Kanchipuram, the Golden City of a thousand temples, and one of the seven sacred cities of India, is 71 km from Madras. It was, successively, the capital of the Pallavas, the Cholas, and the Rayas of Vijayanagar. During the 6th and 7th centuries, the Pallavas built some of the best temples in the city.

The city was also a great seat of learning. Sri Sankaracharya, Appar, Siruthonder, and the great Budddhist Bhikku lived, and worked here. Today, it is known not only for its temples, but also for its hand-woven silk fabrics.

The main attractions of the city are the Sakkiswarar Temple; built by the Cholas.This temple is located near the Kamakshi Amman Temple.Vaikuntha Perumal Temple, an important Vishnu temple built by the Pallava King Nandivarman Pallavamalla, in the 7th century AD. Numerous inscriptions are found in the temple, relating to the wars between the Pallavas and the Chalukyas.

Kailasanatha Temple, built by Rajasimha and his son Mahendra the 3rd, in the 8th centuryAD. Ekambareswarar Temple, another ancient temple, renovated by the Pallavas, the Cholas, and the Vijayanagar kings. The 57 metre high Rajagopuram, is one of the tallest towers in South India. The festivals of the city are celebrated with great pomp and show; some of the main festivals are the Brahmothsavam, Garudothsavam, and the Chariot festival.