About Chidambaram
Varanasi to Chidambaram distnce : 2105 km
Estimated travel time : 36.9 hours
Chidambaram is a vibrant city located in the Cuddalore district of the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India. It holds a significant place in the hearts of locals and tourists alike, as it is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and spiritual importance. With its magnificent temples, traditional art forms, and a deep-rooted history, Chidambaram offers a fascinating blend of ancient traditions and modern developments.
Chidambaram, also known as Thillai, is famous for its ancient Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. This intricate temple complex is one of the five Pancha Bootha Sthalams, representing the five elements of nature, and is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus. The temple's remarkable architecture boasts breathtaking sculptures, intricate carvings, and majestic gopurams (tower gateways). The destination attracts devotees and history enthusiasts from all over the world, who come to witness the grandeur of the deity's cosmic dance.
Beyond its religious significance, Chidambaram is celebrated for its traditional arts and crafts. The city is known for its skilled artisans who excel in intricate bronze and stone sculptures. These craftsmen diligently preserve the age-old heritage by creating exquisite sculptures that are revered both in India and internationally. Additionally, Chidambaram is renowned for its vibrant silk saris, woven with intricate motifs and designs, showcasing the city's expertise in the textile industry.
Apart from its cultural offerings, Chidambaram is a bustling city with a bustling market and a variety of local delicacies. The food scene here reflects the region's culinary diversity, offering a range of authentic Tamil vegetarian dishes like dosas, idlis, and traditional meals served on banana leaves. Exploring the local bazaars is a treat for shopaholics, with an abundance of handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs available to take home.
Chidambaram also holds annual festivals that attract visitors from far and wide. The Natyanjali Dance Festival, held in February, is a prestigious event that showcases talented classical dancers paying homage to Lord Nataraja through their performances. The festival provides an immersive experience for art enthusiasts and plays a crucial role in promoting classical dance forms.
As one navigates through the streets of Chidambaram, it is hard not to be captivated by the city's rich heritage and spiritual ambiance. With its sacred temples, thriving art scene, and warm hospitality, Chidambaram offers a unique glimpse into the cultural tapestry of Tamil Nadu, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to indulge in India's diverse and enchanting traditions.
Taxi from Varanasi to Chidambaram is readily available at CabBazar.
Route Information
Varanasi to Chidambaram by car is well connected by road and is very convenient and comfortable drive. Varanasi to Chidambaram distance is 2105 Km and is 36.9 hours journey. Other famous tourist places on this route and nearby are :
1. Pondicherry - Known for its French colonial architecture, beautiful beaches, and spiritual centers like Auroville and Aurobindo Ashram.
2. Madurai - Famous for the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a magnificent example of Dravidian architecture, and other historical sites like Thirumalai Nayak Palace and Gandhi Memorial Museum.
3. Thanjavur - Home to the Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and other ancient temples, palaces, and art galleries.
4. Trichy (Tiruchirappalli) - Known for the iconic Rockfort Temple and Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple, one of the largest functioning Hindu temples in the world.
5. Kumbakonam - A pilgrimage town with numerous temples, including the UNESCO-listed Airavatesvara Temple and Sarangapani Temple.
6. Chidambaram - Famous for the ancient Nataraja Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva as the cosmic dancer, and the nearby Pichavaram Mangrove Forests.
7. Thanjavur - Home to Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and other ancient temples, palaces, and art galleries.
8. Tiruvannamalai - Known for the Annamalaiyar Temple, one of the largest temple complexes in India, and the sacred Arunachala Hill.
9. Vellore - Home to the impressive Vellore Fort, a 16th-century granite fortification, and the Golden Temple, a famous Sikh religious site in Tamil Nadu.
10. Chennai - The bustling capital city of Tamil Nadu, offering attractions like Marina Beach, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Fort St. George, and various museums and art galleries.
11. Kolkata - A major city in eastern India renowned for the iconic Howrah Bridge, Victoria Memorial, Belur Math, and Dakshineswar Kali Temple.
12. Varanasi - Lastly, you would reach Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, famous for its ghats along the sacred River Ganges, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, and the spiritual aura of the city.