Nataraja Temple
Also known as Thillai Nataraja Temple
Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, is the Akasha Pancha Bhoota sthalam - the only shrine where Shiva is worshipped as Nataraja, the cosmic dancer.
Photos of Nataraja Temple
Nataraja Temple at a Glance
| Location | Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu |
|---|---|
| Presiding deity | Shiva |
| Established | 10th century CE |
| Architecture | Dravidian |
| Timings | 06:00–12:00, 17:00–22:00 |
| Address | S Car St, Chidambaram 608001 |
History of Nataraja Temple
Enlarged by successive Chola kings from the 10th century onwards. The gold-plated roof over the sanctum is a legacy of Parantaka Chola I.
Festivals Celebrated at Nataraja Temple
- Natyanjali
- Margazhi Thiruvadhirai
How to Reach Nataraja Temple
Chidambaram is on the Chennai–Trichy rail line, 235 km south of Chennai.
Temples Near Nataraja Temple
- Manakula Vinayagar TemplePuducherry · about 62 km in a straight line
- Brihadisvara TempleTamil Nadu · about 92 km in a straight line
- Arunachaleswarar TempleTamil Nadu · about 115 km in a straight line
- Jambukeswarar TempleTamil Nadu · about 124 km in a straight line
- Sri Ranganathaswamy TempleTamil Nadu · about 125 km in a straight line
More Shiva Temples to Visit
- Ekambareswarar TempleTamil Nadu
- Kailasanathar TempleTamil Nadu
- Ramanathaswamy TempleTamil Nadu
- Srikalahasti TempleAndhra Pradesh
- Vadakkunnathan TempleKerala
- Mallikarjuna Swamy TempleAndhra Pradesh
Frequently Asked Questions about Nataraja Temple
Where is Nataraja Temple located?
- Nataraja Temple is located at S Car St, Chidambaram 608001, in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Nataraja Temple?
- The presiding deity at Nataraja Temple is Shiva (also known as Mahadev, Bholenath), worshipped in the Shaiva tradition.
What are the timings of Nataraja Temple?
- Nataraja Temple is generally open 06:00–12:00, 17:00–22:00. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Nataraja Temple built?
- Nataraja Temple was established 10th century CE. Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Nataraja Temple?
- Nataraja Temple is built in the Dravidian style, characteristic of Shiva shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Nataraja Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Nataraja Temple include Natyanjali, Margazhi Thiruvadhirai. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Tamil Nadu and beyond.
How can I reach Nataraja Temple?
- Chidambaram is on the Chennai–Trichy rail line, 235 km south of Chennai.
Why is Nataraja Temple significant?
- Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, is the Akasha Pancha Bhoota sthalam - the only shrine where Shiva is worshipped as Nataraja, the cosmic dancer.