Chidambaram Nataraja Temple
Nataraja (Thirumoolanathar) · Chidambaram
Pancha Bhoota Temples: Sky
Significance
The temple where Shiva is in the form of sky (space). Nataraja, who does the dance of joy (Ananda Thandavam), is the main deity here. For Saivites, the word kovil (temple) means Chidambaram.
The town also has an old name, Thillai.
Special features
- Ponnambalam, the hall with a gold-covered roof
- The Chidambara Rahasyam (secret) behind the curtain
- Carvings of Bharatanatyam poses (karanas) on the gopurams
- A shrine of Govindaraja Perumal in the same complex
Darshan times, fees and festival dates can change. Before you go, check with the temple office or the temple's official website. The temple stories are given as devotees believe them, and they can differ from one temple to another.