Located in the holy city of Kanchipuram, the Varadharaja Perumal Temple stands as a magnificent testament to Dravidian architecture and deep spiritual history. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this Divya Desam is one of the 108 sacred temples revered by the Alwars. Whether you are a devotee seeking blessings or a traveler admiring ancient architecture, knowing the correct temple timings is essential for a smooth and fulfilling visit.
This guide details the opening and closing hours for darshan, helping you plan your pilgrimage effectively so you don’t miss out on the spiritual experience this historic temple offers.
General Darshan Timings
The temple operates on a split schedule, opening in the early morning and again in the late afternoon. This break allows for the daily rituals and maintenance of the sanctum.
Generally, the temple doors open to devotees at 6:00 AM and remain open until the afternoon break at 12:30 PM. After the midday closure, the temple reopens for evening darshan at 4:00 PM and closes for the night at 8:30 PM.
Note: While these are the standard operating hours, slight variations can occur during major festivals or special religious occasions.
Weekly Schedule
To help you plan your itinerary down to the specific day, here is the detailed weekly schedule for the Varadharaja Perumal Temple. Please note that while the general morning session often extends to 12:30 PM, some sources indicate a closing time of 12:00 PM. It is always safer to arrive well before the closing hour to ensure you have ample time for darshan.
| Day | Morning Session | Evening Session |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM |
| Thursday | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM |
| Friday | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM |
| Saturday | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM |
| Sunday | 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM |
Best Time to Visit
While the temple is open throughout the week, weekends and public holidays tend to see significantly larger crowds. For a more peaceful experience, consider visiting during the early morning hours on a weekday (Tuesday or Wednesday). The early morning Vishwaroopa Darshan is particularly auspicious and offers a quieter atmosphere for meditation and prayer.
Additionally, the month of Vaikasi (May-June) hosts the famous Garuda Sevai festival, which attracts thousands of pilgrims. While spiritually rewarding, be prepared for longer wait times during this period.
Prepare for Your Pilgrimage
A visit to the Varadharaja Perumal Temple is more than just a sightseeing trip; it is a journey into the heart of Kanchipuram’s religious heritage. By keeping these timings in mind, you can ensure that your visit is timely and stress-free.
Remember to dress modestly, respecting the sanctity of the site, and check for any specific festival announcements if you are traveling during religious holidays. May your darshan be filled with peace and blessings.