The short answer
Anantheeswarar Temple: what visitors should know first
Worth a short visit if you are already around the Nataraja temple. Expect a modest, older temple, allow 30 to 45 minutes, and visit when it is open, since morning and evening hours are short.
History and context
The story behind Anantheeswarar Temple
A temple listing gives the age as roughly 500 to 1,000 years and says the area was historically called Thillaivanam. Legend says the serpent Adisesha was born as Patanjali, created the spring and installed the lingam.
The age estimate is approximate and the legend is tradition, not documented history.
Useful facts
Anantheeswarar Temple facts at a glance
- Location
- Directly behind the Nataraja temple, Chidambaram
- Faith
- Hindu (Shaiva)
- Deity/dedication
- Anantheeswarar and Soundaranayaki
- Visitor note
- Listing gives roughly 6-11.30 am and 5-8.30 pm
- Built
- Age estimated at 500 to 1,000 years
Why it matters
Why Anantheeswarar Temple is worth your time
Chidambaram is known for the Nataraja temple, but the town has other shrines that carry its older traditions. The Anantheeswarar temple, historically in the Thillaivanam, is tied to Patanjali, the sage of yoga and grammar, who is placed near Nataraja and joins processions during two festivals.
It matters for travellers because it shows the town beyond the main temple. It is older, smaller and more local, and it offers a chance to see ordinary worship away from the crowds. The Raja Chandikeswarar shrine and the yoga-related carvings give it its own character.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Patanjali Theertham
A sacred spring at the entrance, linked to the sage Patanjali.
- 02
Yoga carvings
Pillars carry sculptures related to yoga, according to a temple listing.
- 03
Raja Chandikeswarar shrine
A separate shrine nearby, noted as unusual in listings.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Walk or take an auto to the temple behind the main complex. The municipal page notes that it is about 1.5 km from the Nataraja temple by road, and that one writer took an auto, so check the route locally. At the entrance is the Patanjali Theertham, a sacred spring according to a temple listing.
Inside, the main shrine is for Anantheeswarar, with the goddess Soundaranayaki. The temple is associated with the sage Patanjali, and its pillars carry sculptures related to yoga. A separate shrine for Raja Chandikeswarar is nearby, which a temple listing describes as unusual. Devotees visit for relief from Naga dosha, according to the same listing.
A temple listing gives opening hours of about 6 to 11.30 am and 5 to 8.30 pm. The municipal page describes the temple as somewhat worn. Treat it as a quiet complement to the main temple rather than a major sight.
Plan with confidence
Visit as a guest, not a spectator.
- Confirm timings locally
- Take an auto if you do not want to walk
- Leave footwear outside
- Do not expect facilities
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Behind the Nataraja temple, Chidambaram
- Time needed
- 30-45 minutes
- Best time
- Morning (6 to 11.30 am) or evening (5 to 8.30 pm), per a temple listing
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- A compact temple with level stone floors and few visitors, though you are barefoot and seating is limited. A nearby auto can drop you close to the entrance.
- Tickets and access
- Normally free. Dress modestly and leave footwear outside. Timings are from a listing; confirm locally before going.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Anantheeswarar Temple
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
A compact temple with level stone floors and few visitors, though you are barefoot and seating is limited. A nearby auto can drop you close to the entrance.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Why is it linked to Patanjali?
Temple tradition says the serpent Adisesha took birth as Patanjali and installed the lingam here.
How far is it from the main temple?
It is described as directly behind the Nataraja temple; a municipal page gives about 1.5 km by road.
What are the timings?
A temple listing gives about 6 to 11.30 am and 5 to 8.30 pm. Confirm locally.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
