July 20, 2013: The Chidambaram temple complex, which is located in the city proper, spread over about 40 acres, is where Lord Shiva is worshipped as Nataraja, the celestial dancer, or Koothan. The temple has many names, and naturally, ‘Koothan Kovil’, is one of its  oldest names until the Cholas laid a golden roof over it. Ever since, it has also been known as Ponnambalam or Golden Temple.  The ancient temple is a favourite pilgrim spot for Saivites, as also for Vaishnavites because the complex has a temple dedicated to Lord Govindaraju or Vishnu.

The much patronized Natyanjali festival is held in the temple complex when Bharata Natyam dancers from all over the world converge here to offer their prayers — and their performance — to the Cosmic Dancer. The temple, an architectural marvel, with its intricate carvings and geometric precision in execution, is said to have influenced architecture, sculpture, dance and worship for over two millennia. It has been home to some revered saints, such as Manikkavacakar who attained moksha in Chidambaram and Nandanar, who was born into an ‘untouchable’ caste but his followers came from all walks of life and all creeds, so superior was his bhakti. Raghavendra Swami was born at Bhuvanagiri, near present-day Chidambaram. 

Chidambaram is a four-hour drive from Chennai, which has you crossing vast expanses of salt pans near Marakkanam on the ECR. Its temples apart, it’s also known for the Pichavaram mangroves forest in its vicinity, which is half an hour away by road from Chennai. Backwater cruises are available here and it is a treat to wade through the green trees in row boats. The place is peaceful, the silence broken only by the sound of the oars and chirping of birds.
You can see little fish jumping out of the water and kingfishers making a meal out of them. The locals catch fish and crab for a living. The boatman claims there are snakes, crocodiles and other exotic species, but just like the Chidambara Rahasyam, they cannot be seen by mere mortal eyes.

It’s clear that this is a city of temples, but other locations of interest include the Annamalai University. 

Source: Deccan Chronicle, DT. July 20, 2013.