madurai meenakshi amman temple places to visit

Heritage & Culture

A Guide To Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple

Meenakshi Amman temple is a treasure trove of stunning art and sculpture that has stood the test of time.

Are you planning a trip to Madurai, the City of Temples? The Meenakshi Amman temple tops the list. Dedicated to the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Meenakshi, the mesmerizing Madurai Meenakshi Amman temple is a must-visit tourist destination. The temple stands out for its vibrant architecture and colorful carvings, but what makes it more fascinating are the legends associated with it.

Table of Contents

Meenakshi Amman Temple History

The Meenakshi Amman Temple is devoted to Goddess Meenakshi, an incarnation of Goddess Shakti, and Sundareshwar, an avatar of Lord Shiva. Madurai Meenakshi Amman temple was built during the reign of the Pandyan King, Sadayavarman Kulasekaran I. The Pandyan King built the main Goddess Meenakshi shrine and three huge Gopurams at the center of the temple complex. Various sections of the temple were destroyed during the Mughal invasions in the 12th and 13th Century. The current structure of the temple that we see today was restored and expanded during the reign of Thirumalai Nayak. There are various mentions of this temple’s existence in ancient poems that date back to the 7th Century.

Legends Associated With The Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple

The Meenakshi temple is renowned for its intricate architecture and carving, but what makes it more fascinating are the legends associated with it.

There are tales that the Pandyan King, Malayadwaja, and Queen Kanchanamalai were a childless couple who prayed to the Gods to fulfill their wishes. The couple performed various rituals with utmost devotion in the hope of a child. Then, Goddess Parvati appeared in the form of Goddess Meenakshi as a 3-year-old. Legend has it that Lord Shiva built this temple, and it was this place where he married his consort, Goddess Meenakshi.

Architecture

– The temple contains 14 majestic towers known as Gopurams which contain bold and life-like sculptures depicting various mythical tales. The temple features four 9-story Raja gopurams, 2 gold gopurams, a Chittirai gopuram, five 5-tier gopurams, and two 3-tier gopurams, a stunning display of art.
– Meenakshi Amman Temple houses a shrine devoted to Aiyaram Kal Mandapam which is a 1000-pillar Hall. The temple’s gigantic 1000-pillar hall is a fascinating mystery that contains 985 unique and intricately carved pillars with bold and live-like scriptures of the gods.
– The Golden Lotus Pond, also known as Pottamarai Kulam is a large pond at the center of the temple complex.

Things To Do At The Meenakshi Temple

People visit the Meenakshi temple not just to offer prayers but also to see and admire the other highlights of this beautiful temple. Here’s a list of things that you should do while here:

Temple Tour

The Meenakshi temple is known for its stunning Dravidian-style architecture and carvings on the pillars that portray the rich culture and history of the land. Uncovering the vibrant and colorful scriptures on the Gopurams(14 majestic towers of the temple) is a blissful experience for the devotees.

Visit The Potramarai Kulam

The Golden Lotus pond is a large waterbody at the center of the temple complex, where devotees can take a dip in the holy waters. The devotees can cleanse themselves before entering the pristine temple complex.

Admire The Stunning Scriptures

Visitors can visit the Madurai Meenakshi Amman temple to witness over 33,000 stunning scriptures with 14 gateways. With a height of 170 feet, the Southern side entry of the temple is the tallest among all the gopurams.

Explore The Aiyaram Kal Mandapam

The temple complex contains a shrine devoted to Aiyaram Kal Mandapam, a 1000-pillar hall which is carved out of one single granite. The temple’s gigantic hall is a heaven for art lovers that contains 985 unique and intricately carved pillars. These pillars are designed in a way that produces musical notes when tapped, but no one knows how.

Shop At Puthu Mandapam

The Puthu Mandapam houses a vibrant market where you can buy various things, indulge in delicious cuisines, and collect souvenirs. The enthralling market has been functioning since 1920, where you can spend hours which makes it a worthwhile experience.

Witness The Night Ceremony

The Night ceremony, also known as the BedChamber, is the last prayer of the day that commences at 10 PM. The sculpture of Lord Shiva is carried in a palanquin from his shrine to Goddess Meenakshi, where legends say she awaits her husband.

Book your tickets for the Night Ceremony in Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple Now.

Meenakshi Amman Temple Timings

The operational hours of the Meenakshi temple are from 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and then the temple reopens from 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM.

While planning a visit, ensure 2-3 hours extra for deity darshan and full exploration of the temple. The festival days attract numerous devotees worldwide, so the darshan takes 4-5 hours.

Best Time to Visit The Meenakshi Temple

The Meenakshi temple in Madurai is open throughout the year, both the setting and the weather conditions make the temple visit a memorable one. The monsoon months in Madurai ranging from July to August provide a pleasing experience for the tourists. Avoid the summer months of Madurai as the excruciating hot and humid weather will not allow you to have a comfortable visit.

If you are planning to witness the mesmerizing Chithirai festival, the months of April and May are favorable for visitors.

How To Get To The Meenakshi Amman Temple

Madurai Main, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625001

Most of the major airline carriers provide easy commutes from renowned places to the Madurai Airport. Various domestic and international flight services like Air India, SpiceJet, etc are available at regular intervals. The distance from Airport To Meenakshi Temple is 10 km.

The city is well-connected to major National and State Highways, which makes the cab rental services the most convenient way to reach the temple.

Taxi Fare: Around INR 270-340 approximately.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours, depending on the traffic.

If you are planning to travel to Meenakshi Temple, the various bus services like TNSTC offer a comfortable commute to the temple. The nearest bus stop is the Mattuthavani Bus Stand, which is 6.1 km and a mere 15-minute ride to the temple.

The railway station in Madurai provides numerous train routes that provide frequent and comfortable commutes from various parts of the country. The distance between the Madurai Junction Railway station and the temple is 1.3 km. Post reaching the station, you can choose the various cab or bus services for a hassle-free journey on your way to the divine temple.

Also Read: Discovering Heritage: Places to Visit in Madurai

who built madurai meenakshi amman temple

In conclusion, the Meenakshi Amman temple is a living temple that has withstood the test of time and is still revered by millions of people around the world. So, if you are planning to visit South India, the history and vibrant architecture of the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple makes it a must-visit destination. The aforesaid tips will help you make the most out of your trip to Meenakshi temple. Do let us know about your reviews in the sections below.

Photography and videography are restricted in the temple premises. So, be sure to leave your phones, cameras, scissors, handbags, etc in your vehicle.

Yes, the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple is directly a Shakti Peeth. The temple is devoted to Meenakshi who is the incarnation of Goddess Parvati.

The main idol of Goddess Meenakshi can be seen holding a parrot which symbolizes Kama, the God of Love.

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva arrived in Madurai as Sundareshwar to marry His consort, Meenakshi, the daughter of Malayadhvaja, the Pandya King. The temple was built in devotion to the union of Lord Shiva and Meenakshi, who was an avatar of Goddess Parvati.

According to the Legends, the Meenakshi Amman temple was built by the Pandyan King, Sadayavarman Kulasekaran in the Pandyan reign(1190 CE to 1205 CE).

Discover the Majesty of Meenakshi Temple in Tamil Nadu

Step into the sacred realm of Meenakshi Temple, nestled in Tamil Nadu's heart. Explore intricate architecture, vibrant rituals, and centuries-old legends. Embark on a spiritual odyssey through its hallowed halls and find solace amidst ancient marvels.

Madurai's Meenakshi Temple and How to Visit It

madurai meenakshi amman temple places to visit

The most impressive and important of south India's temples , Meenakshi temple in Madurai dates back as far as 2,500 years! Apparently, the city was built around the Shiva lingam that's inside its sanctum. The temple complex covers 14 acres, and has 4,500 pillars and 14 towers -- it's massive!

The temple's four main towers and entrances each face one of the four directions (north, east, south, and west). The tallest one, the southern tower, stretches nearly 170 feet (52 meters) high! Inside, there are two main shrines -- one dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi (also known as Goddess Parvati) and the other to her husband Lord Shiva. Meenakshi's shrine, which is green, houses a piece of emerald that was brought back from Sri Lanka in the 10th century. The temple also contains a 1,000 pillared hall, temple art museum, holy golden lotus tank, musical pillars, stalls selling everything from plastic toys to bronze images of the Goddess, and many smaller shrines.

The bottom part of the temple is made from granite, while its towers ( gopuram ) are made from limestone. On them is an astonishing array of sculptured and brightly painted gods, goddesses, animals, and demons. The famous southern tower was constructed in 1559. The oldest tower, which is the eastern one, was built by Maravarman Sundara Pandyan from 1216 to 1238. However, much of the work was carried out during the reign of Tirumalai Nayak, from 1623 to 1655.

The sheer size of the temple means that it's easy to get lost inside, and there's so much to see and marvel over that you could easily spend days there. It's a "living" temple, full of industry and a constant stream of couples waiting to be married in its corridors. Although non-Hindus can wander around inside the temple, they can't enter the shrines.

Important Festivals at the Temple

Every April a famous Chithirai Festival takes place in the streets surrounding the temple. This festival reenacts the wedding of Lord Shiva (Sundareswarar) to Goddess Meenakshi.

In Madurai, Meenakshi is regarded as Lord Vishnu's sister. Traditionally, Lord Vishnu has high caste followers, while Lord Shiva is worshiped by those of lower castes. What's interesting to note is that her marriage to Lord Shiva unites people of all castes, hence bridging the caste gap.

A Clean Temple

In October 2017, the Indian government announced that Meenakshi Temple was the best "Swachh Iconic Place" (Clean Iconic Place) in India, under its "Swachh Iconic Places" initiative to clean up the country's heritage sites. A project to clean the periphery of the temple is also expected to be completed by March 2018. The aim is to make the streets surrounding the temple completely free of plastic. Bins for biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste have been placed in strategic locations, and sweeping vehicles will regularly clear the area. There are also 25 electronic eco-friendly public toilets and 25 water dispensing units for tourists to use.

How to Visit Meenakshi Temple

Meenakshi Temple is open daily from dawn until 10 p.m., except for when it closes between 12.30 p.m. to 4 p.m. This is because Hindu scriptures specify that an abode of Lord Shiva must not remain open in the afternoon.

It's best to visit the temple once in the morning and once in the evening (for the night ceremony). The temple's main entrance is on the east side, and non-Hindus can enter from there. Conservative dress, which does not reveal legs or shoulders, is a must.

Temple Security and What You Can't Take Inside

Do be aware that security was increased at the temple in 2013, following bomb blasts in Hyderabad. Cameras are no longer allowed inside the temple. Cell phones with cameras were permitted up until early February 2018, but have now been banned along with any items made of plastic. This, unfortunately, means that it's no longer possible to take photos inside the temple complex.

You can safely store your camera and other belongings inside a locker at the stall that minds shoes at the east entrance to the temple. After doing so, your bag will be scanned by an X-ray machine and you'll be manually searched by guards.

Highlights Inside the Temple

The temple's main attraction is its stunning Hall of 1,000 Pillars. In reality, there are only 985 pillars, each with magnificently carved statues of yaali (a mythical lion and elephant hybrid) or Hindi deities. The hall was built in 1569 by Ariyanatha Mudaliyar, general and chief minister of Madurai's Nayak dynasty. Its colorfully painted ceiling is also captivating and features a striking wheel of time. There's a set of musical pillars and Art Museum that are worth seeing as well. Tickets cost 50 rupees for foreigners and 5 rupees for Indians.

Darshan (Viewing) of the Goddess

Only Hindus can go into the inner sanctums to see the idol of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwarar. If you don't want to wait for up to three hours in the free lines, it's possible to pay extra for "special darshan" tickets. These tickets provide direct access to the idols and can be purchased inside the temple. They cost 50 rupees solely for Goddess Meenakshi, and 100 rupees for both deities.

Puja (Worship) Schedule

The temple has about 50 priests, who conduct puja ceremonies six times a day as follows:

5 a.m. to 6 a.m. -- Thiruvanandal pooja.
6.30 a.m. to 7.15 a.m. -- Vizha pooja and Kalasandhi pooja.
10.30 a.m. to 11.15 a.m. -- Thrukalasandhi pooja and Uchikkala pooja.
4.30 p.m. to 5.15 p.m. -- Maalai pooja.
7.30 p.m. to 8.15 p.m. -- Ardhajama pooja.
9.30 p.m. to 10 p.m. -- Palliarai pooja.

Temple Tours

If you wish to take a guided tour of the temple, which is recommended, Madurai Inhabitants are very knowledgeable. Alternatively, you'll find guides waiting at the temple entrance. Pinakin also provides downloadable audio guides on their app.

Meenakshi Temple Night Ceremony

One of the highlights at Meenakshi Temple, which non-Hindus can see and you really shouldn't miss, is the night ceremony. Every night, an image of Lord Shiva (in the form of Sundareswarar) is carried out from his shrine by temple priests, in procession in a chariot, to his wife Meenakshi's shrine where he'll spend the night. His gold feet are brought out from her shrine, while his chariot is fanned to keep it cool, and a puja (worship) is performed, amidst much chanting, drums, horns, and smoke.

The night ceremony starts at 9.00 p.m. daily except Friday. On Fridays, it gets underway between 9.30-10.00 p.m. Madurai Inhabitants offer tours.

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Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai – Things to know before you go

The Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai is one of the most revered temples of South India. And also one of the most famous ancient temples in India . A trip to Madurai is incomplete without a visit to this temple. In fact, many devotees plan a trip to Madurai for a mere visit to the Meenakshi Amman Temple. On our own 5 days road trip across Tamil Nadu covering Madurai, Rameshwaram, Chettinad and Thanjavur, it was one of the first few places we visited. So, in this post, I will take you through this grand temple in Madurai. And also tell you things about visiting this temple which you might not find elsewhere.

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History of Meenakshi Amman Temple

“Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Temple” or “Meenakshi Amman Temple” is also fondly called the Meenakshi Temple. It is one of the most famous historic temple that is located on the banks of the Vaigai river. This river passes through the centre of the temple town of Madurai. This temple is described in historical writings that date back as far as the 6th century CE !! And it is dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi , a form of Parvati , and her consort, Sundareshwar , a form of Shiva . In fact, this temple is one of the 275 Padal Petra Sthalam. These are a group of the greatest Hindu Shiva temples of the continent. Which were built around 6th – 9th centuries CE.

Did you know this interesting fact about the Meenakshi Amman Temple?

The state emblem of Tamil Nadu is based on the west tower (gopuram) of Meenakshi Temple?

The central shrine of the temple and the areas around it, including the major gopuras were built by King Kulasekara Pandya. And it was expanded by various kings. Later, it was plundered by the Mughal Empire. Along with several other temples of South India. But afterwards, many portions of the temple were restored. As a result of the efforts of Vijayanagara Empire. And subsequent Nayak Dynasty in Madurai.

Architecture of the Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai

The Meenakshi Amman Temple consists of a central large 3-storeyed Gopura (Tower). Then there are several shrines inside the temple of Hindu Gods and Goddess. These include Natarajar and Surya near the main temple, Ayyanar in the east, Vinayagar in the south, Kariamalperumal in the west and Kali in the north. Apart from these, the temple also has a mahamandapa called Sundara Pandya Thirukkopuram. While these consist of the major parts of the temple. Dynasties added other parts later over the years.

For instance, the Chitra gopuram, also known as Muttalakkum Vayil, was built by Maravarman Sundara Pandyan II. He also built a pillared corridor to the Sundareswara shrine. Later, Thirumala Nayak, the king who also built the Thirumalai Nayakar Palace (Madurai Palace), expanded the temple further adding to it’s grandure. While rebuilding the temple, the rulers of Nayaka dynasty followed the architectural style of ‘Silpa Shastras’.

Although it is a temple of Shavism. But, it does include Vishnu in many of it’s depictions and narratives. It also houses other Hindu dieties like Lakshmi, Krishna, Brahma, Saraswati, Vedic dieties to name a few. And it also has depictions on it’s walls and paintings on it’s ceilings from the puranas and important holy texts of the Hindus. However, what really captures your eyes is a pond in the centre of the temple – ‘ Porthamarai Kulam .’ Meaning “ pond with a golden lotus “. Actually, there is a golden lotus placed at the centre of the pond. And it is believed that Lord Shiva blessed this pond stating no marine life would ever grow in it or pollute it.

Major Gopurams of the Meenakshi Temple Madurai

There are 14 major gopurams or towers in the Meenakshi Amman Temple of Madurai. All of these are identical tall towers. And they have numerous sculptures and carvings on them. Basically, depicting the mythological stories and scenes from the Hindu Holy texts. Some of the major Gopurams include :

Kadaka Gopuram – This 5 storied gateway leads to the main shrine that houses Goddess Meenakshi. The gateway was rebuilt by Tumpichi Nayakkar during the mid-16th century.
Sundareswarar Shrine Gopuram – The oldest ‘gopuram’ of the temple, gateway to the Shiva Shrine. Which was built by Kulasekara Pandya.
Mottai Gopuram – The only gopuram which had no roof for nearly three centuries.
Nayaka Gopuram – Built by Visvappa Nayakkar . Very similar to ‘Palahai Gopuram.’
Chitra Gopuram – Built by Maravarman Sundara Pandyan II, the gopuram depicts the religious and secular essence of Hinduism.
Nadukkattu Gopuram – Also called as the ‘Idaikattu Gopuram,’ this gateway leads to the Ganesha shrine.

Some of the carvings on the Gopurams of Meenakshi Amman Temple:

Major Mandapams of Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Apart from the gopurams, the temple has several Mandapas – pillared halls with hundreds of pillars. Actually these were built to enable the visitors to rest here. The major mandapas include:

Ayirakkal Mandapam – Meaning ‘hall with thousand pillars.’ As it is supported by 985 pillars. Each and every pillar has images of Yali, a mythological creature apart from other scultpures.
Kilikoondu Mandapam – Originally built to house parrots which were trained to say ‘Meenakshi’. It stands adjacent to the Meenakshi shrine. And has sculptures of characters from important Hindu holy book Mahabharata.
Ashta Shakthi Mandapam – This hall houses the sculptures of eight goddesses. It lies between the main ‘gopuram’ and the gateway that leads to the Meenakshi shrine.
Nayaka Mandapam – Built by Chinnappa Nayakkar. This hall has 100 pillars and houses a Nataraja statue.

