Before our visit to the primary Chidambaram Natarajar temple, we made a brief stop at two Padal Petra Sthalams situated within Annamalai University.

The first of these is the Thirunelvayil Sivapuri Uchhinatheswarar temple. According to legend, Lord Shiva graciously provided a meal to all the devotees en route to Shri Thirugnanasambandar’s wedding, earning Him the name Utchinathar. This temple boasts a history of over a thousand years and is exceptionally well-preserved. Behind the lingam, one can observe Lord Shiva and Parvathi in a seated position.