places to visit in madurai other than temple

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2 Day Madurai Itinerary – 17 Best Places To Visit In Madurai

If you are planning a trip to Madurai in Tamil Nadu, India then here is a 2 day Madurai itinerary that includes all places to visit in Madurai.

If you are planning a 2 day Madurai itinerary , you are at the right place. We present here the best places to visit in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India for your Madurai trip as part of your Madurai local sightseeing . The Madurai itinerary includes the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple and other lesser-known off-beat places to visit in Madurai . Read on to know more about how to plan your Madurai itinerary , as well as helpful information like the best time to visit Madurai , and much more.

Table of Contents

2 Day Madurai Itinerary – List of Places To Visit In Madurai

Here is a list of the top sights in Madurai that can be customized in your Madurai itinerary based on your own preferences and the time at your disposal. The places are shown along with the distance in kilometres from the Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai .

17 Best Places To Visit In Madurai

• Meenakshi Amman Temple (0)
• Azhagar Kovil – 23 kms
• Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal – 23 kms
• Koodal Azhagar Temple – 1 km
• Gandhi Memorial Museum – 4 kms
• Thirupparankundram Murugan Temple – 8 kms
• Kazimar Big Mosque – 1.5 kms
• Yanaimalai – 11 kms
• Vaigai Dam, Madurai – 72 kms
• Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, Madurai – 4.2 kms
• Pazhamudhircholai Murugan Temple – 25 kms
• Mary’s Cathedral, Madurai – 1.4 kms
• ISKCON Madurai – 1.6 kms
• Goripalayam Dargah, Madurai – 15 kms
• Samanar Hills, Madurai – 11 kms
• Thirumohoor Shri Kalameghaperumal Temple, Madurai – 15.5 kms
• Kutladampatti Falls – 36 kms

2 Day Madurai Itinerary – Day 1 |  One Day Madurai Local Sightseeing Trip 

If you have only one day at your disposal, you can choose from these places for your 1 Day Madurai Tour . It is convenient that most places are not far from the Meenakshi Amman temple.

You can also check our article about 24 hours in Madurai.

Meenakshi Amman Temple –  2 Day Madurai Itinerary

The famous Meenakshi Temple is for most people, the single most important reason for visiting Madurai. The temple is synonymous with Madurai, and the town has developed around the temple. The main deities of the temple are Meenakshi (Parvati) and Sundareshwara (Shiva) .

The original temple structure was built in the 12th century. A distinctive feature of the temple is its 14 Gopurams (Towers), of which the tallest stretch to a height of 170 feet. The temple has more than 33,000 sculptures and the roof is beautifully painted. One of the features not to be missed is the 1,000 pillars hall.

Koodal Azhagar Temple – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

Koodal Azhagar Temple is dedicated to the Hindu God, Lord Vishnu . The temple is constructed with elements of Dravidian architecture and dates back to the 8th century. The temple complex spans an area of about 2 acres.

A unique aspect of the temple is that the deity can be seen in three postures inside the sanctum sanctorum. There is an image of the deity in a standing position , one in a sitting position , and the other in a reclining position .

Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

A palace that is a unique synthesis of elements of Italian, Dravidian, and Rajputana architectural styles is the Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal . It was constructed during the 17th century by King Thirumala Nayak who was ruling Madurai at that time. The palace is very impressive with its huge pillars and has served as a backdrop for many film sequences, including Bombay, Guru, and others.

Gandhi Museum – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

Not many people know that Mahatma Gandhi visited Madurai five times during India’s freedom struggle. He was profoundly impressed by the divine aura of the Meenakshi temple, on his second visit to the city. The Gandhi Museum is a tribute to the father of the nation and has unique relics including a blood-stained portion of the garment he wore when he was assassinated.

Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

This is a sacred temple dedicated to Murugan , also known as Subrahmanya , or Kartikeya , the son of Shiva and Parvati. The temple dates back to the 6th century and is believed to have been built by the Pandya kings. The temple is one of the six sacred abodes of Murugan in Tamil Nadu that finds mention in ancient Tamil Sangam literature .

Apart from Murugan, there are shrines to Shiva, Parvathi, Ganesha, and Vishnu. A distinctive feature of the temple is that in one of the shrines, Shiva and Vishnu can be seen facing each other, which is a rare occurrence in Hindu temple architecture.

2 Day Madurai Itinerary – Day 2

Here are the places that you can include based on your own preferences on day 2 of your 2 day Madurai itinerary .

Azhagar Kovil | Alagar Koyil – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

This is an ancient temple that is dedicated to Vishnu who is worshipped here as Kallazhagar . The temple has idols of Sridevi, Bhudevi, as well as of Lord Vishnu in the Narasimha avatar. The Chithirai car festival is one of the noteworthy annual events in the temple.

Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

This is actually a temple tank located near the Vandiyur Mariamman temple dedicated to the Goddess of rain, Mariamman . The tank is believed to be the largest of its kind in South India. In the middle of the tank is located a temple to Ganesha. The tank was constructed by the king, Thirumala Nayaka, in the 17th century.

Kazimar Big Mosque – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

The Kazimar Big Mosque or Kazimar Periya Pallivasal is a historic Madurai mosque dating back to the 13th century. It is said to be the first mosque in Madurai. The mosque was established by Kazi Syed Tajuddin who is believed to be a descendant of Prophet Muhammad. The land for the mosque was provided by the king Kulasekara Pandiyan.

Yanaimalai – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

Yanaimalai is a hill that has the shape of a sitting elephant, and hence the name, which in Tamil means Elephant Hill. Located about 10 kilometres from Madurai, Yanaimalai has caves with Jain Bas Relief sculptures in caves. It was a sacred Jain centre in ancient times. There is also a temple dedicated to Murugan and one dedicated to the Narasimha avatar of Vishnu, at Yanaimalai.

St. Mary’s Cathedral – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

St. Mary’s Cathedral is a 19th-century church with beautiful architecture. The facade of the church is beautiful and the church is a delectable synthesis of Roman and European architecture . Though the original church dates back to 1841, the current structure was built in the year, 1969. This church is a must-visit for those visiting Madurai.

Pazhamudhircholai Murugan Temple – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

This is a Murugan temple that nestles amidst lush greenery. The temple lies in the midst of dense forests and according to myth Valli is believed to have lived here. This ancient temple of Murugan finds mention in various works of Tamil Literature.

Samanar Hills – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

The Samanar Hills are the location of ancient caves that date back to the 1st century. There are Jain caves with inscriptions, paintings, and sculptures, that open a window into the ancient history of the region. 2000 years old inscriptions in Tamil have been found in the caves. The place is a must-visit, especially for those interested in ancient history and anthropology.

Kutladampatti Falls – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

Kutladampatti falls is a popular weekend picnic spot near Madurai . The Kutladampatti falls are located within a reserve forest, and the waterfall cascades down from a height of about 89 feet. The place is being developed by Tamil Nadu Tourism Department and is also a nice place for short treks.

ISKCON Temple – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

The International Society For Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), has its centre located within a couple of kilometres from the Meenakshi Amman Temple. The temple is known as Radha Mathurapathi Temple and makes for a quiet and serene place to spend some time in.

Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal Temple – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is one of the 108 Divyadesama of Vishnu . The deity here is believed to have assumed the form of Mohini to help the devas in their fight with the asuras. Vishnu is worshipped here as Kalamega Perumal and his consort Lakshmi is worshipped as Mohanavalli Thayar . The original temple is said to have been built by the Pandya rulers during the 13th century.

Goripalayam Dargah | Goripalayam Mosque – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

Goripalayam Dargah is an ancient mosque that has the tombs of two Muslim Sultans who originated from Yemen. They are Khaja Syed Sultan Alauddin Badusha Razi and Khaja Syed Sulthan Shamsuddin . The tomb of Khaja Syed Sultan Habibuddin Razi,  a Muslim saint from Yemen is also located here.

Vaigai Dam – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

If you have time, you can also visit the Vaigai Dam , which is built on the river Vaigai. The place is a nice spot amidst nature. A lovely park has been built in the vicinity, and the place makes for a nice outing from Madurai .

Click and read our post –  Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple – A Complete Guide To Madurai

How To Reach Madurai

Madurai is located in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Madurai is about 462 kilometres from Chennai and about 114 kilometres from the hill station of Kodaikanal .

Reaching Madurai By Air

Madurai is serviced by the Madurai Airport located about 11 kilometres from the Meenakshi temple.

One can fly into Madurai as it is well connected by air and the major airlines fly into and out of it The major flights include Madurai to Bangalore flight and return, Madurai to Chennai flight and Chennai to Madurai flight Other cities connected by air include Hyderabad , Delhi , Mumbai , Thiruchirapalli

Madurai is well connected by the rail network to different parts of India. There are many Madurai to Chennai trains available making a journey by train a comfortable way to cover the Chennai to Madurai distance An overnight Madurai to Bangalore train is a great way to travel between the cities.

Reaching Madurai By Road

Madurai is well connected by the road network with all major cities and towns of India. One can visit Madurai on a road trip across South India.

If you are planning a visit to Madurai, you can book an inexpensive flight through  TripAdvisor or  CheapAir  or  Cleartrip  or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline  right here. If you are thinking of travelling by road to Madurai then you can get there by self-drive car or cab or bus.

Where To Stay In Madurai

There are many accommodation options in Madurai to suit your preference and budget. One of the hotels that we recommend is the Regency Madurai By GRT Hotels, which is a 3-star luxury hotel.

You can book your accommodation at the  Regency Madurai or any of the  best hotels in Madurai from the  hotels’  list including the  Taj Hotel Madurai or any of the other 5 star hotels in Madurai.

You can book any  hotels near Madurai temple or anywhere else right here through  TripAdvisor  or  Cleartrip or  Makemytrip  or  Priceline  and save a lot by getting the best savings on booking your stay.

2 Day Madurai Itinerary – FAQ

How many days are enough for Madurai? If you are looking for a relaxed trip to Madurai and covering all the places to visit in Madurai, we would recommend 2 or 3 days. It is only the Meenakshi Amman temple that you want to visit, one day would be enough for Madurai.

Is 1 day enough for Madurai? If you just want to visit the Meenakshi temple, then one day is sufficient for Madurai.

How much time does it take to visit the Meenakshi temple? You would need to plan for a minimum of 2-3 hours for the Meenakshi temple.

What is special in Madurai? Madurai is famous for the Meenakshi Amman Temple. Madurai is known as the Athens of the East.

What is famous in Madurai for shopping? If you are shopping in Madurai, the best things to shop for are sarees, bangles, and handicrafts.

Madurai is a place that one must visit, at least once in a time. And if you visit it once, you are sure to go back again and again. We hope our Madurai itinerary is helpful for you in planning your own Madurai trip. Do let us know if you need any further details or clarifications.

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19 thoughts on “2 day madurai itinerary – 17 best places to visit in madurai”.

Best time to visit Madurai? I heard a lot about Madurai and know it because of the Meenakshi temple. I am willing to explore Madurai.

Madurai is so beautiful. I heard about Meenakshi temple but here it is a lot more to visit. Winter must be the best time to visit? Madurai has all religions holy places, everyone heart met at the place. Temples sculptures and architecture are so breathtaking.

Since childhood, I am mystified by the idea of visiting and exploring Madurai after seeing a DD National TV show. Thanks for enlisting the places to visit in Madurai.

Temple, church , dargah all three you have covered & that’s so nice. Also that waterfall is beautiful. The itinerary will be very helpful for travellers to explore it in 2 day time.

I didn’t know that there is so much to explore in Madurai. I only knew about Meenakshi temple but looks like this place has a lot more.

Meenakshi Mandir has been on my bucket list for many years now. Somehow I’m yet to receive a calling. However I did not have any idea there are so many other things to do here. Hope to visit Tamil Nadu soon.

To be honest, I only knew that Meenakshi temple is the main place to explore in Madurai. From your post, I have come to know about other places to visit here. What will be the best time, October or February?

I visited Madurai recently. And I visited only the main Meenakshi Temple. I didn’t realise Madurai had so many things to do. Will save this for next time.

Also, love the way you have covered a range of things to do. From temples to waterfalls, Madurai seems to have everything. Thanks for all the recommendations.

Madurai is so rich in heritage! Earlier I knew only about Meenakshi temple. But now reading this guide, I have decided to allot two whole days to Madurai on our next trip.

Madurai has a lot of tourist places which also include religious places. One day isn’t enough to explore around. Thank you for the detailed itinerary.

Thank you for sharing this with me I have to visit Madurai and this detailed post and place to Visit with distance would be really helpful

Madurai to me always meant Meenakshi Amman temple. Thanks to you, I now know that it has several other temples, mosques, church and even caves with Jain inscriptions. Good read!

Meenakshi temple is one of the most beautiful temples down south and no doubt it looks wonderful in person. The place with the beachy vibes is a wonderful place to visit with family. and your post is in such great detail about the place, very helpful

OMG! You’ve covered almost everything in Madurai. I’ve pinned your post for ready reference when I visit the beautiful city:

I am one of the travellers who would visit Madurai only for the sake of Meenakshi Temple. This temple itself has so many things to know about from religious, historical and architectural points.

Madurai is a great place and your post comes at the perfect time for me. We are planning a madurai trip and I have noted down all the places for our upcoming trip.

I have been to madurai when I was very young, the only place I remember is beautiful madurai temple. You have shared such an exhaustive list with so much of detailing that I would love to revisit this place again.

My roommate in the hostel was from Madurai and I have heard a lot about the beauty and the temples over there. I will add this place in my travel wishlist.

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• 20 Best Places To Visit In Madurai In 2024 For A Spiritual Journey Back In Time!

The temple city and the pilgrim town of Madurai has captivated visitors for years. Ancient history and culture permeate every corner and mesmerizing Dravidian style temples dominate the skyline. Walking through the streets of bustling places like Pudhu Mandapam, it’s easy to feel like you’ve stepped into the past as vendors call out and encourage you to buy famous Madurai cotton sarees and intricately designed brassware. Yet, the best places to visit in Madurai aren’t confined to temples and shops that look as old as time. There are many more destinations to explore, each as interesting as the next.

20 Best Places To Visit In Madurai

Surely your escape will be magical with these highlights added to your itinerary! These places are definitely worth capturing. Have a look at the top tourist places in Madurai. Do not forget to add them to your list of Madurai places to visit .

• Meenakshi Amman Temple : Colorfully Aesthetic
• Koodal Azhagar Temple : Admire The Beauty
• Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple : Pay A Visit
• Alagar Kovil : Intricate Carvings
• Pudhu Mandapam : For Temple-Hopping
• Gandhi Memorial Museum : Dig Deep In The History
• Kazimar Big Mosque : Bow & Seek Blessings
• St. Mary’s Cathedral : Praise The Lord
• Yanaimalai : Hill Like Elephant
• Thirumalai Nayak Mahal : See The Indo-Saracen Style
• Vaigai Dam : Admire The Man-Made Marvel
• Samanar Hills : For An Ideal Sunset View
• Athisayam : Fun Place To Enjoy
• Mariamman Teppakulam : Pay A Visit With Fam
• ISKCON Madurai : Seek Blessings
• Goripalayam Dargah : Bow Down & Pray For Well-Being
• Meghamalai: The High Wavy Mountains
• Banana Market: An Offbeat Splurge
• Murugan Idli Shop: Scrumptious Delicacies
• Vilachery Pottery Village: A Walk Through Artistic Lanes

1. Meenakshi Amman Temple: Colorfully Aesthetic

The city’s most iconic attraction heads our list of the top Madurai places to visit. In fact, it should be the first stop on your sightseeing tour and things to do in Madurai . Showcasing some of the best of Dravidian architecture, the complex is in the center of the city and instantly stands out with its towering gopurams. 13 acres of fascinating shrines, a golden lotus sacred pool and mandapas wait to be explored. You can spend hours at Meenakshi Amman Temple and you still won’t be able to explore it all!

Location : Madurai Main, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625001 Timings : 9 am – 7 pm Entry fee:  INR 5 for Indians and INR 50 for foreign tourists

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2. Koodal Azhagar Temple: Admire The Beauty

Image Source

Next on our Madurai tourist places list is Koodal Azhagar Temple, a stunning structure built in dedication to Vishnu. As with temples in the city, it’s constructed in the Dravidian style. A glorious five-tiered rajagopuram dominates and stands over 120 feet tall. The temple is situated close to the Meenakshi Amman and you can’t afford to miss a visit. Try to plan your trip during the float festival that runs for 10 days.

Location : Perumal Koil Sannathi Street Near Periyar Bus Stand, Periyar, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625001 Timings : 7 am – 12 pm, 4 pm – 7:30 pm Entry fee:  None

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3. Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple: Pay A Visit

One of the best places to visit in Madurai is the Thirupparamkunram Murugan temple. It’s located in Thiruparankundram, which is close to the city. The ancient structure is breathtaking in architecture particularly because it’s rock-cut. Another distinct feature is the placement of the gods, Shiva and Vishnu, who face each other. Considering Shaivites and Vaishnavites have always been two different groups, this aspect sets the temple apart. Don’t stop your exploration at the temple; take a walk around the complex and visit the nearby pond to see devotees feeding the fish.

Location : Thiruparankundram, Tamil Nadu 625005 Timings : 5 am – 1 pm, 4 pm – 9 pm Entry fee:  NA

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4. Alagar Kovil: Intricate Carvings

At first glance, the village of Alagar Kovil resembles any other in Madurai. Yet, if you look closely, you’ll notice that much of the community and lifestyle revolve around the Kallazhagar Temple. Set against a lush hill, the temple rises up dramatically and lures visitors to explore it. Life-size sculptures and colorful carvings offer plenty to see and admire. Unlike other larger temples set closer to the city, Kallazhagar boasts a serenity that adds to its allure. Perhaps it’s the hills or the slow pace of village life – either way, it’s one of the top places to see in Madurai.

Location : Alagar Kovil Main Rd, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 624401 Timings: 6 am – 12:30 pm, 3:30 pm – 830 pm Entry fee:  None

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5. Pudhu Mandapam: For Temple-Hopping

Take a break from temple-hopping to visit the lively shopping area of Pudhu Mandapam. It’s located near Meenakshi Amman. Set amidst massive stone pillars are vendors selling their wares that consist of everything from wooden toys and fabrics to brassware and stoneware. It really is a shopper’s delight and there are plenty of souvenirs to take back home. Pudhu Mandapam is one of the more popular Madurai tourist places and sees numerous visitors. Be prepared to haggle for the best bargains!

Location: E Chitrai St, Chinnakadai Area, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625001 Timings: 9 am – 8:30 pm Entry fee:  NA

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6. Gandhi Memorial Museum: Dig Deep In The History

A Madurai sightseeing tour should definitely include the Gandhi Memorial Museum. It’s housed in the grand Tamukkam Palace built during the Nayak Dynasty period, dating back to the 17th century. Beautifully landscaped grounds with tall trees and sculptures create a quiet place for reflection and allow you to immerse yourself in history.

The museum is divided into three sections and all are worth a visit. The ‘India Fights for Freedom’ gallery features illustrations on panels depicting the freedom movement. The ‘Visual Biography of Gandhi’ gallery, meanwhile, gives visitors a glimpse into his life through photos, manuscripts and selected letters. The last gallery, ‘Relics and Replicas’, exhibits artifacts used by Gandhi. A part of his blood-stained garment worn at the time of his assassination is also displayed although some say it’s a replica. It is one of the Madurai famous places .

Location : Collector Office Rd, Tamukkam, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625020 Timings : 10 am – 1 pm, 2 pm – 5:45 pm  Entry fee:  None

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7. Kazimar Big Mosque: Bow & Seek Blessings

Next on the list of Madurai tourist places is Kazimar Big Mosque, which is believed to be the first mosque in the city. It was founded by Hazarat Kazi Syed Tajuddin who is said to be a direct descendent of Muhammed.

The mosque is huge and can accommodate as many as 2,500 people. It’s also known for its maqbara of important hazrats of Madurai.

