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Chidambaram Circuits

Chidambaram Temple Sculpture

Circuits From Marvels To Wonders

When on an excursion tour to Chidambaram, explore the most exquisite marvels of Chidambaram, nestling on the locations which are yet undisclosed to the hordes of tourists. The circuits are divided very wisely into three different categories, Religious Circuit, Archaeological Circuits and Eco-tourism Circuits.

Religious Circuit

Sirhazhi (20 Kms)

Sri Brahampureswarar, sattanathar and Thoniapper shrines will be the first sites that you would like to see in Sirhazhi. The temple is famous among local travelers for its architectural beauty. As it mesmerizes the locales and makes them come back again and again, you too will be enthralled by the beauty of this temple. The Goddess Tirunilai Nayaki shrine and the shrine of God Child Gnansambandar are the other main attractions that you just cannot miss.

Vaithees,Waran Koil (24 Kms)

The place is famous for the Lord Shiva temple dedicated to Vaidyanatheeswarar who is called the healer of all diseases. His consort Thaiyalnayaki is also worshipped in this temple. It is believed that a bath in the holy waters of the Siddhamirtham tank within the temple complex will cure all diseases.

Archaeological/Historical Circuit

Srimushnam (45 Kms)

The famous temple for Vishnu as Bhuvaraha is located here. The front Mandapam called the Purushasukta Mandapam was built by the Nayaks in the 17th century and is noted for its architectural treasures. Shaped like a chariot, it is replete with carvings of figures of warriors mounted on horses and elephants. On the pillars in the centre of the hall are carved royal portraits of the Nayak family that were responsible for building of the temple.

Arikamedu (75 Kms)

Situated on the eastern coast of India, Arikamedu was the earliest Indo-Roman trading center. The area has gained special attention of archaeologists and researchers after Roman coins, wine ,jars etc were excavated from here. There are many evidences to prove that this was once under the influence of Buddhism during the Sangam period.

Poompuhar (40 Kms)

Poompuhar was once used as port by Chola Kings during which it was the biggest port on the east coast. The city was one of the most important places in Tamil Nadu and finds mention in many epics and poems by greats. To attract more tourist and to give them that feeling of the bygone era and the decorative ornamental scenic beauty of Poompuhar, the whole Art Gallery is structured to present the environment and atmosphere of the 2nd century A.D. The beach is quite serene and calm and provides you with a great opportunity for a refreshing bath. The Department of Tourism offers excellent staying facility in shell shaped cottages in the Poompuhar Tourist Complex.

Eco - Tourism Circuit

Pichavaram (16 Kms)

You probably won't find any other place more splendid and full of panoramic spots than Pichavaram, even if not as famous as the backwaters of Kerala, the backwaters of Pichavaram are equally captivating and offer a lot of scope for water sports like rowing, kayak and canoeing. The Pichavaram is also famous for its mangrove plantations that probably are the biggest in the world. The fruits from these trees are considered to be the healthiest mangroves in the world. So don't even think of leaving the sands of Pichavaram without tasting these mangroves which by the way are also the tastiest.

Kalrayan Hills (150 Kms)

Kalyavaran hills spread over an area of 600 sq. Km and at an altitude of 1190, these hills are perfect for people in search of pleasing climate and serene environment. When in Kalyavaran hills, visit the beautiful botanical garden, which is full of rare and precious plants that you will find anywhere else in India. Located on the hills besides two waterfalls here, the garden premises is surrounded by exceptional landscapes that prove to be a good spot for a quiet outing. Even the trekkers are in for a treat as the area is ideal for trekking and hiking.