The temple of Shiva's cosmic dance (Ananda Tandava). One of the Pancha Bhuta Sthalams representing the element of Space (Akasha). Contains the Chidambara Rahasya — the "secret of consciousness."
One of the oldest temples in South India with references in Sangam literature. The Dikshitar priests who maintain it claim unbroken lineage from Patanjali. The temple was expanded by Chola kings.
Massive complex with 4 towering gopurams (gateways). The Kanaka Sabha (golden hall) houses the Nataraja bronze. The Chit Sabha has the Chidambara Rahasya — an empty space behind a golden curtain, symbolizing formless consciousness.
Pancha Bhuta Sthalam (Space)
Chidambara Rahasya — empty space as God
Nataraja in cosmic dance form
Hereditary Dikshitar priests
4 grand gopurams
Margazhi Thiruvathirai (Arudra Darshanam)
Natyanjali dance festival
Ani Thirumanjanam
Open 6 AM–12 PM, 4 PM–10 PM. Located between Chennai and Pondicherry. Managed by hereditary Dikshitar priests.
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