Chidambaram Excursion : Places nearby Chidambaram - Tamil Nadu

Places to visit nearby destination - Chidambaram

Gangaikonda Cholapuram

The historic city of Gangaikonda Cholapuram is situated at a distance of some 50 km from Chidambaram. The city has been associated with the Chola king, Rajendra I, who had established it as his new capital. A marvellous Shiva temple made by the Chola king is a major attraction here. The huge temple is lavishly sculptured and a big Nandi made of brick and mortar stands in front of it.

Kalvarayam Hills

The beautiful Kalvarayam Hills are located 150 km north west of Chidambaram on the western side of Kallakuruchi taluk. Endowed with two waterfalls the hills are spread over an area of 600 sq. km. It is an ideal destination for those who come to seek solitude.

Pichavaram

Famous for its varied tourist resources, the picturesque locale of Pichavaram is situated 16 km east of Chidambaram. The place has one of the most well developed mangrove forests in India and its backwaters provide ample scope for parasailing, rowing and canoeing. Separated from the sea by a fascinating sand bar, Pichavaram covers an area of about 2,800 acres. Restaurants, cruising, and lodging facilities are provided by Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation.

Tarangambadi

Forty kilometres from Chidambaram lies Tarangambadi or Tranquebar, an old site of a Danish settlement. The attraction in the town is the old Dansborg fort. The fort was built by Ore Gedde, a commander of the Royal Dutch Navy in the 17th century. Except for the deteriorating ramparts, the building is almost in good condition.

The Church of Zion

The enchanting Church of Zion is situated at about 40 km from Chidambaram at the corner adjoining the King Street and the Queen Street of Tranquebar. The church was built in 1701 and went through a series of modifications between 1782 to 1784 and 1800 to 1839. Today it has a vaulted roof as a part of its structure.

The Gate

About 40 km from Chidambaram at Tarangambadi lies the 200-year-old Gate, a monument of historical and architectural interest. The Gate is located in such a way that the people living here have to pass through it on their way in and out of town.