English: KAILASANATHA TEMPLE, Kanchipuram is the biggest sand stone temple in the world (according to K.T.Narasimhan Superintending Archeologist at Archaeological Survey of India).

This is one of the few temples in Kanchipuram, with pure contribution of Pallava Kings which didn't have any additions / modifications by Chola or Vijayanagara kingdoms and speaks volumes of architectural beauty of Pallavas. The temple's foundations are made of granite, which could withstand the weight of the temple, while the superstructure including the carvings are made of sandstone. All along the circumambulatory passage of the temple, one will be impressed by the pillar elements with lion on the base with fiery eyes and facial expressions. The temple, of which architect is unknown, was commissioned in 685-705CE by Narasimhavarman-II commonly known as Rajasimha, ruler of the Pallava kingdom, who is also credited with the construction of several other temples in this region. During his reign, the rock-cut technique was replaced by the structural temple of masonry and stone. The temple was visited by Chola Emperor Raja Raja Chola-I and named this temple as ‘Kachipettu Periya Thirukatrali’ means Stone Temple of Kanchipuram.

It is believed by many archeologists that this Kailasanathar temple must be the inspiration for Raja Raja Chola-I to build the Big Temple at Thanjavur.