CHIDAMBARAM -
Chidambaram
- Between two rivers in a 40 acre temple-complex, lies the temples of
Chidambaram, one of the oldest, most venerated and magnificent temples
of South India. The word Chidambram stands for the ever expanding consciousness
and the supreme knowledge that dawns on it is the Natraja. Natraja or
the Dancing Shiva stands in his cosmic dance pose in the `Golden Hall'
and is conceptually the center of the universe, where the cosmic dance
takes place. Flanking the temple are 1108 sculptured illustrations of
Bharat Natya Shashtra.
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Gangai Konda Cholapuram -
An hour's drive from Chidambram, this temple was built in 11th century,
to commemorate Chola King's conquest up to the Gangetic plain. The
temple has beautiful stone sculptures including a dancing Ganesha,
a lion headed well and a stunning freeze depicting Rajendra being
crowned by Siva and Parvati. It also houses some remarkable bronzes
of the Chola age. It was also the capital of the Cholas till their
fall in the 13th century.
HOW TO GET THERE :
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By Air : Nearest Airport is Trichy
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By Rail : It is connected by rail with Trichy, Madurai, Chennai.
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By Road : It is well connected with all major towns.
Last modified: 26/02/2004