Chidambaram is a city located in the Cuddalore district of Tamil Nadu. It is the headquarters of that district. Chidambaram is an industrial hub and is known for Shiva temple. The famous Annamalai University is in Chidambaram. It is one of the important pilgrimage centers for the Shaivites. Chidambaram can be reached via Chennai, Pondicherry (40kms) and also from Trichy. In fact the city is connected to all other major cities of Tamil Nadu by road, and railways. It is on the Madras – Tiruchirapalli railway line. Tiruchirapalli is the nearest airport. What to see Chidambaram is considered to be holding one among five elements (‘panchabhootaas’) according to Shiva tradition. Chidambaram holds the sky or the space. So, the city happens to be very important for the followers of Shiva tradition. It is the site of salvation for them. Main attraction of the city is the Nataraja temple, temple of dancing Shiva. The temple is in the center of the city spreading over an area of 40 acres. The temple consists of finest carvings of Shiva’s dancing postures in stone. It was built by the Chola rulers. Remember to see the thousand pillars hall situated within the temple complex. The city hosts dance festival (Natyanjali) in the temple complex every year. You can visit Shri Musham, a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. In fact Chidambaram is city of temples.
Pichavarm: It is a Para-gliding site. It is around 16kms from Chidambaram. It is a mangrove forest covering an area of 2800 acres. Tamil Nadu Government offers good facilities at the site. You can go for paragliding, can make the best out of the available water sports over there.
Gangai Konda Cholapuram: It is about 50kms from Chidambaram. The place has temple built by a Chola ruler. It is a Shiva temple. The temple hosts a well shaped like a Lion mouth through which steps are built to descend into the well. Kalvarayan Hills: This place is a hill station (150kms from Chidambaram). The place has two waterfalls and a botanical garden to treat you.
