District Collector Office in Cuddalore
About Cuddalore District
Welcome to Cuddalore, a historic and prominent coastal district located along the eastern shores of Tamil Nadu. Known as 'Thondai Nadu' in ancient times, Cuddalore has a proud historical legacy shaped by the great Cholas, Pallavas, and Pandyas, and served as an early stronghold for colonial powers including the Dutch, French, and British. Bordered by the Bay of Bengal, the district is defined by its fertile lands fed by the Gedilam and Pennaiyar rivers and an extensive 68 km coastline. Today, Cuddalore is a fast-growing industrial and agricultural hub, home to the massive Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC) power plant, a booming SIPCOT industrial complex, and significant cashew and jackfruit cultivation. From the world-famous Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram to the breathtaking Pichavaram Mangrove Forests, the district beautifully intertwines its rich cultural heritage with modern economic development.
District Admin Units
Local Bodies
Constituencies
General Information
- District: Cuddalore
- HeadQuarters: Cuddalore
- State: TamilNadu
- Total Area: 3703 Sq.Kms
- Rural Area: 3244 Sq.Kms
- Urban Area: 460 Sq.Kms
Population Details
- Total: 26,05,914
- Male: 13,11,697
- Female: 12,94,217
Agriculture & Economy
Agriculture remains the backbone of the district, sustaining 80% of the population. The region is famous for its cashew cultivation—accounting for 60% of the state's production—and the renowned jackfruits of Panruti. Besides agriculture, Cuddalore hosts a robust marine and inland fishing industry, leveraging its long coastline and vast water resources.
Industry & Power Generation
Cuddalore is an industrial powerhouse. The Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC) is a massive public sector enterprise generating 3000 MW of thermal power. The SIPCOT Industrial Complex houses numerous chemical, pharmaceutical, and fertilizer companies. The district also boasts sugar factories, ceramic production units, and a developing shipbuilding port, solidifying its industrial footprint.
Tourism & Landmarks
The district is a treasure trove of tourist attractions. The stunning Pichavaram Mangrove Forest offers fantastic backwater boating experiences. Cuddalore is world-famous for its temples, most notably the Lord Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram, the Padaleeswarar Shiva Temple, and the Thiruvanthipuram Vaishnavite shrine. The Silver Beach in Devanampattinam also remains a top coastal attraction year-round.