14 Best Tourist Places in Chidambaram

Chidambaram is a town in the state of Tamil Nadu in India. The town has a rich history dating back to the ancient Tamil civilization and is believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. According to local legends, Chidambaram was once a dense forest where Lord Shiva performed the cosmic dance of creation. This event is believed to have led to the construction of the famous Nataraja Temple, a magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, considered one of India's holiest temples. Over the centuries, Chidambaram became an important center of art, culture, and spirituality, and the town's temples, including the Nataraja Temple, became renowned for their intricate architecture and carvings. Today, Chidambaram is a popular destination for tourists interested in exploring India's rich cultural and religious heritage.

Top tourist Places in Chidambaram

1. Annamalai University in Chidambaram

Annamalai University is a renowned public university in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India. The university was founded in 1929 by philanthropist and social reformer Dr. Rajah Sir Annamalai Chettiar, and it has since become one of the largest universities in Asia. The university's sprawling campus spans over 1,500 acres, and it is home to several schools and departments, including the Faculty of Arts, Science, Engineering and Technology, and Medicine. Annamalai University is known for its excellent academic programs, research facilities, and cultural events, attracting thousands of students and visitors annually. The university's beautiful campus and serene surroundings make it a popular destination for eco-tourism and nature enthusiasts.

2. Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram

The Nataraja Temple is a famous temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is renowned for its exquisite architecture and intricate carvings dating back to the 10th century. The temple is particularly famous for depicting Lord Shiva performing the cosmic dance of creation, known as the Nataraja dance. It is considered one of India's most magnificent works of art. The temple is also a pilgrimage center for Shaivites, devotees of Lord Shiva, who visit the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings. The Nataraja Temple is considered one of India's most significant religious and architectural landmarks, attracting visitors from all over the world.

3. Thillai Kali Amman Temple in Chidambaram

The Thillai Kali Amman Temple is one of India's most significant religious and cultural landmarks. The Thillai Kali Amman Temple is a famous Hindu temple in Chidambaram in Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Kali, an incarnation of the goddess Parvati, who is worshipped as the divine mother of the universe. The temple is known for its unique architecture, the blend of Dravidian and Rajput styles, and an annual festival attracting thousands of devotees worldwide. The festival, known as the Thillai Nataraja Ardra Darshan, is celebrated in December and features a deity procession, music, dance, and other cultural events.

4. Achalpuram in Chidambaram

The distance between Chidambaram and Achalpuram Temple, which is in Achalpuram hamlet, is about 25 kilometers. Lord Shiva is the primary god worshipped at this temple, and the Lord's idol there is very noteworthy. The object is shaped like a Shiva linga and surrounded by a gold cobra. The cobra's hood, which serves as the object's defender, is placed over the Shiva linga. As is customary, Lord Shiva is adored here as Sri Shivalokathayageswara, and he is joined in worship by Goddess Parvathi, known to locals as Thiruvennetrumai Amma. The temple's design brings to mind Tamil temples from the peak of their architectural splendor. It will be the same mood as every other temple in Chidambaram, and this one will be no different. This temple may be seen on the route to Shirkashi, 8 kilometers from Chidambaram.

5. Thiruvetkalam in Chidambaram

Thiruvetkalam is a small village near Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India. The village is renowned for its ancient Shiva temple, the Veeratteswarar Temple, which is considered one of the most significant landmarks in the region. The temple is known for its unique architecture, which features a 16-sided central shrine, and for its annual festival, which takes place in the Tamil month of Aadi (July-August) and attracts thousands of devotees from all over the state. Thiruvetkalam is also known for its scenic surroundings, with lush paddy fields and coconut groves, making it a popular destination for eco-tourism and nature lovers.

6. Thillai Natarajar Temple in Chidambaram

The Thillai Natarajar Temple is a famous Hindu temple in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is considered one of India's most significant Shaivite temples. The temple is renowned for its unique architecture, which features five halls, each representing one of the five elements of nature - earth, water, fire, air, and space. The temple is also famous for depicting Lord Shiva in his dancing form, known as the Nataraja dance, considered one of India's most magnificent works of art. The Thillai Natarajar Temple is a major pilgrimage site and cultural landmark, attracting thousands worldwide visitors.

7. Chathapurinathar Temple in Chidambaram

The Chathapurinathar Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is known for its unique architecture, which features a 100-pillar hall with intricate carvings depicting various stories from Hindu mythology. The temple is particularly famous for its annual festival, celebrated during the Tamil month of Vaikasi (May-June). It includes a procession of the deity, along with cultural programs, music, and dance performances. The Chathapurinathar Temple is considered one of the most significant landmarks in Chidambaram. It attracts visitors from all over the world who seek blessings and marvel at its exquisite art and architecture.

8. Tirunelvayal in Chidambaram

A popular destination for pilgrims, Tirunelvayal is home to the Uchinathar Temple. It is one of Tamil Nadu's several significant "Shiva Sthalas." Within this temple are two important shrines, one honoring Lord Uchinathar and the other honoring Lord Palavannanathar. The temple of Lord Uchinathar is adorned with exquisitely carved idols and is built in the ideal traditional Tamil style. The temple is stunning in and of itself, with a majestic five-tiered gopuram and the "Pradakshina" path (during the outer circumambulation, you can see small shrines of the deities Bhairava, Ganesha, and Murugan). Lord Shiva's and Goddess Parvati's idols have been created in these stones. In the area of this temple, you can also view Shivakami and another temple where Lord Shiva is worshipped as Nataraja. Chidambaram is located around 3 kilometers from Tirunelvayal Temple. The Tiruvetkalam Temple and Annamalai University are also nearby the temple.

