Chidambaram

Famous as the land of the Lord Nataraja (the Cosmic Dancer), Chidambaram is one of the pilgrimage centers and holy places in India. It is 240 km south of Chennai and a well - known industrial city in eastern Tamil Nadu. This place is the home of eminent Nataraja Temple built during Cholas dynasty.

Chidambaram - City Guide

The Chidambaram Nataraja temple is distinctive not only for its devotion solely to the Bharatanatyam, but because of being among the rate temples where Lord Shiva is depicted by a statue rather than the traditional lingam.

The holy place is stretch over an area of 40 acres along with a gopuram on all sides. The eastern gopuram is located at a height of 40.8 m. and 108 dace poses and postures have been carved on it. The western tower also contains similar carvings whereas the northern gopuram is the tallest that is 42.4 m. high.

The statue of Lord Nataraja is placed in the kanaka sabha, the top of which is coated with gold plates. The idol of Lord Shiva is a striking piece of figurine, which evokes a sense of constant movement.

All the prominent dancers of India get together during the Natyanjali dance festival. They offer their dance and performances to Lord Nataraja. The celebration takes place on the occasion of Maha Shivaratri.The Annamalai University is also located here, which is another attraction.

Tourist Attractions of Chidambaram
Annamalai University

It is 2 Km away from the city of Chidambaram. It was set up by Dr. Rajah Sir Annamalai Chettiar. This university is one of the oldest and largest Universities in southern India. The university covers an area approx 1000 acres and its alumni are known to become great researchers and academicians in India as well as in several western countries.

Natarajar Temple

It is situated in the centre of the city, which covers an area of 40 acres. It is counted among the ancient holy places of Tamil Nadu. The roof of the chamber where the idol of Lord Shiva is installed is coated with gold plates. The idol represents air, one of the 5 elements of the universe and is identified as Akasa Lingam.

Earlier this place of worship wasn't under the H.R & C.E power. But, in recent times it has been occupied by the Hindu Religious & Charitable Endowments Department.