Places to Visit in Chidambaram

Top attractions and must-see spots in Chidambaram

  • Annamalai University Campus

    One of Tamil Nadu's largest universities, with a sprawling heritage campus that is itself a landmark of South Indian educational and architectural history.

  • Chathapurinathar Temple

    A small but spiritually potent Shiva temple 1 km from Chidambaram, dedicated to Lord Chathapurinathar and his consort Osai Kodutha Nayagi.

  • Gangaikonda Cholapuram Brihadeeshwara Temple

    A UNESCO World Heritage living Chola temple 42 km from Chidambaram, built by Rajendra Chola I in 1025 CE as the crown jewel of his imperial capital.

  • Nataraja Bronze Craft Market

    Chidambaram's artisan lanes where local craftsmen sell handmade bronze Nataraja idols, temple replicas, and khadi souvenirs unique to this temple town.

  • Pichavaram Mangrove Forest

    The world's second-largest mangrove forest, 16 km from Chidambaram, offering boat rides through dense canals teeming with birds and marine life.

  • Sivakamiamman Temple

    A major goddess shrine within the Nataraja temple complex dedicated to Sivakama Sundari, the consort of Lord Nataraja, integral to daily rituals.

  • Thillai Kali Amman Temple

    An ancient Kali temple just north of the Nataraja complex, rooted in the legend of Goddess Parvati's dance contest with Shiva.

  • Thillai Nataraja Temple (Chidambaram Nataraj Temple)

    Another name for the Chidambaram Nataraja Temple, where Shiva is worshipped as the cosmic dancer.

  • Thiruvetkalam Pasupatheswarar Temple

    A 2,000-year-old Pallava-era Shiva temple, one of the 276 Paadal Petra Sthalams, associated with Arjuna's receipt of the Pashupatastra from Shiva.

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