Chidambaram

Chidambaram is in the southern state of Tamil Nadu in India with a population of about 59,000. Of the numerous temples the Nataraja Temple at Chidambaram is one of the most significant ones. In terms of its antiquity, richness in terms of worship & festival traditions, in architectural & sculptural splendour, in its association with music & dance, Chidambaram is a center second to none in representing the rich cultural heritage of India. Several rich legends are associated with Chidambaram. The best known, are those describing the Cosmic Dance of Shiva, the dance duel between Shiva and Kaali and the more recent one describing the re-discovery of the Tevaram hymns.

Chidambaram tourism is dotted with beautiful temples. The most famous of all is the Natraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Natraja - God Shiva conjuring the image of cosmic dancer. The Shivakamiamman Temple has the Sivaganga tank with the thousand-pillar hall. Chidambaram also houses the Thillaikaliamman temple is located in the northern precincts of the town. The city has also a residential Annamalai University, a great centre of Tamil learning and culture.

Make Chidambaram your tourist destination with lot more hotspots to visit lying around the city. Some of the favorite hunts are Pichavaram, 16 Km from the city famous for its backwaters and water sports like parasailing, rowing and canoeing. Thirty kilometers away from the city is Neyveli, one of India's hot industrial zones with lignite mining. The Kalavaryan Hills are 150 Km from the town with a beautiful botanical garden to enthrall your excursion.

Chidambaram is located in Cuddalore district, 240 km south of Chennai, well connected by train and bus routes. Currently the train route is being converted from meter gauge to broad gauge, hence there is no train connectivity at present.