Chidambaram Nataraja Temple, a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is situated in the temple town of Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu. Spanning over 50 acres, this historic temple holds great spiritual and architectural significance. Known as the “Thillai Nataraja Temple,” it symbolizes the element of sky (akasha). Let’s explore the temple’s timings, booking details, rituals, and other key information to plan your visit.
Chidambaram Temple Timings
Visitors to the Chidambaram Nataraja Temple must be aware of its daily darshan, pooja, and Abhishekam schedules. Below are the temple’s timings for darshan and rituals:
Chidambaram Nataraja Temple Darshan Timings
| Duration | Days | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Temple Opening | Mon to Sun | 6:00 AM |
| Morning Darshan | Mon to Sun | 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | Mon to Sun | 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM |
| Temple Break | Mon to Sun | 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM |
| Temple Closing | Mon to Sun | 10:00 PM |
Chidambaram Temple Abhishekam Timings
| Day | Abhishekam | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Mon to Sun | Early Morning (Spatika Lingam) | 7:45 AM to 9:00 AM |
| Mon to Sun | Morning (Spatika Lingam) | 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM |
| Mon to Sun | Afternoon (Spatika Lingam) | 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM |
| Mon to Sun | Early Evening (Spatika Lingam) | 5:15 PM to 6:00 PM |
| Mon to Sun | Evening (Spatika Lingam) | 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM |
| Mon to Sun | Night (Spatika Lingam) | 9:00 PM to 10:00 PM |
Chidambaram Temple Abhishekam Cost
Devotees who wish to perform Abhishekam or Rudrabhishekam can book tickets in advance. The details are as follows:
| Abhishekam | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | Rs. 72,000 |
| Duration | 2 hours |
| Timings | 10:00 AM and 8:00 PM |
| Person Allowance | For a family |
Chidambaram Temple Pooja and Aarti Timings
| Pooja Name | Timings |
|---|---|
| Paal Nivedhyam | 6:30 AM |
| Maha Aarthi | 7:00 AM |
| Kala Sandhi Pooja | 7:45 AM to 9:00 AM |
| Irandaam Kaalam | 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM |
| Uchikaalam | 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM |
| Saayarakshai | 5:15 PM to 6:00 PM |
| Ardhajaamam | 9:00 PM to 10:00 PM |
Chidambaram Temple Online Booking and Entry Fee
- Special Darshan Booking: Devotees can book tickets for special darshan through the temple’s official website: www.chidambaramnataraja.org.
- Entry Fee: The temple does not charge an entry fee for darshan.
Accommodation Options in Chidambaram
If you are looking for comfortable and budget-friendly stays near the temple, this blog offers excellent options. Choose between Dharamshalas or luxurious hotels, ensuring a pleasant visit.
- V S Lodge Chidambaram
- Chidambaram Parisha Residency
Booking is straightforward, letting you focus on your pilgrimage without worries.
Temple History and Significance
The Chidambaram Nataraja Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in his dancing form, Nataraja, and Goddess Sivakami Amman. It is one of the five Shiva temples representing natural elements, with this temple symbolizing akasha (sky).
Key features include:
- 9 Gopurams
- 5 Sabhais
- Water tanks
- Sub-shrines: Karpaka Vinayakar, Somasundarar, and others.
How to Reach Chidambaram Temple
- By Road: Regular buses are available from Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.
- By Train: The Chidambaram Railway Station is just 2 km from the temple.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Trichy, located 155 km away.
FAQs: Quick Answers for Devotees
Q: What are the Chidambaram Temple’s daily opening and closing hours?
A: The temple opens at 6:00 AM and closes at 10:00 PM daily.
Q: How much does Abhishekam cost at Chidambaram Temple?
A: The cost of Abhishekam is Rs. 72,000, which allows participation by a family.
Q: Is there any entry fee for Chidambaram Temple?
A: No, entry to the temple is free for all devotees.
Q: Can I book special darshan tickets online for Chidambaram Temple?
A: Yes, you can book them through the official website: www.chidambaramnataraja.org.
Q: Which is the nearest railway station to Chidambaram Temple?
A: The Chidambaram Railway Station is just 2 km away from the temple.