Location : Kazimar St, Periyar, Madurai Main, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625001 Timings : 4:30 am – 11 pm Entry fee:  None

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8. St. Mary’s Cathedral: Praise The Lord

St. Mary’s Cathedral is a wonderful blend of architectural styles that include European and Roman influences. It’s one of the best places to visit in Madurai with its peaceful ambience. Try to go during Christmas to see the striking Nativity scene and illuminations.

Although built as a modest chapel in the mid-19th century, it was given the status of a cathedral in the late 1960s. Today, it’s the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Madurai. The cathedral is beautiful as a whole but the bell towers and orange vaulting are particularly arresting.

Location : E Veli St, Mahalipatti, Tamil Nadu 625001 Timings: 7 am – 8 pm Entry fee:  None

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9. Yanaimalai: Hill Like Elephant

Yanaimalai or Elephant Hill is awe-inspiring in its majesty. Shaped like an elephant, it’s one of the top Madurai India points of interest . Its appearance isn’t its only allure, however; it stands out for being home to Shaivite and Vaishnavite temples and Jain sculptures. The latter are situated in caves on the top of the hill while the temples are located at the foothills.

Yanaimalai offers terrific hiking opportunities for travelers eager to get out into nature. Spend a few hours to explore its many attractions.

Location: Narasingam, Tamil Nadu 625104 Timings: 7 am – 12 noon, 4 pm – 8 pm Entry fee:  None

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10. Thirumalai Nayak Mahal: See The Indo-Saracen Style

Dating back to 1636, this palace complex is built in the Indo-Saracen style of architecture. It is one of the best Madurai places to visit . In the erstwhile era, the palace had two parts, of which only one passed the test of time – Swargavilasa. The interior of the palace is decorated in Shaivite and Vaishnavite themes, with The Darbar hall (courtyard) and the Natakasala (dancing hall) being prime attractions of the Thirumalai Nayak Mahal. And once you are done exploring these places, head to a few places near Madurai on a day trip or weekend getaway.

Location : Panthadi 1st St, Mahal Area, Madurai Main, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625001 Timings: 9 am – 5 pm Entry fee:  INR 10 per adult, INR 5 per child

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11. Vaigai Dam: Admire The Man-Made Marvel

Image Source If you want to witness true man-made marvel then you must visit Vaigai Dam which is counted among the top tourist places to visit in Madurai . The dam is built over River Vaigai, hence the name. If you want to get the most of your trip then you must visit this place in the evenings on the weekends when the dam is illuminated, rendering a splendid view.

Location: Guest House Rd, Melmangalam, Tamil Nadu 625562 Timings: 6 am – 6 pm Entry Fee: Free

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12. Samanar Hills: For An Ideal Sunset View

Image Source Another one listed in the top places to visit in Madurai is Samanar Hills where you can get a perfect sunrise or sunset view. It is basically a hill rock caves where Tamil Jain monks used to reside. Now, it has turned into a perfect place for tourism for history buffs as the walls of the caves are carved with elaborate drawings. Along with this, you will also find a lotus temple on the premises of this tourist spot.

Location: Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625019 Timings: 6 am – 6 pm Entry fee: None

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13. Athisayam: Fun Place To Enjoy

Image Source If you are planning a vacation with your friends or family, then one of the most famous places to visit in Madurai is Athisayam Amusement & Water Park. It covers an area of 70 acres and boasts of its water rides and games. The best part about this place is that there is also a 7D theatre where you can experience something out of this world. Besides this, the place is also equipped with a recreation garden meant for kids as well as an eatery where you can gorge on some amazing local food.

Location: Madurai – Dindigul Main Road,Paravai, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625402 Timings: 10:30 am – 6 pm Entry Fee: INR 800 (Adults), INR 500 (Children)

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14. Mariamman Teppakulam: Pay A Visit With Fam

Image Source Dedicated to Lord Vigneshwara, Mariamman Teppakulam Temple is located at a distance of only 5 kms from Meenakshi Temple. It is among the beautiful places to visit in Madurai India. The temple overlooks a huge tank which is considered to be the biggest tank in the whole of Tamil Nadu. It is believed that the idol was dug out from the same tank which is why this temple gained popularity. If you want to see the true magic of this place then plan your vacation during the festival season.

Location: Meenakshi Nagar, Tamil Nadu 625009 Timings: 5 am – 9 pm Entry fee: None

Suggested Read: 5 Beautiful Beaches Near Madurai One Must Visit To Enjoy A Easy-Breezy Vacation!

15. ISKCON Madurai: Seek Blessings

Everyone has heard of ISKCON temples that are scattered all over the world to spread peace and love. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna & Goddess Radha and locals visit this place almost every day. You will hear chantings and songs all the time in this temple. This is what makes it one of the soothing  places to visit in Madurai India. Moreover, the devotees are served with prasad and one can find a pure veg eatery on the premises where you can savor some dishes.

Location: Sri Sri Radha Mathurapathi Temple, Mani Nagaram Main Rd, Madurai Main, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625001 Timings: 4:45 am – 12:30 pm, 4:45 pm – 8:15 pm Entry fee:  None

Suggested Read: 5 Exotic Villas In Madurai Which One Must Plan A Stay At To Witness The Beauty Of Nature!

16. Goripalayam Dargah: Bow Down & Pray For Well-Being

Image Source If you are looking for religious places to visit in Madurai, then you must consider heading to Goripalayam Dargah which is a famous place in the region. The structure is painted with green and white paint along with a spectacular dome in between with towering minars. The mosque houses the shrines of Hazrat Sulthan Shamsuddin Badusha and Hazrat Sulthan Alauddin Badusha.

Location: Madurai, Tamil Nadu Timings: 7 am – 7 pm Entry fee:  None

Suggested Read: 9 Churches In Madurai That Should Definitely Be A Part Of Your Trip

17. Meghamalai: The High Wavy Mountains

Image Credits: Shivmirthyu for Needpix

Sitting in the Western Ghats, Meghamalai boasts about sprawling grasslands. The aromatic plantations of cardamom, pepper, and cinnamon makes it one of the best places to visit in Madurai. The lush greens found in this destination truly makes it a treat not only for the soul but also for the eyes. This town is also famed for its rich flora and fauna. The diverse wildlife acts a magnet for nature lovers out there. There is plenty to witness when in Meghamalai. From Wildlife Sanctuary to Waterfalls, from dams to view points, this place never fails to impress. 

Sitting on a high altitude, Meghamalai is a great escape from the heat. It is among the best hill stations near Madurai . 

Location: Western Ghats Hills, Theni District, Tami Nnadu Timings: Open 24 hours Entry fee: No entry fee

Suggested Read: 4 Beguiling Picnic Spots Near Madurai That You Must Explore On Your Vacay

18. Banana Market: An Offbeat Splurge 

Image Credits: DomJ for Pexels

When someone thinks of shopping in Madurai in a market, they usually imagine the basic items such as clothes, handicrafts, accessories, and such. But this market in Madurai is one of its kind. South is known for its bananas and that is exactly what the market sells. One of the unique and famous places to visit in Madurai is the Banana market that sells around 16 different varieties of this fruit. It is a hot trading place located in towns and is always bustling with locals and tourists alike. The market starts getting crowded in the early morning itself when the local vendors bring the fruit from various factory outlets and sell them here. 

Location: No. 4/1, East Swami Shanthi Street, Near Amma Store, East, Swami, Shanthi St, Madurai Main Timings: 9 am – 7 pm  Entry fee: No entry fee

Suggested Read: A Detailed Shopping In Madurai Guide For Your Next Vacation

19. Murugan Idli Shop: Scrumptious Delicacies

Image Credits: Surya Prakash.S.A. for Wikimedia Commons One thing that the southern region of this country is famous for and boasts about has to be the lip-smacking delicacies that one can never have enough of. Talking about delicacies, one thing that everyone visiting Madurai should try are the idlis. And for this reason, Murugan Idli Shop has found itself a top rank among the famous tourist places in Madurai . The laid-back environment, impeccably delicious food, and friendly staff ensures that one has a great experience in this casual dining eatery.

Location: Madurai Main, Madurai Timings: NA Entry fee: None

Suggested Read: 14 Things To Do In Madurai For An Interesting Experience During Tamil Nadu Vacation!

20. Vilachery Pottery Village: A Walk Through Artistic Lanes

Image Credits: pxfuel Another one of the tourist places in Madurai that one should not miss out is the quaint, little pottery village of Vilachery. This is the spot in the southern country where a variety of different idols of Gods and goddesses are structured. The vibrant colors, stunning artwork, and the artistic flair is a treat for both eyes and souls here. Just stroll through the village, admire the beauty of craftsmanship, and capture the beautiful moments as you visit this town.

Location: Vilacheri, Madurai Timings: 9:30 am – 11 pm Entry fee: None

Further Read: 8 Temples In Madurai That Will Make You Fall In Love With City

These places to visit in Madurai offer truly take you back in time – to the good old days when life was simple. So if you’re planning a visit to this spiritual – historic city, do let us know about your experience in the comments section below. It is time to plan a vacation to Madurai !

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Frequently Asked Question About Places To Visit In Madurai

What is the famous food in Madurai?

Madurai is famous for its enormous spread of street food options, among which one of the best ones is the Idli which is fluffy and soft in its texture. You will get crispy Dosas here as well alongside Kari Dosa in other street food options. The whole range of South Indian food is considered to be the best type of food in Madurai.

What are the most popular things to do in Madurai with children?

There are many interesting things to do you can engage in, while on a trip to Madurai. These activities include exploring the Banana market, savour authentic south Indian food, visiting Thirumalai Nayak Palace, engaging in Shopping and many more.

Is it safe to visit Madurai during Covid times?

You need to follow all the mandatory safety guidelines mentioned by the authorities to ensure a safe travel experience. Remain masked while stepping out of the hotel and maintain social distance. Avoid visiting crowded places and keep sanitizing your hands after touching surfaces.

Which are the places to see in Madurai?

Some of the best places to see in Madurai include 1. Meenakshi Temple 2. Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal 3. Samanagar Hills 4. Vaigai Dam 5. Gandhi Museum 6. Alagar Koil 7. Athisayam Amusement Park 8. Meghamalai 9. Koodal Azhagar Temple 10. St Mary’s Cathedral 11. Mariamman Teppakulam 12. Tirupparankundram Murugan Temple 13. Pazhamudhir Solai

What is Madurai famous for?

Madurai is an ancient city settled on the banks of the river Vaigai. It is mainly known for its highly revered Hindu temple, the beautiful Meenakshi Amman Temple, which has 14 gopurams. It is visited by a large number of pilgrims and travellers from around the world.

What is famous in Madurai for shopping?

Here are the famous and best things in Madurai for shopping: 1. Sungudi Sarees (cotton sarees) from Chinnalapatti Village 2. Madurai silk sarees 3. Bangles from Valayalkara Theru 4. Lotus leaf halwa 5. Metal handicrafts

Is there any beach in Madurai?

No, there are no beaches in Madurai as it is a land-locked area. But there are many wonderful beaches near Madurai, including 1. Aryaman Beach, Rameshwaram (125 Kms) 2. The Beach, Tuticorin (126 Kms) 3. Kunth Kal Beach, Rameshwaram (142 Kms) 4. Villoondi Tirtham, Rameshwaram (144 Kms) 5. Dhanushkodi Beach, Rameswaram (157 Kms)

Is photography allowed in Madurai Meenakshi Temple?

Prohibition of photography is not mentioned in the Do’s and Don’ts on the official website of Meenakshi Temple. But their website has prohibited entry of mobile phones inside the temple premises.

Is there any dress code in Madurai Meenakshi Temple?

Yes, there are certain dress codes to be followed while visiting Madurai Meenakshi Temple. Lunges, shorts, and caps are not allowed. One must not wear anything made of animal skin. Also, make sure that you remove your footwear and socks before entering the temple.

Is mobile phone allowed in Madurai Meenakshi Temple?

No, mobile phones are not allowed inside the temple premises since March 2018. You can safely deposit your phones at North, South, East or West entrance gates for a minimal fee of INR 5 per 4 hours.

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Tourist Places To Visit In Madurai

Madurai is one of the most ancient cities of India, with archaeological excavations at Manalur near Madurai recording human settlements and trade ties with the Roman Empire dating back to 300 BC. Madurai finds mention in the accounts of Megasthenes, the Greek ambassador to the Mauryan Empire, who probably visited Madurai in the 3 rd century BCE.  Ruled by different Dynasties like the Pandyas, Cholas, the Vijayanagara Rulers, Madurai Sultanate, the Madurai Nayaks and the British, the city bears heritage structures symbolic of all dynasties and kingdoms.

According to ancient Tamil classical works, the city of Madurai sprang up like a lotus around the Meenakshi Temple, which is the iconic hallmark of Madurai. Madurai is one among the favourite of tourists who visit South India for the city of temples truly, has so many places to see. We have a list of   some of the significant tourist places in Madurai that you would love to visit.

Meenakshi Temple

The Meenakshi Temple, one of the oldest and most significant temples in India is the most important tourist place of Madurai.

According to legends, Meenakshi was the daughter and princess of King Malayadwaja Pandya and Queen Kanchanamala. The princess ruled over Madurai and went on to conquer the neighbouring kingdoms and even desired to conquer the Kingdom of the Devas and Kailash, the abode of Shiva. It was here that she met Shiva and desired to marry him. The Meenakshi Temple stands at the very place where the Divine Couple got married.

The temple was built in the 1st century CE by King Kulashekara Pandya, though the temple we see today was rebuilt in the 16th century by the Vijayanagar and later by the Nayaka Dynasty, after the original was destroyed during Mughal invasion. The Meenakshi- Sundareshwara Temple is situated on the south of Vaigai River. The temple has an amazing number of gopuras or gateway towers, 14 of them as high as 148-164ft, with the Southern gopura the tallest of them all at 170ft.

The temple has a number of mandaps that were built long ago, as resting places for the devotees. Check out the Kilikoondu mandap, oringinally built to house parrots, the 100 pillared Nayaka Mandap, the Asta Shakthi Mandap and the Ayirankaal mandap or mandap with a thousand pillars and the Potramarai Kulam, the pond with the golden lotus. You’d be amazed by the intricate architectural beauty of each pillar and wall in the temple.

The temple is open from 5.00am-12.30pm and from 4.00pm-9.30pm. There are long queues for darshan during festival times.

Koodal Azhagar Temple

Built in the Dravidian style, the Koodal Azhagar Temple dedicated to Vishnu and his consort Lakshmi, is one of the 108 Divyadeshas of MahaVishnu, mentioned in the works of the Alvars or poet saints of the Vaishnavite traditions. The temple is said to have been built by the Pandya kings in the 9th century CE with later additions by the Kings of the Vijayanagara Empire and the Nayakas in the 16th century.

Vishnu is said to have incarnated as Koodal Azhagar to kill the asura Somuka who had made off with the four Vedas. What is unique about the temple is the three tiered sanctum, with Koodal Azhagar seated along with his consorts SriDevi and Bhudevi in the first one, in a standing posture in the second and in a reclined posture in the third. 

The fourteen day Brahmotsavam celebrated in the months of May-June is the grandest festival of the temple, with the deities brought out through the streets around the temple in a procession. Koodal Azhagar temple is a little distance away from the Meenakshi Temple. Temple timings are from 5.30am-12.00pm and from 4.30pm-9.00pm.

Kal Azhagar

Azhagar Kovil or Kal Azhagar Temple is located on the outskirts of Madurai, at the foothills of the Azhagar Malai or Azhagar Hill. According to legends Vishnu or Kal Azagar came all the way to Thenur Mandap near Vaigai River to redeem Sage Suthapas, who had become a mandooga or frog, due to a curse cast on him by the Sage Durvasa. During the annual Chithirai festival that celebrates the marriage of Meenakshi with Sundareshwara, Kal Azhagar is taken in a ritualistic procession across the Vaigai River so he can attend the wedding. Both these events are celebrated with great pomp and splendour in Madurai in the month of April.

The temple is situated in a beautiful locale, with the Azhagar hills in the back drop and a dilapidated fortress around it. The Temple also known as Thirumaaliruncholai is about 18 km from Madurai. 

Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal

The iconic Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal was built by Thirumalai Nayakar, one of the most significant rulers of the Madurai Nayak Dynasty. Meant to be one of the greatest architectural wonders of South India , the Mahal that was built in 1636 in Islamic and Dravidian styles had parts of it pulled down as time passed, for construction elsewhere. During the Governorship of Lord Napier, the Palace was partially renovated to what we see now.

But what remains is still awe inspiring! The Palace was divided into the Swarga Vilas and the Ranga Vilas and they had the royal residences, the harems, prayers halls, ponds and gardens. The main building that you would see today was the Swarga Vilas palace in which the King lived. But what Thirumalai Nayakar built as his own Palace was four times bigger than what we see today.

The Mahal is open for visitors from 9.00am-5.00pm. The Mahal is located quite close to the Meenakshi Temple.

St.Mary's Cathedral

St.Mary’s Cathedral also known as Church of Our Lady of Dolours was built in 1916, over a small cathedral that was built in 1841 by Fr. Louis Garnier. The Cathedral was constructed in an architecturally splendid combination of European, Roman and Continental styles along with impressive bell towers.

The quaint old place which has a lot of history and architectural beauty attached to it, imparts a quiet serene ambience, and attracts a lot of tourists. The Cathedral is about 2 km from the Railway Station.

Pazhamudir Cholai

Just a few kilometres from the Kal Azhagar Temple is the Pazhamudircholai Temple for Subrahmanya. The temple is one among the six important temples for Muruga, called the Arupadai Veedu.

According to legends, poetess saint Avvaiyaar was put to the test by Muruga who came to her in the guise of a young shepherd boy. The tree under which they stood is still revered today. The temple is situated on top of a hill called Solai Malai; and a beautiful natural spring called Noopura Gangai said to have sprung from the anklets of Vishnu is a favourite place for people to take a holy dip in.

Pazhamudircholai Temple is about 4 km uphill from the Kal Azhagar Temple.

Gandhi Memorial Museum

The Gandhi Memorial Museum functions in a historical building that was once known as the Tamukkam Palace. Built in 1670 AD, the Palace was home to Rani Mangammal of the Nayak Dynasty. The Museum was opened in 1959 by Jawaharlal Nehru, as one of the five Gandhi Sanghralayas established over the country.

Visit the library and the open air theatre, the section on the Khadi and village industries revived by Mahatma Gandhi, a museum with slides on various events of the Indian freedom movement, paintings and manuscripts of Mahatma Gandhi, letters written by Mahatma Gandhi and a replica of the blood stained cloth worn by him on the day he was assassinated.

The Museum is open from 10.00am-1.00pm and from 2.00pm to 5.45pm. It is closed on public holidays.

Vettankudi Bird Sanctuary

Over an area of about 40 hectares, the Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary is a natural haven for birds migrating in for winter. You would find Darters, Spoonbills, Asian Open Bill Storks, Egrets, Pin Tail, Common Teals and a variety of ducks. Thousands of birdsfly in for roosting and breeding near the three water bodies called Periya Kollukudi Patti, Chinna Kollukudi Patti and Vettankudi Patti and you’ll be able to find at least 220 different species of birds. The local people from the villages around the sanctuary have not burst crackers or used loud speakers for the last 30 years, so as not to alarm the migrating birds.

The place is quite parched in summer and the best time to visit is in winter when there are plenty of birds and the season would be comfortable for travel. The Vettangudi Bird Sanctuary is at Sivagangai, near Tirupattur. It’s about 51 km from Madurai and you can easily drive to the place via Madurai-Melur-Tirupattur stretch.

Vandiyur Mariamman Tank

The Vandiyur Theppakulam is said to be one of the largest tanks of South India . When the Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal was built, the place where the tank is situated was dug up to collect material for construction. The emptied out area was modified to have underground channels to bring water from the Vaigai River and a set of 12 steps were built on the four sides on the orders of Thirumalai Nayakar.