Interesting legend associated with Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai

There is a very interesting legend associated with Meenakshi Amman Temple. As per the legend, the king named Malayadwaja Pandya along with his wife Kanchanamalai performed a “yagya” to get blessed with a son. However, out of the fire of the yagya emerged a 3 year old girl – Meenakshi. While they were concerned upon not getting a “son” as their hire, a divine voice guided them to raise the girl as their son. And assured them that future would be great this way. Meenakshi ruled the ancient city of Madurai . And she also captured several of the neighbouring kingdoms. The legend further states that she eventually captured Indralok, the abode of Lord Indra. And was on her way to capture Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva, as well.

At this point lord Shiva appeared in front of her. And this forced her to change in her original form – that of goddess Parvati. They were married at the sacred place where the Meenakshi Amman Temple exists as of today. It is notable that most of the saivism temples have Shiva as their main diety. But Meenakshi Amman Temple is one exception. Which celebrates the power of women in the form of “Meenakshi” or “Parvati”. As a. result of this legend, tradition established in South India, particularly this region to consider women as the major power holders in family and society. They were always consulted in important matters. And their positions upheld.

Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai Timings

Usual visiting hours for darshan:

9:00am to 12:00pm and 4:00pm to 8:00pm

Although, at around 7:00pm, the curtains to the main diety are drawn. While the priests get the Goddess ready for evening Puja and offer “bhog”. This piece of information I didn’t find explicitly mentioned anywhere. So, while we reached for darshan around 7:00pm in the evening, we had to wait standing in the queue for some half an hour. And the actual darshan started from 7:30 pm.

How to reach the Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai

The Meenakshi Temple lies in the centre of the town of Madurai. This temple town of Tamil Nadu is well connected with most of the other towns of South India via road and rail. It is almost 450km from Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu and at almost equal distance from Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka. We visited here on a road trip from Bangalore to Madurai. However, once in the city, we checked-in, parked our vehicle and then took an auto rickshaw to the temple. Since, there is a lot of rush to the temple, the streets are narrow and there is no dedicated parking. So, better to take a local mode of transport to reach the temple.

In fact, you can combine a trip to the Meenakshi Amman Temple along with a visit to the Thirumalai Nayakar Palace which is nearby. And then you can go on a temple trail in Madurai. As a part of which you get to visit many other important temples of Madurai.

Is there a dress code to visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai ?

Officially, there is no dress code applied in the Meenakshi Amman Temple. But, to respect the traditions, one is encouraged to wear traditional Indian dresses. As a result, it is preferred that women wear saree or salwar-kurti-dupatta and men wear a kurta or shirt with dhoti or pyjamas. In short, no shorts, lungis, jeans or western dresses. Actually a few years ago, the Tamil Nadu government placed a rule defining dress code to enter the temples, particularly the major ones. While at some places they have been strictly implemented, at others they are relaxed still. So, why to take a chance. In my opinion, respect the traditions and go visit the temple in traditional attires.

Other rules while visiting the Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai

There are a few other rules while visiting the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai. While information on some of these is available on the internet, it might be limited or unavailable on the others. So, let me summarise here for you based on what I recall best :

There is a dedicated place to deposit your phone in locker before you enter the main temple. It has a charge of INR 5 per phone for depositing. The person there will deposit your phone in a locker and give you a slip. Some prefer to leave their phones at their hotel room while visiting the temple.

The same place which has locker for phones also has place to deposit your shoes. Again at a minimal fee of INR 5 per pair of shoes. However it was super crowded here with a big queue of people waiting to deposit their shoes and slippers. So, we took another strategy. From one of the shops on the opposite side, we bought some prasad and flowers. And then deposited our shoes with them only. This way, we avoided the crowd and rush at the designated shoe counter. Although, I saw many leaving their shoes on the street also while they entered the temple.

There is a security frisking before you enter the temple.

You can carry your purse, wallet and other essentials like hand sanitiser etc with you inside the temple.

Photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple. So you can’t carry a camera either, neither your phone.

Darshan at Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai

Once you enter the temple, you can take a queue for the general Darshan. The darshan to the main temple is free. But for other shrines it’s charged at INR 50 per head. The queues here are really long. Once you have the tickets, you can proceed further in the queue till you reach in front when you get a few moments for the darshan. And then there are “special darshan” tickets and “special puja” tickets just like many other big temples of South India. The charges vary depending on whether you just want a special darshan. In that case you need not stand in the queue but can have immediate darshan. Or, in case you want to do special puja. Then depending on what kind of puja you want to offer, the charges again vary.

To be honest, I never prefer taking the special darshan tickets. Because I believe that everyone has equal rights to offering prayers and seeing the idol in the temple. And one shouldn’t be given preference over others just because they can spend more money. However, given it is covid time and the temple was really crowded. So, we decided to pay an agent this one time. After discussing the cost (INR 500 per head, not sure if it is fixed or varies) , we went with him to the front of the queue. Where a priest helped us to the front. And we got the darshan as soon as the curtains to the idol raised.

Darshan Tickets and Entry fee at Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai

Ticket charges in Meenakshi Temple Madurai :

Main temple : free for Hindus, INR 50 per head for foreigners

Other temples within the campus : INR 50 per temple per head

Special Darshan : varies between INR 200-500 per head depending on the agent you deal with.

When to visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai

The temple town of Madurai has a hot and humid climate all through the year. But it gets really hot in the summer months. Winter months of October – March will be more comfortable for visiting here. However, the temple attracts over a million pilgrims and visitors during the annual 10-day Meenakshi Tirukalyanam festival. This is basically the wedding of Parvati and Shiva in association with the legend of the temple. Which is celebrated every year. And which also sees a ratha (chariot) procession. This festival is celebrated during the Tamil month of Chittirai. Which is equivalent to the English months of April – May. So, if you really want to witness this festivity then plan accordingly. Even in general days, it will easily take more than an hour to visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple.

PS: Some of our links are affiliated, this means we will earn a commission when you buy a service or product by clicking those links. However, this will have no extra cost for you.

1 thought on “Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai – Things to know before you go”

Vanakam. I recently visited this temple without knowing these facts. Such good information. I was also given a frame of goddess by sari shop owner and i dont know how to perform prayers. Any help?

The complete guide to visiting Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL TRENDS , MADURAI / Created : Jan 22, 2024, 16:07 IST

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Visitors to Meenakshi Amman Temple are required to dress conservatively, meaning, covering their shoulders and legs. Both men and women are advised to wear traditional Indian attire. While visitors can take photos of the stunning exterior of Meenakshi Amman Temple, photography is strictly prohibited within the inner sanctum. Ladies hand-bags are also not allowed inside the temple complex. Read less

The complete guide to visiting Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai

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Meenakshi Temple

🗓 Best Time To Visit: October to March

⏰ Open Hours: 5:00 AM - 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM

🎟 Entry Fee: Free

📌 Things To Do: Explore the architecture, attend daily rituals, visit the temple museum

💰 Budget: N/A

👥 Traveller Types: Spiritual seekers, history and architecture enthusiasts, photographers

🌟 Known For: One of the largest temple complexes in Tamil Nadu, known for its stunning Dravidian architecture and vibrant festivals

📍 Distances: Madurai Airport (12 km), Madurai Junction Railway Station (2 km)

🎁 Souvenir Shops: Available within the temple premises

📸 Photography: Allowed, but not inside the main sanctum

🚗 Parking: Available nearby, but limited

Are you looking for a destination that combines spirituality, culture, and beauty? If yes, then you should definitely visit the Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, one of the oldest and most magnificent temples in India. This temple is not only a place of worship, but also a masterpiece of architecture, art, and history. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about the Meenakshi Temple, from its origin and significance, to its timings and rituals, to its festivals and celebrations, to its nearby places to visit. Whether you are a devotee, a history buff, or a nature lover, you will find something to admire and enjoy in this temple. So, read on and discover why the Meenakshi Temple is a must-visit attraction in Madurai.

About the Temple

The Meenakshi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, an incarnation of Parvati, and her consort Lord Sundareswarar, an incarnation of Shiva. The name Meenakshi means “the one who has fish-shaped eyes”, and refers to the legend that the goddess was born with fish-shaped eyes. The temple is also known as Meenakshi Amman Temple, Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, or Tiru-Aalavai.

The temple complex covers an area of 14 acres and has four main entrances, each facing a different direction. The most striking feature of the temple is its 14 towering gopurams (gateway towers), which are adorned with thousands of colorful sculptures of gods, goddesses, animals, and mythical creatures. The tallest gopuram is the southern one, which stands at 170 feet and has over 1500 statues.

The temple has several halls, shrines, and ponds, each with its own significance and beauty. Some of the notable ones are:

The Hall of Thousand Pillars: This hall has 985 pillars, each carved with intricate designs and figures. The hall also has a museum that displays various artifacts and paintings related to the temple and its history.

The Golden Lotus Pond: This pond is where the goddess Meenakshi is said to have emerged from a fire as a child. The pond has a golden lotus in the center, which is considered sacred and auspicious. The pond is also used for various rituals and ceremonies.

The Shrine of Meenakshi: This shrine is where the main idol of the goddess Meenakshi is installed. The idol is made of emerald and is adorned with jewels and flowers. The shrine is also where the famous wedding ceremony of Meenakshi and Sundareswarar takes place every year.

The Shrine of Sundareswarar: This shrine is where the main idol of Lord Sundareswarar is installed. The idol is made of silver and is decorated with garlands and ornaments. The shrine also has a lingam, a symbol of Shiva, which is said to have been installed by Lord Indra, the king of gods.

History and Mythology

The Meenakshi Temple has a rich and fascinating history and mythology, dating back to the ancient times. According to the legend, the goddess Meenakshi was born as the daughter of King Malayadwaja Pandya and Queen Kanchanamala, who ruled over Madurai. The king and queen had no children, so they performed a fire sacrifice to seek the blessings of the gods. To their surprise, a three-year-old girl emerged from the fire, with fish-shaped eyes and four arms. She was named Meenakshi, and was destined to become the queen of Madurai.

Meenakshi grew up to be a brave and beautiful princess, who excelled in all fields of knowledge and warfare. She conquered the whole world with her army, and reached the Himalayas, where she met Lord Shiva, who was meditating there. As soon as she saw him, she fell in love with him, and her extra arms and eyes disappeared. Shiva also recognized her as his consort, and agreed to marry her. They returned to Madurai, where their wedding was celebrated with great pomp and splendor. The divine couple then ruled over Madurai as Meenakshi and Sundareswarar, and blessed the people with prosperity and happiness.

The history of the temple is also intertwined with the history of Madurai and South India. The temple is said to have been originally built by King Kulasekara Pandya in the 6th century CE, and later expanded and renovated by various dynasties and rulers, such as the Cholas, the Vijayanagaras, and the Nayakas. The temple witnessed many invasions, wars, and natural disasters, but survived and thrived through the ages. The temple also influenced the culture and literature of the region, as many poets, saints, and scholars visited and praised the temple in their works.

Timings and Rituals

The Meenakshi Temple is open for visitors from 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM , and from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The best time to visit the temple is in the early morning or evening, when the temple is less crowded and more serene. The temple is also illuminated with lights at night, which creates a stunning sight.

The temple follows a strict dress code and entry fee for the visitors. Men are required to wear dhoti or pants, and women are required to wear saree or salwar kameez. Shorts, jeans, t-shirts, and skirts are not allowed. The entry fee for the temple is Rs. 50 per person, and Rs. 100 for a special darshan (viewing) of the deities.

The temple performs various rituals and ceremonies throughout the day, which are meant to honor and worship the deities. Some of the main rituals are:

Thiruvanandal pooja: This is the first pooja of the day, which takes place at 5:00 AM. The priests wake up the deities with chants and songs, and offer them milk, honey, and fruits.

Vizha pooja: This is the second pooja of the day, which takes place at 6:30 AM. The priests adorn the deities with fresh flowers, jewels, and clothes, and offer them rice, sweets, and coconut.

Kalasandhi pooja: This is the third pooja of the day, which takes place at 7:30 AM. The priests perform a fire sacrifice and offer the deities sandalwood paste, incense, and lamps.

Thrikalasandhi pooja: This is the fourth pooja of the day, which takes place at 10:30 AM. The priests offer the deities betel leaves, nuts, and fruits, and recite the Vedas and the Agamas.

Uchikkala pooja: This is the fifth pooja of the day, which takes place at 12:00 PM. The priests offer the deities cooked rice, vegetables, and curd, and perform aarti (waving of lamps).

Maalai pooja: This is the sixth pooja of the day, which takes place at 4:30 PM. The priests offer the deities garlands of jasmine, lotus, and rose, and sing hymns and songs.

Ardhajama pooja: This is the seventh pooja of the day, which takes place at 7:30 PM. The priests offer the deities milk, ghee, and sugar, and perform aarti and camphor.

Palliarai pooja: This is the last pooja of the day, which takes place at 9:30 PM. The priests offer the deities water, flowers, and turmeric, and put them to sleep with chants and songs.

Festivals and Celebrations

The Meenakshi Temple is famous for its festivals and celebrations, which attract thousands of devotees and tourists every year. Some of the major festivals are:

Chithirai Festival: This is the most important and grand festival of the temple, which takes place in the month of Chithirai (April-May). The festival commemorates the wedding of Meenakshi and Sundareswarar, and lasts for 12 days. The festival involves various processions, rituals, and cultural events, such as the flag hoisting, the coronation of Meenakshi, the arrival of Sundareswarar, the celestial wedding, the chariot festival, and the float festival. The festival culminates with the Kallazhagar Vaigai Aatril Ezhuntharulal, which is the crossing of the river Vaigai by Lord Kallazhagar, the brother of Meenakshi.

Navratri Festival: This is another important festival of the temple, which takes place in the month of Purattasi (September-October). The festival celebrates the nine forms of the goddess, such as Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati, and lasts for nine days. The festival involves various poojas, offerings, and cultural events, such as the kolu (display of dolls), the bommai kalyanam (marriage of dolls), the ayudha pooja (worship of weapons and tools), and the vijayadashami (victory of good over evil).

Teppam Festival: This is a unique festival of the temple, which takes place in the month of Thai (January-February). The festival celebrates the float festival of Meenakshi and Sundareswarar, and lasts for three days. The festival involves the idols of the deities being taken on a boat ride around the golden lotus pond, accompanied by music and fireworks. The festival is also known as the Theppotsavam or the Float Festival.

Avani Moolam Festival: This is another significant festival of the temple, which takes place in the month of Avani (August-September). The festival commemorates the day when Lord Shiva performed the cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction, known as the Ananda Tandava, in the presence of Meenakshi and other gods and goddesses. The festival involves the idol of Sundareswarar being taken in a procession to the hall of thousand pillars, where the priests recite the Thiruvilayadal Puranam, a collection of 64 stories that depict the miracles and leelas of Shiva in Madurai.

Nearby Places to Visit

If you are visiting the Meenakshi Temple, you can also explore some nearby places that are worth a visit. Some of them are:

Thirumalai Nayak Palace: This palace is a stunning example of the Indo-Saracenic style of architecture, built by King Thirumalai Nayak in the 17th century. The palace has a grand courtyard, a throne chamber, a dance hall, and a museum that displays various paintings, sculptures, and weapons. The palace also hosts a sound and light show every evening, which narrates the history and glory of the Nayak dynasty.

Gandhi Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation. The museum showcases various exhibits, such as photographs, letters, books, and personal belongings of Gandhi, including the blood-stained cloth that he wore when he was assassinated. The museum also has a library, a gallery, and a khadi store.

Alagar Koyil: This temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped here as Alagar or Kallazhagar. The temple is located at the foothills of the Alagar Hills, about 21 km from Madurai. The temple is known for its exquisite sculptures, paintings, and carvings, depicting various scenes from the Hindu epics. The temple also has a sacred spring, called the Nupura Gangai, which is believed to have healing powers.

The Meenakshi Temple is a marvel of Madurai that you must visit at least once in your lifetime. The temple is not only a place of worship, but also a place of wonder, where you can witness the beauty, the history, and the culture of Madurai. The temple will leave you spellbound with its majestic gopurams, its splendid halls, its divine shrines, and its vibrant festivals.

So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Madurai and experience the Meenakshi Temple for yourself.

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Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple – A Complete Guide To Madurai

India is a land dotted by millions of temples small and big, some simple and some exquisite, some modern and some the legacy of a rich heritage. One such temple draws visitors in droves to its fold with its sanctity, history, and its exquisite craftsmanship. This is the Madurai Meenakshi Amman temple.

Madurai is a city in southern India, famous for its Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple , a city whose history dates back to the 3rd century BCE and finds a mention in the chronicles of the famous Greek explorer Megasthenes . Madurai is a city located in Tamil Nadu, a southern state of India , and lies about 464 kilometres from Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu . Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple is a Dravidian style temple.

Table of Contents

The Madurai Meenakshi Amman temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Lord Shiva as well as his consort Parvati in the form of Meenakshi. Parvati is worshipped in the form of Meenakshi and Shiva is worshipped in the form of Sundareshwara in this temple. Meenakshi literally translates in Tamil into, “the one with fishlike eyes”. Both the deities have separate shrines within the larger temple complex. What is remarkable here is that the presiding deity is Parvati in the form of Meenakshi while Lord Shiva is content to play second fiddle! Indeed a divine endorsement of Girl power!

Dear readers read on to know more about everything you wanted to know about the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple and Madurai in this Madurai travel blog post which we hope is a complete travel guide to Madurai .

