Things to do in Chidambaram

Chidambaram is famous for being an important destination for the devotees and followers of Lord Shiva. Hundreds of tourists flock to Chidambaram every year to offer their prayers in various temples of the town. But other than visiting the temples and other religious places in Chidamabaram there is much to do like shopping, eating and adventure sports.

Temples to Visit in Chidambaram

The first place to visit in Chidambaram with your friends and family is the Thillai Nataraja Temple. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is spread over 40 acres and is housed with numerous beautiful stone carved sculptures. Vaitheeswaran Koil Temple is another famous Hindu temple that is situated 27 kms away from Chidambaram. It regularly attracts devotees from around the world all year. You and your loved ones can offer sacred offerings to the god and it is believed that praying at the temple can cure diseases.

Thillai Kali Amman Temple is vastly famous for its abundant reserve of the Thillai trees and stone sculptures of various deities that are celebrated all over India. One can also visit this temple for the rich medieval period architecture and stone work. Chathapurinathar Temple is a highly revered shrine visited by hundreds of devotees and followers every year because of its popularity to perform miracle cures to the needy. Tiruvetkalam Temple is another famous temple in Chidambaram receiving numerous tourists almost every day and this temple is especially famous for its architecture where an entire family can enjoy the serene environment it offers. For more on religious places in Chidamabaram, click here

Adventure in Chidambaram

If you are an adventure junkie, Chidambaram has some excellent adventure sports to offer that will get your heart racing and surprise. Have a trip to Pichavaram enclosed with a scenic mangrove forest just 16km east of Chidambaram which is famous for its adventure quotient. You can indulge in various fun activities such as canoeing, kayaking, rowing and parasailing giving you the much needed adrenaline rush. If you are in the mood for trekking and getting back to the nature, then obviously you should visit the famous Kalvarayan Hills. This is a hill station located near Chidambaram serving as a perfect picnic spot for you and your family. This bounty of nature bears many small streams and rivers that act as a perfect addition to its picturesque beauty. Apart from boating, you can stroll through various fruit orchids and have an enjoyable day with your loved one. For more on such fun places, click here

Shopping in Chidambaram

Shopping addicts are definitely in for a treat at Chidambaram. You can buy things in Chidambaram ranging from khadi crafts for souvenirs to handicraft items for decoration at home. Chidambaram is a town particularly famous for its textiles and handloom markets that offer the best at the affordable prices.

Many people are fond of saris and thus people who love saris can buy the nationwide famous silk saris from Chidambaram. Located at a distance of merely half an hour, you can find the best deals in a little village called Bhuvanagiri which is famous for selling its trademark Bhuvanagiri pattu saris.

Festivals in Chidambaram

Chidambaram is one of the most ancient and holy spots associated with the worship of Lord Shiva. Various festivals are celebrated annually by the people of Chidambaram to showcase their love for god and life. If you want to see the merrier side of Chidambaram, do join in the festivals of the people and celebrate your life with the believed god.

One of the major festivals celebrated in Chidambaram is the Natyanjali festival that is known internationally. You can pay your respect to Lord Shiva and the art of dance by attending this five day long famous festival. Natyanjali Festival is organized every year by the Department of Tourism, the Ministry of Tourism and the Natyanjali Trust.

You can join the people of Chidambaram in various other festivals enjoyed wholeheartedly such as Brahmotsavam, Panguini Uthiram, Ani Thirumanjanam, Thai Poosam and Arudra Darsanam where each one is celebrated in different temples of Chidambaram. Abhishekam or a holy bath that is performed by the chief priests can be noticed in all Lord Nataraja temples. Devotees from all over the nation flock to Chidambaram to gain blessings as it is believed that it can cure any disease and bless you with a bountiful life. Click here to learn more on festivals in Chidambaram

Eating out in Chidambaram

The town of Chidambaram offers you the best regional dishes at the most affordable of prices. The restaurants and eating joints will surprise the entire visitors with the best continental as well as regional food, providing value for your money. One of the most famous restaurants in Chidambaram is Hotel Saradharam serving delicious local as well as international cuisines.

Some of the other popular restaurants include Hotel Ritz, Hotel Royal Plaza and Babu Restaurant. Try the vegetarian food served at Babu Restaurant in the typical South Indian style in banana leaves complete with coconut chutney (sauce). Similarly, TTDC Hotel in Chidambaram will serve you both vegetarian and non vegetarian food including a special roof bar top that attracts international tourists the most.

Another famous café cum eating joint in Chidambaram town is the famous Double 'A' Restaurant situated at Kothangudi Street. This place is locally famous for its delicious Parotta and fresh juices offered at reasonable rates.