There is a Maiya Mandap or Central Hall with a Ganesha temple that is surrounded by a small garden, in the middle of the tank. A broad footpath runs around the tank and you can spend an evening sitting by the tank contemplating. Visit the 2000 year old Vandiyur Maariamman Temple that is situated close to the tank. People throng to the temple in the faith that the Goddess will rid them off diseases. The temple is open from 6.00am-9.00pm.

The Malai Kottai or Rock Fort was built in 1605 by the Madurai Nayaka King Muthu Krishnappa Nayak. In the 18th century the Fort went into the control of the Wodeyars Kingdom of Mysore , later to Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan and finally to the British East India Company. At present the fort is under the control of the Archaeological Survey of India.

The rock fort is a marvel of ancient military tactics and planning. The 900 ft tall fort has double walls with spy holes, godowns that were once used to stock arms and amunitions, cannons set up at strategic points, a thin wall in the godown for soldiers to escape, a number of cells to hold prisoners of war and slaves, a big kitchen and a horse stable. You could still see a few cannons with the balls inside! Check out the abandoned temple at the top.

The place doesn’t afford a lot of shade in summer. You have got quite a number of steps to climb up to the fort. Choose a winter day and carry water bottles. The Rock Fort is at Dindugal, at about 63 km from Madurai.

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Places to Visit in Madurai

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Tourist Places to Visit in Madurai

Here are some of the best places to visit in madurai:, meenakshi amman temple.

Meenakshi Amman Temple, also known as the Meenakshi-Sundershwara Temple, is a famous tourist attraction in Madurai and is one of the oldest temples in India. This temple holds great importance to the Indian people due to its mythological and historical significance. It is believed to be the site where Lord Shiva married Goddess Parvati (Meenakshi), in the form of Sundareswarar (meaning the handsome one). The temple is known for its astonishing architecture and is thronged by thousands of devotees every single day. The marvellous architecture of the temple surely makes it one of the Wonder of India. The Thirukalyanam Festival, which is quite famous in South India is celebrated over a span of 10 days and attracts over a million devotees.  Temple visiting time : 5:00 am to 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm Time spent in temple : 1 - 2 hours Best time to visit : Early morning or evening, for the aarti Best months to visit : October to March  Things to remember : As it is a place of worship, visitors should dress respectfully and conservatively

Best of Chennai

Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

Located about 70 km away from Madurai, Vaigai is a magnificent dam that graces the beautiful Vaigai river. A blessing for the natives of Madurai, Theni and Dindigul, Vaigai Dam has provided for and been a source of employment for several families since its inauguration in 1959. The dam neighbours a lovely little garden known as the ‘Little Brindavan’, a favourite amongst picnickers and kids. It also harbours a musical fountain that operates on weekends and public holidays. Monsoon is the ideal time to enjoy the beauty of Vaigai, when it is at its peak. The water level rises significantly, and there’s lush greenery for as far as the eyes can see. If you’re seeking some solitude and peace, Vaigai is the place to be. Timings:  06:00 AM to 06:00  Entry Fee:  No entry fee Location:  Guest House Rd, Melmangalam, Tamil Nadu 625562

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Alagar Koyil

Sitting about 21 km away from Madurai, Alagar Koyil, alternatively known as Azhagar Kovil, is one of the most visited temples of Madurai. Besides the religious significance that the temple holds, it is also an architectural marvel. Depicting the forms and styles of the early Sangam age, the era that it belongs to, the temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple walls are embellished with fine, captivating carvings, while several mandapams warehoused within. The presiding deity here is Lord Sundararajan, the brother of Goddess Meenakshi. There are a few shrines dedicated to deities like Andal, Sudarshana and Yoga Narasimha in the temple. Timings:  09:00 AM to 07:00 PM Entry Fee:  No entry fee Location: Alagar Koyil main road, Tamil Nadu

Goripalayam Dargah

Best of Pondicherry

Koodal Azhagar Temple

For the worshippers of Lord Vishnu, the Koodal Azhagar Temple is surely one of the finest places to visit in Madurai. Originally built by the Pandyas, the temple is situated right in the middle of the city of Madurai. Koodal is another name for Madurai whereas, Azhagar means “beautiful one” in Tamil. The temple is surrounded by a granite wall, enclosing all the shrines. Constructed in the Dravidian architecture style, the temple is beautifully sculpted and carved by adding hues of different colours.   Visiting time of the temple : 5:30 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm Time spent in the temple : 1 - 2 hours Entry fee : Rs 10 for children

                Rs 20 for adults Best time to visit : Early morning or evening, to attend the aarti Best months to visit : Mid February to mid March to attend the festivals Things to remember : As it is a place of worship, visitors should dress respectfully and conservatively

Samanar Hills

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Gandhi Museum

If you feel caught up in the world of the countless temples that line the face of Madurai, Athisayam Water Park is the best outlet! One of the most entertaining places to visit in Madurai, the water amusement park is a favourite amongst kids and adults alike. Whether you're seeking thrilling adventures or just a chill time in the water with friends, Athisayam has got you covered. What started off as a quiet entertainment centre five years ago, has flourished into the largest amusement park in the area! With an array of over 50 fun rides, there is hardly any other place that matches the glamour of Athisayam. Timings:  10:00 AM to 06:30 PM everyday Entry Fee:  INR 800 per adult, INR 500 per child Location:  Madurai - Dindigul Main Road,Paravai, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625402

Best of Kanyakumari

Mariamman Teppakulam

Built by King Thirumalai Nayak, Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam is a tank located close to the temple of the same name. This temple tank is a place of worship where people can be seen performing devotional activities, also it is about 2 km away from the Meenakshi Amman Temple. Connected to the Vaigai river, the tank is a magnificent structure with a system of underground channels and 12 long, granite steps on all four sides. In the middle of the tank, there is a main mandapam known as Maiya Mandapam or the Central Mandapam along with a garden and a Vinayakar temple. Visiting time to the tank : 5:00 am to 9:00 pm Entry fee : There is no entry fee Best months to visit : January to February, during the float festival (Teppoothsavam)

Best of Tirupati

Kazimar Big Mosque And Maqbara Mosque

Madurai's oldest mosque, the Kazimar Big Mosque was the creation of Kazi Syed Tajuddin back in the 13th century. Carrying stellar impression of the ages that the structure has witnessed, it is a frequent haunt for lovers of history, culture and religion. The mosque, true to its informal name 'Big Mosque', is large enough to accommodate about 2,500 people at once! The shrine (known as dargah) of the descendants of Prophet Muhammad also lies within the mosque, where several devotees flock to pay homage. Timings:  07:00 AM to 07:00 PM Entry Fee:  No entry fee Location:  Kazimar St, Periyar, Madurai Main, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625001

Pazhamudhir Solai

Best of Rameswaram

St. Mary's Cathedral Church

Yanaimalai is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Madurai, besides being a well-preserved tourist attraction. Home to several ancient sculptures, a Shaivite Temple and a couple of caves, the hill is spans over 3 km of lush green land, and is about 300 ft. high. The structural beauty and historical significance of the hill has earned it a the title of a protected monument under The Ancient And Archaeological Sites And Remains Act. Rooted in various mythological tales and folklore, Yanaimalai is an unmissable place for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Location: Narasingam, Tamil Nadu 625104

Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal Temple

Referenced in several ancient texts, including works of the Sangam literature, Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal Temple is one of the most interesting places to visit in Madurai. Stretching across 2.3 acres of land, the temple has managed to beautifully preserve the architectural beauty that Madurai boasts of. The prominent Dravidian style of architecture stands out beautifully, along with subtle glimpses of the Pandyan era being reflected within the walls. Surrounded by granite walls, there are four prakaramas centred inside the complex.    The temple now falls under the care of the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of Tamil Nadu Government. Timings:  07:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 04:00 PM to 08:00 PM Entry Fee:   No entry fee Location:  Thirumohur, Tamil Nadu 625107

Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple

Pudhu Mandapam

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You would need at least 2-3 hours to do justice to this absolute wonder of a place. You need time to see its huge 1000-pillared mandapam, sculptured walls, and attend the aartis. It is worth spending time doing nothing here and just soaking in the serene ambience silently as you watch faith & belief drive people around you. 

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Discovering Heritage: Places to Visit in Madurai

Located in the heart of Tamil Nadu, Madurai is not just a city; it's a living legend. With a history that stretches back over 2,500 years, this enchanting city is a treasure trove of sights, sounds, and flavours worth savouring.

Hello dear explorers! We welcome you again to another exciting journey called “Places to visit in Madurai!” Say hello to the enchanting city of Madurai! This is where history, culture, and spirituality come together in a vibrant tapestry of experiences. Nestled in the heart of Tamil Nadu , Madurai is not just a city; it’s a living legend. With a history that stretches back over 2,500 years, this bustling metropolis is a treasure trove of sights, sounds, and flavors worth savouring.

Madurai is often referred to as the “Athens of the East” due to its rich literary and cultural heritage. From the awe-inspiring Meenakshi Amman Temple, a marvel of Dravidian architecture, to the bustling streets of the old town, every nook and corner of Madurai has a story to tell.

If you’re a foodie, Madurai will leave your taste buds delighted with its delectable South Indian cuisine. Don’t miss out on the crispy dosas, piping hot idlis, and the famous Jigarthanda, a local dessert that will leave you craving for more.

In this blog, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of Madurai’s most iconic and hidden gems. From the tranquil banks of the Vaigai River to the lively markets where you can shop for traditional textiles and handicrafts, Madurai has it all. So, brace yourself and get ready to explore the best places to visit in Madurai! 

Table of Contents

Best places to visit in Madurai

Madurai, often referred to as the “Athens of the East,” is a city draped in history and culture. Madurai is a destination that will take you back in time with its ancient temples , bustling markets, and vibrant traditions. Here are some of the best places to visit in Madurai:

1. Meenakshi Amman Temple: One of the most enchanting places to visit in Madurai

This magnificent temple is one of the most popular spots in Madurai. The magnificent temple is the heart and soul of Madurai. This colossal temple complex is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, and its towering entrance towers called gopurams adorned with intricate sculptures are absolutely iconic. The temple is a vibrant hub of religious and cultural activity, attracting devotees as well as tourists.

2. Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace: Blend of Dravidian and Islamic architectural styles

Built in the 17th century by King Thirumalai Nayak, this palace is a stunning blend of Dravidian and Islamic architectural styles. The palace’s grandeur is evident in its massive pillars, intricate carvings, and an awe-inspiring courtyard. Don’t miss the sound and light show held in the evenings, which brings the history of the palace to life.

3. Gandhi Memorial Museum: Heaven for history lovers!

For history enthusiasts, the Gandhi Memorial Museum in Madurai is a great attraction. The museum houses a remarkable collection of artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia related to Mahatma Gandhi and the Indian independence movement. The museum through its collection of artifacts provides valuable insights into India’s struggle for freedom. If history fascinates you, then this place is a must-visit in Madurai! 

4. Alagar Kovil (Alagar Temple): A blend of culture and tradition

This temple dedicated to Lord Alagar (Vishnu), sits atop a picturesque hill. People admire the temple for its stunning architecture, serene surroundings, and the grand celebration of the annual Chithirai Festival, during which they celebrate Lord Alagar’s procession to Madurai with grandeur. The celebration is worth watching and an absolute delight for those who love culture and tradition. 

5. Koodal Azhagar Temple: For ardent devotees of lord Shiva!

If architecture is what fascinates you or you are an ardent devotee of lord Shiva, then Koodal Azhagar Temple is a must-visit spot for you. This ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known for its beautiful sculptures and intricate architecture. The temple is said to be one of the 108 Divya Desams, sacred places revered by Vaishnavites.

6. Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam: An engineering Marvel!

This historic temple tank is an engineering marvel, covering an area of 16 acres. It’s popular for the annual float festival when the deities from the Meenakshi Amman Temple are taken on a procession on vibrant floats in the tank. 

7. Athisayam Water Amusement Park: A place to have fun and relax!

If you want a break from discovering the historical and religious sites, then you can visit Athisayam Water Amusement Park. This amusement park offers a day of fun and relaxation. It has thrilling water rides and attractions, which make it a perfect place for families and adventure seekers. If children are accompanying you on your trip to Madurai, then you should definitely visit Athisayam Water Amusement Park. It would be a delightful experience for them! 

8. Kazimar Big Mosque and Maqbara: An architectural gem!

Looking for something peaceful and serene? This centuries-old mosque is an architectural gem, known for its grandeur and peaceful ambiance. It’s a very significant religious site for the Muslim community in Madurai. This spot in Madurai welcomes visitors interested in its history and architecture.

9. Samanar Hills: A treasure trove of Jain history!

If you’re interested to know about ancient Jain history, then Samanar Hills is a fascinating site for you. It features rock-cut Jain sculptures and caves dating back to the 9th century. The site offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside, which is absolutely mesmerizing to watch. If culture fascinates you, then Samanar Hills is one of the best places to visit in Madurai.

10. Shopping at Puthu Mandapam: A historic marketplace!

No visit to Madurai is complete without exploring its bustling markets. For shopaholics, the markets of Madurai are no less than heaven! Puthu Mandapam is a historic marketplace where you can shop for traditional textiles, jewelry, handicrafts, and the famous Madurai Sungudi sarees.

Madurai is a city that wonderfully balances its rich history and traditions with modernity. Whether you love history, love being spiritual, or are a traveler in search of cultural experiences, Madurai offers a diverse range of attractions that will leave you enchanted and inspired. Whether you are a modern adventurer or an old soul in this new era, Madurai is going to leave you impressed with its wonders. 

A timeless beauty and home to cultural richness, Madurai truly is an exquisite destination unique in its own way! 

Concluding Remarks

In conclusion, Madurai isn’t just a city; it’s a vibrant tapestry of history, spirituality, and culture that is worth exploring. From the majestic Meenakshi Amman Temple, where every pillar narrates a story, to the bustling streets of the old town, where aromas and colors dance in harmony, this city is a treasure trove of experiences.

Whether you’re a history lover, a foodie, a spiritual seeker, or simply an adventurer in search of the unknown, Madurai welcomes you with a friendly demeanor. So, pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready to embark on a journey filled with unforgettable memories.

Remember, Madurai isn’t just a place to visit.  It’s a place where you can feel, a place to immerse yourself in, and a place where every radiates charisma. We hope you had fun on this journey of “Places to Visit in Madurai” with us! So get on to explore and let Madurai’s magic captivate your heart. Your adventure begins here!

You can commute within Madurai using various options such as auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, taxis, and public buses. Depending on your preference and your convenience, you can choose any mode to commute within Madurai. 

 Air, train and road well connect Madurai. You can reach Madurai by taking a flight to Madurai Airport, a train to Madurai Junction, or by road via national highways, whatever mode suits you and your requirements. 

The number of days to explore Madurai depends on the places you want to discover and the things you want to do there. However, typically, two to three days are usually sufficient to explore the major attractions of Madurai.

The famous temple in Madurai is the Meenakshi Amman Temple, dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi. The temple is a very popular tourist attraction that is a must-visit when you are in Madurai. 

 Madurai is famous for its delicious South Indian cuisine. There are plenty of delectable foods available that are going to leave your taste buds delighted. Don’t miss trying the famous Madurai biryani, idli, dosa, and Jigarthanda (a sweet drink).

 Madurai Meenakshi Temple is a very popular tourist attraction in Madurai. The temple is also known as Meenakshi Amman Temple or Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple.

The best time to visit Madurai is during the winter months, from October to March. During this time the weather is very pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing.

 People visiting the Madurai Temple should dress modestly, covering their heads and shoulders. It is advisable to wear traditional attire.

The best time to visit Madurai Temple is during the early morning or late evening when the temple is less crowded, and the atmosphere is serene and tranquil. 

The most famous festival in Madurai is the Meenakshi Thirukalyanam. It is basically a grand wedding ceremony of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar, celebrated in April or May as part of the Chithirai Festival.

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Places To Visit In Madurai

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1. Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple

1 km from city center 1 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

The Historic Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple is located on the southern bank of the Vaigai River, Madurai, Tamil Nadu. It is primarily dedicated to Parvati, known as Meenakshi, and her spouse, Shiva. That makes this temple different than the others is the fact that both God and Goddess are worshipped together. 

2. Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal

1 km from city center 2 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

Thirumalai Nayak Mahal was constructed way back in the 17th century. Several buildings and temples had been constructed by him in the region and they have all been splendid both in terms of construction location and spirituality.

3. Vaigai Dam

60 km from city center 3 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

Vaigai Dam, a magnificent human-made structure, is constructed over River Vaigai near Andipatti, Theni District in the South Indian State of Tamil Nadu. Andipatti lies about 70 kilometres from Madurai and travellers on their way to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary often visit this massive and wondrous dam.

4. Alagar Koil

4 km from city center 4 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

Alagar Koil is an exquisite temple situated in the north east of Madurai. The temple is the rest place of Lord Vishnu and is the sacred place for several followers of Lord Vishnu in the region.

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85 km from city center 5 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

Often known as the “High Wavy Mountains”, Meghamalai is a petit yet beautiful place located in the Western Ghats in the state of Tamil Nadu. At an elevation of 1500 meters, this place is a perfect getaway to beat the heat and enjoy some peaceful time relaxing amidst nature.

6. Samanar Hills

8 km from city center 6 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

Located in Keelakuyilkudi village near Madurai, Samanar Hills or Samanar Malai is a beautiful hill rock complex which was originally home to Tamil Jain monks. The hill caves are a popular place of tourism and have elaborate carvings and drawings of the monks, on the interior walls. The spot also has a beautiful lotus temple located in the premises.

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7. Gandhi Museum

2 km from city center 7 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

The Gandhi Memorial Museum serves as a remembrance and tribute to the efforts of our very own father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi. Established in 1959 in his cherished memory, eleven years after his demise, it is one of the few Gandhi Museums in the country.

8. Koodal Azhagar Temple

1 km from city center 8 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

The Koodal Azhagar Temple is situated in the city of Azhaghar, the dazzling city of southern India. It is the temple of lord Vishnu with a magnanimous monument of lord Vishnu embossed in front of the temple.

9. Athisayam

10 km from city center 9 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

Located on the Madurai - Dindigul National Highway near Madurai, Athisayam is a massive water cum amusement park. Sprawling over a vast 70 acres of land, the park boasts of a total of 40 games and 20 water rides. The park also has a 7D theatre, an eatery and a recreation garden for kids.

10. Mariamman Teppakulam

4 km from city center 10 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

Constructed in the honor of Lord Vigneshwara, this divine temple is situated about 5 km from the meenakshi temple. It has a huge tank in the compound of the temple and holds the record of being the biggest tank in the region of Tamil Nadu.

11. Pazhamudhir Solai

10 km from city center 11 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

Pazhamudhir Solai is a beautiful temple created in the memory of Lord Subramaniya who is worshipped by several people in southern India. It has great sculptures of Lord Subramaniya carved in wood and marble and is a wonderful temple with giant steps in the front of it.

12. Tirupparankundram Murugan temple

8 km from city center 12 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

Tirupparankundram Murugan temple is one of the pilgrimage places in the southern India. The temple is an excellent master piece of art and is devoted to mother earth for the benedicts it has bequeathed on the holy earth.

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13. Chithirai Festival

13 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

The Chithirai festival of Tamil Nadu happens to be one of the longest stretched festivals to be celebrated anywhere in the world. The festival is celebrated in the city of Madurai of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and is celebrated for over two weeks. An estimated number of a million people gather for the celebrations from all over India and abroad.

14. St Maryês Cathedral

14 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

St Maryês Cathedral is a gothic style catholic church situated in East Veli Street in Madurai. The striking architecture is a mix of European, Continental and Roman designs. The statue of virgin Mary installed inside is dressed in a saree. The church receives a regular influx of visitors all year long.

15. Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam

4 km from city center 15 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

Vandiyur Maiamman Teppakulam is a tiny pond located near the premises of Vandiyur Maiamman Temple in mandir. •Teppakulamê literally meaning temple pond is connected to the river Vaigai through underground tunnels and its water is used for temple rituals. The pond also has a Mandapam in the centre with a Ganesha Temple and a tiny garden.

