Kailasanathar Temple

Kailasanathar Temple in Kanceepuram/Kanchipuram. A temple that predates the ones at Mahabalipuram, this particular style has inspired the temples of Chola period - notably Big temple at Tanjavur

Rich carvings of the 8th century Kailasanatha Temple in Kanchipuram

stone chariots at kailasanthar temple kanchipuram

carved tower of kailasanathar temple

Checking out the Kailasanatha Temple in Kanchipuram. The oldest temple in Kanchi, it is from the Pallava period (7th-9th century) with some parts even older and is contemporary with the Shore Temple in nearby Mamallapuram. Cut of sandstone with granite and marble elements, examlpes of its original bright painting can be seen within some of the carved niches. The pillars and walls are carved with lions, elephants, nagas, kings and dignitaries (it even captures a visiting Chinese pilgrim) and the many dieties and avatars. It is a Shaivite temple and has connections to Mt. Kailash. It has unfortunately gone through a couple periods of very dubious restoration and reconstruction and the re-built elements, often in garish plaster and cement rather than more appropriate sandstone, really detracts from the original work

sculptures of hindu gods at kailasanathar temple

The pillars and walls are carved with lions, elephants, nagas, kings and dignitaries (it even captures a visiting Chinese pilgrim) and the many dieties and avatars. It is a Shaivite temple and has connections to Mt. Kailash

Hari+Haran - Shiva and Vishnu in a special avtaar