History:

is a remarkable Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in the town of Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu. The temple is one of the few temples in India where Lord Shiva is represented in a dancing pose (Nataraja) and is one of the five temples dedicated to Shiva’s manifestation as a cosmic dancer. The temple complex is one of the largest in India and contains numerous shrines, gopurams, and mandapas which are adorned with intricate sculptures. It is a major pilgrimage for Shaivites and a site of conclusion for many of the major Hindu festivals. It is one of the best temple in TamilNadu which you must visit.

Facts:

1. The Nataraja Temple, or "Chidambaram temple", is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, the supreme God in Hinduism, located in the sacred town of Chidambaram in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. 2. It is one of the most important temples in the country and is particularly significant due to its ancient architecture and the numerous sculptures of Lord Shiva, the Nataraja form. 3. The temple is also renowned for its association with the sage Agastya, who is said to have visited the temple. The original temple structure is believed to be more than 1800 years old. 4. The main deity of the temple is Lord Shiva in the form of the Nataraja, dancing in an ansythmic form, representing the cycle of creation and destruction. The temple is also famed for its breathtaking Chori, or inner sanctum, where the Nataraja is housed. 5. The shrine also features five golden stucco images, or panciethams, of Shiva, representing five aspects of the god, which are said to have been created by lord Vishnu himself. 6. The temple complex also houses many smaller shrines dedicated to various deities, such as Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, Lord Sudarshan and Lord Murugan. 7. The temple organizes various festivals throughout the year, offering special pujas and blessing devotees. The main festival is the Panguni Uthiram, celebrated in the Tamil month of Panguni (March–April). Here are some facts about the TamilNadu temple.These facts will help you understand why it is oldest temple list of the best temples in TamilNadu

Worship Method:

The traditional method of worship at Nataraja Temple, Chidambaram is based on the Saivaite agama. The primary deity of the temple is Lord Shiva in the form of Nataraja. The temple rituals are performed four times a day according to these agamas. These include Abhishekam, Pooja, Utsava, and Deeparadhana. Abhishekam is an elaborate ceremony of bath and anointment of the deity. It is performed with gangajal, panchamrita, tender coconut water, curd, milk and honey. The priest recites mantras and performs Pooja with flowers, turmeric, sandalwood, and flower garlands. Pooja involves worshipping the deity with offerings such as flowers, sandalwood, turmeric, and flowers. Utsava involves carrying this pooja in a procession around the temple. The priest holds the idol in his hand and a carrier holds a plate of fruits and flowers to offer him. Deeparadhana is the final ceremony of the day. This ritual involves offering lighted lamps to the deity and chanting of shlokas. Devotees stand in two rows with flowers in their hands and wave oil lamps in prayer to the Lord. The Priest then leads the devotees in reciting Vedic chants and mantras. This most visited temple in TamilNadu

Opening Timing:

The Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram is open from 5.30am to 12.30pm and from 4.30pm to 9.00pm every day. top temples in TamilNadu

How to reach:

The Nataraja Temple is located in the city of Chidambaram in TamilNadu, India. By Air: The nearest airport to the Nataraja Temple is Tiruchirapalli International Airport which is 68 km away. The airport is well connected to all major cities in India. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Chidambaram. By Train: Chidambaram Railway Station is the closest railway station to the Nataraja Temple. The station is connected to all major cities in India. By Road: Chidambaram is well connected to all major cities in TamilNadu by road. You can take a bus or taxi to reach Chidambaram from the nearby cities. famous temples in TamilNadu