16. ISKCON Madurai

1 km from city center 16 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

Situated in the Mani Nagaram Main Road in Madurai, ISKCON Madurai is a revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and his consort Goddess Radha. The temple reverberates with mantras and songs at all times and devotees are fed with prasad. The premises also has a pure veg tiny eatery for the devotees and other visitors.

17. Banana Market

1 km from city center 17 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

Banana Market in Madurai is a wholesale market for bananas situated in Rukmanipalayam. The place sells as many as 16 varieties of the fruit and is a hot trading place in the city. The bananas are brought early in the morning from the factory outlets and are unbranched from the branches to sell them to the local vendors.

18. Kazimar Big Mosque

2 km from city center 18 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

Kazimar Big Mosque or Kazimar Periya Pallivasal is the oldest mosque in Madurai located near the Periyar bus stand. The mosque also holds significant religious importance and is visited by pilgrims from far and wide. With a space to accommodate close to 1500 people, the mosque also has an enchanting architecture with a magnificent maqbara.

19. Goripalayam Dargah

1 km from city center 19 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

Goripalayam Dargah is also known as Hajha Syed Sultan Alaoudeen Syed Sultan Samsudeen Aouliya Dargah and is situated in Madurai. Done in green and white paint, the mosque has towering minars and a magnificent dome; and it houses the shrine of Hazrat Sulthan Alauddin Badusha and Hazrat Sulthan Shamsuddin Badusha.

20. Kutladampatti Falls

26 km from city center 20 out of 20 Places To Visit in Madurai

Cascading from a height of 27 m, the Kutladampatti waterfalls are nestled in Cholavantha village, 30 kms from Madurai. This artificial waterfall is extremely popular for its scenic beauty and makes for the perfect weekend getaway. The freshwater streams descending down the huge rocks, the cool breeze and the lovely ambience of the area make it a local favourite.

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Places to Visit in Madurai (2024)

• Post last modified: 6 April 2023
• Reading time: 20 mins read
• Post category: Places to Visit

Madurai is one of the most culturally rich cities in entire India. The many beautiful temples and heritage buildings with rich history are dotted across Madurai. With so many places to visit in Madurai , proper planning of your trip is essential. Situated on the banks of River Vaigai, humans have been settled in this city for more than two thousand years.

Table of Content

• 1.1 Meenakshi Amman Temple
• 1.2 Gandhi Memorial Museum
• 1.3 Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace
• 1.4 St Mary’s Cathedral Madurai
• 1.5 Kazimar Big Mosque
• 1.6 Rajaji Park
• 1.7 Arulmigu Kallalagar Temple
• 1.8 Athisayam
• 1.9 Samanar Hills
• 1.10 Vaigai Dam
• 2.1 Is one day enough for Madurai?
• 2.2 How many days to visit Madurai?
• 2.3 Is Madurai worth visiting?

One of the oldest settlements in India can be traced back to this wonderful city. Over the years, Madurai has been at the heart of various kingdoms like Pandyas, Madurai Sultanate, Cholas, Madurai Nayaks ,and the Carnatic Kingdom among many others. Due to this, the culture of Madurai is a beautiful blend. In this article, we mention some of the must-visit tourist places in Madurai.

Places to visit in Madurai

Meenakshi amman temple, gandhi memorial museum, thirumalai nayakkar palace.

• St Mary’s Cathedral Madurai

Kazimar Big Mosque

Rajaji park, arulmigu kallalagar temple, samanar hills.

Meenakshi Amman Temple situated in the heart of Madurai is one of the city’s most popular cultural and religious landmarks. Situated on the banks of the Vaigai river, Meenakshi Amman Temple is one of the top places to visit in Madurai for people of all ages. The official name of the temple is Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Temple. The shrines and gopurams at the Meenakshi Amman Temple are a reflection of the architectural styles that were prevalent in the region at the time.

The gopurams of this temple boast intricate carvings that depict stories from Hindu Mythology. The thousand pillars mandapam at the Meenakshi Amman Temple is simply mesmerizing. Each pillar is carved with intricate sculptures. The unique architectural aspect of these pillars is that they all appeared to be situated in a straight line no matter which angle you look at it from

• Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday from 09:00 AM to 07:00 PM
• Major Attractions: Thousand pillars mandapam
• Ideal Duration to Explore: 2 Hours
• Things to do: Admire the architecture and seek blessings of the deities

The Gandhi Memorial Museum in Madurai was established in the year 1959. This memorial was established to commemorate the life and struggles of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, the father of the Indian freedom struggle. One of the most significant pieces of history on display here is the blood-stained cloth of M.K Gandhi from the time he was assassinated by Nathuram Godse. This museum was inaugurated by the first Prime Minister of India Mr. Jawaharlal Nehru.

Letters written by M.K Gandhi to Naryanan Satsangi of Devakottai, Subramania Bharati, and Adolf Hitler are on display at this museum. An exhibition called India Fights for Freedom is a major attraction here. This exhibition has as many as 265 illustrations. These illustrations depict in detail the freedom struggle of India. This museum is one of the peace museums across the world as designated by the UNO. Gandhi Memorial Museum is one of the most famous places in Madurai.

• Opening Hour: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 01:00 PM, Monday to Saturday from 02:00 PM to 05:00 PM
• Major Attractions: Letters written by M.K Gandhi
• Ideal Duration to Explore: 1 Hour
• Things to do: Learn about the life of M.K Gandhi

Commissioned by King Tirumala Nayaka in the 17th Century, this palace is a stunning architectural gem that leaves visitors mesmerized. The blend of Italian, Dravidian, and Rajput styles of architecture gives this palace an appeal that is found in very few palaces in India. This palace is situated at a short distance from the Meenakshi Amman Temple. Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace is a must-visit place for those who are fans of architectural wonders.

Once upon a time, during the reign of King Tirumala Nayaka, this palace was a prized jewel of Madurai. Visitors and traders from Europe used to admire the beauty of this palace and write about its allure all the time. Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace is one of the best places to visit in Madurai.

• Opening Hour: Monday to Sunday from 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM
• Major Attractions: Architecture

St Mary’s Cathedral Madurai

In the land of temples, St Mary’s Cathedral is a breath of fresh air. St Mary’s Cathedral is one of the famous religious places in Madurai. The architecture is contrasting from the wide range of temples dotted across Madurai. This popular cathedral is a popular pilgrimage among Christians in the state. The patron saint of this cathedral is John de Britto. The official name of this church is the Church of Our Lady of Dolours. Standing at the current site for more than 150 years, this cathedral is truly a cultural and religious landmark.

The architecture of this cathedral has a Roman touch to it. The pointed towers and the intricate designs are distinguishing features of this cathedral. St Mary’s Cathedral has a history of more than 150 years. This cathedral is the face of religious tourism in Madurai.

• Opening Hour: Monday to Sunday from 07:00 AM to 07:00 PM
• Things to do: Attend the Sunday Mass

Kazimar Big Mosque is the oldest mosque in Madurai. This mosque was built in the year 1284. Since then, the Kazimar Big Mosque has been standing as the cultural and historical pride of Madurai. This historical mosque was founded by a descendant of Prophet Muhammed, Kazi Syed Tajuddin. The land to build the mosque was given to Kazi Syed Tajuddin, who arrived from Yemen, by Maravarman Kulasekara Pandyan I. He was the ruler of Madurai at the time. Kazimar Big Mosque is one of the best places to visit in Madurai.

This gesture of kindness and generosity symbolizes the religious harmony that existed in India even at the time. An outstanding example of Indo-Islamic architecture, the Kazimar Big Mosque boasts 1 dome and 8 minarets. This mosque has the capacity to accommodate 1200 devotees at a time.

• Opening Hour: Monday to Sunday from 04:30 AM to 11:00 PM
• Major Attractions: The Indo-Islamic architecture

Two life-size statues of giraffes welcome you at the entrance of this wonderful park. Slides, swings, playgrounds, and joy rides are some of the major attractions here that attract the little ones. If you are traveling with your family, the little ones can mingle with fellow kids and make friends at the playground here. This family-friendly park is one of the best places to see in Madurai.

A small fountain, ferris wheel, as well as an aquarium are some of the major attractions at Rajaji Park. The aquarium housed in this park is an attraction in itself that attracts a large number of visitors, especially on weekends and holidays. You can learn about different species of marine life along with having fun during your visit to Rajaji Park in Madurai. This park is definitely one of the must-visit places in Madurai.

• Opening Hour: Monday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 08:30 PM
• Major Attractions: The Aquarium
• Ideal Duration to Explore: 1 to 2 Hours

Since Madurai is known as the city of temples, it is not surprising to find a few temples in the list of top places to see in Madurai. One of the most important temples in Madurai is the Arulmigu Kallalagar Temple. This temple reflects the Dravidian style of architecture like the many other temples in Madurai. The gopuram of this temple is a landmark in itself which boasts intricate carvings. These carvings reflect the skills and vision of architects and masons at the time. This temple is one of the star attractions of religious sightseeing in Madurai.

The Elephant Vehicle Mandapam, Aryan Mandapam, Sixteen Pillared Mandapam, and Vasanta Mandapam are some of the popular halls housed inside this temple. Each hall boasts its own architectural brilliance and adds to the overall aesthetics of the temple. A total of six poojas are performed at this temple daily. Vishva Rupam, Pongal Kalam, Ucchik Kalam, Sayarakchai, Nithiyana Santhanam, and Sampakkalam are the six poojas performed here daily.

• Opening Hour: Monday to Sunday from 06:00 AM to 12:30 PM,Monday to Sunday from 03:30 PM to 08:00 PM
• Major Attractions: Gopuram and the Sixteen Pillared Mandapam

This amusement park is one of the most fun destinations in Madurai for people of all ages. The various water rides at this amusement park offer plenty for those seeking adventure and an adrenaline rush. For a fun and memorable experience with your friends and family while at Madurai, visiting Athisayam is a must. The wave pool at Athisayam is a huge attraction that is suitable for people of all ages. Octopus, Tora Tora, Dashing Cars, Caterpillar, and Cup ‘n’ saucer are some of the rides here apart from the water rides.

Athisayam is one of the top places to visit in Madurai for families. Kids will love splashing in the pool and sliding down a fun yet safe water slide. Athisayam is spread across a total distance of 70 acres (28.32 hectares). Visiting this massive amusement park is sure to be an exciting experience for you.

• Opening Hour: Monday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 06:30 PM
• Major Attractions: Water rides
• Ideal Duration to Explore: 5 to 6 Hours

Samanar Hills is a hill range situated in the Keelakuyilkudi village near Madurai. Such is the historical significance of Samanar Hills that it has been declared by the Archaeological Survey of India as a protected monument. The Settipodavu site on the Samanar Hills has a natural cave. This cave is home to carvings depicting chapters from Jain mythology. Apart from this, various Hindy mythology inscriptions can also be witnessed at the Samanar Hills. This attraction is one of the best places to visit in Madurai.

Karuppanasamy Temple situated on the Samanar Hills is immensely popular among Hindu devotees across the country The view of the lotus pond from the top of the Samanar Hills is unmatchable. A winding staircase takes you to the top of the Samanar Hills from where you can relish panoramic views.

• Opening Hour: Monday to Sunday from Sunrise to Sunset
• Major Attractions: Karuppanasamy Temple and the cave carvings
• Ideal Duration to Explore: 2 Hour
• Things to do: Relish the panoramic views

Vaigai Dam is situated on the Vaigai River that flows through multiple districts in Tamil Nadu. This magnificent dam was inaugurated in the year 1959. A large amount of water in this dam is held solely by the strength of the concrete. Usually, dams are built in areas where mountains are in the surrounding area. This is done to sort of provide a natural barricade to help hold the water in. This is not the case of Vaigai Dam as there are no mountains in the surrounding area. Vaigai Dam is one of the most beautiful places in Madurai.

The Vaigai Dam provides drinking water as well as water for irrigation to as many as five districts including Madurai. Apart from this, the dam is also a popular tourist attraction in Madurai. On Sundays, the dam is illuminated with lights making it look evermore beautiful. This dam is home to a children’s park and a hydro-electric plant. The Vaigai Dam is definitely one of the most extraordinary places to visit in Madurai.

• Best Time to Visit Vaigai Dam: July to December
• Major Attractions: Children’s Park
• Ideal Duration to Explore: 2 to 3 Hours
• Things to do: Enjoy a nice picnic

You won’t be short of things to do while in Madurai. The many cultural and historical landmarks dotted across the city have plenty to offer to tourists of all ages. The magical vibe of Madurai can be best explored if you make sure to visit all the places mentioned in our article. Madurai is truly the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu.

Is one day enough for Madurai?

No, one day is not enough for exploring Madurai.

How many days to visit Madurai?

We suggest you keep aside at least 4 to 5 days for exploring Madurai.

Is Madurai worth visiting?

Yes, Madurai is definitely worth visiting. The many tourist attractions and landmarks here are ideal tourist destinations.

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Embarking on a Cultural Odyssey: Top 10 Places to Visit in Madurai

Madurai, sometimes referred to as the “Athens of the East,” is a lively city rich in spirituality, history, and culture. From majestic temples to bustling markets, each corner of Madurai tells a tale of its rich heritage. Join us as we explore the top 10 places that make Madurai a must-visit destination.

1. Meenakshi Amman Temple

A jewel in Madurai’s crown, the Meenakshi Amman Temple stands as a testament to Dravidian architecture. Dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar, the temple’s towering gopurams, intricate carvings, and vibrant sculptures mesmerize visitors. The annual Meenakshi Thirukalyanam festival is a spectacle not to be missed.

2. Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

A blend of Indo-Saracenic and Dravidian styles, Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace is an architectural marvel. Built in the 17th century by King Thirumalai Nayak, the palace boasts grand courtyards, ornate pillars, and stunning arches. The sound and light show in the evenings vividly narrates the city’s history.

3. Gandhi Memorial Museum

Immerse yourself in the history of India’s struggle for independence at the Gandhi Memorial Museum. Housed in the palace of Rani Mangammal, the museum showcases rare artifacts, photographs, and personal belongings of Mahatma Gandhi. It’s a poignant journey through the nation’s fight for freedom.

4. Koodal Azhagar Temple

A spiritual haven, Koodal Azhagar Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple’s unique feature is the three shrines representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva in one sanctum. The intricate sculptures and serene ambiance make it a serene retreat for devotees and history enthusiasts.

5. Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam

An engineering marvel of the 17th century, Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam is a massive temple tank. Surrounded by steps and a mandapam, it hosts the grand Float Festival. Pilgrims and tourists flock to witness the floating deity procession during this auspicious event.

6. Pazhamudircholai Murugan Temple

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Pazhamudircholai Murugan Temple is one of the six abodes of Lord Murugan. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a serene atmosphere for devotees. The divine presence and the natural beauty make it a must-visit destination.

7. Madurai Kamaraj University

For those inclined towards academic and cultural pursuits, Madurai Kamaraj University is a notable destination. The university campus is known for its sprawling greenery, architectural beauty, and a vibrant cultural scene. The Madurai Film Festival hosted here attracts cinephiles from around the region.

8. Samanar Hills

Stepping into the pages of history, Samanar Hills is home to Jain cave paintings dating back to the 9th century. These rock-cut caves depict the life of Jain monks and showcase intricate carvings. The panoramic views of the surrounding landscape make it a captivating visit for history and nature enthusiasts.

9. Athisayam Theme Park

A treat for families and thrill-seekers, Athisayam Theme Park is a popular recreational spot in Madurai. The park features exhilarating rides, water attractions, and a lively ambiance. It’s a perfect place for a day of fun and relaxation.

10. Alagar Kovil

Nestled in the Alagar Hills, Alagar Kovil is dedicated to Lord Alagar, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple’s architectural grandeur and the annual Chithirai Festival, where Lord Alagar’s procession to Madurai is celebrated, draw devotees and tourists alike.

Q & A Section:

What is the famous of Madurai?

Madurai is famous for its Meenakshi Amman Temple, a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture, and its vibrant cultural heritage, earning it the title of “Athens of the East.”

Why is Madurai called the sleepless city?

Madurai is often referred to as the “sleepless city” due to the continuous buzz of activity in its markets, streets, and temples. The city remains alive with energy day and night.

What food is Madurai famous for?

Madurai is renowned for its culinary delights, including the iconic Madurai Jigarthanda, Kari Dosa, and Chettinad cuisine. The city’s street food culture is a gastronomic adventure for food enthusiasts.

What is famous things to buy in Madurai?

Madurai is famous for its silk sarees, handicrafts, traditional jewelry, and aromatic spices. The bustling markets, such as Puthu Mandapam, offer a delightful shopping experience.

How many days are enough for Madurai?

To explore Madurai thoroughly, plan a trip for at least 2 to 3 days. This allows time to visit the major attractions, experience the cultural richness, and savor the local cuisine.

Is there any beach in Madurai?

Madurai is an inland city, and there is no beach within the city limits. However, the city’s rich cultural and historical attractions compensate for the absence of a beach.

What language is spoken in Madurai?

Tamil is the primary language spoken in Madurai. However, due to its cultural diversity and tourism, English and Hindi are also understood in many places.

What is the nickname of Madurai?

Madurai is often fondly referred to as the “City of Temples” due to the abundance of magnificent temples that dot its landscape.

What is unique in Madurai?

The unique feature of Madurai lies in its seamless integration of tradition and modernity. The city preserves its ancient temples and cultural heritage while embracing contemporary developments.

Which saree is famous in Madurai?

Madurai is renowned for its silk sarees, particularly the Madurai Sungudi sarees. These sarees are known for their vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and traditional designs.

Why is Madurai holy?

Madurai is considered holy due to the presence of the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a sacred pilgrimage site dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar.

Which sweet is famous in Madurai?

The iconic sweet of Madurai is the Mysurpa, a delectable dessert made from ghee, sugar, and gram flour. It is a must-try for those with a sweet tooth.

Which cool drink is famous in Madurai?

Madurai is famous for its unique and refreshing drink called Jigarthanda. This cooling beverage, made with milk, almond gum, nannari syrup, and ice cream, is a local favorite.

What is the best time to visit Madurai?

The best time to visit Madurai is from October to March when the weather is pleasant, and the city is adorned with festivals like Navratri and Chithirai Festival. This period ensures an enjoyable and culturally enriching experience.

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Ancient Madurai

Antique for Home Decor at affordable price in India

The Ultimate Guide To The Best Tourist Attractions In Madurai: Where To Go And What To Do!

May 14, 2022

An updated list of 2022

India is a mix of cultures and religions, filled with exciting back-stories and detailed elements that make it a perfect tourist place. There are so many countries to visit, and their diversified features never fail to attract travellers to the point when they would consider returning again and again. In today’s blog, we will mainly talk about the  tourist attractions in Madurai , one of India’s oldest cities and famous as the ‘Cultural Capital’ of Tamil Nadu.

A First-Timer’s Guide to Visit Madurai 

The city of Madurai, which is immersed in Tamil culture, is described as vibrant, magical, chaotic, and spiritual. Locals refer to Madurai as “ Thoonga Nagaram ” or “ the city that never sleeps “, and it is well worth a visit. As you enter the city, expect vivid colors and the thrill of temple bells to overwhelm your visual and auditory senses. Temples, cathedrals, and palaces are among the many things to explore in Madurai. It’s a one-of-a-kind location where the old and new coexist. The old structures of the city’s many temples and other architecture are enough to make the city’s modern skyscrapers fade away.

While visiting a new place, you must create an itinerary including popular destinations and sightseeing activities.   While Madurai’s history traces back to the third century B.C., it is mentioned in the works of Arab, Roman, and Greek travellers such as Megasthenses; it is now one of South India’s primary centres for promoting Tamil culture and customs through so many things. So, if you’re planning a trip to Madurai, Tamil Nadu, anytime soon, you can’t miss the popular  tourist attractions in Madurai  mentioned below: 

Tourist Attractions In Madurai : Places To Go

1. MADURAI MEENAKSHI AMMAN TEMPLE 

The Sri Meenakshi Temple is nearly synonymous with Madurai and is probably the most popular location to visit in the city. Goddess Meenakshi (an avatar of Goddess Parvati) and her spouse Sundareshwarar or Lord Shiva are the presiding deities here. The temple is a magnificent piece of Dravidian architecture and its rich work of art. It is encircled by four gopurams and houses almost 33,000 statues. The Thousand Pillars Hall is a stunning edifice that is well worth paying a visit.

