Vridhachalam:

Vridhachalam: It is a major town of the district. It is about 50 kms.from Chidambaram and is located on the banks of the river Manimuthar. There is an ancient Siva temple dedicated to Lord Vridhagiriswarar and his consort Vridhambigai. SrimushnamLocated 31 kms from Chidambaram, Srimushnam, is famous for the Vaishnava temple of Bhuvaraha. This is one of the famous Vaishanavite shrines in the State. The image in the temple is believed to be swayam vyakta or self-created respresentating the varaha avatar. The originals image in marble is said to have been taken away by Krishnadeva Wodeyar of Mysore and is said to be installed it at Srirengapattinam. The front mandapam called the purushasukra mandapam was built in the 17 century. It looks like a chariot with elegantly carved figures of warriors riding horses and elephants. The nayaks, who were the rulers and who built the temple are illustrated in carved royal portraits on the pillars in the centre of the hall. Gangaikondacholapuram Temple Rajendra I, the mighty Chola King, established his new capital here with this magnificent city and temple to Lord Siva in the tenth century. It is 50 kms. from Chidambaram. The temple is noted for its massive and richly carved sculptures. A big Nandi in front of the temple made of brick and mortar, a lion head well with a flight of steps leading to the water level and the gigantic dwarapalakas are the other special features of this temple.