The four outer gates of the temple are open from the time of the first ritual of the day till 13.00 hours (1 PM). And again from 16.00 hours (4 PM) till the conclusion of the evening procession.
The outer doors of the Nataraja temple are closed between 12.00 and 16.00 hours.
The doors to the innermost courtyard are closed between 12.00 and 16.45 hours. The Vishnu temple has the same opening hours. All other shrines open from 07.30 till 11.00 hours, and from 17.30 till 20.00 hours.
06.45 In the morning Shiva, represented by his holy sandals or Padukai, is taken from the Bedchamber to the Cit Sabha by palanquin. This is called the Awakening ceremony.
08.30 – 09.00 A yagna or fire sacrifice is performed in the Kanaka Sabha, according to Vedic doctrine.
10.00 – 11.00 Abhishekam or ablution is performed to the Crystal Linga and a replica of the Dancing Shiva in ruby form.
11.30 – 12.00 Puja with lamps and ritual objects.
18.00 – 18.45 Puja with lamps and ritual objects.
20.00 – 20.30 Puja with lamps, chanting and hymns.
22.00 – 22.30 Puja with lamps, hymn and music.
After which Shiva, represented by his holy sandals, is taken in a procession with a palanquin to the Bedchamber.