Chidambaram is called the Thillai where the famous temple dedicated to Lord Nataraja is situated. The temple houses the shrines of both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Lord Shiva is in the form of Dancer and thus the temple is famous for the classical dance, the Bharatanatyam. The temple conducts the annual dance festival called the Natyanjali, in which dancers from all over the country participate. It is organized on the day of Maha Shivaratri. The temple was built during the days of the Chola dynasty. The temple is spread over an area of about 40 acres. The idol of the Lord Shiva in the form of Nataraja is located in the Kanakha Sabha. There is a huge Nandi in the temple. Within the temple is located the thousand-pillar hall. The most famous tourist spot near Chidambaram is the Pichavaram located about 16kms from the city. The area is filled with mangroves. It is well known for the water sport and boating facilities is also provided by the tourism department. The famous university in the city is the Annamalai University. The university is the main center for the Tamil language and carnatic music.