Madurai Temple City – The Athens Of The East

Madurai is known for the Madurai Meenakshi Temple, a Dravidian style temple. It is a major pilgrimage site. Madurai is known as the Athens of the East. Athens in ancient times was dominated by the Pantheon which was situated on an elevated plain, similarly, the Madurai of yore was dominated by the towers of the Meenakshi temple which stretched out into the sky. Even today, the Meenakshi temple is the pivot around which the city revolves. It is known as the soul of Tamil Nadu.

We have been to the Temple city Madurai and the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Kovil (Kovil means Temple in Tamil ) many times but every visit evokes the same magic. The fragrance of Jasmine flowers being sold around the temple, the fascinating sight of sweets being made in small shops around the periphery of the temple, all combines to fuel our excitement and build it into a crescendo.

We are sure you too would be swept away with a potpourri of emotions and feelings of excitement, divine bliss, wonder, devotion, and incredulity when you visit Madurai and explore the wonders of the Madurai Meenakshi Mandir.

Where is Madurai situated?

Madurai is a historic city that is situated in the Southern Indian State of Tamil Nadu . It is the administrative headquarters of the Madurai District.

Madurai to Chennai distance is about 462 kilometres
Coimbatore to Madurai distance is about 214 kilometres
Bangalore to Madurai distance is about 436 kilometres

Madurai Map – Madurai City Map

Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple Address, Telephone, Email and Website

Meenakshi Amman Temple Address :

Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai Main Madurai – 625001 Tamil Nadu India

Madurai Meenakshi Temple Website : www.maduraimeenakshi.org Email id : [email protected] Madurai Temple Contact number : +91 452 234 4360

Madurai Meenakshi Temple History

The Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple history dates back all the way to the late 12th century. It is believed that the original temple structure was built between 1190 – 1216 CE by Kulasekara Pandya whom historical accounts describe as a poet, saint, and king.

There were subsequent additions made to the temple in the subsequent years. However, in the early part of the 14th century, the waves of marauding Muslim invasions that were sweeping across India reached Southern India as well and many of the grand temples were plundered and destroyed. The Meenakshi Amman Temple too was plundered and desecrated by the forces of Malik Kafur along with other temples like Srirangam , Chidambaram, and others.

After this storm of destruction, Madurai became the Madurai Sultanate under the Delhi Sultanate, but the rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire ensured that the Madurai Sultanate was short-lived and saw to it that the temple re-opened after rebuilding the core of the temple.

The temple idols that had been hidden in Nanjil Nadu, in the present-day Kanyakumari region, were brought back and worship at the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple recommenced. It was however in the 16th century that major expansion of the temple was done by Vishwanatha Nayakar and later in the 17th century by Thirumala Nayakar.

Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple – Myths & Legends

As with all temples, the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple also known as Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple too has its share of local lore, legends, and myths surrounding it.

According to legend as mentioned in the ancient Tamil text, Tiruvilaiyatarpuranam , the childless royal couple of King Malayadwaja Pandya and Queen Kanchanamalai yearned for a child. They wanted a son to continue the royal lineage and hence performed a Yajna to this end. But in a travesty of fate, they were blessed with a daughter who had the anomaly of having three breasts.

The royal couple was aghast, but Lord Shiva blesses them and asks them to bring up their daughter like a son. “When she grows up and meets her husband, she will become normal”, said the God Shiva, consoling the King and Queen. The royal couple took heed of Shiva’s advice and the little princess who was already 3 years old when she emerged from the fire of the Yajna was brought up like a Prince in all respects.

Soon the King makes her the Crown Prince and names her as his successor to the throne. One fine day, Shiva arrives, and the Princess assumes her form of Meenakshi, “the one with Fish Eyes”, and is united with Shiva.

Legend has it that the celestial marriage of Shiva and Parvati in the form of Meenakshi and Sundareshwara was a grand affair with all the Gods and Goddesses showering their blessings and the Lord Vishnu, giving away the hand of the bride in marriage. This celestial marriage is commemorated even today with a special festival.

Madurai Meenakshi Temple Architecture

The temple has 14 towers known as Gopurams, the tallest of the tower zooms to a height of 170 feet. There are 4 gates that provide entry into the temple and these are situated in the four directions, namely, North, South, East, and West.

The temple is ornamented with more than 33,000 sculptures and the roofs are an artist’s delight with brightly coloured, intricate motifs and designs of Gods and Goddesses. One of the most fascinating paintings that we saw was that of a Shiv Ling, which changed directions as one moved so that it always faced you.

Main Shrines in the Madurai Meenakshi Temple Complex

Meenakshi amman temple.

The main shrine in the temple complex is that of the Goddess Meenakshi which occupies the prime position towards the right of the complex. The deity is in the form of a beautiful green stone standing idol. A unique feature of this form of Parvati is that the right hand of the idol holds a lotus on which is seated a parrot. The Meenakshi shrine is facing eastwards as per traditional norms of Hindu temple architecture. The gold-plated Vimana above the temple is the feature of the temple that stands out and is visible from far away.

Sundareswarar Temple

The temple of Sundareshwara is centralized towards the northern direction of the complex. The main idols is a Shiva Linga made of stone. Apart from this inside the temple is a symbolic representation of Shiva called Cokkar, which is used in an important daily ritual. The Sundareshwara temple too is oriented eastwards and faces the entrance from the eastern Gopuram. The Vimana of this temple too is plated in gold.

Other Temples

Other important temples inside the complex include a temple to Murugan, the son of Shiva and Parvati. There is also a sculpture of Ganesha that stands between the Meenakshi and Sundareshwara temples that is known as Mukuruny Vinayakar.

Madurai Meenakshi Temple Timings

Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple timings are from 5.00 AM to 12.30 PM and again from 4.00 PM to 10.00 PM. Do check out this temple site for the exact Madurai temple timings.

Darshan At Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Thirukkovil

There are separate queues for men and women for darshan at the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple. Devotees need to pass through a metal detector and be subject to frisking before entry to the temple complex. Tickets for Madurai Meenakshi Temple Special Darshan are available at the temple counters.

Rituals and Puja/Sevas

The Madurai Meenakshi Temple stirs into activity in the wee hours of the morning. The first worship starts at 5.00 AM with the Thiruvanandal pooja which is followed by the Vizha pooja and the Kalasandhi pooja at 6.30 AM.

At 10.30 AM it is time for the Thrikalasandhi pooja and Uchikkala Pooja (Noon Pooja). The temple is closed after this pooja. The temple opens again with the Maalai pooja at 4.30 PM. The Ardhajama Pooja (Night Pooja) happens at 7.30 PM and the final Palliarai pooja at 9.30 PM after which the temple is closed at 10.00 PM.

The temple has frequent Chariot processions in which a metallic replica of the idol of Meenakshi is taken out in a gaily decorated chariot pulled by devotees.

An important daily ritual at the temple is the bearing of a symbol of Shiva in the form of the Cokkar which is the feet of Shiva on a metallic stone on a palanquin to the Meenakshi temple. This ritual takes place at night and is a symbolic representation of Shiva and Parvati spending the night together. The divine couple is woken up in the morning and the Cokkar is brought back to the Sundareshwara temple.

The list of sevas that can be done at the Madurai Meenakshi Temple is as under:

Arulmigu Swami & Meenakshi Amman Abhishekam
Ubaya ThiruKalyanam (Morning)
Ubaya ThiruKalyanam (Evening)
Arulmigu Sidthar Pushpa Koodaram
ArulmiguDurgai Abhishekam
Arulmigu Saraswathy Abhishekam
Arulmigu Mahalakshmi Abhishekam
Arulmigu Pathra Kali Abhishekam
Arulmigu Ahora Veerabhadhrar Abhishekam
Arulmigu Mukkurini Vinayakar Abhishekam
Arulmigu Dhakshina Moorthi Abhishekam
Annadhanam – Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple
Annadhanam – Arulmigu Thiruvappudaiyar Temple
Arulmigu Mahalakshmi Sandal Paste Decoration
Annadhanam – Arulmigu Marriamman Temple
Arulmigu Dhakshinamoorthy Sandal Paste Decoration
Arulmigu Pathrakali Sandal Paste Decoration
Arulmigu Muktheeswarar temple Annathanam

Festivals celebrated in Madurai Meenakshi Temple

The Meenakshi temple organizes many colourful festivals throughout the year. One of the most important festivals that draw visitors in millions is a festival called the “ Meenakshi Thirukalyanam “. This festival celebrates the marriage of the divine couple Meenakshi and Sundareshwara or Shiva and Parvati. The festival is celebrated during the Tamil month of Chithirai month which is around April. The festival lasts for 12 days.

Some other important festivals of Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple are:

Unjal Festival
Vasantham festival
Mulai-Kottu festival
Kolattam festival
Aavani Moolam Aavani
Arudhra Dharsan festival
Navratri Festival

Madurai Meenakshi Temple Online Booking Services

There are various sevas that devotees can offer at the temple and these can be booked online by registering at their website . Online services are for e-pooja, e-books and e-hundi.

Madurai Meenakshi Temple Accommodation

There are 3 lodges that are run by the Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple that offers accommodation facilities to pilgrims. Details are available here .

Birla Ashram, Phone: +91 – 0452-2345503
Sundareswarar Illam, Phone: +91 – 0452-2345503
Bakthargal Thangum Viduthi, Phone: +91 –0452-2609868

Places to visit in Madurai

1. madurai meenakshi temple – top’s the list of madurai places to visit.

Madurai is virtually synonymous with the Meenakshi Temple which undoubtedly is the pièce de résistance of the city. A visit to this place would be incomplete without visiting this magnificent Meenakshi temple, in fact, the temple is the lodestone which draws multitudes to its fold. This temple is also known as Meenakshi Amman Temple.

The 1000 pillar hall in Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple

Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple 1000 pillar

When inside the temple do not miss the 1000 pillar hall – The Hall of Thousand Pillars which intriguingly consists of 985 pillars carved with the figure of a mythical animal having the body of a lion and the head of an elephant. Outside of the 1000 pillar hall are located the musical pillars where each pillar produces a different musical note when struck.

While walking around the temple, one is sure to lose all sense of time as the magnificent creations of the artists who have long since departed haunt you with their beauty and finesse.

2. Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal

A palace constructed in the 17th century by the king Thirumalai Nayak today survives as a shadow of its once, grand presence. The original palace was more than 4 times the size of its current form. In its heyday, the palace was renowned for its grandeur and elegant architectural style and is a fine blend of the best of Dravidian and Rajput architectural styles. In the evenings a Sound and Light show will transport you to a different time in history. The Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal is one of the top Madurai famous places. It is a place that is connected with the ancient history of the city and is one of the most interesting places to see in Madurai.

3. Gandhi Museum

Madurai has one of the 5 Gandhi museums in the country. The other museums include the museum at Gandhi Ashram in Ahmedabad, Anasakti Ashram in Kausani , Uttarakhand , and the Mahatma Gandhi Museum in Rajkot.

Mahatma Gandhi was a renowned freedom fighter and is also known as the ‘Father of the Nation.’ The museum presents a visual biography of the life and times of Mahatma Gandhi through its collection of pictures, letters, replicas, and other artefacts. Some of the interesting exhibits include a letter written by Mahatma Gandhi to Adolf Hitler. A portion of the blood-stained garment that Mahatma Gandhi wore, when he was assassinated is also on display at the Museum.

A visit to the museum provides a walk back in time in the recent history of India before independence. The Gandhi Museum is one of the important Madurai tourist places that figure in most people’s Madurai itinerary .

4. Alagar Koyil

An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu who is the God of preservation in the Hindu religion is situated some 22 kilometres from Madurai. The temple is constructed in the Dravidian architectural style and has some rare sculptures. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple has a statue of Lord Vishnu in a reclining position. This temple is one of the 108 Divya Desams or temples dedicated to Vishnu which is scattered across India and Nepal. It is an important pilgrimage place and one of the important places to visit in Madurai.

The Best Time to Visit Madurai | Madurai Weather

Madurai should be ideally visited during the winter months between September to February as in the summer the mercury rises and the heat will leave you drained.

Madurai Tourism

How to get to madurai.

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
There are plenty of trains which connect Madurai 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
One can travel to Madurai by road using public bus services or taxi or private car
Madurai to Chennai bus services are many and so are Madurai to Bangalore bus services

If you are planning a visit to Madurai, you can book an inexpensive flight through TripAdvisor or Agoda 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

Madurai offers a range of accommodation from the spartan to the luxurious. Accommodation is available in the lodges run by the temple trust as well as many hotels that dot the city. One can choose one of the hotels near Madurai Meenakshi Temple to stay in the vicinity of the temple or opt for hotels near the Madurai railway station . We stayed at the GRT hotel Madurai, known as Regency Madurai . A lovely and luxurious hotel with all amenities and located very near the temple.

We enjoyed the hospitality of the GRT group at the Regency Madurai by GRT Hotels. A hotel that provides a comfortable and luxurious stay experience with all modern amenities in the historic city.

The GRT hotel – Regency Madurai hotel also boasts a fine dining restaurant, a lounge bar, fitness centre, and also an outdoor swimming pool. A 20-minute drive from the Madurai airport and a walking distance from the Meenakshi Temple, Regency Madurai by GRT Hotels is an ideal place to return to after an exciting, yet tiring exploration of this city.

You can book your accommodation at the Regency Madurai or any of the best hotels in Madurai from the Madurai 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 Agoda or Makemytrip or Priceline and save a lot by getting the best savings on booking your stay.

What to eat in Madurai

The lunch buffet at Ahaaram, which is the multi-cuisine fine dining restaurant of Regency Madurai by GRT Hotels is really sumptuous. The chefs create magic with traditional Tamil cuisine and also fuse together the best of Indian cuisines from across the country.

Italian dishes like Pasta are also on offer. All dishes come with the unique GRT twist.

Traditional and must have Food experiences in Madurai

Madurai is famous for its Chettinad cuisine which has a fiery tinge in all its dishes. The dishes are prepared using freshly ground spices. The vegetarian fare that one must try when in this city are:

Paniyaram which is a blend of rice and lentils batter steamed in round shaped mounds to result in crisp, golden balls that can be eaten with spicy curry or sauce.

When in this city, one has to eat its famed idlis which are as soft as its other famous commodity, the Jasmine flowers known as Madurai Malli in the Tamil language.

Jigar Thanda

Do not forget to have the ubiquitous Jigarthanda, a cold beverage made of milk, almond, sugar, ice-cream and other flavouring agents. Jigar Thanda translates as the Cool heart and is indeed a great coolant against the heat of Madurai in the summers.

Shopping in Madurai

While in Madurai, you can buy sarees, handicrafts and bangles. If you are looking to buy souvenirs then the best places for shopping in Madurai are:

Prithu Mandapam Market
Pudhu Mandapam
Avani Moola Street
Chithirai Street
Masi Streets
Hajee Moosa Textiles

The best things to buy in Madurai are:

Sungudi Sarees or Chinnalapattu
Bangles from Valayalkara Theru
Handicrafts from Cottage Arts Emporium, North Chithirai Street
Halwa from Prema Vilas, Town Hall Road
Coffee from Visalam Coffee, Thallakullam
Madurai Malli ( Jasmine flowers )

Madurai photos / Images for Madurai Meenakshi

Here is a collage of Madurai Meenakshi Temple images.

Around Madurai

Kodaikanal , a cool and pristine hill station is about 114 kilometres from this city
Kanya Kumari, the southernmost tip of India is about 246 kilometres from this city
Rameshwaram, an important pilgrimage centre of the Hindus is about 169 kilometres from this city
Dhanushkodi , a ghost town swept away in the tsunami is about 188 kilometres from this city
Valparai, a secluded and lesser-known hill station of Tamil Nadu is located about 235 kilometres from this city
Thanjavur which is also known as Tanjore is famous for art, architecture, and paintings. It is 190 kilometres from this city
Tiruchirapalli which is also known as Trichy which is another temple town is 169 kilometres from this city
Palani, a hill on which is located a famous temple dedicated to Lord Muruga and is visited by 7 million pilgrims every year is located about 100 kilometres from this city

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Madurai

♦ Is Mobile allowed in Madurai Meenakshi temple?

No, mobiles, cameras, and any kind of electronic equipment are banned inside the temple complex.

♦ What is Meenakshi temple famous for?

The Meenakshi temple is famous for its beautiful architecture, paintings, and sculptures as well as its long pillared corridors and halls.

♦ Who built Meenakshi temple at Madurai?

The original temple is credited to the king King Kulasekara Pandya.

♦ Why is Meenakshi temple famous?

The Meenakshi Temple is a sacred place of pilgrimage for Hindus and also has immense historical and cultural significance.

♦ What should I wear in Meenakshi Temple?

Proper dress code as becomes a religious place of worship should be followed when visiting the Meenakshi temple in Madurai. The official prescribed dress code consists of dhotis and pajamas with upper cloth or formal pants and shirts for men. Sarees or half-sarees along with blouses or Churidars with upper cloth for women. Shorts, skirts, and other casual dresses are not to be worn at the temple.

♦ What is Madurai famous for?

Madurai is, of course, famous for the Meenakshi temple. However, there are many other places to visit in Madurai, like the Gandhi Museum, Palace, etc.. There are also many other Temples near Madurai that are worth visiting. The food of Madurai and its local delicacies are also a great attraction.

♦ What is the famous local food of Madurai?

The famous local food of Madurai includes Murugan Idli, Idiyappam, Madurai Halwa, and the cool and refreshing iconic drink Jigarthanda.

♦ Is Madurai worth visiting?

Madurai is definitely worth visiting if you like art, heritage, and culture and the ancient temples of India appeal to you.

♦ What can I buy in Madurai?

Madurai is great for shopping, especially street shopping. One can buy anything from Sarees to Bangles and other stuff.

♦ What is famous to buy in Madurai?

One can buy Sungudi or Chinnalapattu sarees and bangles from the bangles market. One should also taste the local delicacies like Jigarthanda and Madurai Halwa.

♦ How many days are required to visit Madurai? Is one day enough for Madurai?

