Chidambaram

Under the Skies of Ancient Wisdom
The fairy-tale city of Chidambaram offers an escapade back in time to the dawn of Dravidian civilization. This fabulous city boasts of an unparalleled intellectual heritage that earned it the name “Chidambaram”, when translated means a sky shimmering with intelligence and wisdom. Numerous Hindu saints and scholars have lived and died in this holy land right from the beginning of Dravidian history. These saints and scholars had a prominent role in shaping the intellectual skyline of Chidambaram.

The city skyline is dotted with towering temple gopurams. Each temple holding a unique tale and legend associated with its origin. These charming tales add color to the mystique of the place. This antediluvian city is deeply rooted in religion, culture, customs and traditions. It is the fabled abode of “Lord Nataraja”, Lord Shiva depicted as the cosmic dancer. Chidambaram is one of the “Pancha Bootha Sthalangal”, the five places where god appears glorified in one of the five elements of nature viz. the Earth, Water, Sky, Fire and Space.