2. POTTERY VILLAGE OF VILLACHERRY

Consider taking a one-day tour of Villacherry Village, also known as the pottery village. Villacherry, sunburned and drowsy, resembles any other archetypal Indian village. Interact directly with the people and see their craft and pottery artwork with incredible precision. A visit to the Villacherry Pottery Village must be there in your list of  tourist attractions in Madurai. 

3. ANCIENT MADURAI STUDIO

There’s something so nostalgic about the good old days. So what is it that draws us to the antique collectibility? Whether you know the answer or not, if you are an ardent admirer of bronze and  brass antiques  visiting Ancient Madurai Studio would be a delightful experience for you. Whether you are looking for antique home decor, brass pooja kits, beautiful figurines of deities, brass kitchen tools, or even pooja accessories, this shop has it all! So go on and collect as many favourites as you find there, and scratch them off your decor list!

What’s more, proceeds from all sales at Ancient Madurai are directed towards the Little Moppet Heart Foundation , an NGO that works towards providing quality medical care and free heart surgeries to underprivileged children who have Congenital Heart Disease. 

4. CHITHIRAI FESTIVAL

  Madurai is one of India’s oldest cities, having been mentioned in the  Periplus of the   Erythraean   Sea , written in the first century by a Greek sailor. The Meenakshi Sundareshwarar temple’s ongoing Chithirai festival is one such attraction that you can’t miss while creating a list of  tourist attractions in Madurai . The event usually begins in April with the raising of the temple flag and is followed by full-fledged festivities.

The idols of Goddess Meenakshi and her spouse Sundareshwarar are carried in a well-decorated chariot. It is then moved around in a procession with loud music and drum beats. People offer flowers, coconuts, camphor, and incense sticks to the parade as it moves through the city streets. 

The festival is celebrated with great fervour and excitement, just like a real wedding. The festivities have expanded throughout the city, with worshippers crowding the streets. Many people travel from nearby towns and states to attend this festival. The coronation, procession, celestial wedding of God and Goddess, temple chariot procession, and the coronation offer a wholesome experience for a lifetime. 

5. VAIGAI RIVER

A trip to Tamil Nadu is incomplete without some serene sightseeing like the Vaigai River and Dam. Located near Aundipatti, 55 kilometres from Gudalur, the Vaigai Dam is one of the main  tourist attractions in Madurai . It has a height of 106 feet, a length of 11,675 feet, and a water storage capacity of 71 feet. The dam is notable for its lights on Saturday and Sunday evenings and the garden surrounding it. 

6. VANDIYUR MARIAMMAN TEPPAKULAM

Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam is affiliated with the Vandiyur Mariamman Temple and is a major tourist attraction in Madurai. It is mostly utilised for religious purposes and features a man-made island in the centre. It draws thousands of worshipers despite being barely 2 kilometres from the famous Meenakshi Sundareswara Temple. This temple tank, which draws its water from the River Vaigai, is one of the largest temple tanks not only in Tamil Nadu but also in South India.

7. SAMANAR HILLS

Samanar Hills is located near Keelakuyilkudi village, 12 kilometres from Madurai. The Archaeological Survey of India has designated it as a protected monument. This hill has a long back story of historical and religious significance, dating back to the first century A.D. Some inscriptions on the rocks here mention the existence of Jain monks who are claimed to have dwelt in the caves. Along with their religious significance, the Samanar Hills are known for their breathtaking scenery.

8. TRIMURTHI CAVE

Trimurti Cave is a remarkable example of Dravidian architecture from the eighth century. You can find a three rock cut temples constructed on a hundred foot high cliff here. It features portions dedicated to each of the Hindu trinity gods of Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva or Maheshwara in a sequential order.

The sculpture and architecture style is a wonderful work of art that also conveys an excellent impression of art and architecture from our past. You can’t miss including this cave in your list of  tourist attractions in Madurai. 

9. THIRUMALAI NAYAKKAR MAHAL

This stunning 17th century palace in the temple town of Madurai was erected by King Tirumala Nayaka and a classic fusion of Italian and Rajput styles! The Palace complex was once 4 times larger than what we can see today, and was once considered as the wonders of the South!

Tourist Attractions In Madurai : Things To Buy

1. THALAMPOO KUMKUM

Visiting Madurai and not buying some  Thalampoo Kumkum  is just not happening! If you are one of the tourists who never miss the unique features and attractions of a place, like the brass and  bronze decors , Thalampoo Kumkum also tops the list of this city’s specialities. The benefits of using Thalampoo Kumkum powder are unmatched:

• It has a distinct aroma that comes from a combination of selected turmeric and thazhampoo (Screw Pine flower) natural extract.
• It will be a great accessory for your pooja room as Padigaram & Venkaram help create a spiritual atmosphere and an aroma with numerous medical benefits.
• It contains no chemicals and is entirely homemade; therefore, there are no signs of allergy, irritation, or itchiness if you apply the Kumkum instead of the commercial ones.

2. THE MAGNIFICENCE OF MADURAI SUNGUDI SAREES 

Just when you were thinking Madurai is not a great shopping destination in terms of adding something new to your wardrobe, we dropped the hint- you can’t miss the glory of  sungundi sarees  while visiting the amazing place. The ringing of temple bells, the aroma of jasmine, and the wonderful sungudi sarees are what make Madurai such a lovely place. Every weave has a story to tell, making each saree a work of art that you can flaunt.

Grace, beauty, and ease are the essence of a magnificent sungudi saree, which integrates the art of elegance into one. Sungudi sarees are typically available in a variety of brilliant and subdued colors such as scarlet, olive, yellow, and blue. The borders and end-pieces of a traditional sungudi saree are usually a different color from the main body of the saree. Borders frequently feature a zari pattern with complementary warp threads.

3. MADURAI MALLIGAI

A vibrant tourist attraction like Madurai is never complete without some natural wonders like Madurai Malli, a special kind of Jasmine flower, mainly known for its surprisingly appealing scent. Madurai Malli is the name given to it because of its birthplace, Madurai. At least once in their lives, every woman in Tamil Nadu has adorned her hair with this lovely flower. How about flaunting a Sungundi saree with a Malligai flower in your hair?

Tourist Attractions In Madurai: All You Can Eat

1. JIGARTHANDA 

You can’t complete your trip without some authentic foods and drinks when in Madurai and Jigarthanda must be a part of your culinary adventure. Manner syrups, badam pisin, condensed milk, and ice cream are used to make this drink. It is necessary to soak this badam pisin overnight in order to boost the volume of the drink. It helps to alleviate constipation and increase weight. This jigarthanda must be served chilled soon after creating the glass with badam pisin and other components.

2. MADURAI IDLI

All South Indians love these fluffy little breakfast delights for how easy they are to prepare and eat as well! With a good serving of coconut and red chutney, this simple breakfast option is a go-to, especially for busy days.

Madurai Idli, in particular, is served super soft and piping hot with podi or wet chutney on the side.

3. KEERAI VADA

Made from scratch with crushed Urad dal, Mulmurungai leaves, cumin, and pepper, this hearty doughnut-shaped deep-fried snack makes for the perfect tea-time accompaniment. It is readily available at street stalls during the evenings and is served as is or with sides. 

4. PARUTHI PAAL

This yummy and nutritious drink is made not from milk, but from cotton seed extract. It is mixed with coconut milk, fragrant spices such as cardamom and ginger and sweetened with jaggery or sugar. During the hot summers, this refreshing drink is served cold by street vendors scattered about the temple city. 

Apart from the places, foods and activities listed above, there are several historic sites to visit in Madurai. Madurai welcomes guests from all walks of life. This city is worth seeing during your holiday because of its ancient monuments, busy markets, authentic Tamil cuisines, friendly and cooperative people everywhere, and a nice environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the ideal time to visit madurai.

Although Madurai may be visited at any time of year, the months of October to March are ideal for a trip. Because of the hot and dry climatic conditions in the summer, people prefer to visit Madurai in the winter.

How do I get to Madurai?

Madurai is accessible all year through railways, highways, and the airline network that connects it to global destinations. From wherever in the country, you can fly to Madurai Airport. This airport has excellent connections to all of India’s main cities. Chennai, the largest metropolitan city in Tamil Nadu, is the closest international airport.

What Are The Nightlife Activities in Madurai?

Madurai is a bustling city that is active at all hours of the day and night. While roaming, you can discover amazing cuisines and entertainment options. Markets are open till late at night, so go exploring with your friends and family.

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Reader interactions.

March 23, 2024 at 3:01 am

oh, nice collection of information on madurai. Chithirai festival is a ten-day long festival which is a prominent festival in Madurai. There are lots of floating population from nearby villages to watch this festival. Also, Madurai Alaganalloor Jallikattu(bull-taming event) is yet another famous event in Madurai during January month.

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Top 10 Hidden Places to Visit in Madurai: Exploring the Cultural Gems of Tamil Nadu

Welcome to Madurai, a city steeped in history, vibrant traditions, and architectural grandeur. Located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India, Madurai is often called the "Athens of the East" due to its rich cultural heritage. Let's embark on a virtual journey and explore the top 10 places to visit in Madurai, where each destination unravels captivating stories of the past.

1. Meenakshi Amman Temple: A Divine Abode

No visit to Madurai is complete without experiencing the awe-inspiring Meenakshi Amman Temple. This magnificent temple complex dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar is a marvel of Dravidian architecture. As you enter through the towering gopurams (entrance towers), you'll be greeted by intricate carvings depicting mythological tales. The temple's main shrine showcases the striking image of Goddess Meenakshi adorned with jewelry and garlands. With its sacred ambiance and bustling atmosphere, Meenakshi Amman Temple tops the list of must-visit places in Madurai.

2. Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal: A Royal Extravaganza

Step into the bygone era of Madurai's royal heritage at Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal. Built in the 17th century by King Thirumalai Nayakkar, this palace complex mesmerizes visitors with its Indo-Saracenic architecture. As you wander through the grand halls and spacious courtyards, you'll witness the regal opulence that once graced this palace. Don't miss the sound and light show in the evening, where the palace comes alive with colorful lights and narrates the tales of its glorious past.

3. Gandhi Memorial Museum: A Tribute to the Father of the Nation

Immerse yourself in the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi at the Gandhi Memorial Museum. Housed in the historic Tamukkam Palace, this museum showcases an extensive collection of photographs, letters, and personal belongings of the revered leader. The highlight of the museum is the bloodstained garment worn by Gandhi when he was assassinated. The serene surroundings and the well-preserved artifacts make it a significant place to visit in Madurai for history enthusiasts and admirers of the Mahatma.

4. Alagar Koyil: Where Divinity Meets Serenity

Escape the bustling city and venture to the picturesque hills of Alagar Koyil. Nestled amidst lush greenery, Alagar Koyil is home to the beautiful Alagar Kovil Temple, dedicated to Lord Alagar (Vishnu). The temple's intricate carvings and serene ambience make it one of the must-visit places in Madurai. As you ascend the steps, you'll be greeted by the mesmerizing sight of the presiding deity, adorned with vibrant flowers and jewels. The temple's annual festival, Chithirai Thiruvizha, is a grand spectacle where Lord Alagar is taken in a procession to Madurai's Meenakshi Amman Temple. The vibrant festivities and the panoramic views from the hill make Alagar Koyil a tranquil retreat for spiritual seekers and nature lovers alike.

5. Koodal Azhagar Temple: An Architectural Marvel

Prepare to be awestruck by the architectural brilliance of Koodal Azhagar Temple. This ancient Vaishnavite temple showcases a fusion of Dravidian and Vijayanagara architectural styles. The intricately carved pillars, ornate sculptures, and beautifully painted ceilings transport you to a bygone era. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is believed to possess immense spiritual significance. With its serene atmosphere and architectural splendor, Koodal Azhagar Temple is a hidden gem among the places to visit in Madurai.

6. Mariamman Teppakulam: A Sacred Tank of Legends

Delve into the legends and myths surrounding Mariamman Teppakulam, a magnificent temple tank spread over an area of 16 acres. According to folklore, the water in this tank was sourced from the holy river Ganges by King Thirumalai Nayakkar himself. The highlight of the tank is the grand float festival held during the Tamil month of Thai, where the deities of Meenakshi Amman and Lord Sundareswarar are taken on a celestial boat ride. The sheer expanse of the tank and the vibrant festivities make Mariamman Teppakulam a captivating spot for both locals and tourists.

7. Pazhamudir Solai: A Hill Temple Surrounded by Nature

Nestled amidst the lush hills of Solaimalai, Pazhamudir Solai is a serene hill temple dedicated to Lord Murugan. As you trek up the hill, you'll be enchanted by the breathtaking vistas of verdant valleys and cascading waterfalls. The temple's tranquil atmosphere and the intricate sculptures depicting the life of Lord Murugan create an aura of divinity. Legend has it that Lord Murugan himself planted the six sacred trees surrounding the temple, adding to its mystical charm. Pazhamudir Solai is not just a place of worship, but a sanctuary of natural beauty that enchants visitors.

8. Vaigai Dam: The Lifeline of Madurai

Experience the marvels of engineering and behold the beauty of nature at Vaigai Dam. Built across the river Vaigai, this dam serves as a lifeline for irrigation in the region. The sprawling reservoir formed by the dam offers a serene retreat for those seeking tranquility. Surrounded by lush greenery, the dam provides a picturesque backdrop for picnics and leisurely strolls. The panoramic views of the tranquil waters and the distant mountains create a sense of serenity that rejuvenates the soul.

9. Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam: A Majestic Water Reservoir

Another spectacular temple tank awaits you at Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, spread over an expansive area of 16 acres. This colossal tank, with its steps leading down to the water, is a sight to behold. During the annual float festival, the tank comes alive as the deities are placed on a grandly decorated float, which is then pulled across the tank by devotees. The vibrant celebrations, accompanied by traditional music and the mesmerizing sight of the illuminated tank, create an enchanting atmosphere that leaves visitors spellbound. Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam is not just a religious landmark, but a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Madurai.

10. Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple: A Rock-Cut Wonder

Perched atop a rocky hill, Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple is a magnificent rock-cut temple dedicated to Lord Murugan. As you climb the steps, you'll witness the remarkable architecture blending seamlessly with the natural rock formations. The inner sanctum, carved out of the rock, houses the deity of Lord Murugan, exuding an aura of divinity and mystique. The temple is also believed to be the site of Lord Murugan's wedding with Devasena, adding to its mythological significance. The panoramic views from the hilltop and the spiritual ambiance make Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple a must-visit destination in Madurai.

Madurai, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, beckons travelers with its rich heritage, captivating temples, and vibrant traditions. From the awe-inspiring Meenakshi Amman Temple to the serene hills of Pazhamudir Solai, each destination holds a story waiting to be discovered. As you explore these top 10 places to visit in Madurai, immerse yourself in the city's history, marvel at its architectural wonders, and embrace the spiritual essence that permeates the air. Madurai is a treasure trove of cultural gems, inviting you to embark on a journey that will leave an indelible mark on your heart and soul.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the cultural tapestry of Madurai. The city's rich heritage, architectural marvels, and spiritual sanctuaries await your exploration. Discover the charm of Madurai, where history comes alive and traditions thrive amidst the vibrant hues of Tamil Nadu.

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An Unforgettable Journey: Must-Visit Places In Madurai

Located in South India, Madurai is a radiant gem that adorns Tamil Nadu 's cultural crown. Captivating tourists with its beautiful temples, lively markets, and rich traditions, this old city is steeped in history and mythology. The city’s spiritual aura, represented by the sacredness of its temples, blends in seamlessly with the vibrant street life and the aroma of traditional South Indian cuisine. As you wander through its winding lanes and discover its historical sites, Madurai invites you to immerse yourself in its history's timeless charm and people's warmth.

Meenakshi Amman Temple

Nestled in the heart of Madurai, the Meenakshi Amman Temple stands as a testament to centuries of architectural prowess. This temple is a symbolic celebration of the love between Princess Meenakshi, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati and Lord Sundareswarar, which dates back more than 2500 years.

Stepping into the temple grounds, you are greeted by fourteen towering Gopurams intricately carved with stories of mythical deities. Both gods have a shrine dedicated to them at this temple, called the Amman and Swami Koyils. Another stunning example of this Dravidian-style temple is The Hall of Thousand Pillars, which mesmerises visitors with its myriad sculpted columns, yet another example of architectural brilliance. 

Hosting vibrant festivals like the Meenakshi Thirukalyanam, the temple echos with sounds of prayers and bells, enveloping visitors in a spiritual aura. A visit to the museum inside the temple complex completes the experience with a glimpse into  Madurai's cultural and historical past.

Timings : 9 am to 7 pm

Pudhu Mandapam

Erected during the reign of the Nayak dynasty in the 16th century, Pudhu Mandapam serves both as a historical monument as well as a bustling shopping area. This spacious hall close to the Meenakshi Amman Temple was historically used as a venue for trade and commerce. 

Take a break from temple hopping and explore Pudhu Mandapam. Amid massive stone pillars, vendors set up numerous stalls selling anything from brassware and stoneware to wooden toys and fabric. Haggle for the best bargains for souvenirs in this historic setting surrounded by 124 pillars with intricate carvings of scenes from Hindi mythology. 

Enjoy the architectural style featuring a blend of the Nayaka and Vijaynagar styles of architecture as you stroll down this ancient pavilion in the heart of Madurai.

Timings : 9 am to 8:30 pm

Gandhi Museum

One of India's most extensive Gandhi Sangrahalayas, the museum is located in the famous Tamukkam Palace, which dates back to the Nayak Dynasty in the 17th  century. Many of Mahatma Gandhi's personal items are on display here. This even includes a piece of the blood-stained loin cloth he was wearing when he was assassinated. Gandhi's letter addressed to Adolf Hitler as "Dear Friend" is among the other artefacts kept here.

The museum includes several galleries dedicated to Gandhi’s philosophy, his role in the Indian Freedom movement, and his life journey. This museum not only stands as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy but also includes information on several lesser-known freedom fighters from the local area of Madurai. The museum hosts several special exhibitions and immersive events throughout the year.

Timings : 10 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 5:45 pm

Thirumalai Nayak Palace

Built in 1635 as the royal abode of King Thirumalai Nayak, this palace showcases an intricate fusion of Dravidian and Islamic architectural designs. An Italian architect designed this palace which contains two main parts- Swarga Vilasam (celestial pavilion) and Ranga Vilasam (dancing hall). The stuccowork on its imposing edifice is worth admiring. 

The palace complex was originally four times larger than its current size. Though only a fraction remains today, it still stands testimony to the architectural prowess and grandeur of a bygone era. Located 2 km Southeast of the Meenakshi Temple, this palace was renovated several times and is now maintained by the Tamil Nadu Archaeological Department.

Timings : 9  am to 1 pm, 1:30 pm to 5 pm and 6 pm to 8:30 pm

Azhagar Kovil

Azhagar Kovil, also known as Alagar Koil, is situated at the foothills of the Alagar Hills, a few kilometres from Madurai. This temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is set in what remains of an old fort, adding to the area's unique character. The principal deity of this temple is Paramaswamy, the brother of Goddess Meenakshi. According to mythology, this avatar of Vishnu descended to earth to give away Meenakshi’s hand in marriage to Lord Shiva.  

This Vaishnavite temple is famous for its beautiful sculptures and exquisite Mandapams. The main gopuram at the entrance is believed to have been built by the Pandyan rulers and rises spectacularly vibrant among the lush green forests that surround it. This shrine, tucked away in the hills, is a calm, serene abode of faith that you must visit while in Madurai. Try to visit during the float festival or Navarathri to see the temple in all its glory.