If you are looking for an immersive experience in Madurai and also planning to visit tourist places near Madurai, you should plan for at least a couple of days. Madurai can also be visited in one day, but in that case, it may not be possible to see all places to visit near Madurai.

♦ How far is Kodaikanal from Madurai?

Madurai to Kodaikanal distance is about 115 kilometres. Tour packages from Madurai are available to visit Kodaikanal.

♦ How long does it take to visit the Meenakshi temple?

It depends on the crowds as well as how much time you want to explore the temple complex. At the minimum, one should plan for 2-3 hours.

♦ How Madurai got its name?

It is believed that Madurai is derived from the word Madhura meaning sweetness in the Sanskrit language.

♦ Is Madurai safe?

Madurai is a safe place. The city of Madurai always has some of the other activities throughout the night, and many markets are open too.

Some Useful Tips – Things To Know Before Visiting Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple

Ensure to take bath before visiting the temple
Cigarettes, Tobacco, Gutkha, chewing of betel leaves, bubble gum, chewing gum inside the temple is not allowed
Do not smoke or spit in the temple
Dress modestly and do not wear shorts, Lungis or short skirts or caps
Ladies should not enter the temple in the first 5 days of their menstruation periods
Footwear and socks are not allowed inside the temple
Do not carry umbrellas, sticks
Do not carry mobile phones, cameras, electronic gadgets, bags, water bottles inside the temple
Cloakrooms are available to deposit your mobiles, camera, valuable items, bag etc.
Parking facility is available to park vehicles
Free weddings are performed to benefit the needy
Temple provides wheelchairs, battery operated cars for the physically challenged and senior citizens. One person can accompany the physically challenged or senior citizen. To avail the service, please contact +91 83009 56820, +91 452 2349868 and +91 452 2344360

Madurai is a city that provides an intoxicating cocktail of experiences that range from fodder for the soul to food for the baser senses. The intoxicating aromas of coffee, jasmine and the street food of Madurai merge together and are guaranteed to haunt you for a long, long time.

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71 thoughts on “madurai meenakshi amman temple – a complete guide to madurai”.

Your pics are amazing! I bet the musical pillars at the Meenakshi Temple get a lot of visitors. I would love to visit the Ghandi Museum. I never knew there were 5 Ghandi Museums in India.

I have a couple of sons who are thinking about traveling in the east next year. Your photos are very enticing. Will have to show them your post they might add this to their trip.

The Temple City in Madurai looks absolutely beautiful. Actually, everything including the room and food looks amazing. Personally, I would love to visit the Ghandi Museum.

This looks like a lovely place to be. I’ve never been to Madurai, but I would love to check it out. I’d be excited to try the food too!

Thank you for taking us on such an in depth tour. There’s so many places on my travel list, now I’m adding another!

That first temple was so incredibly beautiful with so many fine details. It looks like it was a wonderful trip filled with beautiful sights, sounds and tastes.

I would love to visit the Meenakshi Temple; it looks incredible. I would also want to visit the Gandhi Museum.

That temples architecture and art is absolutely breath taking. I hope to one day visit there!

Your pictures are stunning. Madurai looks beautiful and I’ve never seen such incredible architecture.

Madurai sounds like a very wonderful part of India. I have only been in Rajasthan and Delhi but I would love to see more of the country. That Jigar Thanda looks particularly delicious and cool for the hot Indian sun!

Somehow I never got the opportunity to visit Tamil Nadu at leisure. I have heard so much about the beauty of the temples at Madurai, and your pictures confirmed the thought. The hotel looks like an interesting place to stay during the visit to Athens of India.

What a great place to visit. Sounds very interesting and I love to learn about new places and cultures.

wow I would love to go to the Gandhi museum, what an experience. But everything about this looks beautiful. As someone who’s never been to india, it is good to know some destinations that are not just major cities Thank you!

Gorgeous pics! The colours of Madurai Meenakshi Temple are stunning! Added to my travel list 🙂

Hi Sandy & Vyjay! What a beautiful post! Madurai looks so incredibly rich in culture, history and amazing architecture. The Gandhi museum would be at the top of my must-see list. I saw the movie Gandhi and would want to see where it took place. From the ruins to the rich culture, I would love to explore and take it all in! The hotel looks lovely, too!

Meenakshi Temple looks amazing! it’s a shame that I had no time to visit Madurai when I was traveling around India. Tamil Nadu seems to be an off-the-beaten-path destination among backpackers, so I’d like to give it a go. Thanks for sharing Miguel.

Wow – I didn’t know there were so many temples in India – and especially these beautiful ones in Madurai – what an interesting article and with so much info – thank you

I have to say that I’m stunned by how beautiful the Meenakshi Temple is. I can’t imagine what it was like before the looting, but I’m so glad that it was relatively quickly restored. I could spend hours just looking at the detail in the carvings and the colors. I also really want to see the Gandhi Museum. Regency Madurai looks like a great home base for exploring the area. Pinned!

I;ve heard the temples are lovely. Those colors look so bright and the detail on the statues and figures is quite clear.

Wow I can’t believe there are 6 million temples in India . And yet each one has such unique and intricately beautiful architecture. I’m always left spellbound. Those musical pillars sound interesting. I wonder how they were constructed. The architect was surely brilliant. Interesting to read about the other temples and the Gandhi Museum as well. I hope to visit Madurai someday!

I love how colorful the temple is! The fact that are are sweets nearby is an added bonus

Ohh my I was not familiar with Madurai until I read your article and there seems to be soo much to see and do here! Thank you for the advice for visiting in the winter months, I will keep that in mind

All your descriptions of the smells and emotions of being in this place just puts me in a dream. It sounds and looks like the perfect place to visit.

The architecture on the buildings is amazing! Absolutely gorgeous. The colors are so pretty, and the food doesn’t look too bad either. Lol! This looks like a lovely place to visit.

Stunning is one of many words that come to mind. It seems this is in the southern part of India which is not an area we are familiar with. The food looks amazing and diet and palate friendly! The temples…amazing.

It’s funny how I have been encountering Madurai over the last 3 years of which twice last year. It must be a call for me to explore it even more deeper. My favorite (not counting the Meenakshi temple) was the Nayakkar palace, that too during the day when you can see the beautiful high ceilings here. Glad you brought the entire place to fore.

Hey! Never knew about a Gandhi musuem being present there. I too have not explored Madurai much except for some of the places you mention here, and that too was a quick trip. Maybe I should schedule Madurai later this year.

Wow. Inside the temple is absolutely gorgeous. I love going on vacation to historical places, rich in history. What a wonderful place to visit, and learn more about the city!

India always has its charm. And I’m glad you are such a savvy travler! I plan to go and visit one day soon…

This isn’t a part of India that I have really considered visiting but it looks fabulous. The food in the hotel looks particularly enticing!

Sandy and Vyjay very thorough post! I loved South India and I didn’t get to Madurai but I do want to get back, I’ll bookmark this for future trips. Your pictures are stunning and reminded me of many amazing South Indian meals. thanks for all the tips!

India has 6 million temples, one more beautiful than another. Every time I read about a temple in India I get amazed by the beauty of the sculptures and the decorations and think how much effort has been put into creating them and how long it took to finish the work. I always wonder how many people must have worked to create such a masterpiece. On every single temple! You are so lucky to live in a country with such a huge heritage.

Madurai looks like an amazing place to visit! I would LOVE to see the Temples in person and to fully immerse myself in the culture… great photos! ; )

The architectural design and details of the these temples have always amazed me. The artwork of the Meenakshi Temple is breathtaking. The sculpture of the Alagar Koyil stands out as well.

We visited Madurai during our whirlwind road trip. We stayed close to the Meenakshi temple area and had one of the best chai there. I still recall it with a lot of fondness, so it must be really good. Next time I visit I need to see the palace and the Vishnu temple too. Thanks for sharing !

The temples of Madurai remind a bit of Tikal in Guatemala but much more colorful. The food here looks delish!

I never even heard of this place and it looks so magical and now I want to include it on my list of places to visit when I am in the area. Those temples look so colourful 😀

It’s beautiful but I don’t think it can compare to Athens built a thousand years earlier~

I can see why it’s called the Athens of the East! So much rich history and from all the way back to the 3 century B.C.E?! That’s insanely awesome. I love the bright colors on the ceiling of that particular temple. It’s stunning. That drink sounds absolutely delicious and refreshing.

That temple looks magical! So many gorgeous designs and bright colours- India truly is a photographer’s dream.

The Hindu Architecture is so colorful and special for any tourists outside of the country but the Indian food is just too sweet for me 🙂 Thanks for the introduction and detailed information! Nice read 🙂 @ knycx.journeying

As soon as I read the title I was intrigued to learn why this is the Athens of the East. The architecture here is so interesting, intricate, and beautiful. I also want to try all that food!

These are some seriously nice temples. Such a variety too I really like that. I want to come and visit I would really enjoy it here

Wow, I can see why they call it the Athens of the East! It seems like every building and every corner is telling a story.

I want to eat all of the food. Always. I’m hungry now after looking at these photos! The colors and details of this ancient architecture is truly breathtaking. I hope to see this someday with my own eyes. Thanks for highlighting your experience – it’s convinced me to get there ASAP!

Your posting and interesting picture shows the popularity of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple. Excellent write up. I too wish to get stationed there for a couple of days so that each and every part of the complex is covered.

So many places to see and foods to try! It looks like an exquisite place to visit and even stay for a little way! Thanks for all the tips!

When you mentioned the fragrance of jasmine, I was totally transported to Madurai with you as I looked at the temple photos.

Madurai is indeed a must visit ancient town of South India. Particularly the Meenakshi temple is a must see. I didn’t know about this fine dine option though. The spread is really good. I will like to try it out on my own trip to Madurai

I loved the ornate detailing at the Meenakshi temple and learning about its long and vast history. Also there are so many delicious dishes that I’d love to try in this region! I’d start with the Paniyaram!

I love your photos! The temples are so beautiful and ornate -I would love to see them in person.

What a fascinating place to visit. Even if the temple was sacked so many years ago, it’s still magnificent and I’m glad it was restored by the Nayak king. And good to know where to stay if you go.

Thank you for this post about Madurai and the Meenakshi Temple. I have no doubt that I enjoy visiting this intriguing destination.

Six million temples…wow!! The first temple is similar to one in Little India, Singapore. The level of detail and the stories behind each piece of tile or sculpture is truly fascinating. This is a fascinating place to visit and your guide does a great job of highlighting the experience. Nicely done!!

I have seen so many pictures of Madurai over the years and wondered if it’s really as beautiful as it looks, Thank you for confirming. It’s on my bucket list for sure!

I love idlis! Reading about it so early in the morning at 4.40 doesn’t really help though, haha! On a more serious note though, I’d love to visit Ghandi Museum! Didn’t know that there are 5 of them in India! Did he spend some of his time in Madurai?

Haha – Idlis! 🙂 Mahatma Gandhi has visited Madurai city five times.

Madurai looks amazing! I’m always so fascinated by places with such a rich history. I’m excited to visit India in the near future and will bookmark Madurai as a potential stop (maybe next trip? who knows!)

Amazing pics. Madurai is a beautiful city and you’ve covered it beautifully.

The Ghandi Museum seems like it would be a good enough reason to go as I have a lot of respect for that man but The Temple City in Madurai looks beautiful. That architecture is like nothing I have ever seen before!

You have taken us with you as always. <3 I really love how you share the stories of a place together with its facts. The richness of India is definitely beyond what we can imagine.

What the what! This place looks incredible! Great photos! I need to add this to good old bucket list!

I have been to Madurai twice, yet missed visiting some of these. Biggest regret is not visiting Gandhi Museum. And also not tasting jigarthanda. 🙁

Wow!! 6 million temples? Then we have million of reasons to visit India! Plus the hotel you stayed in is very nice looking accommodation. Looks spotless!

A great, in-depth post. The temple in particular looks fascinating!

I went to Madurai as a kid – and I remember walking the grand corridor. Now I am married to a South Indian and the architecture of these temples never stops to amaze me!

The details of Meenakshi temple looks gorgeous! I would love to photograph the ‘artwork’ in the ceiling. Madurai had been on my radar for quite a few days. I have a friend in Chennai, so we are planning a trip to Madurai soon!

Have never been to Madurai..need to put it on my list!

Have always wanted to visit this place. The musical pillars are a stunning creation.

I have never been to madurai but it is one of the places I have dreamed of visiting since long. I have heard a lot about Meenakshi Temple, the Nayakar Mahal and Alagar Koyil are new to me. The temples, delicious food and the rich history are the perfect reasons to visit this ancient city.

A beautiful presentation of places in Madurai..Recently I have visited the city and these places really charmed me..!!

Privacy Overview

Sri Meenakshi Amman Temple

Madurai is synonymous with sri meenakshi amman temple. a famous pilgrimage spot, the temple is renowned for its classic architectural style, stupendous structures and carvings..

The temple abounds in legends and myths. It is believed that Indra discovered the presence of Swayambhu lingam during his trip through Madurai and he enshrined it. This temple finds mention in ancient texts and was completely devastated in 1310. The temple was restored to its original glory in the 14th century. It is quite an architectural marvel with 14 temple towers with a height ranging between 45-50 metres. A 1000 pillared hall is another major feature with exquisitely sculpted pillars. There are musical pillars which produce sounds of different scales.

A large water tank lies within the temple complex. The magnificent murals on the corridor walls depict the tales from Thiruvilaiyadal puranam. Scores of devotees attend the Thirukalyanam [divine wedding] during the Chithirai Brahmotsavam which is the most celebrated festival at the Meenakshi Temple Madurai. The festival reenacts the holy marriage of deities Meenakshi Devi and Lord Sundareswarar.

The Navarathri festival held during September – October also draws people in huge numbers. The other major festivals are Avani Moolam Festival during August- September and the Masi Mandala Utsavam during February – March. The mandapam hall also functions as a museum featuring antique items, coins, carvings, rare photographs and idols. Eight forms of Goddess Sakthi are featured as sculptures on the pillars of the mandapam. The Meenakshi Naicker mandapam also features sculptures depicting Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Shiva. The Muthupillai Mandapam constructed in 1613 features statues of saints of Tharukavanam.

How to Reach
Best Time to Visit

Madurai Main Bus Station, about 1 km away

Madurai Airport, about 11 km away

Madurai Railway Station, about 1 km away

October to March is the best time to visit Madurai. Madurai Temple Darshan Timings. Morning Hours: 6:00 am to 12:30 pm; Evening Hours: 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The best time to visit the temple is early morning

Nearby Destinations

Aayiram Kaal Mandapam

Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal

Koodal Azhagar Temple

Kazimar Periya Pallivasal

St. Mary’s Cathedral

Gandhi Memorial Museum

Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam

Pazhamudhir Solai

Tirupparankundram

Samanar Hills

Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal Temple, Madurai

Alagar Kovil

Jain Circuit, Ariattapatti

Kutladampatti Falls, Madurai

Idaikattur Church

Accommodation

Hotel Tamilnadu - Madurai-1

3, W Veli St, Near Periyar Bus Stand, Periyar, Madurai Main

Hotel Tamilnadu - Madurai-2

Madurai Pudur, 296, Alagar Kovil Main Road

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Marvels of Madurai: Exploring the Magnificent Meenakshi Temple

Meenakshi amman temple: the jewel of tamil nadu.

Nestled in the heart of the bustling city of Madurai in Tamil Nadu, India, the Meenakshi Amman Temple stands as a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the region.

Meenakshi Temple the ancient Hindu temple, dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi, is a masterpiece that attracts pilgrims, historians, and tourists alike. Join us on a virtual tour of this awe-inspiring temple that has stood the test of time for over a millennium. Trips to Tamil Nadu Only with Trip Adventurer.

Marvels of Madurai: Exploring the Magnificent Meenakshi Temple, Trip Adventurer

History and Legends:

The Meenakshi Temple’s origins can be traced back to the 6th century, with significant expansions and renovations carried out by various rulers over the centuries. Legend has it that the temple was built by the Pandyan king, Kulasekara Pandya, under divine guidance after he found a sacred lingam (a symbol of Lord Shiva) under a kadamba tree. The temple is dedicated to Meenakshi, an avatar of the goddess Parvati, and her consort Sundareswarar, an incarnation of Lord Shiva.

Architectural Splendor:

One of the most captivating aspects of the Meenakshi Temple is its intricate Dravidian architecture. The complex sprawls over 14 acres and consists of 14 gopurams (towering entrance gateways) adorned with vibrant sculptures and carvings depicting various mythological tales. The tallest gopuram, the southern tower, reaches an impressive height of over 52 meters.

The temple’s corridors are lined with countless pillared halls, each showcasing remarkable sculptures and murals that narrate the stories of Hindu mythology. Visitors are mesmerized by the exquisite craftsmanship displayed on every surface, from the grand entrance to the inner sanctums.

Main Attractions of Meenakshi Temple:

Meenakshi Nayakar Mandapam: This hall is dedicated to Meenakshi’s consort, Lord Sundareswarar. The hall is adorned with intricately carved pillars and a gold plated vimana (tower) over the sanctum.
Ashta Shakti Mandapam: Eight shrines dedicated to various forms of the goddess Shakti surround the sacred pond inside the temple complex. Pilgrims believe that circumambulating this area brings blessings and fulfillment of wishes.
Golden Lotus Tank: The temple features a sacred pond, known as the Golden Lotus Tank, where devotees can partake in a ritualistic cleansing before entering the inner sanctums.
Hall of Thousand Pillars: This architectural marvel is adorned with a thousand intricately carved pillars, each telling a unique story through its detailed sculptures.

Religious Significance:

The Meenakshi Temple is not merely an architectural wonder but also holds immense religious importance. Devotees flock to the temple to seek the blessings of Meenakshi and Sundareswarar. The annual Meenakshi Thirukalyanam festival, celebrating the divine wedding of the goddess and the god, attracts a multitude of pilgrims from across the country.