9. Pitchavaram Backwaters in Chidambaram

The Pitchavaram Backwaters is a stunning network of interconnected canals and lagoons in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, and India. The backwaters are situated near the Bay of Bengal and are surrounded by dense mangrove forests, providing a unique ecosystem and a breathtaking landscape. The Pitchavaram Backwaters are a popular tourist destination and are ideal for boating, birdwatching, and fishing. The area is also known for its rich biodiversity, including several species of birds, fish, and other aquatic animals. Visitors to the Pitchavaram Backwaters can enjoy the scenic beauty of the lagoons while immersing themselves in the tranquillity of nature.

10. Pichavaram Mangrove Forest in Chidambaram

The Pichavaram Mangrove Forest is a sprawling forest of mangrove trees in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India. The mangrove forest is located near the Bay of Bengal and is spread over an area of about 1,100 hectares, making it one of the largest mangrove forests in India. The Pichavaram Mangrove Forest is known for its dense foliage, which provides an ideal habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several species of birds, fish, and other aquatic animals. Visitors to the mangrove forest can enjoy a serene boat ride through the intricate canal network and witness the area's unique ecosystem.

11. Bhuvanagiri Temple in Chidambaram

Bhuvanagiri Temple is an ancient Hindu temple located in the town of Chidambaram in Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, who is worshipped here as Bhuvaneshwarar. The temple is known for its intricate carvings depicting Hindu mythology scenes. The Bhuvanagiri Temple is situated atop a hill, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a peaceful and serene location for visitors. The temple complex also includes a smaller shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu and a Ganesha temple.

The temple attracts many devotees and tourists, especially during the annual Brahmotsavam festival, celebrated in Chithirai (April-May). The festival features a grand procession of the temple deity and traditional music and dance performances.

12. Sattanathar Temple in Chidambaram

Sattanathar Temple is a significant Hindu temple in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to have been built during the Chola period. The temple complex is spread over a vast area and includes many smaller shrines dedicated to various deities. The temple is particularly known for its intricate carvings and architecture, with ornate pillars and ceilings depicting different scenes from Hindu mythology.

The Sattanathar Temple is also known for its religious significance, and it is believed that worshipping at the temple can bring blessings and good fortune. The temple is a popular destination for devotees of Lord Shiva, who visit the temple to offer their prayers and seek the deity's blessings. The serene and peaceful surroundings of the temple make it an ideal location for spiritual seekers and tourists alike.

13. Kollidam River in Chidambaram

The Kollidam River, also known as the Coleroon River, is a significant river that flows through Chidambaram in Tamil Nadu, India. The river is a distributary of the Cauvery River and is an important source of irrigation for the surrounding agricultural areas. The Kollidam River is also a popular destination for tourists, particularly those interested in boating and fishing.

The river is surrounded by lush greenery, and visitors can take a boat ride to explore its scenic beauty. Many fishermen can also be seen along the banks of the river, casting their nets in the water. The Kollidam River is also ideal for picnics and family outings, with many parks and gardens along its banks. Overall, the Kollidam River is a beautiful and peaceful destination that offers a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.

14. Panchanadeswara Temple in Chidambaram

Panchanadeswara Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu. It is known for its unique architecture and spiritual significance. The temple is famous for housing five lingams, each representing one of the five natural elements. It has a spacious inner courtyard and a towering gateway adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The sanctum sanctorum has beautiful murals and paintings. Panchanadeswara Temple is a pilgrimage site for Shaivites and a cultural and religious landmark of Chidambaram. A visit to the temple is believed to help attain inner peace and spiritual harmony.

Famous food in Chidambaram

Chidambaram is known for its delicious and unique South Indian cuisine. Chidambaram's famous dishes include dosa, idli, vada, Pongal, and sambar. One of the must-try dishes is the Chidambaram Kozhukattai, a sweet dumpling made with rice flour and jaggery. Another popular dish is the Chettinad chicken curry, a spicy and flavorful chicken curry made with a special blend of spices. The town is also famous for its filter coffee, a must-try for coffee lovers. Chidambaram's restaurants and street food vendors offer many delicious and affordable food options.

How to Reach Chidambaram

• By Flight: The airport closest to Chidambaram City is Chennai Airport. Around 250 kilometers from the city is where you'll find the Chennai International Airport. Flight passengers can take a cab from the airport to get to Chidambaram. It is a practical choice for overseas residents and visitors who fly into Chennai from remote locations.
• By Train: A affordable and practical alternative for the nation's citizens would be to travel to Chidambaram by train. Chidambaram is well connected by train to every major city in the country, having access to two major cities, namely Trichy and Chennai. Chidambaram is located in the center of the Trichy-Chennai train line.
• By Road: The city of Chidambaram has excellent road access. Several Tamil Nadu State Transport buses and private companies travel to Chidambaram from Tamil Nadu's main cities and towns. The East Coast Road's Chennai to Pondicherry route is the most efficient way to Chidambaram, and it will be convenient for those who want to stop at Pondicherry on their route to Chidambaram.

Best time to visit Chidambaram

The best time to visit Chidambaram is during the winter months, from November to February. The weather is cool and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This is also the peak tourist season, and many festivals and cultural events are held during this time, making it a great time to experience the local culture and traditions. The monsoon season from June to September can also be a good time to visit if you enjoy the rain and want to experience the lush greenery and waterfalls of the region.