Chidambaram Nataraja Temple is one of the most famous temples in Tamil Nadu and is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the form of Nataraja, the cosmic dancer. The temple is located in the town of Chidambaram in Cuddalore district and is considered one of the five holiest Shiva temples called Pancha Bhoota Sthalam. Here Lord Shiva represents Akasha or space element. This temple is not just a spiritual place but a cultural treasure with its tall gopurams, big corridors, and spiritual vibrations.
Many people come here not just from Tamil Nadu but from all over India and even from foreign countries. Chidambaram temple is known for its special dancing pose of Shiva called Ananda Tandava which is believed to be performed here. The temple is also special because it gives importance to both Agama and Vedic traditions which is rare in most temples. So if you’re planning a spiritual trip or temple visit this one must be on your list.
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History of Chidambaram Temple
The temple has a long history that goes back over 2000 years. It is believed to have been built during the Chola dynasty and later expanded by different kings. The Cholas, especially Raja Raja Chola and his successors, made big donations to this temple and made it more beautiful with sculptures, gold plating and architecture. It’s also said that the temple was mentioned in Tamil Sangam literature which shows how old and respected it is.
The temple’s origin story says that Lord Shiva danced in Chidambaram to bless the sages Patanjali and Vyaghrapada. This is how the Nataraja form of Lord Shiva became popular here. In fact, there are many inscriptions and carvings inside the temple that talk about different kings, saints and important events. This temple has seen different eras and dynasties yet continues to be a shining place for Shiva devotees even today.
Architecture and Temple Layout
The Chidambaram temple is built in Dravidian style and spread over 50 acres. There are four big towers or gopurams in all four directions and each tower has amazing sculptures showing different forms of gods, dancers, sages and more. The main sanctum is called Chit Sabha where Lord Nataraja’s idol is present. The idol is made of bronze and shows Shiva dancing with one leg raised and hair flying — it’s very beautiful.
There is another important place inside called Chidambara Rahasyam or the secret of Chidambaram. It is said to represent the formless aspect of Shiva and is symbolised by an empty space behind a curtain. Only priests are allowed to open the curtain during special times. The temple also has Sivaganga tank, thousand pillar hall and many small shrines. The structure is so big that one can easily spend 2 to 3 hours just seeing everything slowly.
Darshan Timings and Entry Details
Darshan in the temple starts early morning. Usually, the temple opens at 6:00 AM and closes at 12:00 noon. Again it opens at 5:00 PM and closes at 10:00 PM. But these timings can change during festival days or special puja times. It’s better to reach early if you want peaceful darshan and less crowd. During early morning and night pujas, the atmosphere is very divine and the priests perform beautiful rituals.
There is no special entry ticket required for darshan. But for those who want to avoid long lines or want a better view during puja, there are special darshan options also available at counters. People can ask at the temple entrance about that. Also senior citizens are sometimes allowed quick entry if requested.
Importance of Chidambaram Temple in Hinduism
This temple is considered very important in Saivism because Lord Shiva is worshipped here in his dancing form which is unique. Usually in other temples Shiva is shown in Linga form. But here it’s a standing bronze idol and full of energy. The temple also represents one of the Pancha Bhoota — the space element. The belief is that this place holds divine vibrations and is good for spiritual seekers.
It is also believed that visiting Chidambaram and getting darshan of Nataraja removes ego and helps in reaching spiritual awakening. Many saints like Manikkavachagar, Appar, Sundarar and Thirugnana Sambandar have sung about this temple. The cosmic dance of Shiva is said to create balance in the world. That’s why dancers and artists also visit this temple for blessings.
Festivals Celebrated in the Temple
The temple celebrates many festivals but the most important one is the Natyanjali festival which happens around Maha Shivaratri time. This is a 5-day dance festival where classical dancers from across India perform in front of Lord Nataraja. Thousands of visitors come during this time.