Visiting Tips:

Timing: The temple is open for darshan (worship) from early morning to late evening. Check the temple’s official website for specific timing details.
Dress Code: Visitors are required to adhere to a modest dress code, covering shoulders and knees, as a mark of respect to the sacred surroundings.
Guided Tours: To fully appreciate the temple’s history and significance, consider hiring a local guide who can provide insights and anecdotes.

The Meenakshi Temple stands as a symbol of Madurai’s cultural richness and spiritual significance. Whether you are a devout pilgrim, a history enthusiast, or a curious traveler, a visit to this magnificent temple promises an unforgettable journey through time and devotion. Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of art, architecture, and spirituality as you explore the wonders of the Meenakshi Amman Temple.

Meenakshi Temple: A Divine Marvel in Madurai

Places to visit nearby madurai: .

Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace: Explore the grandeur of this 17th century palace known for its Indo Saracenic architecture.
Gandhi Memorial Museum: Delve into India’s history and the life of Mahatma Gandhi through artifacts and exhibits.
Vaigai Dam: Enjoy a serene boat ride and scenic views at this nearby dam on the Vaigai River.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions):

What are the temple timings .

The temple is open from 5:00 AM till 10:00 PM. It takes sporadic breaks during the working day.

Is there an entry fee?

Opening hours for the temple are 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. It occasionally takes pauses during the working day.

Are there dress code restrictions?

Modest attire is encouraged. Shorts, skirts, and sleeveless tops are not allowed. Dhotis and sarees are available for rent.

Can non-Hindus visit the temple?

Yes, visitors to the temple are welcome from all faiths. However, be mindful of other religions’ traditions.

Are photography and videography allowed?

Photography is allowed in some areas, but it’s restricted in the inner sanctums. Videography is limited.

Tips for Visitors:

Early Bird Advantage: Visit early in the morning to witness the mesmerizing ‘Mangala Aarti’ and avoid crowds.
Guided Tours: Consider hiring a guide to gain insights into the temple’s history and significance.
Footwear Management: Remove your footwear before entering the temple premises; designated areas are available for storage.
Respect Rituals: During prayer sessions, maintain silence and respect the devotees’ space.
Exploration Strategy: Plan your visit methodically to cover the main shrines, halls, and the iconic Thousand Pillar Hall.
Weather Preparedness: Madurai can be hot, so carry water and wear comfortable clothing. Sunscreen is advisable.
Local Cuisine: Relish the local South Indian cuisine available in the surrounding eateries.
Opening Hours: The temple is usually open from early morning to late evening. Confirm the current opening hours before planning your visit.
Dress Code: Dress modestly and respectfully. It is common for temples in India to have a dress code that includes covering shoulders and knees.
Mobile Phones and Cameras: Some temples may restrict the use of mobile phones and cameras inside the sanctum sanctorum. Respect any such rules to maintain the sanctity of the place.
Guides: Consider hiring a local guide to learn about the temple’s history, architecture, and cultural significance. This can enhance your overall experience.
Crowd Management: The temple can get crowded, especially during festivals and special events. Plan your visit accordingly and be prepared for queues.
Pooja Timings: If you’re interested in witnessing specific poojas (rituals), check the temple schedule for timings.
Respect Traditions: Observe the customs and directives issued by the temple administration. Remain silent and polite when on the temple grounds.

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history, culture, and devotion that this sacred place offers. Madurai, with its historical sites, makes for a perfect cultural escapade that promises to leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Meenakshi Amman Temple, located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India, is a historic and significant Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi. If you’re planning to visit the Meenakshi Temple, here are some tips for visitors and information on potential travel deals:

Travel Deals:

Off Peak Travel: Consider visiting during the off peak season to find better travel deals and avoid large crowds.
Package Tours: Look for package tours that include Meenakshi Temple in their itinerary. These packages may offer discounts on accommodation, transportation, and guided tours.
Online Booking: Book your tickets and accommodation online to take advantage of any online discounts or promotions.
Travel Agencies: Contact local travel agencies for customized packages and deals that suit your preferences.
Group Discounts: If you’re travelling with a group, inquire about group discounts for accommodations, transportation, and guided tours.
Hotel Packages: Some hotels may offer packages that include temple visits or provide shuttle services to popular tourist destinations.
Loyalty Programs: Check if your airline or hotel loyalty program offers benefits or discounts for travel to the region.

Always check the latest travel advisories and guidelines, and plan your visit accordingly. Enjoy your trip to the beautiful Meenakshi Amman Temple!

Sanjay Jangid

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Meenakshi Amman Temple: A Jewel of Madurai

Nestled in the heart of Madurai, the Meenakshi Amman Temple stands as an architectural marvel and a testament to the rich cultural heritage of India. With its intricate sculptures, towering gopurams, and sacred shrines, the temple draws pilgrims, history enthusiasts, and curious travelers from around the world. Meenakshi Amman Temple Timings are 5:00 am to 12:30 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:30 pm.

“Let’s delve into the captivating history, the journey to this sacred site, the best time to visit, nearby attractions, and where to find accommodation.”

The Meenakshi Amman Temple, also known as Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, is steeped in mythology and history dating back over 2,500 years. Legend has it that the temple was built by the Pandyan king, Kulasekara Pandya, under the divine guidance of Lord Shiva himself. The temple’s primary deities are Meenakshi, an incarnation of the goddess Parvati, and Sundareswarar, an aspect of Lord Shiva.

Over the centuries, the temple underwent expansions and renovations under different rulers, including the Nayak dynasty, who significantly contributed to its grandeur. The temple complex spans over 14 acres and boasts awe-inspiring architecture, including 14 gopurams (towering gateway towers) adorned with vibrant sculptures and intricate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

How to Get There:

Madurai, located in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, is well-connected by air, rail, and road networks. The city is served by the Madurai Airport, which operates domestic flights from major Indian cities. Additionally, Madurai Junction is a prominent railway station with trains plying to and from various parts of the country.

From the airport or railway station, visitors can easily hire taxis, auto-rickshaws, or use public transportation to reach the Meenakshi Amman Temple, which is centrally located in the city. Also check Pondicherry

“ Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple is during the winter months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and conducive for exploring the temple complex and its surroundings . It’s advisable to avoid the scorching summer months, from April to June, when temperatures soar, making sightseeing uncomfortable. “

Places of Nearby Interest:

Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace: Built by King Thirumalai Nayak in the 17th century, this palace showcases a blend of Dravidian and Islamic architectural styles. Visitors can admire the grandeur of its courtyards, halls, and majestic pillars.
Gandhi Memorial Museum: Dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, this museum houses exhibits and artifacts related to India’s struggle for independence. It provides insights into Gandhi’s life and his principles of non-violence.
Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam: This large temple tank is renowned for its annual float festival, where deities from the Meenakshi Temple are placed on elaborately decorated floats and taken around the tank amidst festivities.
Alagar Koil: Located atop a picturesque hill, Alagar Koil is a temple dedicated to Lord Alagar, a form of Vishnu. The temple is known for its serene surroundings and stunning architecture.
Kodai Kanal : A hill station near Madurai.

Hotels Near Meenakshi Amman Temple:

Madurai offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Visitors can choose from luxury hotels, budget guesthouses, and heritage properties located in close proximity to the Meenakshi Amman Temple . Some popular choices include:

Taj Gateway Hotel Pasumalai Madurai: A luxury retreat nestled amidst lush greenery, offering world-class amenities and panoramic views of the city.
Heritage Madurai: This boutique hotel combines traditional charm with modern comforts, providing a unique stay experience in a tranquil setting.
Hotel Supreme: Located in the heart of the city, this budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms and convenient access to major attractions.
Madurai Residency: A popular choice among budget travelers, offering clean and cozy accommodation with warm hospitality.

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Things to do in Meenakshi temple – A complete travel guide

Madurai Meenakshi Amman temple is known for its splendid architecture and spiritual aura. If you have planned a trip to Meenakshi temple, here is your perfect travel guide for witnessing this iconic place down South.

Architecture
Things to do in Meenakshi temple
Things to do with friends
Things to do with family
Nearby Places to visit
Opening Time
Best time to visit
How to reach
Hotels and Resorts in Meenakshi temple

Why visiting Meenakshi temple should be on your next travel list

Meenakshi Temple is the most well-known and emblematic of the many sites that combine to make South India a cultural haven on earth. This temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Meenakshi, has been a popular tourist destination throughout the years and is also called the “Mathura of the South.” This Hindu temple, which is the pinnacle of traditional architecture with breathtaking murals, is in Madurai on the southern bank of the Vaigai River.

There are many things to know about Meenakshi temple . It is Madurai’s oldest temple, exudes a mysterious aura over visitors. Meenakshi is an avatar of Goddess Parvati, Lord Shiva’s bride, and has a 2500-year-old temple devoted to her on the southern riverside Vaigai. Then there’s the commotion and the typical rush and bustle of India, but also the tranquillity and spirituality.

History of Meenakshi temple

Analysts believed the Meenakshi Temple history is as old as Chennai, which was founded in the first century C.E. Kulashekarar Pandyan, the king who ruled the Pandyan dynasty for so long, is supposed to have built the temple based on instructions given to him in a vision by Lord Shiva.

The temple is identified as the city’s main building in a few religious writings from the 4th and 5th centuries C.E. When the old temple was destroyed by Muslim conquerors in the 16th century, it was rebuilt.

The architecture of the Meenakshi temple

Here are some important details regarding the architecture of Meenakshi temple :

The Minakshi-Sundareshwarar Temple, one of the greatest temples in South India, boasts outstanding architecture and enchanting murals all around.
It features four Raja gopurams, two gold gopurams, one Chithirai gopuram, five five-story gopurams, and two three-story gopurams, all of which are majestic in look.
The temple’s most famous feature is a hall with a thousand pillars, a sacred lake with a golden lotus where you can have a ritual bath, a wedding hall, numerous tiny shrines, gardens, and elephant stalls.
The temple is so well-kept that the Central Government named it the “Best Swachh Iconic Place” in India in 2017.

Facts about Meenakshi temple

People from all over the world flock to see the temple because it is so majestic and grand. Here are some more fascinating facts about the temple that you should be aware of. So look at it.

Indra Deva constructed the temple

According to popular legend, the Meenakshi temple is situated in the heart of the temple city and was erected by Indra Deva himself. Shilpa Shastra literature and sculptures can be seen in the temple.

The 33,000 scriptures

Tamil Hindus flock to this temple to worship Sunderashwar and Meenakshi. The temple has over 33,000 scriptures as well as 14 entrances with two golden sculptures. With a height of 170 feet, the entryway on the southern side of the sanctum is the tallest.

The Thousand Pillars hall

Meenakshi Temple is also one of India’s seven wonders. Another outstanding piece of architecture is the Hall of Thousand Pillars, which is built on a single piece of granite. The rock is shaped into a mandapam, which is used for weddings.

Vishwanatha Nayak rebuilt

The temple was robbed and destroyed before being rebuilt by Vishwanath Nayak during the rule of the Pandayan Empire in 1560, around 2500 years ago. Madurai was the capital at the time and was ruled by Tirumalai Nayak.

Goddess Meenakshi’s Idol

The Goddess Meenakshi or Parvati idol is sculpted in a greenish stone. It’s breathtakingly beautiful, holy, and has flashy pupils as if the Goddess were alive. This Hindu temple is dedicated to a menstruation Goddess. The goddess can also be shown with three breasts because Parvati was created with three breasts. It was a curse that the third breast would disappear once she met the proper man.

This temple attracts up to a million visitors

Friday is considered a noteworthy day in April, and approximately 25,000 people visit on this day. Furthermore, in April, according to a festival commemorating the wedding and union of the Gods. The Meenakshi Thirikalayanam is the name of the celebration. Furthermore, the temple’s annual revenue is approximately $60 million.

Meenakshi temple- The Mathura of South

This temple, which honours Lord Shiva and Goddess Meenakshi, has developed into a popular tourist destination and is frequently referred to as the “Mathura of the South.” But, if you’re still wondering what’s in it for you, trust us when we say that the reasons why you should visit and witness the timeless splendour of this temple are numerous with a travel guide, Meenakshi Temple . Without further ado, let’s get into the details of everything you need to consider before your upcoming trip to Madurai.

Things to do in and around Meenakshi Temple

If you visit the Meenakshi temple, keep in mind the pooja hours, which is the major reason for visiting the temple. The following are things to do in Meenakshi temple with family and friends.

Things to do in Meenakshi temple with friends

Temple architecture tour

The temple boasts a stunning Dravidian architectural style. Explore the temple’s 14 gopurams (towers) adorned with thousands of colorful sculptures and stories from Hindu mythology.

Attend the night ceremony

Every evening, there’s a ritual where an image of Lord Shiva is carried in a procession from his shrine to that of his consort Meenakshi to symbolize their nightly union. It’s a moving and intimate ritual that’s worth experiencing.

Visit the golden lotus pond

This ancient tank is where devotees cleanse themselves before entering the sanctum. Legend has it that the tank is filled with golden lotus flowers that were offered by the god Indra.

Explore the temple art museum

Located within the temple complex, the museum showcases the history of the temple, its renovation efforts, and various artifacts and sculptures.

Hall of thousand pillars

Marvel at the intricacies of the stone carvings and sculptures in this hall. Each pillar is uniquely carved and when tapped, some produce musical notes.

Visit falls at Kutladampatti

The magnificent Kutladampatti Falls, located approximately an hour outside of the city centre, is a simple day trip from Madurai. The monsoon, which lasts from June to September and is the greatest time to visit, is when they are most magnificent.

Visit Puthu Mandapam for shopping

Puthu Mandapam, the massive 17th-century pillared entrance hall opposite Meenakshi Temple’s east tower. Inside, you’ll discover rows of tailors and stalls offering fabric, scarves, jewellery, fashion items, handicrafts, and paintings. There are good-quality garments available, including realistic copies of temple dresses.

Things to do in Meenakshi temple with family

It’s not difficult to spend the entire day visiting the temple in Madurai. The temple complex also includes a bazaar and a museum. Here are some recommendations for places to visit in Meenakshi Temple:

Meenakshi temple gopurams

There are no fewer than 14 ornately decorated towers, or gopurams, at the Madurai Meenakshi temple. Four of them combine to make vibrant entry gates. The eastern gate is the oldest and is 52 metres taller than the south entrance. They all feature intricate sculptures of more.

Golden lotus pool

It is easy to get lost given the size of the Meenakshi temple in Madurai. No matter how far away you are from home, you will eventually return to the courtyard with the revered golden lotus lake. This lies in the temple’s heart and provides lovely views of the vibrant gopuram towers in Madurai.

Meenakshi and Shiva shrine

Long queues of people are awaiting entry into the temple because the Meenakshi and Shiva shrines are among Hindus’ most revered locations.

Places to visit near Meenakshi temple

The following are a few places to visit near the temple:

Thiruparankundram Murugan temple

The trip from Meenakshi Amman Temple to Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple is 7.8 km long and takes 21 minutes. This temple is devoted to Lord Murugan and is called the Subramanya Swamy temple. Pandas built this temple in the sixth century using a rock-cut design.

This cave temple is dedicated to the five elements of the earth, according to the hill known as the “Southern Himalaya.” These five components are referenced in the ancient texts of the Temple. Sekunder is honoured in this Islamic shrine as well.

Gandhi museum

The distance between Meenakshi Amman temple and the Gandhi Museum is 3.8 km, and the time it takes to reach the Gandhi Museum is 13 minutes. Gandhiji and Madurai have a special link because Gandhiji revised his dress code after visiting Madurai. The Indian liberation movement was recreated with 265 drawings in the special exhibition space, as well as many other beautiful things related to Gandhi’s time.

Samanar hills

Samanar hills are 14.9 kilometres away from Meenakshi Amman temple, and it takes 35 minutes to go there. The hills are near the Madurai village of Keelakuilkudi. The Samanar hills are also known as Samanar mallai in Tamil, where Samanar denotes a Jain and mallai denotes a hill. These caverns were used by Samanar, a group of Jains who lived in the first century AD. Pechchi Pallam is a natural fountain that can be found in this area. The caves have incredible sculptures carved into them.

Pazhamudhir Solai

The journey to the Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple from the Meenakshi Amman Temple requires a 2.0 km (1.2 mi) travel distance, and it takes 9 min to get there. In Tamil Nadu’s Naan Maada Koodal, a shrine called Pazhamudhir Solai is devoted to Lord Muruga. Vishnu previously served as a barrier against misfortune, hence the city’s name. Consequently, the city was given his name, Naanmadakoodal.

Periyar Tiger Reserve Park

The Periyar Tiger Reserve is a park well-known for its wildlife, including elephants. The best time to visit this location is from October to June. but a long way from Madurai. 159.4 km need to be travelled to get to the Periyar Tiger Reserve from the Meenakshi Amman Temple, and 3 hours and 23 minutes are needed to complete the journey. The 777 square kilometre Periyar Tiger Reserve is home to a variety of flora and fauna species that give tourists a visual feast.

How to plan a trip to Meenakshi temple

There is much more to Madurai than just temples, even though the Madurai Meenakshi temple is the city’s main draw. Madurai’s vibrant and serene streets are a delight to meander through, and for an Indian city, Madura is incredibly clean and tranquil. Another excellent reason to extend your stay in Madurai is the local cuisine. Here are a few pointers for organising a visit to the temple.

Timings and entry fee

The Meenakshi Amman temple opening timings and other details related to the temple’s timings are given below:

Timings of Meenakshi temple: The temple is open daily from 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Meenakshi temple entrance: There is no Madurai Meenakshi temple darshan ticket price. If you want to visit an art museum, the entrance fee is INR 5 for Indian tourists and INR 50 for foreign tourists.
Darshan duration: The Meenakshi Amman Temple is without a doubt, the most popular tourist destination in Madurai, and you may find yourself waiting in line for hours to see the deities’ idols. If you want to avoid the crowds, the temple offers special Darshan tickets for INR 50 for viewing the idol of Goddess Meenakshi and INR 100 for visiting both goddesses.
The following is the dress code for visiting the temple: You must wear clothing that hides both your legs and shoulders in order to be accepted. Check that you are not wearing any shorts, dresses, lungis, hats, or socks.
Valuables are not permitted within the temple: Umbrellas, poles, and anything made of animal leather, such as a wallet or belt, are severely prohibited from carrying into the temple. Also, keep in mind that cameras and cell phones are not permitted within the shrine.

