Situated very close to Chidambaram is an erstwhile Danish settlement that exudes old world charm. The Tharangambadi or Trankebar was a Danish settlement for more than 200 years. As a result you will find many Danish influences that have become a part of the local culture.

There is a fort here, known as Fort Dansborg, whose larger portions still exist today. There is a museum inside this fort which displays several antique Danish articles. You will get to browse objects like porcelain ware, glass objects, sculptures, Danish manuscripts, spears, stucco figurines, swords, daggers, steatite lamps, decorated terracotta objects, Chinese tea jars, figurines, lamps and many wooden articles. Amongst the various curios you will get to see a whale skeleton as well.