Visit Kanchipuram, India

Once the capital of the Pallava dynasty and one of India's seven Hindu holy cities, Kanchipuram is known for its many temples.

Temples

There are dozens of them, built from the 10th to 15th centuries and some still attract hundreds of people to worship each day while others fall gradually into disrepair.

Silk industry

The town is also home to a thriving silk industry, with freshly dyed skeins of top quality mulberry silk hanging out to dry before being woven on handlooms with gold thread to become exquisitely patterned saris.

You will be able to watch this delicate work which, depending on the levels of intricacy, often requires the expert attention of two weavers at once.