How to reach Meenakshi temple

The Meenakshi Temple in Tamil Nadu temple town has excellent road, rail, and air connections to the majority of South Indian towns. Here are instructions on how to reach Meenakshi Temple.

A train ride to Madurai from the railway station will undoubtedly be full of breathtaking scenery. Because Madurai is well connected to all towns, you can take a train to the Madurai Junction Railway Station, which is only 10 minutes away from the temple. You can use an auto rickshaw or a taxi as needed to get to the attraction quickly.

If you are travelling to Madurai by road in a state or private bus to see the temple, you can get off at the Mattuthavani Bus Stand, where it will require only 20 minutes to travel to the Minakshi-Sundareshwara Temple. For a comfortable travel experience, you can book a cab for travelling .

If you are traveling from Chennai to Madurai, check out this comprehensive travel guide for all the important road trip information.

If you fly to Madurai from Chennai, it will take you about three hours to reach the temple. When you arrive at Madurai Airport, you may easily hire a cab that will take you to the temple in 90 minutes.

Best time to visit Meenakshi temple

Although the Meenakshi Amman temple is open all year round, it is better to appreciate its grandeur when the conditions—both the weather and the setting—are perfect for a wonderful outing. While July and August are the best time to visit Meenakshi temple because of the nice monsoons, Madurai’s summer months are hot and muggy.

However, if you want to visit during the Chithirai Festival, the months of April to May are also fantastic. But October to March is ideal for touring the magnificent temple and the city because the weather is comfortable all day long. In terms of visiting the temple, the best times to go are early in the morning and late in the evening for the night ceremony.

Travel tips for visiting Meenakshi temple

Check the weather in Madurai before visiting the temple, as you may not be able to explore it comfortably if it is too hot or humid.
Before you decide to visit Meenakshi Temple, make sure you read the crucial information for tourists and visitors.
Take a look at all of the do’s and don’ts and follow them intelligently, as not doing so may offend the locals or clerics.
Do not bring your camera because photography is now prohibited within the temple.
Visit the temple early in the morning rather than during peak hours to avoid wasting time and energy in lines.
Attend the night ceremonial procession, which takes place at about 9:00 p.m. every day except Friday.

Hotels and restaurants near Meenakshi temple

As a prominent pilgrimage site and major tourist attraction, the temple also provides lodging in the form of three lodges, which can only be reserved at the time of the visit. The three lodges are located on West Chithirai Street and are known as Birla Vishram, Sundareswarar Illam, and Bakthargal Thangum Viduthi. If you choose to stay in a hotel, several acceptable options are given below:

You now understand why Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai is so well-known throughout India and why you must visit at least once in your life, whether or not you are religious. Witness the grandeur of the temple by booking a Savaari car rental to take you to all these places with a local driver. Install the Savaari cab booking app for offers and discounts on outstation rentals.

Last Updated on December 14, 2023 by Arathy Subhash Marath

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Meenakshi Amman Temple / Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple in Madurai (Entry Fee, Timings, Entry Ticket Cost, Price)

One of the most famous pilgrimages, Meenakshi Madurai Temple, is a place worth seeing by every art lover. This architectural masterpiece is a finest example of Dravidian style of architecture. The most important part of Madurai tour , this temple was built during the Pandya reign and is now under the administration of HR and CE department of Tamil Nadu. Dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswara, who is an incarnation of Lord Shiva, this temple is located in the heart of Madurai city. Madurai city in the shape of lotus surrounds the temple. Meenakshi temple is considered to one of the oldest and the largest temples of India. Majestic architecture, intricate carvings, beautiful paintings, exquisite sculptures and an ancient history associated to it makes this temple one of the most visited tourist destination of South India.

Although it is always an ideal time to visit and seek divine blessings at this temple, visiting during a festival lead to a enriching experience. Avanimoola festival, Masi Mandala festival, Chitra festival, Navarathri cultural festival and Float festival are some of the popular festivals that are celebrated with great fervour here. Thousands of devotees visit the temple during this time.

History of Sri Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai

Meenakshi temple of Madurai is a historically rich temple which also bestows devotees with blessings of the Lord and Goddess. Meenakshi temple was built during the Pandya reign by Kulasekarer Pandya. According to historical findings, creation of this temple can be traced back to early A.D. There are mentions of this temple in the songs of great Hindu Saint Thirugnanasambandar who lived during 7th century. It is also said that during 12th or 13th century, at the time of Islamic conquer; this temple was destroyed to an extent. However, later it was restored to its present structure. It was later expanded during the rule of Thirumalai Nayak (1623-55 AD). During this time, the present structure of temple came into being.

There are many legends associated with this temple. According to stories, the main deity of this temple, Meenakshi Devi came out of the pious fire as a result of ardent devotion and prayers of Pandyan King Malayadwaja and his consort Queen Kanchanamalai. The ruling couple was childless and hence they performed a yagam to get blessing in the form of child. It is then goddess Parvati in the form of Goddess Meenakshi arrived as a three old girl. The king then announced the girl as heir to his throne. Later Goddess married Lord Shiva and then ruled the city of Madurai for a long time. After that, both assumed the forms of Goddess Meenakshi and God Sundareswarar, and became the reigning deity at Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple.

According to legends, Lord Indira who is considered as the Kings of Gods and resides in heaven had discovered the sacred Suyambulingam at Kadamba Vanam. Upon finding lingam of Lord Shiva, he had placed it in Madurai where the temple stands. Devotees can see that this temple has Lord on the Indira’s vehicle, which in a way verifies this legend.

Architecture of Sri Meenakshi Sundareshwara Temple, Madurai

This temple has received architectural contributions from each changing dynasty. Madurai Meenakshi temple is built over an area of a vast area, with five different entrances. This temple has fourteen majestic towers. Four of these massive towers known as Rajagopurams are nine tier, while there is one seven tier gopuram as well. There are five numbers of five tier gopurams. Along with these, there are two three tier gopurams and two golden gopurams. All the gopurams display a fine sculpting with intricate carvings on them, adding on to the grandeur of the Meenakshi temple.

Ashta Shakti Mandapam is one of the most captivating parts of the temple. This mandapam hall is said to be built by the wives of Thirumalai Nayakar and used for the purpose of serving food to the devotees. The walls and pillars of themandapam are carved with stories from the lives of Lord Shiva and various stages of Goddess Meenakshi’s life. Golden Lotus Tank of the temple is said to be the place where a golden lotus blossomed for the puja which was performed by Lord Indira.

This temple has a museum as well. The majestic thousand pillar hall of the temple has been serving as a museum since 1966. It houses a great collection of artistic and cultural importance. It is a place which is worth spending your time, admiring the beauty and exquisiteness of work excellence, that have been displayed here. Some of the items displayed at this imposing hall of thousand pillars are various rare photographs, antique idols made up of five metals, antique coins, carved tusks, antique items related to Shaiva and Vaishnava religion, etc.

It also has various paintings which were damaged with time, but now have been renovated with the help of various natural dyes. These gripping paintings at the temple belong to the period of Naick reign, depicting various miracles of Lord Shiva. There are also paintings on the northern wall of the temple which face Pottamarai kulam of tank of the golden lotus. There are also paintings on the songs by Nakkeerar, Panchaga sabhas of Tamil Nadu, representation of Earth and heaven, etc.

Another striking feature of Meenakshi Temple is the stone inscriptions. These stone inscriptions can be seen on the walls to the shrines of Sundareswarar and Meenakshi Amma shrine. These inscriptions have details about performing prayers, rituals, religious history as well as social history of ancient times.

Every part of the temple is an example of mesmerizing craftsmanship. The majestic structure of this temple along with compelling sculptures, drawings, paintings and serenity of religious piousness mesmerizes every visitor. A visit to this temple makes every Madurai Tour memorable.

Timing of Sri Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai

Image gallery of meenakshi amman temple / sri meenakshi sundareswarar temple in madurai.

Opening timings of Madurai Meenakshi temple is from 5 AM to 12.30 PM. It again opens for darshan at 4 PM to 9.30 PM.

When going for darshan at Meenakshi Temple, make a plan for at least two three hours for a relaxed exploration of the temple and darshan of the deity. During festival, it takes around 4 to 5 hours to get darshan.

Reaching Sri Meenakshi Sundareshwara Temple, Madurai

Meenakshi Temple is easily accessible via road. A prominent attraction, it is known to almost everyone, hence reaching is very easy. It is located just 2 km away from Madurai railway station. Tourists can hire a cab or take an auto rickshaw to the temple.

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Meenakshi Amman Temple / Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple in Madurai
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Meenakshi Temple: A Pocket Guide For Witnessing The Most Iconic Place Down South In All Its Glory In 2024

29 Mar 2023

Of the many attractions that make South India a cultural paradise on earth, Meenakshi Temple is the most iconic and popular one. Located on the southern bank of the Vaigai River in Madurai, this Hindu temple is an epitome of classic architecture with murals so gorgeous that it will take your breath away.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Meenakshi, this temple has become a major tourist spot over the years and is often referred to as the ‘Mathura of South’. But, if you’re still wondering what’s in it for you, believe us the reasons why you must visit & witness the eternal glory of this temple are endless, though are well reflected through its pictures.

Table of Content

Best time to visit meenakshi temple in madurai.

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The Meenakshi Amman temple is open throughout the year, but it is best to witness its beauty when both the weather and occasion are absolutely ideal for having an impeccable experience. While the summer months in Madurai are hot and humid, the monsoons are pleasant which make July and August a good time for planning your trip. Nevertheless, the months from April to May are great for visiting too, especially if you wish to attend the Chithirai Festival. But, it is from October to March, which marks the perfect time for visiting the glorious temple and taking a tour of the city as the weather stays pleasant throughout the days.

And as far as the temple is concerned, the best time to visit is early in the morning and also in the evening for the night ceremony.

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Mythology About Meenakshi Temple

According to a legend, Meenakshi emerged out of a ‘Yajna’ as a three-year-old girl. A king named Malayadwaja Pandya along with his wife Kanchanamali. The couple was unable to conceive a child and thus offered prayers to Lord Shiva to request him for a son. Instead of Lord Shiva, a triple-breasted girl appeared in front of the couple. While the royal couple were concerned, a divine voice assured them the third breasts of the girl would disappear when she will meet her future husband.

Meenakshi then ruled over Madurai and neighboring kingdoms were also captured by her. The legend also tells us that she also captured Indralok. During her quest to capture Kailash, she was appeared by Lord Shiva and immediately her third breast disappeared; she knew that he was her future husband. Their wedding took place in Madurai and was attended by each and every god and goddess. The wedding ceremony is celebrated even today as ‘Chithirai Thiruvizha’.

Suggested Read: 15 Majestic Places To Visit In South India In August That Bring Out The Best Of Monsoons

Essential Meenakshi Temple Information

Meenakshi Temple Timings: The temple stays open every day from 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Meenakshi Temple Entrance Fee: There is no entry fee for visiting the temple. However, there is an art museum and its entry ticket costs INR 5 for Indian tourists and INR 50 for foreign tourists if you wish to visit it.
Darshan Duration: Meenakshi Amman Temple is undoubtedly the most famous tourist attraction in Madurai and there is a possibility that you may spend hours in the queue for visiting the inner sanctums to see the idols of the deities. But, if you wish to skip the line, the temple has special Darshan tickets, which cost INR 50 for seeing the idol of Goddess Meenakshi and INR 100 for seeing both the deities.
Dress Code For Visiting The Temple: Clothing that covers both your shoulders and legs, and is decent is only permitted. Make sure that you’re not wearing shorts, dresses, lungi,caps, or even socks.
Valuables Not Allowed Inside the Temple: Umbrellas, sticks, or anything like wallet or belt, which is made of animal skin is strictly prohibited from carrying inside the temple. Also, ensure that you do not carry a camera or your mobile phone as they have been banned in the temple.

Festivals In Meenakshi Amman Temple

Image Courtesy: Rengeshb

There are many reasons that add to the beauty of the temple, one of which are the different types of festivals that are held throughout the 12 months of the Tamil calendar year. Nevertheless, the temple has only one major festival – Chithirai Thiruvizha or Thirukalyanam Festival , which attracts million of tourists every year in April. If you want to catch a true glimpse of Madurai’s culture and festivity, then this is the best time to visit the temple.

The long festival celebrates the divine union of Goddess Meenakshi with Lord Shiva with innumerable legends woven around it, and offers an incredible sneak peek into the Tamilian culture, cuisine, and history. Apart from this main festival, there are also a number of other festivals that are hosted and celebrated in the temple like the Vasantham festival, Unjal festival, Mulai-Kottu festival, Arudhra Dharsan Festival, Thai Utsavam, and more. Each festival has its own significance and is celebrated with much zeal and fervour. If you cannot visit during the summer, another great time to visit the temple is during the Navratri when you can be a part of the Navrathri Festival and witness the colorful dolls called ‘Gollu’ displayed in the temple.

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Highlights About The Architecture Of Meenakshi Temple

Famous as one of the largest temples in South India , the Minakshi-Sundareshwarar Temple has a spectacular architecture with spellbinding murals all around.
It has 4 Raja gopurams, 2 gold gopurams, 1 Chithirai gopuram, 5 five-floored gopurams and 2 three-floored ones, which are all majestic in appearance.
The most popular fact about the temple is that it is home to a hall that has a thousand pillars, a sacred pool with a golden lotus where you can take a ritual bath, a wedding hall, innumerable small shrines, gardens, and elephant sheds.
The temple is so beautifully maintained that it was recognized as the ‘Best Swachh Iconic Place’ in India in 2017 by the Central Government.

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Accommodation In Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple

Being a popular pilgrimage spot and a major tourist attraction, the temple also offers accommodation in the form of three lodges, which can only be booked at the time of the visit. The three lodges have been named as Birla Vishram, Sundareswarar Illam, and Bakthargal Thangum Viduthi, and are situated on the West Chithirai Street.

If you wish to stay in a hotel, some of the decent hotels nearby are Hotel Royal Court, Hotel Nambi, and Moskva Hotel.

Suggested Read: 20 Best Places To Visit In Madurai For A Spiritual Journey Back In Time

How To Reach Meenakshi Temple In Madurai

From Airport : If you’re flying to Madurai from Chennai, it will take you around three hours to reach the temple. After reaching the Madurai Airport, you can easily find a taxi that will drive you to the temple in some 90 minutes.

From Railway Station: A train journey to Madurai will surely be full of majestic sights. Since Madurai is connected well to all the cities, you can board a train till the Madurai Junction Railway Station from where the temple is located only 10 minutes away. You can take an auto rickshaw or a taxi as per your needs and make it to the attraction in no time.

From Mattuthavani Bus Stand: If you’re commuting to Madurai via road by a state or a private bus for visiting the temple, then you can get down at the Mattuthavani Bus Stand from where it will take only 20 minutes to reach the Minakshi-Sundareshwara Temple

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Important Tips For Visiting The Temple

Do check the weather in Madurai before you plan your visit to the temple, as you may not be able to explore it comfortably if the temperature is too hot or humid.
Make sure you go through the important information of Meenakshi Temple for tourists or visitors before you plan to go there.
Take a look at all the do’s & don’ts and follow them wisely as not following them may hurt the sentiments of the locals or priests.
Do not carry your camera as photography is prohibited inside the temple now.
Try visiting the temple early in the morning and not at the peak hours as you may end up wasting a lot of time and energy in the queues.
If possible, do attend the night ceremony procession, which takes place every day except Friday around 9 :00 PM.

Further Read: 20 Best Places To Visit In Madurai For A Spiritual Journey Back In Time!

While there are innumerable places to visit in South India, the Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai is an attraction you absolutely shouldn’t miss visiting during your Tamil Nadu trip . Meenakshi Temple is known for its majestic architecture and glorious beauty which will definitely leave you spellbound!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Meenakshi Temple

Is Meenakshi Temple a Shakti Peeth?

Yes, Meenakshi Temple is one of the primary Shakti Peeth temples. It is the only temple in India having 4 Rajagopuram (towers).

What is Meenakshi temple made of?

Meenakshi temple in Madurai is made from granite, while its towers (gopuram) are made from limestone. It is one of the best places to visit in Madurai.

How old is Meenakshi temple?

Meenakshi temple was reportedly built in the 6th century BC by survivors of Kumari Kandam. Kumari Kandam is a reference to a mythical lost continent which boasted of an ancient Tamil civilisation. It was allegedly located south of India in the present-day Indian Ocean. The temple is dedicated to Parvati, better known as Meenakshi, and her consort, Shiva/Sundareswarar.

What should I wear in Meenakshi temple?

Meenakshi temple has laid down a dress code for its pilgrims that needs to be strictly followed. If you fail to follow it, you will not be permitted entry inside the temple. Male devotees should wear dhotis, formal pants, or pyjamas with a shirt. Women should wear saris or suits. Children should wear fully covered clothes. Make sure your knees and shoulders cannot be seen when you enter the premises of the temple.

What is Meenakshi temple famous for?

Meenakshi temple is famous for its rich historicity and cultural heritage. It is a historic Hindu temple situated on the banks of the ancient Vaigai River, Madurai.

Is photography allowed in Meenakshi temple?

No, cameras are not allowed inside Meenakshi temple. No electrical appliances, including power banks, are allowed inside the premises.

How many towers are there in Meenakshi temple?

There are 12 towers (gopurams) in Meenakshi temple. The outer towers are considered to be landmarks in Madurai, India. They are named as East Tower (nine storeys).

