Chidambaram is a cultural centre combining history, religion, and nature. While some things to do in Chidambaram are visiting ancient temples, others include exploring bazaars and local fairs. The town is full of history and natural greenery. This makes this place stand apart from the rest of Tamil Nadu. If one is seeking peace and beauty, this city has placed a lot for tourism in Chidambaram. The best things to do in Chidambaram will make your trip memorable.
Top 9 Things To Do In Chidambaram
Here are some of the best things to do in Chidambaram which will make your trip to Tamil Nadu a memorable one:
1. Explore Pichavaram Mangrove Forests
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The Pichavaram Mangrove Forests are one of the world’s largest regions of mangrove forests. This invites tourists to take a trip in the wide boat through the stretches of water surrounded by fine vegetation. It is an incredible place for those who love nature and tranquillity away from the busy town. Among the most engaging things to do in Chidambaram, this natural attraction provides an exciting experience of finding peace within the wilderness.
Best Time To Visit: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹150 for a boat paddle and ₹1000 for a motor boat ride
2. Do Shopping At Chidambaram Local Market
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If one wants to experience the local culture and buy local articles, then Chidambaram’s local market is the ideal place. The local market also provides a thin slice of how the life of the townspeople is lived. Be it to buy colourful clothes, rugged clothes, or accessories, shopping at this place is a wonderful experience for every tourist.
Best Time To Visit: Morning and evening
Entry Fee: Free
3. Attend Natyanjali Dance Festival
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The Natyanjali Dance Festival recognizes 8 forms of Indian classical dance. It is celebrated yearly in Nataraja Temple which is in Chidambaram. Indian dancers come around the country to offer their prayers to the idol while performing dances in devotion. This is for the culture lovers, among the best things to do in Chidambaram that you will remember always. Dance performances of Indian antique styles are made possible due to extraordinary measures.
Location: Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram
Best Time To Visit: 6 AM – 12 PM and 5 PM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. Visit Khadi Handicraft Store
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Khadi Handicraft Stores are perfect for those who want a taste of traditional Indian craft. It is popular for various types of hand-woven crafts. This store has a good collection of clothes made of khadi fabric and other green products making it a good place to buy green goods. This is one of the best things to do in Chidambaram if you want to take home something from here with a rich textile background.
Best Time To Visit: 10 AM – 8 PM (Sunday closed)
Entry Fee: Free
5. Experience Serenity At The Nataraja Temple
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One of the most well-known landmarks in Chidambaram is the Nataraja Temple which is devoted to the worship of Lord Shiva. Besides its beautiful Dravidar architecture, one of the temples’ rites attracts countless pilgrims and tourists. This includes touring the temple which is often one of the best things to do in Chidambaram. The detailed decorations and tranquillity make it one of the places to be for any town explorer.
Best Time To Visit: 6 AM – 12 PM and 5 PM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: Free
6. Pray At Thillai Kali Amman Temple
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This temple is devoted to Kali Devi and it is an old temple. This temple is a fascinating one due to its unique appeal of both architecture and the goddess Kali. The temple of Thillai Kali Amman is an interesting place to visit in Chidambaram for people interested in history and religion. It is quite serene and spiritual and one of the top things to see in Chidambaram.
Best Time To Visit: 6 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
7. Pray At Tirunallurpperumanam Temple
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Tirunallurpperumanam Temple is a relatively neglected temple. It can be classified as an architectural structure with exquisite sculptures and inscriptions made long ago. It is a serene one away from the usual bustle. The glory of this temple is the best activity for those people who don’t know what to do in Chidambaram. It is some kind of treasure that is hidden only because of the beauty of its design and clear surroundings.
Best Time To Visit: 6 AM – 12 PM and 4 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
8. Wander Around In Annamalai University
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Annamalai University, established in the year 1929, is one of the oldest and most renowned places of learning in the southern region of India. This place is very famous because of its great building structures and beautifully maintained gardens. It is an ideal option for those who don’t know what to do in Chidambaram and for the culturally curious, history enthusiasts and historians. This university offers something interesting as it enhances the academic and cultural richness of the area.
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year
Entry Fee: Free
9. Worship At Bhuvanagiri Temple
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Situated a few minutes from Chidambaram is the Bhuvanagiri Temple, which is known for its divine peace and Lord Shiva. Going to this temple is one of the most interesting things to do in Chidambaram for those who want to discover less commercialised and more characterful places within the city. The temple has a serene environment and beautiful sights of the environment which comes as a bonus.
Best Time To Visit: 5 AM – 8:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Chidambaram presents different cultural activities for all oriented visitors. There are fascinating things to do in Chidambaram, from visiting the ancient temples to the lively celebrations and the great natural features. No matter if you are a historical person, a religious person or one who enjoys natural beauty, this town will bless you with its diverse cultural experience which you would want to relive. Plan your trip with TripXL and explore Chidambaram and its religious and culturally diverse places.
Cover Photo: Richard Mortel / Wikimedia Commons