This is another fishing village, 16 Kms south of Mamallapuram. A ruined fort of Dutch origin near the beach houses tomb stones dating back to 16-17th century. If you are heading further down south, 75 kms away from Pondicherry you will reach Pichavaram. Mangrove forests could be seen with backwaters criss crossing the entire forest area.

An ecological paradise, Pichavaram could be visited throughout the year. Boating operations on backwaters and the simple accommodation on the bank are run by Tamil Nadu Tourism Development Corporation. 16 Kms West of Pichavaram is Chidambaram, a town famous for the Lord Nataraja Temple, a sprawling complex with multiple gopurams.

The presiding deity Siva is worshipped as the cosmic dancer. Various "Mudras" - gestures of the South Indian dance of Bharatanatyam, adorn the temple. The temple is a stupendous repository of art. Every year, a dance festival called Natyanjali festival is celebrated during Mahasivarathn period.