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Meenakshi Temple, Madurai Complete Travel Guide: How to Reach, History, Timings

Meenakshi temple, Madurai’s oldest temple, radiates a mystical atmosphere over worshipers. Meenakshi is an incarnation of Goddess Parvati, the wife of Lord Shiva, and has a temple dedicated to her on the southern riverbank Vaigai that goes back over 2500 years.

Lord Shiva (Sundareswarar) & Goddess Parvati (Meenakshi) have exchanged vows in this temple, also known as the Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple.

Table of Contents

Things You Need to Know Before You Visit

The Sri Meenakshi Temple is often regarded as the pinnacle of the Vijayanagara temple building in southern India.
Even more significant to South India’s cultural history as the Taj Mahal is to northern India’s
Nominations for “New Seven Wonders of the World” included Meenakshi Temple.
The 2,500-year-old city of Madurai’s lifeblood is the temple.
Tamil literature has referred to the Meenakshi Temple since antiquity

History of Meenakshi Temple

Academics believe that the Meenakshi Temple is as ancient as the city of Chennai , which was founded in the 1st century C.E. Kulashekarar Pandyan, the monarch who reigned so over the Pandyan dynasty, is said to have erected the temple by instructions provided to him in a dream by Lord Shiva.

The temple is mentioned in a few religious sources from the 4th and 5th centuries C.E. and is described as the city’s principal building.

When the Muslim conquerors demolished the original temple in the 16th century, it was completely reconstructed.

Inside of Meenakshi Temple

A Thousand-Pillared Temple

According to legend, the Aayiram Kaal Mandapam, also known as the Hall of Thousand Pillars, was created out of one rock. It’s possible to see a wide range of antique artwork at the temple museum, open to tourists of all faiths. This is the temple’s main hall, which houses enormous sculptures of Sivakami & Nataraja.

Approximately 33000 Statues Are In Existence

The temple’s estimated 33000 statues are an additional eye-catching attraction. However, it’s most known for its enormous statue of the Nataraja, which sits on a silver altar and is surrounded by gold. Visit the ‘Hall of Thousand Pillars,’ where each pillar is said to have been engraved with a different sculpture.

The Architecture Of Meenakshi Temple

Architecture Of Meenakshi Temple, Madurai, Tamil Nadu

As the greatest temple in South India , Meenakshi-Sundareshwarar has magnificent architecture and eye-catching artwork. Four Raja gopurams, two gold gopurams, and Chithirai gopurams, five five-story gopurams, with two three-story gopurams, make up the complex.

The temple’s most famous attractions are:

A wedding hall.
A holy lake with a golden lotus.
A thousand-pillared hall.
Several tiny shrines.
Elephant shelters.

“Best Swachh Iconic Place” was awarded to the temple by the Indian government in 2017.

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Timing of Meenakshi Temple

The Meenakshi temple in Madurai is open daily from 5 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. It reopens at 4 p.m. and closes at 9 p.m. for darshan. Plan to spend at least two to three hours at Meenakshi Temple for darshan and a tour of the temple & deity. Getting darshan might take up to 5 hours during the event.

Location of Meenakshi Temple

Madurai Main, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625001

How To Reach Meenakshi Temple

By road, pilgrims from Chennai and Banglore should expect a journey of 8 to 10 hours. The NH-7, NH-49, and NH-45B highway routes lead to Madurai .

Tamil Nadu’s state government provides regular bus service, as well as private bus service, for the state’s residents. Other significant cities like Kerala , Karnataka , and other regions are accessible by bus.

By Waterways

Meenakshi Amman Temple’s Epic Story Meenakshi Amman Temple Location and Access Information as Madurai is indeed an inland city; the Vaigai River passes through the middle of the city. Chennai (450Km) and Tuticorin (160Km) are the closest ports of entry.

To go to Meenakshi Amman Temple, follow these instructions: Trains are the primary means of transportation accessible to people of all socioeconomic backgrounds. Trains from major cities and towns, including Chennai, Mumbai , Bengaluru, and Delhi , go to Madurai.

Madurai is home to both a domestic and international airport. Most of the flights originate in Chennai, referred to as Madras in the local slang. There are few direct flights from major Indian cities. The airport is 15 kilometers from the city center via NH-47. After arriving at the airport, the best choice is to find a reputable taxi stand and hail a cab.

Festivals At The Meenakshi Temple In Madurai

Chithirai festival.

Chitrai (April in the Gregorian calendar) is the Tamil month during which the Chitrai festival is held, and it starts with raising the national flag on the first of those 12 days. On the eighth day, Meenakshi Amman is crowned.

The Goddess is carried out in procession on the ninth day. This year, on the 10th day, a heavenly wedding between Goddess Meenakshi & Lord Sundareswarar is held, followed by a vehicle festival; Theertha festival is celebrated just on the 12th day with Lord and Goddess walking through Masi streets.

Navarathri Festival Meenakshi Temple Madurai Tamil Nadu

In the Kolu Mandapam, the Goddess emerges in a new dress to bless her worshippers during the Navarathri festival, which lasts ten days.

Every day at the Amman sanctuary, Kalpa puja & Lakshacharna are offered to the deity. The temple has various colorful lights and dolls, and there are cultural performances.

The Koodal Kumarar Sannidhi will host Kanda Sashti’s celebration for six days. In this location, Soorasamharam is not practiced.

When Arulmighu Muthukumarar leaves in procession on the seventh day, ‘Pavadai Dharshan’ will be performed in his honor.

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Conclusion

The temple’s many pavilions, or mandapams, are among the temple’s most notable features. More than a few of these are the Aaiyiram Kaal Mandapam, the Ashtashakti Mandapam, Meenakshi Nayakan Mandapam and others.

Those mandapams, too, have a narrative to tell. A personal visit is needed to grasp the temple’s history and significance fully. At the same time, just 4 kilometers from the temple, the Sangam Hotels in Madurai are located in a more peaceful area of the city.

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MADURAI TOURISM | MEENAKSHI AMMAN TEMPLE | PLACES TO VISIT & TEMPLES IN MADURAI

Madurai Overview
Top 14 Places to Visit in Madurai
24 Best Madurai Tour Packages
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Best Time to Visit Madurai

How to Reach Madurai

Madurai Tour Plans
Driving Directions to Madurai

About Madurai

Country: india | state: tamilnadu, #2 of 23 places to visit in tamilnadu | #28 of 100 places to visit in india, ideal trip duration: full day, base station: madurai, nearest city to madurai: madurai, best time to visit madurai: october to march, peak season: january to february & may to june, madurai weather: maximum: 38°c minimum: 20.8°c.

At a distance of 114 km from Kodaikanal, 136 km from Trichy, 169 km from Thanjavur, 170 km from Rameswaram, 209 km from Coimbatore, and 464 km from Chennai, Madurai is the third-largest city in Tamilnadu. It is one of the most famous places of pilgrimage in Tamilnadu , and among the must-visit places as part of Madurai packages . Situated on the banks of the River Vaigai, the city is very well known for Madurai Meenakshi Temple, among the most famous places to visit in Madurai . Often referred to as Athens of the East, Madhurai is the oldest continually inhabited city in the Indian peninsula with a history dating back to the Sangam period of the pre-Christian era. It has been inhabited since at least the 3rd century BCE. It is considered the cultural capital of Tamilnadu. Madurai was the seat of power of the Pandyan Empire. It was built by the Pandyan king Kulasekhara and was the capital city of the great Pandya kings of South India. It was later ruled by Cholas, Later Pandyas, Madurai Sultanate, Vijayanagara, Madurai Nayaks, and finally British. Pandyas and Nayaks contributed enormously to the development of Meenakshi Amman Temple and Madurai city. Meenakshi Temple is the biggest landmark of Madurai. It is one of the largest temples in India. The temple has stunning architecture and a significant testimony for Vishwakarma Brahmins for their master architecture in sculpting this temple. The core city of Madurai is built parallel to the streets of Madhurai Temple. Besides, Thirumalai Nayak Mahal & Koodal Alagar Temple are other important places to visit in Madurai. Madurai is also a base station to visit Trichy, Thanjavur, Rameswaram and Kodaikanal. The Sangam period poet Nakkeerar is associated with some of the Tiruvilayaadal episodes of Sundareswarar - that are enacted as a part of temple festival traditions even today. About 10 km from Madurai, Madurai airport has regular flight connectivity with cities like Chennai, New Delhi, and Bengaluru. Madurai Railway Station is well-connected by trains from all the major cities of India. Madurai has several bus stations. Most of the long-distance buses and inter-state buses start from Mattuthavani Bus Terminus (8 km from Railway Station). Buses to Chennai, Bangalore, Trichy, Rameswaram, Thanjavur, Tirupathi, etc. start from here. Arappalayam Bus Station is another major bus station (3 km from Railway Station) with connectivity to Kodaikanal, Palani, Theni, Dundigal, etc. Periyar bus station near Railway station is the hub for local city buses. Though a year-round destination, Madurai is best visited during the winter months from October to March. This is also the time to witness the popular harvest festival Tamilnadu, Pongal which is regarded as an extremely special festival in Madurai. Better to avoid visiting Madurai in summer when the weather is uncharacteristically hot, and dry.

Nearest Airport: Madurai - Madurai Airport (10 Kms)

Direct flights to madurai, nearest train station: madurai junction (0 kms) madurai east (4 kms), direct trains to madurai, nearest bus station: mattuthavani bus terminus (8 kms) arappalayam bus station (3 kms), direct buses to madurai, distance chart, distance chart & driving directions to madurai, top 10 places to visit in madurai, 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 .....

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.

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meenakshi amman temple

Meenakshi Amman Temple or Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareshwarar TempleÂ is a historic Hindu temple located on the southern bank of theÂ Vaigai River in the ancient cityÂ ofÂ Madurai Â in the south Indian state ofÂ Tamil Nadu . It is dedicated to the goddessÂ Meenakshi, an avatar (form) ofÂ goddess Parvati, and her consort,Â Sundareshwar, an avatar of LordÂ Shiva.

Since Meenakshi is the supreme diety of the temple, it depicts the significance of woman in Tamil Hindu family. The temple also portrays the jovial relationship between Shaivism, Vaishnavism, and Shaktism and the Sundareshwarar shrine is known as one of the â€˜Panch Sabhaiâ€™ (five courts) where Lord Shiva is thought to have staged the cosmic dance. The temple is also the main temple in Madurai for wedding rituals and celebrating several south Indian festivals as well.Madurai also has many other temples, and is for this reason, known as the temple city. But the Meenakshi Amman city is the most popular of all of them and is also called as Madurai Meenakshi Temple.

The majestic Meenakshi Amman Temple dates to the 1st century with historians claiming it to be as ancient as the city itself. Built by the ruler of the Pandyan dynasty, Kulashekarar Pandyan, the temple is the central structure around which the city of Madurai is built and inhabited. According to the 6th century texts, the temple was used as a common place by scholars to discuss important topics. Although, the temple which stands today in all its glory have been attacked, destroyed, and rebuild throughout the previous centuries.

During the 14th century, Malik Kafur, a commander of Delhi Sultanate, along with his army, attacked many parts of South India and looted several valuables from temples including the Meenakshi Amman temple. Valuables such as gold, silver, precious sculptures were taken to Delhi and the temples were left in destruction. After the Vijayanagar Empire defeated the Muslim Sultanate and took over Madurai, the Meenakshi Amman temple was rebuilt and it was further expanded and in the 16th century by Vishwanatha Nayakar, the king of the Nayaka dynasty. The temple got renovated and expanded by Thirumalai Nayak who ruled over Madurai from 1623 to 1655 and was added with many â€˜Mandapamsâ€™ (pillared halls). Before the advent of the British East India Company, the Meenakshi Amman temple was expanded and taken care of by many Nayak rulers, and the temple was completely restored then in 1995 with the restoration work of Tamil Hindus by collecting donations.

Architecture/Structure

The Meenakshi temple complex is a beautiful grand temple at the centre of Madurai city and consists of a group of monuments inside some concentric enclosures of high masonry walls built in response to the invasion. The outer walls have four gateways through which devotees and pilgrims can enter the complex from all four directions.King Kulasekhara Pandya had built the main portions of the three-storeyed gopuram (the grand pointy top part of the temple) at the entrance of the Shrine of Sundareshwar and the central portion of the Goddess Meenakshi Shrine, which are some of the earliest surviving parts of the temple that exists today. The temple is sprawled in a huge area over 14 acres of land and looks like a Mandala (a structure built according to the laws of symmetry) if viewed from above.

Apart from the main shrines of Sundareshwarar and Meenakshi, the temple has several other shrines of Gods and Goddesses such as Murugan, Ganesha, Lakshmi, Rukmini, and Saraswati. The temple also has a consecrated pond known as â€˜Porthamarai Kulamâ€™ which translates to a â€˜pond with a golden lotusâ€™ and is believed to be an evaluator for reviewing the worth of any new literature according to the Tamil Folklore. The temple has 14 gopurams and apart from the 4 main gopurams, there are other gopurams as well which act as a gateway to different shrines. Some of the major gopurams in the temple are.

Kadaka Gopuram â€“ leading to the main shrine of goddesses Meenakshi
Sundareshwarar Shrine Gopuram â€“ oldest gopuram leading to Sundareshwarar (lord Shiva) shrine
Chitra Gopuram â€“ this gopuram represents the religious and secular essence of Hinduism
Nadukkattu Gopuram â€“ this gateway leads to the shrine of Ganesha and is placed in between the two main shrines
Mottai Gopuram â€“ this gopuram has fewer stucco images as compared to the others and has no roof for nearly three centuries
Nayaka Gopuram â€“ built by Visvappa Nayakkar in 1530, this gateway is like another gateway called Palahai Gopuram

The temple has several Mandapams built by various kings which served as the resting places for pilgrims and devotees. Some of the most significant Mandapams are:

Ayirakkal Mandapam â€“ supported by 985 pillars with magnificent sculptures and images of Yali, a mythological creature
Kilikoondu Mandapam â€“ the hall was built to keep hundreds of parrots which were trained to say â€˜Meenakshiâ€™
Ashta Shakthi Mandapam â€“ housing sculptures of eight goddesses and is places between the main gopuram and the gateway that leads to Meenakshi shrine
Nayaka Mandapam â€“ supported by 100 pillars, the hall houses Nataraja statue

How to Reach

Meenakshi Amman Temple is a popular landmark in the city of Madurai, and so, reaching it is not difficult once you reach Madurai. Madurai city can be reached by bus, train or air.

Maduraiâ€™s airport - Madurai International Airport is well connected to major cities in India and other parts of the world. Maduraiâ€™s major train terminal â€“ Madurai Junction Railway Station is also well-connected and can be easily reached from most major cities within India.

The Meenakshi Amman temple is open to devotees and pilgrims between 5 AM to 12.30 PM and 4 PM to 10 PM on all days of the week. There is no entry fee to visit the temple.

Meenakshi Amman Temple

Standing tall in the heart of the Madurai with its magnificent glory, Meenakshi Amman Temple is a significant piece in the ancient Tamil fables and folklores that depict its religious importance and the ethereal beauty that devotees from across the globe come to witness.

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do Near Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple

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Things to do near Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple

Things to Do near Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple

How to Visit the Wonders of Madurai Meenakshi Temple

The Madurai Meenakshi temple in Tamil Nadu in the south of India is one of those temples that you can not describe in words. It’s a place that you need to experience with all your senses. The sounds of the temple bells, the smell of sweets and incense, the sight of beautiful carvings and paintings.

The Madurai Meenakshi temple can be an explosion of colours, but at the same time a tranquil and peaceful place. Then there is the chaos and India’s characteristic hustle and bustle, but also the serenity and spirituality. In short, it is one of those Indian experiences that will stay with you.

The Madurai Meenakshi temple

India has thousands of temples, but the Madurai Meenakshi temple is something special. Of all the places and temples I have visited in India, it remains one of the most impressive ones I have seen.

Nobody knows how old the temple really is. Madurai itself is among the oldest cities in India and ancient literature mentions the existence of a large and important temple as early as the 6th century. In its long history the temple survived several invasions and destructions.

The current structure of the Madurai Meenakshi temple was build by the Tamil rulers of the Nayak dynasty in the 16th and 17th century and is an example of the Dravidian style common in South India.

The temple is dedicated to Meenakshi, a form of Parvati, who married Shiva. Therefore it is a Shiva temple, but unlike most Shiva temples in South India, he is not the principal deity. Devotees come to pray to the goddess Meenakshi. Meenakshi means fish eyed in Hindu mythology. She was a fierce meat eating goddess before she married Shiva and took her current form.

One of the legends claims that Meenakshi was born as a princess with three breasts, but a prophecy stated that she would marry the man who could defeat her in battle. This man turned out to be Lord Shiva, who descended to earth and defeated Meenakshi in battle. After their marriage, Meenakshi lost her third breast and became a goddess.

The Madurai Meenakshi Temple quickly became one of the most important pilgrimage sites in India, attracting thousands of devotees each year. The temple complex is an architectural marvel, featuring towering gopurams (gateway towers), elaborately carved pillars, and a sprawling inner courtyard.

Things to do in the Madurai Meenakshi temple

The Madurai Meenakshi temple is a huge complex of high walls, impressive gateways and sacred spaces where it is easy to lose yourself among the more than 30,000 sculptures. There is even a bazaar and a museum, all within the Madurai Meenakshi temple complex.

Don’t think a quick sneek peek inside can satisfy you. A visit to the Madurai Meenakshi temple can easily take up your whole day. In my opinion, it is one of the most beautiful temples in India along with the Belur and Halebid temples and the temples in Hampi in Karnataka.

Meenakshi temple gopurams

The Madurai Meenakshi temple has no less than 14 richly decorated towers called gopurams. Four of them form the colorful entrance gates.

The south entrance is the tallest, being 52 meters high and the eastern gate is the oldest. All of them have detailed carvings of more than 2000 gods, goddesses, animals and demons that depict stories from ancient Hindu texts.

Insider tip : The main entrance is at the eastern gate, but this is also where the line to get in is longest. The entrance at the southern gate is sometimes more quiet.

