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>> Chidambaram City Guide SRIMUSHNAM (45 KMS.)
The famous temple for Vishnu as Bhuvaraha is located here. The front Mandapam called the Purushasukta Mandapam was built by the Nayaks in the 17th century and is noted for its architectural treasures. Shaped like a chariot, it is replete with carvings of figures of warriors mounted on horses and elephants. On the pillars in the centre of the hall are carved royal portraits of the Nayak family who were responsible for building of the temple.
ARIKAMEDU (75 KMS.)
Arikamedu was the earliest Indo-Roman trading centre on the east coast of India. From the excavations here, Roman coins, wine jars etc., have been found. Further evidence shows that it was also a Buddhist stronghold during the Sangam period.
GINGEE (132 KMS)
This place is associated with Raja Desing. There is a 700- year old fort running over three hills of huge and steep boulders. According to tradition the original fort was built by Kone Chiefs. The fort was ruled by Vijayanagar Nayaks, Marathas, Moughuls, Carnatic Nawabs, the French and the British. Rajagiri and Krishnagiri are two important fortifications here and it is a popular picnic spot.
Entrance fee: Rs.2.00 per head
Visiting hours: 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.
Free entry on every Friday.
GANGAIKONDA CHOLAPURAM (50 KMS.)
Rajendra-1, a mighty Chola King, established his new capital here with the magnificent city and temple to Lord Siva. The temple is noted for its massive structure and richly carved sculptures. A big nandhi in front of the temple made of the brick and mortar, a lion headed well with a flight of steps leading to the water level and gigantic Dwarapalakas are the other special features of this temple.
POOMPUHAR (40 KMS.)
Poompuhar, once the biggest port on the east coast, was at its peak under the earlier Chola Kings. The kaveri, merging with the bellowing sea, was known as Puhar; because of the exquisite beauty of the port town, it came to be called 'Poompuhar'. Another name of Poompuhar was Kaveripoompattinam. The greatness of the city is brought out in some of the poems in Sangam literature and also by Silappathikaram and Manimekalai among the epics.
The life and time of the Tamil Classic 'Silappathikaram' has been recreated at Poompuhar to the immense pleasure of the Tamils. In order to conjure up the decorative ornamental scenic beauty of Poompuhar, the whole Art Gallery is made to present the environment and atmosphere of the 2nd century A.D. by the creation of the llanji Manram, Pavai Manram, the Buddhist School, Arugan Kottam, Tirumal Kottam and Murugan Kottam, etc. a fine beach and calm water offer good bathing.
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