Dotted with numerous temples of architectural splendor, Chidambaram is situated 60 km south of
Pondicherry. Chidambaram is a small town, which, unlike big metros like
Chennai, preserves its ancient ties with Indian culture and tradition. The famous
Nataraja Temple here is an important shrine for the devotees of
Lord Shiva.
This ancient temple of the Cholas is devoted to the art of Bharatanatyam, but also it is one of the rare temples where Shiva is represented by an idol rather than the customary Shivlinga. Spread over an area of 40 acres with a gopura on each side, the temple is distinguished by five sabhas or courts.
The town is visited by hordes of tourists, especially during the many festivals celeberated here. The 10-day car festivals are the largest, the dates for which usually fall in April/May and December/January. In February the Natyanjali Festival attracts performers from all over the country.
The place can be visited throughout the year. The tourist office is at Hotel Tamil Nadu. The Car Street near the temple and Khadi Craft are possible shopping centers.
