The Nataraja temple and the Pichavaram mangroves, how long each takes, and tips from RK Resorts.
Chidambaram and the Pichavaram mangroves sit close together, so they make one long, rewarding day from Karaikal.
Chidambaram Nataraja temple
About 1.5 hours from RK Resorts. The Nataraja temple, with its golden-roofed hall, is one of the most important temples in Tamil Nadu. Go in the morning and allow 2 to 3 hours.
Pichavaram mangroves
About 2 hours from the resort, a short drive from Chidambaram. It is one of the largest mangrove forests in the world. Rowing boats take you through narrow green channels and wide backwaters. Choose a rowing boat over a motor boat for the narrow channels. Morning or late afternoon is best, and you need 2 to 3 hours.
Plan the day
Leave early, see the temple first, then continue to Pichavaram. Our travel desk can arrange a car with a driver. Come back for dinner at Crave, open 11 am to 10 pm.
More places: things to do near Karaikal.