Kamakshi Amman Temple

This temple in Kanchipuram is dedicated to the goddess Kamakshi, worshipped as a form of Parvati, Shiva's consort, and as an embodiment of Shakti. Her name is taken to mean the goddess who grants desires. The temple follows Dravidian design: a tall, brightly painted gopuram with carvings marks the entrance, and the complex contains several mandapams and shrines.

In the main sanctum, the jewelled idol of the goddess is surrounded by walls bearing murals and sculptures of mythological scenes. The biggest festival is Navratri, held over nine days in September or October, when the temple is decorated, special pujas are performed and cultural programmes are staged.