Another major festival is the Aani Thirumanjanam celebrated in June–July where abhishekam is done to Lord Nataraja in public view. Arudra Darshan celebrated in December–January is also special when the cosmic dance of Shiva is worshipped in full glory. On these days, crowd is huge and darshan time might take longer but it is worth seeing.
Dress Code and Temple Rules
Visitors are expected to wear traditional clothes. For men dhoti and shirt is recommended. For women saree, chudidar or long skirts are good. Shorts, jeans and modern outfits are not allowed inside main sanctum area. Devotees must remove footwear outside the temple.
Photography inside the sanctum is not allowed. Devotees must not touch the main deity or shout loudly. Mobile usage must be limited and kept in silent mode. Cleanliness and discipline is expected inside the temple. People should avoid bringing leather items and smoking near the temple.
How to Reach Chidambaram Temple
Chidambaram town is well connected by road and rail. The nearest railway station is Chidambaram railway station which is just 2 km away from the temple. You can take autos, cycle rickshaws or even walk if you are nearby. The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli (Trichy) which is around 165 km away. Chennai airport is about 220 km from here.
From Chennai or Pondicherry many buses are available directly to Chidambaram. Private taxis and tourist buses also stop here. The roads are good and the journey is comfortable. There are many hotels and lodges nearby for those who want to stay overnight.
Best Time to Visit and Tips for Tourists
The best time to visit is from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant. During festival months like Shivaratri or Arudra Darshan, the experience is spiritual but it may get crowded. If you want peaceful visit then avoid peak festival dates.
It’s better to plan darshan early morning or late evening when crowd is less and rituals are beautiful. Carry some water bottle, cash for pujas or prasadam and wear comfortable clothes. People with knee problems can carry folding stools as temple corridors are long. Guide services are also available if you want to know deep stories.
Overview Table of Chidambaram Temple
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Chidambaram Nataraja Temple |
| Main Deity | Lord Shiva as Nataraja (cosmic dancer) |
| Location | Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu |
| Darshan Timings | 6 AM–12 PM and 5 PM–10 PM |
| Entry Fee | Free (Special darshan available) |
| Dress Code | Traditional wear only |
| Important Festivals | Natyanjali, Arudra Darshan, Aani Thirumanjanam |
| Nearby Railway Station | Chidambaram Station (2 km) |
| Nearest Airport | Trichy – 165 km, Chennai – 220 km |
| Best Visit Time | October to March |
Most Important Numerical Data
- Temple area: around 50 acres
- Tower height (gopuram): approx 135 feet
- Number of pillars in main mandapam: around 1000
- Daily pujas: 6 times a day
- Bronze Nataraja idol height: approx 5.5 feet
- Temple age: more than 2000 years
- Distance from Chennai: 220 km
- Number of yearly visitors: approx 10 to 12 lakh
- Natyanjali Festival duration: 5 days
- Arudra Darshan festival date: full moon night of Margazhi
FAQs About Chidambaram Nataraja Temple
Q1. Is online booking needed for darshan in Chidambaram temple?
No online booking is required. You can directly go to temple for darshan.
Q2. What is special about Chidambara Rahasyam?
It is an empty space behind a curtain representing the formless form of Shiva.
Q3. Is Chidambaram temple open daily?
Yes, it is open all days including weekends and holidays.
Q4. What time is best for darshan?
Morning 6 to 8 AM or evening 6 to 8 PM is peaceful and ideal.
Q5. Are non-Hindus allowed inside the temple?
Yes, they are allowed but must follow dress code and discipline.
Q6. Can I carry camera or phone inside?
Phones are allowed but no photography in main sanctum.
Q7. Is there any locker or cloak room near the temple?
Yes, small lockers and cloak room facilities are available near entrance.
Q8. Can we stay near the temple?
Yes, many lodges and hotels are available in walking distance.
Q9. What is the main puja performed here?
Abhishekam and Maha Aarti are the main pujas done to Nataraja idol.
Q10. Are guides available for temple tour?
Yes, local guides are available for explaining history and structure.
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