanchipuram Bus Station, Vaikunta Perumal Temple is a Hindu temple located in Kanchipuram. Also known as Parameswara Vinnagaram, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and is one of the exquisite temples in Kanchipuram on par with Kailasanatha temple. Vishnu is worshipped as Vaikunta Perumal and his consort Lakshmi as Anandavalli. Also referred to as Parameswara Vinnagaram, this temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is regarded as one of the most remarkable temples in Kanchipuram, comparable to the Kailasanatha temple. In this sacred site, Lord Vishnu is revered as Vaikunta Perumal, while his consort, Lakshmi, is honored as Anandavalli. It is one of the must-include places in Kanchi packages, and is recognized as one of the Divya Desams of Vaishnavism, which comprises 108 temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, believed to have been visited by the twelve poet saints known as the Alvars. This temple, which dates back 1200 years, has been designated as a heritage monument and is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India.

History of Vaikunta Perumal Temple

The Vaikunta Perumal Temple, located in Kanchipuram, was constructed in the 8th century by the Pallava king Nandivarman II, a fervent devotee of Lord Vishnu. The temple is adorned with sculptures that illustrate significant events from the Pallava dynasty. Inscriptions from the reigns of Parantaka Chola I (907-950), Rajaraja Chola I (985-1014), Rajendra Chola I (1012-1044), and Kulothunga Chola I (1070-1120) document various offerings made to the temple. Additionally, the Vijayanagara emperor Krishnadevaraya (1502-29) contributed to the Vaikunta Perumal Temple, as well as to the Subhramanya Temple and the Kailasanatha Temple in the vicinity. Currently this temple Vaikunta Perumal Temple is in deteriorated state and is looked after by the Archeological Society of India as a 'protected monument'.

Mythology of Vaikunta Perumal Temple

According to legend, the region was once ruled by a king named Virocha without any children to his sorrow. He prayed to Lord Shiva in the adjacent Kailasanatha Temple and got blessed that the gatekeepers of Lord Vishnu would be reborn as his sons. This prophecy came true, and he named his sons Pallavan and Vallavan. Although they were born into royalty, the princes remained devoted to Vishnu and performed yagams for the benefit of their subjects. Pleased by their sincerity, Lord Vishnu manifested before them to grant them wishes. They requested that he reside there as Vaikuntanathan, leading to the establishment of this sacred shrine.

Architecture of Vaikunta Perumal Temple

Occupying approximately 0.5 acres, the Vaikunta Perumal Temple is designed in the Dravidian architectural style. Notably, the temple's entrance lacks a gopuram. A spacious flat mandapam, or hall, provides access to the inner sanctum. The mandapam's pillars are intricately carved with depictions of deities. The main edifice features three sanctum sanctorums arranged vertically, one atop the other. On the first level, Lord Vaikunta Perumal is depicted seated and facing west. The second level showcases Araganadha Perumal, who reclines with his head oriented north, bestowing his blessings. The third level presents Paramapadanathar in a standing position. Thus, the temple allows devotees to receive the grace of Perumal in three distinct postures: sitting, reclining, and standing across its three tiers.

There are circumambulatory passages connecting all the three sanctums. The outer structure is adorned with exquisite sculptures of lions standing on their hind legs at regular intervals. Numerous inscriptions on the temple walls illustrate the various incarnations of Lord Vishnu, as well as the conflicts between the Cholas and the Pallavas. The inner walls feature carvings depicting epics and portrayals of kings accompanied by queens and attendants. The temple tank is referred to as Airammadha Theertham.

Festivals of Vaikunta Perumal Temple

The Vaikasi Brahmotsavam, held in May/June, and Vaikunta Ekadasi, celebrated in December/January are the two principal festivals observed at the Vaikunta Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram. Of these, Vaikunta Ekadasi stands out as the most significant. On this special occasion, the temple's first floor is accessible to visitors. Various activities, including special prayers, yagnas, discourses, and speeches, are organized at the Vaikunta Perumal Temple to commemorate this auspicious day.

Dress Code & Other Restrictions of Vaikunta Perumal Temple

While there isn't a strict dress code for visiting the Vaikunta Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram, it's recommended to dress modestly and respectfully, covering your shoulders and legs, as a mark of respect for the temple's sanctity. Men are encouraged to wear a dhoti or pajama paired with an upper garment, as well as formal trousers and shirts. Women may opt for a saree, half saree, or churidhar.

Non-Hindus are welcome to explore the temple complex and appreciate its architectural beauty; however, access to the sanctum sanctorum may be restricted.

Vaikunta Perumal Temple Timings

Monday: 8 AM - 1 PM & 2 PM - 5:30 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM - 1 PM & 2 PM - 5:30 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM - 1 PM & 2 PM - 5:30 PM
Thursday: 8 AM - 1 PM & 2 PM - 5:30 PM
Friday: 8 AM - 1 PM & 2 PM - 5:30 PM
Saturday: 8 AM - 1 PM & 2 PM - 5:30 PM
Sunday: 8 AM - 1 PM & 2 PM - 5:30 PM

Vaikunta Perumal Temple Entry Fee

General Entry is Free

Best Time to Visit Vaikunta Perumal Temple

The optimal period to explore the Vaikunta Perumal Temple in Kanchipuram is between October and March, when the climate is more temperate, providing a comfortable environment for sightseeing and visiting the temple. It is advisable to avoid the sweltering and humid summer months, as the heat can detract from the enjoyment of travel and temple excursions.

How to Reach Vaikunta Perumal Temple

Located approximately 61 Km from Kanchi, Chennai Airport serves as the nearest airport, offering regular flight services to nearly all major cities across India and internationally. Kanchipuram enjoys robust train connectivity to Chennai, Pondicherry, Kanyakumari, Mumbai, Tirupati, Madurai, Dindigul, and Tirunelveli. Additionally, there are numerous bus services available to Kanchipuram from cities such as Chennai, Vellore, Tirupati, Bangalore, Coimbatore, Madurai, and Trichy. About 1 Km from Kanchipuram Bus Stand, the Sri Vaikunta Perumal Temple can be conveniently accessed by walk or auto-rickshaw.