Timings : 6  am to 12:30  pm and 3:30 pm to 8  pm

Yanaimalai Hill

Yanaimalai, also known as Elephant Hill, is stunning in its majesty. Standing at an elevation of about 850 feet above sea level, this elephant-shaped structure offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. 

Yanaimalai is one of the most popular attractions in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. It is believed that Jain monks lived here during the Pandyan dynasty. At the top of the hill, one can find caves full of unique bas-relief sculptures of important Jain figures - Mahavira, Gomateshwara and other Tirthankars. The Narasimha Temple and Ladan Koil Temple can be located at its foothills. The hill is rich in granite and has been damaged by illegal quarrying. Despite this, Yanaimalai is the perfect spot for a little trek to get a glimpse into the life of the earliest Jain monks in the region.

Villacherry Pottery Village

Opt for a one-day guided tour of the Villacherry Village, also called Pottery Village. As you stroll down this sun-drenched and sleepy Indian village, you will spot entire families sitting outside, creating a wide array of pottery, from pots and vessels to jars and figurines. Villacherry has a rich legacy of making terracotta clayware. 

Visitors to this small town can Interact personally with the villagers and observe them first-hand as they skillfully manoeuvre clay into stunning artefacts. Tourists can also engage in hands-on experiences of creating a one-of-a-kind piece to carry home as a memory of their visit to Villacherry. 

A trip to the Villacherry Pottery Village promises to be an immersive experience that will make your trip to Madurai even more memorable.

Getting There

The main city of Madurai is only 10 km from the airport and has excellent connectivity to all of India's major cities. If you're looking to travel by train, direct trains depart from several Indian cities. Trains to Madurai leave every day from Chennai and take around seven hours to reach. The Vaigai Express, which runs nonstop between Madurai and Chennai Egmore, is the fastest train on the route.

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14 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Madurai

• Madurai Overview
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Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple

#1 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

At a distance of 2 km from Madurai Junction Railway Station, the historic Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple also called Meenakshi Amman Temple, is a sacred Hindu temple located in Madurai. It is one of the biggest and most popular temples in India , and among the must-visit places as part of Madurai trip . Dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Siva, the temple is considered an architectural marvel. It was shortlisted as one of the top 30 nominees for New Seven Wonders of the World. It is one of the the prime places to visit in Madurai . The Madurai temple forms the heart and lifeline of Madurai city which is 2,500 years old. The original temple was built by Kulasekara Pandya, but the initiative to rebuild the structure was taken by the first Nayak king of Madurai, Viswanatha Nayak (1559-1600) under the .....

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Thirumalai Nayak Mahal

#2 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

At a distance of 3 km from Madurai Junction Railway Station and 1 km from Meenakshi Temple, Thirumalai Nayak Mahal is an ancient palace situated in Madurai. It is one of the popular places of heritage in Tamilnadu , and among the major Madurai tourist places . Thirumalai Nayak Mahal was constructed in the Indo-Saracen style by Thirumalai Nayak in the year 1636. After Independence, this palace was declared as a national monument and to date continues to be one of the spectacular monuments of Southern India. It is one of the must include places in Madurai packages . The original palace complex was four times bigger than the present structure. The palace was designed by an Italian architect. The main palace is divided into two parts, Swargavilasa and Rangavilasa and only the Swargavilasa is survived today. .....

Koodal Alagar Temple

#3 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

At a distance of 1 km from Madurai Junction Railway Station & 1.5 km Meenakshi Temple, The Koodal Alagar Temple, also known as Arulmigu Koodalazhagar Thirukoil, is another important temple in Madurai and among prime sightseeing to be included in your Madurai Trip . Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this temple is believed to be older than the Meenakshi temple. It is one of the important places to visit in Madurai . A unique feature of this temple is the three different postures of the same God. The three figures of Vishnu are in standing, sitting and reclining postures. These three figures of the deity are known by three different names. The most venerated of the three figures is Lord Vishnu in the seated posture. The seated Lord Vishnu is locally known as Lord Koodal Alagar from whom the temple derives its name. The reclining idol is known as Sri Ranganatha. Sri .....

Thirupparankundram Temple

#4 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

At a distance of 8 km from Madurai Junction Railway Station, Thiruparankundram Temple, also known as Tirupparamkunram Murugan Kovil is renowned for its 8th century rock cut cave temple dedicated to Lord Murugan (Subrahmanya). It is one of the major sacred places to visit in Madurai. Tirupparankundram Temple is one of the six abodes of Murugan and considered as the first and foremost temple of Lord Muruga. Several myths and legends are associated with this temple and one of them says that it is at this place that the Lord Muruga defeated the demon Surapadman and got married to Deivayani, daughter of the king of heaven, Indra and worshipped Lord Shiva. The main shrine is an early rock cut temple which has cells that house the sanctums of Subramanya, Durga, Vinayakar, Shiva and Vishnu. There are several mandapas in this temple known as Kambathadi Mandapam, Ardha Mandapam, and Mahamandapam situated at different levels connected by steps. There are several architectural features .....

Alagar Koil

#5 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

At a distance of 21 km north-east of Madurai, Alagar Koil is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu situated on a picturesque wooded hill. It is one of the major temples in Tamilnadu and an important pilgrimage site near Madurai city. The temple is the abode of Lord Vishnu and is the sacred place for several followers of Lord Vishnu in the region. It is situated in the Alagar hills and is also known as Azhagar Kovil. Here 'Vishnu' presides as Meenakshi's brother 'Azhagar'. The statue of the lord is made of stone and is a great masterpiece created from kallalgar. Several different statues in different postures of the Lord are all kept in the temple under the same roof and it is the best form of distinct temples in southern India. The impressive main tower at the entrance is believed to have been built by the Pandyan Kings. Jatavarman Sundara Pandyan (1251-1270 AD) has beautified the 'vimana' with gold plates. Later, during the reign .....

Srivilliputhur Andal Temple

#6 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

At a distance of 80 km from Madurai and 100 km from Tirunelveli, Srivilliputhur Andal Temple is an ancient Hindu temple situated at Srivilliputhur in Virudhunagar district of Tamilnadu. This is one of the popular temples in Tamilnadu and also one of the 108 divya desams of Lord Vishnu. The 11 tier Raja gopuram is the tallest in Tamilnadu and is also the Emblem of Tamil Nadu Government. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped as Vatapatrasayi and his consort Lakshmi as Andal. It is believed to be the birthplace of two of the Alwars, namely Periazhwar and his foster daughter Andal. The Alwars lived in 8th century, so that the existence of the temple can be traced even before. Vatapatra Sayanar Temple was constructed by the King Villi who ruled the place. The tall temple tower was constructed by Peria Alwar with the help provided by the Pandian king Vallabadevan (765-815 AD). The Andal Shrine had been constructed by different kings of Pandya dynasty at different times. .....

Gandhi Museum

#7 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

At a distance of 4 km from Madurai Junction Railway Station, Gandhi Museum is a museum situated in Madurai. It is one of the popular museums in Tamilnadu, and among the prime places to visit as part of Madurai tour packages . The Gandhi Memorial Museum in Madurai was established in 1959 as a tribute to the efforts of our father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi. It is one of the five great Gandhi Museums in the country which depict the life of the Father of the nation and India's freedom struggle from 1757 until 1947. Located in the heart of Madurai city, the museum is one of the best Madurai places to visit as it houses a wealth of remarkable mementoes associated with Indian history. The museum building is a former 17th-century palace constructed by Nayak Queen Rani. Gandhi Museum comes under the Peace Museums Worldwide selected by the United Nations .....

Vandiyur Mariamman Temple

#8 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

At a distance of 5 Kms from Madurai Junction Railway Station (on NH 49, towards the banks of Vaigai river), Vandiyur Mariamman Temple is built in the memory of Lord Vigneshwara. It is a popular temples near Madurai city. It has a huge tank in the compound of the temple and is the biggest tank in the region of Tamil Nadu. The tank is filled with water all year long and the idol of the temple too was obtained from the bottom of the tank, while it was dug in the olden times and hence the temple was constructed at that place itself. So the tank gained its popularity since then and the temple too was constructed in its memory. Float festival is conducted in the month of Jan/Feb in the tank in a colourful way, which attracts thousands of tourists. Timings: 8 AM to 7 PM

#9 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

At a distance of 12 kms from Madurai, Narasingam is famous for the Cave temple of Yoga Narasinga Perumal constructed in 770 AD by Madurakavi who was the minister of the Madurai King Paraanthaka Nedunchelzyan. The sculpture of Narasinga Perumal is carved out of the Aanaimalai Hill rocks. This temple is a good example of the cave sculpturing of the Pandya Kingdom. In front of this there is a stone temple for the goddess Sri Narasingavalli. To the west of Narasinga Perumal temple, there is another cave temple constructed in 8th century AD by Pandia King. In this temple the deity Muruga and the goddess Devasena are seen. On the outer wall of this temple the sculptures of the cock and peacocks are formed beautifully.

Pazhamudhir Solai

#10 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

At a distance of 23 kms north-east of Madurai (4 Kms from Alagar Koil), Pazhamudhir Solai is a beautiful temple created in the memory of Lord Subramaniya who is worshipped by several people in southern India. It has great sculptures of lord subramaniya encarved in wood and marble and is a wonderful temple with giant steps in the front of it. People worship the temple by moving across the periphery of the temple a several number of times, with the hope that their wish would come true. It is the giant temple of Lord subhramaniya in southern India and one of the most beautiful too. It is located on the hills of Alagar koil. Timings: Not Available.

#11 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

At a distance of 70 km from Madurai, Vaigai Dam is a giant dam situated at Andipatti near Madurai. It is one of the popular places to visit during your Madurai Trip . The Vaigai Dam is built in the year 1959 across the Vaigai River. The dam measures 111 ft in height and the total storage capacity is 6,143 mcft. Counted as one of the most famous tourist places near Madurai , the dam has been the lifeline of the agricultural lands in the districts of Madurai and Dindigul. It also provides drinking water to Madurai and Andipatti. Near the dam, the Government of Tamil Nadu has constructed an Agricultural Research Station to research on a wide variety of crops including cereals and pulses. There is a beautiful garden known as Little Brindavan for visitors. The garden has a variety of exotic flowers and plants. It also harbours a musical fountain that .....

Kumbakkarai Waterfalls

#12 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

At a distance of 8 km from Periyakulam, 78 km from Thekkady, and 85 km from Madurai, the Kumbakkarai Waterfall is a scenic waterfall situated near Madurai. Located close to Madurai - Kodaikanal road, it is one of the popular waterfalls in tamilnadu , and among the must include places in Madurai tour packages . Situated at the foothills of the Kodaikanal hills, the Kumbakkarai Falls cascades down from a height of about 87 feet in two layers. In the first stage, the water comes greeting the rocks that are given names of wild animals like elephant, snake, tiger to name a few. In the next stage, the water flows for a straight 0.5 km and then hugs the Kumbakkarai cascade. It is one of the most prominent Madurai sightseeing places . Even though the waterfall is not as renowned as the other popular waterfalls .....

Suruli Waterfalls

#13 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

At a distance of 123 kms from Madurai, 22 Kms from Thekkady (via Gudalur & Karuna Muthevan Patti), 10 Kms from Kambam (via Suruli Patti) & 548 Kms from Chennai, Suruli Falls are situated amidst rich flora fauna and serve as a perfect picnic spot. The falls originate from the Megamalai hills and descend from a height of 150 feet. They are surrounded by the astounding beauty of the dense forest. The best feature of Suruli Falls is that they are round-the-year Falls, best time is June to October. The falls serve as the venue of Summer Festival, organized every year by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Department. The Kailasanathar Temple Cave is also an added attraction of the place. There are also other 18 caves in and around the Suruli Falls. The Kailasanatha temple and Suruli Velappar temple are also nearby the falls. The falls are reachable by road from Kambam and Gudalur towns. About 1-2 Kms trek through dense forest is required to reach the falls from nearest road.

#14 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

At a distance of 95 km from Dindigul, 117 km from Madurai, 162 km from Munnar, 169 km from Coimbatore, 253 km from Ooty, 272 km from Kochi, 469 km from Bangalore, & 528 km from Chennai, Kodaikanal, also referred to as Kodai is a beautiful hill station in the Dindigul district of Tamilnadu. It is one of the best hill stations not to miss in a South India tour and among the top places to visit in Tamilnadu . Often referred to as the 'Princess of Hill stations', Kodai is one of the popular places to visit in summer as part of honeymoon trip . It is situated at an altitude of about 7000 feet (2133 m) on the southern tip of the upper Palani hills. It has several scenic natural attractions which are enjoyed by its visitors and make it a popular romantic destination. Coaker's Walk, Silver Cascade, and Kodai Lake are among the must include ..... Distance (From Madurai): 106 Kms Trip Duration (From Madurai - Including Travel): 1-2 Days .....

Most Asked Questions on Madurai

Madurai can be visited through out the year, however, Winter season from October to March is the best time to visit Madurai . January to February & April to May is the Peak season in Madurai and often hotels run full and tourist places are crowded.

Madurai usually requires complete full day to visit the most important attractions. However, there are several wonderful places to visit around Madurai like Alagar Koil, Narasingam which usually take additional one day. Madurai can be mixed with near by wonderful destination like Thanjavur, Rameshwaram, Kanyakumari, Trichy and Chidambaram by adding few additional days to your trip.

Budget of Madurai trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Madurai tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 5000 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 8750 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Madurai like Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, Thirumalai Nayak Mahal, Koodal Alagar Temple, Thirupparankundram Temple, Narasingam and Alagar Koil. If you have time, you can dedicate a day to visit near by places like Rameshwaram, Kanyakumari.

Among the many attributes of the city that must be explored, shopping in the town is a worth having experience. Metal, bronze and aluminum vessels at Puthu Madapam, handicrafts at Avani Moola Street, variety of bangles at Bangle Merchants Street and Sungudi Sarees are the myst buy things in Madurai, known for its Jasmine flowers. Don't forget to try Palm heart from Street-side Vendors and Halwa wrapped on lotus leaf from Prema Vilas while in Madurai.

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Tourist Places to Visit in Madurai

6 Must-Visit Places In Madurai

If you are keen to visit a place that has a glorious past and a busy present with great temples that flaunt the architectural brilliance of the artisans, you need to be in Madurai. The 2500 plus years old city, which has a rich heritage, is located on the banks of Vaigai river. Famously called ‘ The city that never sleeps ’, Madurai is always busy regardless of the time of the day. Anytime you venture out, you are sure to find the city busy and even if you are hungry in the middle of the night, you will find ‘idlis’, the famous south Indian dish served here. Incidentally, Madurai is famous for idlis too. If you are planning to visit Madurai, ensure that you include the following six famous places to visit in Madurai in your “list”.

1. Sree Meenakshi Amman Temple

• Famous for:  Hinduism, Architecture, Parvati, Shiva.
• Tickets:  Free and 100 INR for VIP darshan.
• Opening Timings:  Open all days from 5AM – 12:30 PM & 4PM – 10PM
• Duration: 2 hours.

Sree Meenakshi Amman Temple is one of the most famous temples in South India. The huge temple that extends beyond 6 hectares of land is dedicated to god Shiva and it is named after goddess Parvati. The temple was constructed by Kulasekara Pandya. The temple has been mentioned in the songs sung by ancient saint as early as the 7th century. Invasion of Malik Kapur in 1310 resulted in the ancient temple being destroyed. When Hindu kings returned to power, the temple was restored and the present form is a contribution by Nayaks who ruled Madurai between 16th and 18th centuries. The thousand pillar hall is one of the amazing works in the temple that is famous for architectural brilliance. It is the temple’s museum and the statues here are exquisite.

Things to Do at Sree Meenakshi Amman Temple:

• Evening/Morning aarti.
• Hall of thousand pillars.
• Sacred temple tank (Porthamarai Kulam).
• Meenakshi Tirukalyanam festival (Apr/May).

2. Thirupparankundram Murugan Temple

• Famous for:  Hinduism, Architecture, Murugan.
• Tickets:  Entry free.
• Opening Timings:  Open all days from 5:30AM–1PM & 4PM–9PM

Thirupparankundram gains importance as it is one of the six places chosen by god Murugan as his abode. It is said that this was where Lord Murugan married Devasena. It is also considered as the place where sun and moon abide. This cave temple is dedicated to the element of earth among the five elements and various Tamil classical texts mention this hill as ‘Southern Himalaya’. It might interest you to learn that the hill not only houses Murugan temple but also an Islamic Shrine, which is dedicated to Sekunder. The architecture is amazing.

Things to Do at Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple:

• Skanda Shashti festival during Oct-Nov.
• Morning and evening aarti.

3. Gandhi Museum

• Famous for:  History, Gandhi, Freedom struggle.
• Tickets:  No entry fee.
• Opening Timings:  Open all days from 10AM–1PM & 2PM–5:45PM.
• Duration: 1 hour.

Gandhiji and Madurai share a bond. It was after his visit to Madurai that Gandhi changed his dress code, which he followed until he met his end. Gandhi Museum was constructed in memory of Gandhiji after his assassination. The building, which houses the museum, was constructed around 1670 AD by Nayak Queen Rani. The construction was completed and inaugurated in 1959. The museum houses a Picture Gallery, which presents Gandhiji’s visual biography. The history of Freedom struggle is depicted with 265 illustrations in the Special Exhibition section. The ‘Hall of Relics’ preserves some original and replicas of Gandhi’s personal belongings. Cultural programmes are conducted in the open air theatre here, which can accommodate 8000 people. The library in Gandhi Museum has a vast collection detailing India’s cultural background and books by Gandhiji.

Things to Do at  Gandhi Museum

• Special exhibition on “India Fights for Freedom.”
• Visual Biography of Gandhiji.

4. Samanar Hills

• Famous for:  Caves, Jainism, History.
• Opening Timings:  Open at all times.
• Duration: 1 hour.

Samanar Hills is situated 10 km away from the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple. The caves found here were used by Samanar, the Jains. It is believed to belong to 1 AD. The Jain carvings found here are amazing and so are the sculptures. The hilltop offers splendid view of Madurai. A natural fountain that is ancient is found here and it is called Pechchi Pallam. It is a great place to spend considerable time in solitude.

Things to Do at Samanar Hills:

• Lotus pond.
• Ancient natural fountain.

5. Koodal Azhagar Temple

• Famous for:  Hinduism, Temples, Vishnu.
• Opening Timings:  Open daily from 5AM – 12:30 PM & 4PM – 10PM.
• Duration:  2 hour.

Koodal Azhagar temple is considered one of the ancient temples in South India. It is dedicated to god Vishnu. It is situated 2 km away from the city’s west. Madurai has a rich past and its contributions to language, art and culture are very famous. Koodal Azhagar temple is one such proof of the architectural excellence of the ancient period. The architecture, the sculptures and the paintings are beyond description.

Things to Do at Koodal Azhagar Temple:

• Fourteen-day annual Brahmotsavam festival.
• Morning/Evening aarti.

6. Pazhamudhir Solai

• Tickets:  No entry free.
• Opening Timings:  Open all days from 5:30 AM – 1PM & 4PM – 9PM.

This is yet another famous temple dedicated to Lord Murugan and it is located on hill top. It is considered as one amongst the six abodes of god Murugan. The sculptures carved of marble and wood are unique. The giant steps in front of the temple make for a great climb. It is one of the most beautiful temples in South India.

7. Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

• Famous for:  Architecture,
• Opening Timings:  Open all days from 9AM to 5PM.

One of the most iconic buildings in Madurai, Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal is known for its majestic Indo-Dravidian architecture and beautiful interiors. The first king of the Nayak dynasty built this palace in the 16th century and it is also speculated that he hired an Italian architect to build this monument. Many things set this palace apart from other palaces in India, the unique architecture and the giant pillars being some of them.

Things to Do at Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal:

• Take a tour of the whole palace.
• Visit Meenakshi Amman Temple nearby.

