When: In the Tamil month of Margazhi (December-January). Culture and Heritage+1
What happens:
- A special gateway in the temple (called Vaikunta Vasal, meaning the “gate to heaven”) is opened only on this day, and devotees pass through it, symbolizing spiritual salvation. Culture and Heritage+1
- Other rituals include night-long prayers, special recitations, and heightened temple activity.
Why it’s important:
This festival holds deep religious significance for devotees of Lord Vishnu. It draws large crowds and gives a very strong sense of the sacred atmosphere in Kanchipuram.