The
word Chidambaram is derived from the word ‘Chit Ambaram’ which
literally means the sky permeated by an atmosphere of intelligence and
wisdom. Lord Nataraja is said to have emerged from the sacred space and
performed his Cosmic Dance before his two devotees. This city was a part of
the Chola dynasty and is today, an important pilgrim centre and known for
its Nataraja Temple or Chidambaram Temple.
Best Time & Climate :
The climate of Chidambaram is tropical with temperature of around 37°C
in the summers and around 20°C in the winters. The best time to visit
Chidambaram is during winters between September – February.
How to get there ?
» By Air - The nearest airports are Tiruchirapalli
(195 km) and Chennai (245 km). From Tiruchirapalli, domestic flights can be
taken to Chennai which inturn is connected to all the major cities in India
and abroad through regular flights.
» By Rail - Chidambaram is situated on the
Chennai-Tiruchirapalli main line of the Southern Railway. It is connected
with Tiruchirapalli, Chennai, Madurai (335 km), Rameswaram (575 km),
Bangalore (340 km), and Tirupati (290 km).
» By Road - Frequent bus services are available to
various places in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Pondicherry
states from Chidambaram. There are non-stop bus services and express bus
services to major cities.
Must Visit :
» The Nataraja Temple or The Chidambaram Temple - Covering
an area of 40 acres, the temple is situated at the heart of the city. The
temple has a gold plated roof, towering over the presiding deity, Akasa
Lingam - the Lingam of Space. The Lord is worshipped in different temples as
representing the five elements - earth, water, fire, wind and ether. One of
the special features of this temple is the splendid bejewelled Nataraja
image. The temple complex reflects an assortment of architectural and
sculptural styles amalgamated over several centuries.
» Kali Temple - This temple is situated on the
northern extremity of the town. It was built by Kopperunjingan, who ruled
between 1229 AD and 1278 AD.
» Annamalai University - Founded by Raja Sir
Annamalai Chettiar, this residential University is located on the eastern
outskirts of the town. A great centre of Tamil learning and carnatic music,
it offers educational facilities in various disciplines including Medicine,
Engineering etc.
» Pichavaram - 16 kms east of Chidambaram lies
Pichavaram, one of exquisite scenic spots with opulent and varied tourism
resources. Pichavaram consists of a large number of islands interspersing a
vast expanse of water and covered with green trees.
» Neyveli - Situated at a distance of 50 kms from
Chidambaram, Neyveli is one of the biggest industrial complexes in the
country.
» Seerkazhi - 20 kms from Chidambaram, Seerkazhi has
three shrines - Sree Brahmapureeswarar, Sattanathar and Thoniappar shrines;
the Goddess Tirunilai Nayaki shrine and; the shrine of God Child,
Gananasambandar.
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