This city of Tamilnadu is a vibrant city and there are a lot  of tourist places in Madurai . This city is connected with re-establishing the glory of the language Tamil and hence it is considered an important place by the people of Tamilnadu. Some of Madurai’s dishes are famous all over the world. You can have a great time enjoying the cultural heritage of the city and treat your taste buds with specialties of Madurai.

Other Major Tourist Destinations In Tamil Nadu:

• Top Tourist Destinations In Kanyakumari
• Top Tourist Destinations In Ooty
• Top Tourist Destinations In Valparai

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20 Best Places to Visit in Madurai:Explore the Ancient Temple Town

by middha on May 21, 2017

Madurai is Tamil Nadu’s second largest city and one of the best tourist destinations. It has a glorious past combined with the great variety of temples and great architectural treats. Madurai always delivers the best travelling experience to its visitors and tourists with its rich heritage and culture. Due to the architectural style in which most of the famous Madurai’s monuments are built, this place is also popularly known as ‘Athens of the East.’ Madurai is located on the banks of River Vaigai and is also called ‘city that never sleeps’. This means that the place can be visited irrespective of the time chosen. Here are the top 20 places to visit in Madurai.

20 Top-Notch Places to Visit in Madurai

1. meenakshi temple.

Meenakshi Temple

This temple is a must visit place in Madurai. When in Madurai you cannot miss visiting this temple else you will miss a chance to witness one of the greatest temples of the south. This temple is dedicated to God Shiva and is extended to a large area.

The architecture of the temple will surely leave you mesmerized. Other than the amazing views and architecture, the other major attraction that this temple has is Thousand Pillar Hall. People from around the world visit the place to have a look at this temple.

• Location : Madurai Main, Madurai
• Attractions : Hall of thousand pillars, morning and evening prayers, architecture and style, a sacred tank of the temple, etc.

Also check Hotels near Arapalayam Bus Stand Madurai

2. Puthu Mandapam

Puthu Mandapam (source)

This is yet another popular place which attracts the attention of the visitors. As it is just located opposite to the Meenakshi temple, people don’t have to put any such efforts to locate the place. It is a great place where people can find large varieties of fabrics, jewellery, handicrafts, scarves, accessories, etc.

You can totally rely on the quality of clothes and accessories bought from this place. The friendly environment and pleasant atmosphere of the place will help you to feel comfortable at the place.

• Attractions : Wide variety of handicrafts, clothes, accessories, etc.

3. Banana Market

Banana Market

Wondering how a banana market can be a popular place to visit? Well, with 16 varieties of banana to experience, you will never get this kind of thoughts again. Yes, you heard it right. You can find 16 different varieties of bananas in the marketplace of Madurai.

Observing the various activities that are done in the marketplace right from loading and unloading of bananas, visiting this place can be a totally different and fascinating experience in itself. There are a lot of things to observe at the place about the different varieties of bananas.

• Location : Rukmanipalayam, Madurai
• Attractions : Finding 16 different varieties of bananas and the nearby vegetable market.

4. Gandhi Memorial Museum

Gandhi Memorial Museum

As the name suggests, this popular museum of Madurai is dedicated to Gandhi Ji. It contains many memories of the legend including the shawl, dhoti, spectacles, etc. The place is open for the visitors to have a look at the various items that belonged to that legend during his lifetime.

Madurai museum is also famous amongst the tourist and visitors as the place contains Gandhi’s bloodstained dhoti of the Delhi’s assassination activity. As a matter of fact, Gandhi started wearing a dhoti in Madurai to support the national activities. Visiting this place, one can get all the needed information.

• Location : Gandhi Nagar, Madurai
• Attractions : To witness the various belongings of Gandhi Ji.

Also check Hotels near Anna Nagar Bus Stop Madurai

5. Murugan Idli Shop

Murugan Idli Shop (source)

Visiting any place is not completed if you don’t taste its special dishes. Isn’t it? Talking about Madurai, one of its favourite dishes is none other than Idli and to taste the best Idli in Madurai, one has to visit Murugan Idli Shop. This place has a south Indian ambience which makes a major attraction to the visitors.

The interiors of the place are kept simple so as to make the people feel comfortable. You will surely love the amazing food items of this place as all the dishes served here are delicious and mouth-watering.

• Attractions : Mouth-watering delicious food, admiring South Indian ambience.

6. Saint Mary’s Cathedral

Saint Mary’s Cathedral

It is one of the oldest churches located in Madurai which was originally built in the year 1840. The architecture of the church is one of the major attractions of the place along with the peaceful surroundings which can relax your body and mind. To enhance the beauty of the church, it was reconstructed in the year 1916.

You will find the perfect blend of European and Continental culture and style. The two large bell towers in the church also catch the attention of the visitors. It is one of the most-visited places in Madurai.

• Location : Balarengapuram, Madurai
• Attractions : Architecture of the church, peaceful surroundings, bell towers, mix of European and Continental culture.

Also check Hotels near Aravind Eye Hospital Madurai

7. Thirumalai Nayak Palace

Thirumalai Nayak Palace

This is yet another attraction that makes Madurai famous and popular amongst the tourists and visitors. This palace which was built in the year 1636 is an amazing place to visit when in Madurai. This palace was the residence of the king Thirumalai and represented some amazing architecture and interiors.

The great entry hall, more than 200 pillars, dance hall, courtyard and the audience hall, all attracted the people with their charm. Although most of the original architecture of the place is not same, the remaining structure still reflects the true beauty of the palace.

• Location : Near Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
• Attractions : Admiring the rich interiors and architecture of the palace, witnessing the beauty of the place.

8. Keelakuyilkudi and Samanar Hills

Samanar Hills

If you are a fan of varieties of sculptures and are looking for a place where you can find some amazing quality of sculptures, then this is the right place to visit. Highlighting one of the attractions of this place is the mud horses which are painted in bright colours which instantly catch the attention of the people.

Apart from the attractive mud horse, you can find some amazing Jain Sculptures and a number of village temples. The village festival that happens every year is another popular highlight that makes this place popular amongst the tourists.

• Location : Sholavandan NH, Madurai
• Attractions : Jain sculptures, mud horses, village festivals, village temples, Jain Caves, etc.

Also check Hotels near Town Hall Road Madurai

9. Thiruparankundram

Thiruparankundram (source)

This place attracts most of the tourists and visitors to the famous and beautifully constructed temple of Lord Murugan. As the Hindu God Murugan is Tamil’s favourite God, the temple is constructed with amazing quality and detail. The architecture of the temple is something that you should not miss noticing.

If you move a little further, you will find the grave of Hazrat Sultan Sikandhar Badhusha – the famous Islamic saint. The peaceful surroundings near the grave and the temple are sufficient to give you a break from your daily stress.

• Location : Madurai Junction, Madurai
• Attractions : The architecture of the temple, the statue of Lord Murugan, the nearby market, etc.

10. Vilachery Pottery Village

Vilachery Pottery Village (source)

This place reflects the true beauty of even the small places in Madurai. The village of Vilachery hosts a small display or various idols of different God and goddess, especially Lord Ganesh. These idols are so beautifully made that you can stare at the varieties for hours and still not get bored.

You can walk through the village and admire all the different collections that the people of this small village have to offer to their visitors. This place is a bit crowded at the time of different festivals like Christmas.

• Location : Vilacheri, Madurai
• Attractions : Small yet attractive colourful idols of different Gods and Goddess.

Also check Hotels near District Courts Madurai

11. Pazhamudhir Solai

Pazhamudhir Solai (source)

This is another popular temple dedicated to Lord Murugan and thus is one of the most visited and popular tourist destinations in Madurai. The temple is located on top of the hill and thus has an amazing view to offer to all its visitors. The idol of Lord Murugan is extremely attractive in this temple and this becomes one another attraction of the temple.

You can reach the entry of the temple by following the giant steps present in front of the temple. These steps can make the climb a bit difficult but the climb is worthy enough.

• Location : Near Alagar Koil Temple, Madurai
• Attractions : Marble and wood carved sculptures, a statue of Lord Murugan, temple’s architecture, etc.

12. Koodal Azhagar Temple

Koodal Azhagar Temple (source)

It is one of the ancient temples of Madurai and is also one of the great attractions of the place. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is truly a reflection of beauty, pious ambience and a great relaxation. You can witness the great contribution of Madurai in the fields of art, language and culture by visiting this temple.

Without a doubt, this place is one of the true examples of architectural excellence that makes Madurai one of the favourable choices of the tourists. Make sure to visit this temple for knowing the beauty of Madurai in a better way.

• Location : Periyar, Madurai
• Attractions : The amazing and beautiful architecture of the temple, cultural, art, and language connection of the place.

Also check Hotels near Raja Muthiah Mandram Madurai

13. Alagar Kovil

Alagar Kovil (source)

It is a village located in the Madurai region. The simple living of the people of this place will surely attract you and you will love the calmness in their life along with the freshness of the air of this village. The local people of this village are welcoming and have a pleasing nature towards the tourists.

The other attraction which makes this place famous amongst the tourists is the Alagar Koil temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the most visited places in Madurai.

• Location : Madurai district
• Attractions : The simple and peaceful living of the villagers, the very beautiful Alagar Koil temple.

14. Vandiyur Mariamman Temple

Vandiyur Mariamman Temple (source)

This temple is one of the major attractions of Madurai. With great and excellent architecture, it has been an attraction which catches the attention of the visitors within an instant of time. The ambience of this temple is pure and sacred and one simply falls in love with the pious and fresh surroundings of this temple.

This temple is dedicated to the Goddess of rain, Mariamman and has a very beautiful and mesmerizing statue of the Goddess. Many devotees from the nearby places visit this temple for seeking the blessings of the Goddess.

• Location : Teppakulam, Madurai
• Attractions : The peaceful ambience of the temple, attractive statue of the Goddess, the unique architecture of the temple.

15. Narasingam

Narasingam (source)

Popularly known as the Gram Panchayat, this village in the Madurai region is another attraction for the tourists. The tourists can expect to witness and experience all the traditions and rituals of the village. You can also see the simple living of the people of the village along with many basic activities of the villagers.

The place is also an attraction due to the calmness and relaxation that people, tourists, and visitors feel at this place. The freshness and pure air can be the best way to relax from the daily stress and routine.

• Location : Madurai North, Madurai
• Attractions : The simple and fresh living of the people, relaxation, admiring natural beauty.

16. Vaigai Dam

Vaigai Dam (source)

This dam built on the Vaigai River is another popular attraction for the tourist. Despite the simple and clean design and architecture of this dam, it still manages to catch the attention of the tourists. The main reason for the attraction is the use of this dam for the agricultural use in the nearby village.

The dam is large in size and again attracts people due to its size and strength. Most of the nearby villagers use this dam for all their agricultural needs. One can see many people in this picturesque location of the dam.

• Location : Periyakulam, Madurai
• Attractions : Picturesque location nearby the dam, use of the dam for agricultural use.

17. Aayiram Kaal Mandapam

Aayiram Kaal Mandapam (source)

It is believed that if you have visited Madurai and not visited this place then your Madurai trip is not completed. People and tourists from all around the world visit this amazing and beautiful place to have a worth remembering experience of their life. It is one of the major attractions of Madurai.

To make this place amazing, the architecture of the place plays an important role. The structure of 1000 pillars reflects the excellence of architectural beauty and accuracy in this Mandapam. The details of the architecture of this place are worth noticing.

• Location : Inside Meenakshi Temple, Madurai
• Attractions : The architecture of 1000 pillars, the detailing of the carving of every little details, peaceful ambience and surroundings.

18. Narasingam Yoga Narasimha Perumal Temple

Narasingam Yoga Narasimha Perumal Temple (source)

This temple is one of the attractions of the Madurai city as it has a unique structure. The temple attracts its visitors and tourists with the rock carved statue of Narasimha inside a cave. The design of the statue is so fascinating and realistic that most of the people love the statue and its appearance.

Other than the brilliant work in the architecture, the temple also offers peaceful surroundings and relaxation to the people. You can visit the temple on Sundays for seeking the blessings of the Lord and also have a splendid time with your family.

• Location : Othakadai, Madurai
• Attractions : Rock carved statue of Lord Narasimha and the peaceful ambience.

19. Goripalayam Dargah

Goripalayam Dargah (source)

This is one of the largest Dargah or mosque present in Madurai which has been attracting the people ever since its construction. It is built on the Vaigai River and can be seen evidently from the A.V. Bridge. Throughout the year the place is visited by many tourists and visitors for seeking the blessings of the Almighty.

The mosque which was built in the 13th century has a great and rich architecture which never leaves a gap in impressing its visitors. People find pure and total relaxation in the peaceful surroundings of the Dargah.

• Location : Vaigai River Bank, Madurai
• Attractions : The peaceful and beautiful ambience of Madurai, memorizing architecture of the mosque.

20. Albert Victor Bridge or AV Bridge

Albert Victor Bridge

This very popular bridge in Madurai is a part of its rich heritage and culture. The bridge has been marking its presence in the region of Madurai for 126 years now and has been a major attraction pulling the tourists towards it.

The great architecture of the bridge along with the strength and picturesque location is one of the most visited places in Madurai. People from around the world visit this bridge for cherishing the rich cultural beauty of the place. This bridge is one of the few oldest bridges in Madurai which is making the place famous with every passing day.

• Location : Madurai
• Attractions : Mesmerizing view of nature, picturesque location, great architecture.

Madurai is one beautiful place to visit and these popular 12 places to visit in Madurai confirm that. These places will connect you to the variety of temples and their architectural beauty which will reflect the true side of Madurai sightseeing. Make sure that you cover all these places to have an amazing and exciting Madurai trip. Do tell us about your experience after visiting these famous tourist places in Madurai. Also, comment on the place you liked the most out of these options. We would love to hear from you.

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Famous Hindu Temples in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu is a state located in Southern India, known for its beauty, majestic hills, scenic lush green landscapes. Other than its mesmerizing scenery, Tamil Nadu is famous for its grand and ancient temples, festivals and rich cultural heritage and is often called “the land of temples”.

The popular temples in Tamil Nadu are embellished with great precision, they are carved with the scriptures of deities, mythological characters or celestial beings.

The pillared halls or Mandapas of these temples are large and can easily be occupied by quite a huge number of people gathering for ceremonies or rituals etc.

Other than the architectural treasure of these temples, there is so much more you should know while exploring Tamil Nadu.

Let’s learn more about these temples of Tamil Nadu in order to gain the spiritual experience you’re looking for:

Table of Contents

1- Meenakshi Amman Temple

• Deity : Goddess Parvati
• Climate:  Summer- 26°C to 40°C / Winter- 20°C – 29°C
• Best time to visit: October to February
• Timings: 5:00 am to 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm
• Entry fee: Free to enter
• Best ways to visit: Madurai Junction Railway Station, Madurai Airport, Mattuthavani Bus Stand (Nearest bus stand)

The centuries old Meenakshi Temple is one of most popular temples, located in the heart of Madurai, Tamil Nadu.  Known for its magnificence, precise carvings, and affluent cultural legacy.

It’s hard to believe but as a matter of fact, this temple was built in the early 16th century with the contribution of the Pandyas, Nayakas and others, special thanks to king Tirumalai Nayak under whose ruling the temple was made.

The main deities worshiped here are Meenakshi and Sundareswarar i.e Shiva and Shakti with great devotion and that is why the temple is also known as Meenakshi- Sundareshwar temple.

2- Ramanathaswamy Temple

• Deity : Lord Shiva
• Climate:  Summer- 27°C to 40°C / Winter- 20°C to 30°C
• Best time to visit: October to March
• Timings: 5:00 am to 01:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 09:00 pm
• Entry fee: VIP Darshan ticket: Rs.250, Spatika Darshan: Rs.50, 22 wells bath: Rs25 and Abhishekam: Rs.1500
• Best ways to visit: Rameshwaram Railway Station, nearest airport is Madurai.

Rameshwaram is a serene town situated in Tamil Nadu and the home to Ramanathaswamy temple where spirituality meets the architectural genius.

It is believed to be the holy spot where Shri Ram (Lord Rama) performed a Pooja dedicated to Shiva Lingam in order to cleanse himself of the guilt of killing Ravan, who was a Brahmin. Thus, making the spot pure divine.

Besides its spiritual roots, it also has an impressive architectural brilliance. in any Hindu temple. Lord Shiva is worshiped here in the form of Ramalingam and Vishwalingam. It is one of the best and must visit sites amongst the cultural and religious sites in Tamil Nadu.

• Suggested Tour : Book Rameshwaram Religious Tour

3- Navapashanam Temple, Devipattinam

• Deity : Nine planets and Goddess Durga
• Climate:  26°C – 33°C
• Best time to visit: January to July
• Timings: 5:30 am to 8:00 pm
• Entry fee: No entry fees
• Best ways to visit: Nearest airport is Madurai, Ramanathapuram nearest Railway Station.

As the name suggests, Navapashanam temple is dedicated to nine planets (Navgrah) and was established by Shri Ram, located in Devipattinam near Ramanathapuram.  It is believed that Shri Ram built these nine lead idols to worship Navagraha. They calmed the sea and set up the idols there to perform rituals and offer prayers to the nine planets.

There’s another story which is about the demon Mahishasura. He had a boon to never be killed by a man or god.

And, in this pride, he started destruction in all three realms. The Gods then poured all their powers and created Goddess Durga, an avatar of Goddess Parvati. Goddess Durga killed Mahishasura by cutting off his head and hence, Maa Durga is also worshiped at this temple.

4- Kumbakonam Brahma Temple

• Deity : Lord Brahma
• Climate:  23°C to 30°C
• Timings: 8:00 am to 11:30 am and 05:30 pm to 09:00 pm
• Best ways to visit: Kumbakonam Railway Station, Nearest Railway Station is Tiruchirappalli Airport.

Kumbakonam temple is one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma, also known as the creator of the world according to Hindu scriptures. It is located in Thanjavur district of Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu.

Like other temples, this one is also rich and has the splendid architecture that follows the ancient Dravidian style.

The temple performs regular offerings of prayers, flowers and prasad to worship Lord Brahma. Brahmotsavam is the main festival celebrated in this temple dedicated solely to Lord Brahma.

5- Sri Lakshmi Narayani Golden Temple

• Deity : Lord Narayan and Goddess Lakshmi
• Climate:  Summer: 35°C to 40°C / Winter: 20°C to 30°C.
• Best time to visit: November to February
• Timings: 06:00 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 08:00 pm.
• Best ways to visit: Katpadi Junction Railway Station, Tirupati International Airport

Laxmi Narayani Golden temple situated in Vellore, was established in 2007. It is also known as Sripuram Golden Temple.

The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi. The most attractive feature of the temple that makes it famous is its covering of gold using ample gold making it a must visit during your Tamil Nadu trip.

This temple is the best example of South Indian architecture combined with modernity. Prayers, rituals and Arti are performed here with great devotion and enthusiasm mainly on the occasion of Vaikuntha Ekadasi, Laxmi Puja etc.

6- Bala Murugan Temple

• Deity : Lord Murugan
• Climate:  Summer: 30°C to 40°C / Winter: 20°C to 28°C.
• Best ways to visit: Chennai Central Railway Station, Chennai International Airport

Bala Murugan temple is located in Siruvapuri, near Chennai and is dedicated lo Hindu god Murugan also known as Kartikeya. Many people in South India worship God Kartikeya as the God of War. It is believed that Lava and Kusha, the sons of Shri ram and Mata Sita resided there.

The temple is built in Traditional and ancient Dravidian architectural style. A green stone, significance of a peacock is a great feature of this temple Thaipusam is the main festival wherein the devotees offer prayers to God Kartikeya and seek their blessings

7- Kapaleeshwarar Temple

• Timings: 05:00 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 09:00 pm.
• Best ways to visit: Chennai Central Railway Station, Chennai International Airport.

This temple located in Chennai, was built around the 7th century and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Like many other temples, this one also showcases the Dravidian architectural style. Gopuram or the gateway tower are designed with the precise carvings and beautiful sculptures that depicts the scenes from Hindu Mythology.

Timely Puja’s and Aarti’s are performed on an everyday basis. Many devotees visit Kapaleeshwar temple to seek blessings and receive prosperity, good health etc.

It is deeply believed by the end number of devotees that visiting and seeking blessings from this temple and Lord Shiva can resolve family disputes and marital problems.

8- Kumari Amman Temple

• Deity : Goddess Kumari Amman (a manifestation of Goddess Parvati)
• Climate:  25°C to 35°C
• Timings: 04:30 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 08:00 pm.
• Best ways to visit: Kanyakumari Railway Station, Trivandrum International Airport

Kumari Amman temple located in Kanyakumari is dedicated to Goddess Kumari Amman who is an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. Besides its religious significance, this temple also holds a rich history. While exploring South India, one must add Kumari Amman Temple to their itinerary. This temple is believed to be the place where Goddess Parvati performed penance to convince Lord Shiva for marriage. This is the reason the temple is also known as Kanyakumari Temple.

This temple is the central point of South India Tour Package . Built with complex architecture, beautifully carved pillars and a mesmerizing view of the ocean, this temple is a feast to the visitors’ eyes.

• Suggested Tour : Madurai Rameshwaram Kanyakumari Temple Tour
• Also Read : Best Places to Visit in Kanyakumari

9- Thillai Nataraja Temple

• Deity : Lord Shiva as Nataraja
• Best time to visit: November to March
• Timings: 06:00 am to 12:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 09:00 pm.
• Best ways to visit: Chidambaram Railway Station, Puducherry International Airport, Chennai International Airport.

If you’re looking for Tamil Nadu India temple tour , then you must consider exploring Thillai Nataraja Temple in Chidambaram. Lord Shiva is worshiped at this temple in the form of Lord of Dance also called Nataraja. You can experience a majestic atmosphere by looking at the temple’s vast courtyards, huge carved pillars and Dravidian style architecture.

• Suggested to Read : Places to Visit in Chidambaram

10- Annamalaiyar Temple

• Deity : Lord Shiva as Agni Lingam
• Climate:  Summer- 30°C to 40°C and Winter: 20°C to 30°C.
• Timings: 05:00 am to 09:00 pm
• Best ways to visit: Tiruvannamalai Railway Station, Chennai International Airport.

This temple is located in the city of Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu. It is one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalam and represents Agni (Fire). The temple is believed to have been built around the 9th century by the Chola dynasty.

Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are worshiped here in the form of Annamalaiyar and Unnamulai Amman. Festivals like Karthigai Deepam, Panguni Uthiram, Girivalam etc. are celebrated here which attracts a lot of devotees to pay their offerings and seek blessings from the divine.

Every temple is unique in its own way and has a narrative to tell, including historical details and breathtaking views of South India. Make sure you explore them all to experience the best spiritual and geographical bliss, during your South India Tour .

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Explore The Historic And The Famous Temples To Visit In Madurai Of Tamil Nadu

Experience the charm of madurai, a timeless city in the southern portion of tamil nadu, india. renowned for its cultural richness, historical landmarks, and old-world temples, it's a sanctuary for those who appreciate history. offering an enticing fusion of traditional roots and modern touches, madurai is a mandatory pit stop for wanderers eager to dive deep into the diverse culture of india..

Ishika Jain Updated: Aug 22, 2024 1:15 PM IST

Deep-rooted in culture and history, the city of the divine tunes to the rich culture and tradition of India. For those of you who are wanderlust, stepped into Madurai, a land in the southern Tamil Nadu known for its ancient temples, rich culture and heritage sites. Madurai is a haven for our history aficionados that enjoy an ancient city, but wish to remain in modern times.

1.Meenakshi Amman Temple

A pride of Madurai, the Meenakshi Amman Temple is a splendid architectural wonder dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, and the consort of Lord Sundareswarar, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The Gopurams of this temple are breathtaking and are covered with beautiful sculptures, paintings that are more than a millennium old. The temple complex is full of shrines, halls, and sacred ponds, each individual a wealth of history and spirituality. A trip to Meenakshi Amman Temple is a spiritual experience of the ages.

2.Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

One of the finest examples in Dravidian architecture, this palace was constructed by Thirumalai Nayak in 17th century To this day, despite only a minuscule fraction of its original glory being present, the palace is still a mystery to archaeologists and, legendary to the common man with its tower swathed pillars and complex skeins of arches and stucco reliefs. The Swarga Vilasam (Celestial Pavilion ) which is supposed to be the highlight of the palace is an extremely exquisite hall, and it is completely decked with colors that narrate tales of Hindu mythological epic stories. A trip to Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal provides a view of the grandeur that the former rulers of Madurai led.

3.Gandhi Memorial Museum

Located in the heart of Madurai, the Gandhi Memorial Museum, pays tribute to the life and times of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the Indian nation. Located in the gorgeous Tamukkam Palace, you will find a treasure trove of items, photographs and details about Gandhi and how he paved the way for Indian independence. The museum also contains the blood-stained dhoti that Gandhi was wearing when he was assassinated (makaka falla aduwata hodawata), a poignant symbol of a proud tradition of non-violence that Gandhi bequeathed to the world.

4.Koodal Azhagar Temple

An important temple in Madurai, the Koodal Azhagar Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is one of places to visit in Madurai known for its beautiful architecture and religious importance. According to the legends the temple was believed to have been established about 2000 years ago and is richly carved and decorated having a majestic gopuram and a sanctum sanctorum housing the idol of lord Vishnu in reclining posture. Chithirai Thiruvizha and other annual festivals of the temple draw devotees and tourists from all over, giving an opportunity to experience the colourful rituals of Madurai.

5.Tirupparankunram Murugan Temple

Situated at the top of a hill is one of the ancient and most important temples of Lord Murugan (Subramanya), known as the god of war. This temple is built carved into the solid rock with ancient sculptures and cave shrines which are dated about 8th century AD. The festivities in the temple, especially the March-April festival of Panguni Uthiram, attract devotees in large numbers to seek the blessings of Lord Murugan.

6. Thiruparankundram Rock-cut Cave Temple

The rock-cut cave temple is an exquisite masterpiece of Dravidian architectural style studded at the bottom of Thiruparankundram. Built in 8th century AD, the temple is known for its ornately rich carvings, rock-cut shrines and detailed bas-reliefs of Hindu legends. The tranquillity and architectural grandeur of this temple ia a paradise for history buffs and all sorts of spiritual seekers.

In sum, Madurai is a shining example of India's glorious cultural roots and its abundant historic treasures speak volumes of its magnificent history. Be it unravelling the magic of grand temples, delving into the bygone era of majestic palaces, or simply basking in the serenity of pristine landscapes, a sojourn to Madurai will definitely etch in every kind of traveller's heart. Wishing you luck on your adventures through the historic city of Madurai, its eternal allure and lively soul.

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One Day Madurai Sightseeing Trip by Cab

The temple town of Madurai allures large number of travellers to experience the rich culture, architecture, glorious sculptures, and historical monuments. Head off for a magical one day Madurai trip packed with the visit to the marvellous temples, grand palace and interesting museum. The brilliant pilgrimage centre of India is also known for the exports…

The temple town of Madurai allures large number of travellers to experience the rich culture, architecture, glorious sculptures, and historical monuments. Head off for a magical one day Madurai trip packed with the visit to the marvellous temples, grand palace and interesting museum.

The brilliant pilgrimage centre of India is also known for the exports of jasmine flowers. The celebrated city, often referred to as Thoonga Nagaram which means the city never sleeps was the capital city of the Pandya Dynasty. Set on the banks of River Vaigai the city features centuries old architecture. Every temple has a unique feature to be witnessed and appreciated.

Book our one day Madurai local sightseeing tour that introduces you to the graceful architecture and culture of the 2500 year old city. Meenakshi Amman Kovil is a picture-postcard temple of Madurai that captivates and inspires travellers with its magnificent architecture and divinity.

Festivals like Meenakshi Thirukalyanam and Avani Moola Maha Utsavam are celebrated with gaiety drawing several visitors every year. The historical monuments house an incredible variety of cultural and religious artefacts.

The city is also popular for its delectable cuisine and varied shopping. The major trade revolves around the Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple.

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Overview of 1 day madurai trip by private car.

1 Day Madurai Local Tour

One of the key attractions of the tour is the visit to the Gandhi Memorial Museum that has been listed in the Peace Museums Worldwide by United Nations Organizations. The magnificent temples packed with ancient sculptures and wonderful architecture adds to the traveller’s appeal.

The one day Madurai sightseeing trip by private cab gives an insight into the culture, architecture and history of the famed temple town. Begin your divine voyage with the visit to the most famous Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple and marvel at the glorious Thirumalai Nayak Palace. Get inspired with the visit to the impressive Gandhi Memorial Museum exhibiting the struggle for Independence.

History buffs would be delighted to visit the wonderful relics and replicas of the objects used by Bapuji. The other outstanding temples to be visited include Koodal Azhagar Kovil, Imayil Nanmai Tharuvar Koil and Teppakulam Mariamman Koil. We conclude the memorable tour with the visit to the famous Thiruparankundram Murugan Koil.

Highlights of One Day Madurai Local Trip

• Full-day Madurai Local Sightseeing Tour
• Duration: 8 to 10 hours
• Tour by Private Cab (not shared with others)
• Pickup & Drop: Madurai Hotel / Home
• Places Covered: Meenakshi Amman Temple, Thirumalai Nayak Palace, Koodal Azhagar Koil, Imayil Nanmai Tharuvar Koil, Gandhi Memorial Museum, Teppakulam Mariamman Koil, Thiruparankundram Murugan Koil.

Package Price for 1 Day Madurai Local Sightseeing by Cab

Amaze / Etios / Dzire

4 seater / sedan.

Ertiga / Zylo / Tavera

6 seater / suv.

Toyota Innova

Innova Crysta

Tempo/ Force Traveller

12 seater / lcv.

12-22 Seater / LCV

Price on request, book this 1 day madurai city tour package.

Following are the car rental companies that are organizing this private tour, select your preferred vendor from the list, check availability and book your tour!

Are you a Cab vendor? List your company on Oneday.travel

1 Day Itinerary of Madurai Local Sightseeing Tour Package

Pickup from your Home / Hotel in Madurai at 7:00 AM

Drop back at your Home / Hotel in Madurai by 6:30 PM

PLEASE NOTE: Guests can visit all the Madurai tourism places listed above or remove any of the places that they don’t want to visit. Inclusion of any other sightseeing place not listed above is normally not permitted. However guests can check with their cab provider if any exceptions possible, while booking this Madurai local sightseeing tour by private car.

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Detailed Guide: Places to Visit with One Day Madurai City Sightseeing Tour by Car

Here is a list of places for one day Madurai local sightseeing trip that you can visit by a private cab which is going to remain etched in your minds forever:

1. Meenakshi Amman Temple

Explore the majestic Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple that is as old as the city. Aayiram Kaal Mandapam with its spectacular sculpted thousand pillars and the statues of the Nataraja and Sivakami in the centre of the hall has been the key attraction of the temple.

The main sanctum holds the idol of Goddess Meenakshi engraved out of solo emerald. Witnessing more than 33000 erotic sculptures and painted ceilings gives an enthralling experience to the visitors.

There are 12 beautifully engraved towers called gopurams with four main gopurams at the entrance facing the four directions. The gopuram at the south gateway with a height of 50 metres is the highest among the four gopurams.

The scriptures which are brilliant examples of Dravidian architecture depict the stories of goddess Meenakshi and the miracles performed by Lord Shiva.

The beautifully carved pillars of the Meenakshi Temple showcase the miracles of Lord Shiva and the birth and life of goddess Meenakshi.

• Must see \ Things to do: Do visit the Golden Lotus Tank

2. Thirumalai Nayak Palace

Thirumalai Nayak Palace has been the favourite sightseeing spot of our one day Madurai tour. Travellers are enchanted with the beauty of the palace built in the 17th century by King Thirumalai Nayak under the supervision of Italian architect. Designed in Gothic style the massive pillar attracts all tourists. Pillars rising to a height of 82 feet and with 19 feet width astound visitors.

History buffs would also be enchanted with the beautiful architecture that represents a perfect fusion of the Dravidian, European and Islamic schools of architecture. The Indo-Saracenic architecture style domes and arches are examples of the brilliant craftsmanship. A significant structure the 60-70 feet high beautiful arcaded octagon covered by a high dome in the central throne chamber inspires visitors.

The glorious palace hosts the splendid Light and Sound show which throws a light on the life of Ruler Thirumalai Nayak. After independence the glorious palace was declared as a national monument and is maintained by Tamil Nadu Archaeological Department.

The living palace of King Thirumalai Nayak is a sight to behold with massive courtyard, Dance Hall and Throne Chamber. The notable palace also houses an informative museum showcasing a rich collection of artefacts, idols, paintings, pottery, pillar stones and scripts sourced from many places in South India dating back to 102 AD.

• Must see \ Things to do: Gaze at the Dance Hall and the Throne chamber

3. Koodal Azhagar Koil

The remarkable religious site dedicated to Lord Vishnu is one of the most revered temples among the 108 Divyadesam, the holy shrines of Lord Vishnu. The 1500 years old temple has Lord Vishnu in sitting, standing and reclining forms. A 125 feet five tiered Rajagopuram with its beautifully carved sculptures displays the stories from Ramayana and Mahabharata.

The main sanctum has the idol of Koodal Azhagar, the manifestation of Lord Vishnu in sitting form under the Serpent Lord Adhiseshan and Sridevi and Bhudevi idols present on both sides.

The reclining form of Lord Vishnu known as Sri Ranganathan is located above the altar of Lord Koodal Azhagar. Designed by Vishwakarma and surrounded by granite walls, the temple houses the standing form of Lord Vishnu as Sri Surya Narayan Perumal.

With our 1 day Madurai private tour, tourists would appreciate the beautifully sculpted tower above the sanctum sanctorum called the Ashtanga Vimanam. It is interesting to know that the shadow of the Vimanam does not fall on the ground.

The idol of Madhuravalli Thayaar, the manifestation of goddess Lakshmi is present in a separate shrine. The shrine north to the main sanctum has the idol of Andal Nachiyar. The elegantly carved ornamental windows and the sculptures of the temple built in Dravidian style of architecture are awe-inspiring.

The temple of profound beauty and religious importance has a shrine with the navagrahas which are generally found in Shiva temples.

• Must see \ Things to do: Don’t miss the Ashtanga Vimanam over the sanctum

4. Imayil Nanmai Tharuvar Koil

Take a short detour to the ancient temple of Imayil Nanmai Tharuvar Koil where devotees throng in to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings. The name Imayil Nanmai Tharuvar means that he gives benefits in this birth itself.

It is believed that after the marriage of Lord Shiva and goddess Meenakshi it was decided that Lord Shiva would rule the city for 8 months while the goddess would rule it for 4 months.

Before taking up the throne Lord Shiva was supposed to perform the Shiva Pooja. So he installed the Shiva Linga and did the Pooja himself. The temple is often referred to as Bhooloka Kailash which means Kailasha on earth. It has the Shiva Linga facing west with Lord Shiva and goddess in its backdrop.

• Must see \ Things to do: Do worship Lord Bhairava

5. Gandhi Memorial Museum

The next stop over in our Madurai one day local sightseeing tour is the Gandhi Memorial Museum inaugurated by the Prime Minister of India, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in 1959. The wonderful museum created over 13 acres of land enlightens visitors with the struggle for Independence.

The special exhibition on “India Fights for Freedom” casts light on the history of Freedom Movement. The rich collection of the ordinary objects used by him and the blood stained pile of dhoti that Bapuji was wearing at the time of assassination preserved in a vacuum glass box influences the visitors.

Gandhiji had been to Madurai five times and during his last visit went to worship goddess Meenakshi with Harijans. He gave away his traditional Gujarati attire and decided to adopt a simple way of dressing in a dhoti and loincloth in Madurai in 1921 identifying himself with a common man. Keeping in view his association with Madurai the city was chosen for establishing the dedicated Gandhi Sangrahalaya of India.

The state government of Tamil Nadu had given the Tammakum Palace to All India Gandhi Smarak Nidhi for setting up the historical museum. The palace belonging to Rani Mangammal of Naik Dynasty built in 1670 AD was renovated to develop this interesting museum.

A section of the Museum displays the visual biography of Gandhiji containing photos, sculptures, quotations, paintings and selected copies of his letters and renderings. The letters include an original letter from Gandhi to Adolf Hitler addressing him as a Dear Friend. Learn about Gandhiji gazing through the 124 rare photographs from the various phases of his life.

Khadi and Village Industries section offers an insight into the handicrafts and village industry products that Gandhiji had been promoting. There is an open air theatre which can accommodates more than 8000 visitors.

• Must see \ Things to do: Witness the letters written by Gandhiji

6. Teppakulam Mariamman Koil

Head off for a mystical solace proffered by the Teppakulam Mariamman Temple with our one day Madurai tour by private cab. Set at a distance of 5km from Meenakshi Amman Koil, the temple is dedicated to goddess Mariamman the Hindu god of rain. It houses the idols of Pechiamman in a separate shrine and the idol of Lord Ganesha under a peepal tree.

A huge pond is located outside the temple called Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam which is said to be connected to the Vaigai River through an ingenious system of channels.

The temple and tank built by King Thirumalai Nayak draws huge crowd during the Thaipusam float festival celebrated every year for ten days. The tank has a mandapam in the centre called Maiya Mandapam with Vinayagar and a garden.

• Must see \ Things to do: Visit the Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam

7. Thiruparankundram Murugan Koil

The next stop over of the one day Madurai trip is the famed Murugan temple. The celebrated temple is one of the six abodes of Murugan built by the Pandyas during the 6th century.

This significant religious site holds its importance in the fact that it is here that Lord Murugan married the daughter of Indra, Devyani and defeated the demon Surapadman. He reached Thiruparankundram after having defeated the demons in 6 battles and thus saving the heavens from Soorapadman.

Idols of Lord Vishnu, Murugan, Shiva, Durga and Ganapathy are set in the mesmerizing rock cut temple. The presiding deity is known as Paragirinathar and the female deity his consort Parvati is known as Avudai Nayaki.

Notable feature of this sacred treasure of Madurai is that Lord Shiva and Vishnu are facing each other. The impressive seven tiered Rajagopuram with a height of 150 feet at the entrance attracts attention.

Situated on a hill top the temple enchants with its beautifully carved sculptures. Exquisitely decorated Kambathadi Mandapam, Ardha Mandapam and Maha Mandapam captivate the visitors.

• Must see \ Things to do: Do worship Lord Saneeswara

Package Inclusions

• Pick and drop from Home / Hotel in Madurai
• Selected Cab for Madurai sightseeing as per the above Itinerary
• Driver Batta

Package Exclusions

• Entry Ticket Fee at tourist places in Madurai
• Vehicle Parking Charges
• Toll-gate Charges if any
• Breakfast, Lunch or any meal
• Lodging / Accommodation in Madurai
• Vehicle beyond the mentioned time duration
• Vehicle beyond the designated tour route

Travelers are requested to follow the given itinerary for 1 Day Madurai Local Sightseeing tour package. Ideally this 1 day Madurai city tour package can not be customized, however if guests prefer to visit different set of places in Madurai city tour, they can check the possibility of the same with the listed car rental companies and request for a custom quote.

The time spent on each Madurai tourist attraction is to be followed as per the Itinerary schedule. In case of any delays or additional time spent at a particular place, driver or car rental company will not be responsible to cover all the places mentioned in the itinerary.

Please also note that if a particular Madurai sightseeing place is closed on the scheduled day of the tour, it will not be covered from the list of sightseeing places. Please check the possibility of visiting an alternate place with cab vendor before you book the tour.

Ideally, no. However you can check with listed Madurai cab vendors before booking the tour on any possibility to customize the tour. Additional charges might apply.

Exploring the aesthetic heritage and architecture of the 2500 years old city with the one day Madurai trip is an unforgettable experience. These auspicious temples and outstanding palace are the iconic landmarks of the ancient city featuring marvellous centuries-old architecture. Witnessing the historical monuments and the amazingly wonderful sculptures proffers tourists an intriguing experience.