Insider tip 2 : Remember the gate that you enter through as this is where you need to exit as well to get back your belongings. Like any Indian temple you should take off your shoes, but in Madurai they are quite strict and you can also not bring bags, cameras, water bottles etc. Each gate has lockers where you can leave your stuff

Insider tip 3 : There is no toilet inside the temple so make sure you go before you enter.

Golden Lotus pool

The Madurai Meenakshi temple is so big that it is easy to loose your way. No matter how lost you are in time and space, at some point you will find yourself back at the courtyard with the sacred golden lotus pool.

This is at the center of the Madurai Meenakshi temple and offers nice views on the colorful gopuram towers

The Meenakshi and Shiva shrine

For Hindus the Meenakshi and Shiva shrines are probably the most sacred places within the Madurai Meenakshi temple and you will see long lines of people waiting to get inside. There are some other smaller shrines as well.

Non Hindus are not allowed to see the inner sanctums, but don’t worry. If you are not religious you won’t miss much. There is more than enough to see in and around the shrines including a large number of impressive sculptures. One of my favourites was the large Ganesh statue near the Shiva shrine.

The thousand pillar hall

The thousand pillar hall is one of the highlights of the Madurai Meenakshi temple. There are indeed almost a 1000 pillars. 985 to be exact. All of them have carved statues of Hindu deities including mythological figures. Look out for the Yaali, a mythical hybrid of a lion and elephant.

Musical Pillars

Just outsides the thousand pillar hall are the musical pillars. These pillars are special, because they produce musical notes when you tap on them.

These musical pillars can be found in several old temples in South India including the Vittala temple in Hampi .

Watch Hindu Ceremonies

Madurai is the spiritual heart of Tamil Nadu and 20,000 pilgrims visit the temple every day. It sometimes reminded me of Varanasi , because there is something interesting happening around every corner.

Families come here to seek their blessings after important life events. New born babies and couples that just got married all celebrate this in the presence of the gods.

Marriage ceremony at the Madurai Meenakshi temple

Evening Ceremony

Besides the private family ceremonies going in, there are also 6 daily prayer ceremonies that are performed by the priests of the temple. The most impressive ceremony is the daily night ceremony that starts at 09:15 PM when the idol of Lord Shiva is brought to the shrine of Meenakshi where he will spend the night. This is done in a procession with lots of chanting and singing.

Madurai Meenakshi temple food

You can not bring any food or drinks into the Madurai Meenakshi temple. Luckily the temple has its own kitchen and provides good and cheap food for those that visit the temple.

In fact, trying some of the temple food at one of the stalls is one of the best things to do in the Madurai Meenakshi temple. Whether you want to snack away on some of the delicious temple sweets or have a substantial meal. Here are some of the things worth trying

Chakkarai pongal – sweet rice with lentils, nuts and raisins.

Puliyodharai – tamarind rice with peanuts

Murukku – deep fried crunchy snack from rice and urad dal flour

Appam – Sweet fried snacks with rice flour and jaggery

Ladoo – Sweets made from butter, flour and sugar

Vada – deep fried fritters from chana dal

Madurai Meenakshi temple souvenirs

Besides food there is also a small market in the Madurai Meenakshi temple where you might be able to find some unique souvenirs like idols and bangles.

Madurai beyond the Meenakshi temple

While the Madurai Meenakshi temple is Madurai’s biggest attraction there is of course much more to this city than temples alone. Madurai’s colorful and peaceful streets are a joy to wander around in and I found Madurai to be very clean and peaceful for an Indian city. The food scene is also a great reason to stay a bit longer in Madurai.

Madurai market

The history of the Madurai Meenakshi temple extends into the lively market opposite the temple where business continues among old temple ruins which is a strange combination. Don’t miss this market to do some last minute souvenir shopping. Madurai is famous for silk, cotton and jasmine.

Thirumalai Nayakkar palace

Like the Mysore palace , the Thirumalai Nayakkkar palace is a strange colorful mix of different styles. The European influences in its design are obvious, but it also kept a truly unique Indian atmosphere and outlook with its Rajput and Dravidian architecture.

It was built in the 17th century as the palace for king Thirumalai Nayakar and was one of the wonders of South India.

Food walking tours

Madurai is one of the best cities in tamil Nadu to try Tamil cuisine as well as local specialities. Vanakkam Madurai offers food tours where you get to try some of the best street food in Madurai.

The Madurai Meenakshi temple travel tips

The Madurai Meenakshi temple is open every day from 5 AM till 12:30 and from 16:00 till 21:30. Foreigners need to pay an entrance fee of 50 rupees.

Where to sleep

Madurai has a range of accomodation options. Good budget places are Criston homestay and Mani’s residency . Also check Oyo rooms that sometimes have good budget deals.

How to get there

Madurai is an easy detour if you are travelling in Kerala or a must if you are visiting Tamil Nadu. There are buses from the following towns: Fort Kochi (8 hours), Munnar (4 hours), Thekkady (3,5 hours), Kodaikanal (3 hours) & Chennai (8 hours).

Madurai is also well connected by train. You can check time tables and book your tickets online directly through the Indian railways (IRCTC). Unfortunately this is not always a straightforward process. For a small extra fee you can use 12goAsia or Makemytrip .

How to get around

Uber and Ola : Uber is a good way to get around in Madurai, but India has its own similar business called Ola cabs that is even more popular. The good thing about both Ola and Uber is that it is cheaper than a tuk tuk and you do not need to negotiate the price or explain where you need to go. Both offer a pool option in which you share your ride with others that makes it even more affordable.

Ola also has a tuk tuk option that is one of the best and most affordable way to travel for shorter distances. I never had to wait long for a Ola or Uber to come and most of the time when I ordered the pool option I had no other passengers.

Tuk tuks : There is of course always the option of stopping a tuk tuk on the road, but be prepared to negotiate about the price.

When to visit

The best time to visit the Madurai Meenakshi temple is between October and March. In October temperatures cool down and you might have a chance to join the festivities for Dussehra and Diwali. India’s biggest festivals.

Temperatures remain pleasant till March. In April and May it becomes extremely hot. In June it is the start of the monsoon that lasts till September and will see lots of rainfall.

Temple etiquette

The Madurai Meenaksi temple attracts both tourists as well as religious pilgrims. Therefore it is important to dress modestly. For both men and women this means that it is best to cover your legs and shoulders.

Like most temples in India you should take off your shoes. My advice is to bring shoes that you can take off easily and that you can recognize among all the others. There will be a person in charge of the shoes and it is custom to give a few rupees (10 rupees should be enough).

You can hire a guide if you like. It will certainly enrich your experience as the temple is huge and there are a lot of things going on. Do negotiate a price beforehand.

Sustainable travel to the Madurai Meenakshi Temple

The Madurai Meenakshi temple is one of the top tourist sites in Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu is a beautiful state, but to preserve its culture, it is important to be aware of the possible negative impacts mass tourism can have.

Support the local community: You can support the community by purchasing goods and services from local vendors, artisans, markets and restaurants. It is better to try South Indian cuisine that uses local ingredients rather than imported foreign foods. South Indian food is very vegetarian friendly and it is easy to follow a vegan diet.

Stay in small scale sustainable hotels : It is also better to stay in locally-owned guesthouses or homestays to support the local economy directly. These accommodations often have a more positive impact on the environment compared to large hotels.

Where possible, I can recommend staying in a homestay for an authentic cultural experience. You might want to bring a small book with pictures of your family to break the ice.

You can also try to look for guesthouses or homestays that prioritizes sustainable practices. That said, environmental awareness is still low. It’s up to you to use water sparsely, turn off lights, air conditioning, and heating when leaving your accommodation.

Use public transport : Tamil Nadu has a well-developed public transportation system. It is easy to reach Madurai by train or bus. Opt for public transport, whenever possible, instead of private cars to reduce carbon emissions.

Leave no trace principle : I encourage you to take all your trash back with you when you visit the Madurai Meenakshi temple and don’t leave any trash behind. In other words, leave no trace of your visit. Even better is when you bring something to pick up any of the trash that other people left behind.

Respect the culture : Besides environmental concerns it is also important to respect the culture. People will appreciate it, if you dress modestly. Learning a few basic phrases in Tamil, can go a long way in building meaningful connections and to learn more about the local culture. Not everybody is happy to have their picture taken. When in doubt, ask permission.

Disclaimer : This post about the Madurai Meenakshi temple contains affiliate links. If you buy any service through any of my links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. These earnings help me to keep Backpack Adventures alive! Thanks for your support!

9 thoughts on “How to Visit the Wonders of Madurai Meenakshi Temple”

I love the intricacy and the uniqueness of each piece of the temple details! It must have been really spiritual experience to see this in person. Thanks for sharing!

I am yet to visit Madurai to experience those wonderful structures. Those minute details on the temple facades are out of the world.

I always love reading post about new place 😉 Your photos have perfectly captured the atmosphere of this area ! Madurai seems really Tamil-born and Tamil-rooted 🙂

Your photos are absolutely stunning! It looks like a gorgeous place to visit.

Meenakshi temple looks so incredible and magnificient. Haven’t got an opportunity to visit yet.hopefully will visit soon

The architecture and colours are so beautiful! The people look so friendly and festive there, must be a cool experience to witness a celebration 🙂

30,000 sculptures?!? That’s incredible! Madurai sounds like it would be sensory overload.

Wow, how big does a temple have to be for a visit to take the entire day! That is quite something indeed! I can see myself in the bazaar, trying to justify buying cloth!

20000 tourists daily, wow that’s really huge. My family is planning to visit Kerala this year, I hope I can convince them to include Madurai too. Gorgeous pictures!

THE 10 BEST Things to Do Near Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple

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Things to Do near Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple

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Places to Visit Near Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Visiting Places Near Meenakshi Amman Temple, the ones who wish to visit the ancient architecture and glory of south India, Madurai is the place of visit. A tourist place that has a history of 2500 years near to the bank of ‘ Vaigai River .’ Madurai is called the ‘The city that never sleeps’. Let’s look into some of the famous places to visit in Madurai.

Thirupparankundram Murugan Temple :

The distance that needs to cover for reaching Thirupparamkundram Murugan temple from Meenakshi Amman temple is 7.8 m and the time required to reach the Thirupparamkundram Murugan temple from Meenakshi Amman temple is 21 minutes.

The Thiruppararunkundram Murugan temple located in the town of Thiruparankundram. This temple called Subramanya Swamy temple, which dedicated to Lord Murugan. This temple is constructed in the 6 th century by pandas in rock-cut architecture. It’s believed that this is the place where Murugan worshipped lord shiva, and this is the place where Murugan killed demon Surapadman and married daughter of Indra named Deivayanai. This temple stands as one of the six places that were chosen by Muragam as his dwelling. It believed as a meeting place of Sun and Moon abide. According to ‘Southern Himalaya’ as the hill, this cave temple devoted to 5 elements of the earth. These five elements mentioned in the Temple classical Texts. This is also an Islamic Shrine devoted to Sekunder.

Gandhi Museum:

The distance that needs to cover for reaching the Gandhi Museum from Meenakshi Amman temple is 3.8 m, and the time required to reach the Gandhi Museum from Meenakshi Amman temple is 13 minutes.

A great bonding is shared between Gandhiji and Madurai, as Gandhiji changed his dress code after being to Madurai. The construction of the museum house is made during 1670AD by Nayak Queen Rani and inaugurated in 1959. Gandhiji visual biography, along with picture gallery, is seen here. The freedom struggle of India replicated with 265 illustrations in the special exhibition sector and many more amazing things relating to the period of Gandhiji demonstrated.

Samanar Hills

The distance that needs to cover for reaching Samanar hills from Meenakshi Amman temple is 10.8 km, and the time required to reach the Samanar hills from Meenakshi Amman temple is 29 minutes.

The Samanar hills located in Keelakuyilkudi village, Madurai. The Samanar hills called Samanar mallai, the words Samanar means Jain and mallai, means hills in Tamil. Archaeologists found Vatteluttu’s writings of Tamil-Brahmi, which are 2000 years old. The famous sculptures in Samanar hills are Settipodavu and Penchipallam. These caves used by Samanar, the Jains who belong to the period of 1 AD. Natural fountain found in this locality named Pechchi Pallam . The caves have got amazing carvings sculpted on them.

Koodal Azhagar Temple:

The distance that needs to cover for reaching Koodal Azhagar temple from Meenakshi Amman temple is 1.0 km and the time required to reach the Koodal Azhagar temple from Meenakshi Amman temple is 6 minutes.

This temple located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, and this temple dedicated to lord shiva. The Koodal Azhagar temple is one of the 108 Divya Desam that dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The Koodal Azhagar temple has an idol of Vishnu with goddess Lakshmi who is provided rituals in the name of Mathuravalli.

The koodal azhagar temple dedicated to lord Vishnu. The location of the temple is 2km away from the city’s west. This one of the south Indian temples that is rich in culture, language, and art. An ancient architectural heritage of India seen in this temple. The temple covers an area of 2 acres, and it is a rectangular shape with granite walls, the temple has a gopuram that is 125 ft.

Pazhamudhir Solai –

The distance that needs to cover for reaching Thirupparamkundram Murugan temple from Meenakshi Amman temple is 2.0k m and the time required to reach the Thirupparamkundram Murugun temple from Meenakshi Amman temple is 9 minutes.

Pazhamudhir Solai is a temple located in Naanmadakoodal, Tamil Nadu, and this temple dedicated to Lord Muruga. The name of the city is derived because once Vishnu stood as a bulwark against disaster. So, that the city named with his name as Naanmadakoodal. The Pazhamudhir is famous in four yugas as Satya yuga, Treta yuga, Dwapar yuga, Kali-yuga. The temple resembles the Shaivite and Vaishnavite cultures.

Thirumalai Nayak Mahal :

The distance that needs to cover for reaching Thirumalai Natya mahal from Meenakshi Amman temple is 7.8 m and the time required to reach the Thirumalai Nayak mahal from Meenakshi Amman temple is 21 minutes.

Thirumalai Nayak Mahal is a palace located in Madhurai, Tamil Nadu. Thirumalai has a merged architecture of Dravidian and Islamic style. This palace built by Thirumalai Nayak for himself in the 17 th century. This palace constructed with shell lime mixed with egg white for the smooth texture. The place is four times larger than the present palace structure and is considered one of the wonders in the South in the heyday. The present place is the living room of the king. The palace is in an area of 41,979 square feet with circular pillars and a circular garden. The palace divided into Swarga vilasam and Ranga vilasam.

Periyar Tiger Reserve –

A park that is famous for wildlife such as elephants. October to June is the right time to visit this place. But quite far off from Madurai.

The distance that needs to cover for reaching Periyar Tiger reserve from Meenakshi Amman temple is 7.8 m, and the time required to reach the Periyar tiger reserve from Meenakshi Amman temple is 3 hours 44 minutes. Periyar tiger reserve occupies an area of 777 sq.km, which consists of different species of flora and fauna to provide an eye feast for visitors.

A beautiful and vibrant city that re-establishes the glory of the language of Tamil and is an important place to visit.

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Meenakshi to Kedarnath - 7 most beautiful temples in India

India is known for its architectural marvels, some of which can be seen in its temples. Take a look at the most beautiful temples you will find here. - By Mahasweta Sarkar

India is known for its architectural marvels, some of which can be seen in its temples. Take a look at the most beautiful temples you will find here.

Located on the southern bank of the Vaigai River in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, this place is considered to be the place where Lord Shiva and Parvati got married.

This grand Sikh temple of Amritsar, Punjab, is ostentatiously coated in gold leaf on the exterior as the same suggests.

Made from red sandstone, this temple is located in Veraval, Gujrat. With staggering 155 feet tall with 7 stories, it is a site of marvel.

This group of Hindu and Jain temples are located in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for the nagara-style temple architecture.

This modern majestic temple in New Delhi is decorated with ostentatious water fountains and extensive lawns.

Built under the Chola dynasty, this temple in located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Situated on the bank of Uttarakhand’s Mandakini River, this sacred pilgrimage spot is known for its mountainous beauty.

Meenakshi to Kedarnath - 7 most beautiful temples in India

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A Guide To Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple
The operational hours of the Meenakshi temple are from 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and then the temple reopens from 4:00 PM to 9:30 PM. While planning a visit, ensure 2-3 hours extra for deity darshan and full exploration of the temple. The festival days attract numerous devotees worldwide, so the darshan takes 4-5 hours.
Madurai's Meenakshi Temple and How to Visit It
Meenakshi Temple is open daily from dawn until 10 p.m., except for when it closes between 12.30 p.m. to 4 p.m. This is because Hindu scriptures specify that an abode of Lord Shiva must not remain open in the afternoon. It's best to visit the temple once in the morning and once in the evening (for the night ceremony).
Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai
In fact, many devotees plan a trip to Madurai for a mere visit to the Meenakshi Amman Temple. On our own 5 days road trip across Tamil Nadu covering Madurai, Rameshwaram, Chettinad and Thanjavur, it was one of the first few places we visited.
Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple
Book your tickets online for Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai: See 4,262 reviews, articles, and 3,136 photos of Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple, ranked No.1 on Tripadvisor among 47 attractions in Madurai. ... You may visit this place as an devotee, or an architecture lover. The temple has magnificent pillars, got to know that they are a ...
Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple: The complete guide to visiting
Meenakshi Amman Temple is one of the most sacred sites in India and they take temple rules and regulations pretty seriously. Temple timings: Meenakshi Amman Temple is open from 5 AM to 12:30 PM ...
Meenakshi Temple: A Marvel of Madurai That You Must Visit
The Meenakshi Temple is a marvel of Madurai that you must visit at least once in your lifetime. The temple is not only a place of worship, but also a place of wonder, where you can witness the beauty, the history, and the culture of Madurai. The temple will leave you spellbound with its majestic gopurams, its splendid halls, its divine shrines ...
Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple
Madurai Meenakshi Temple - Top's The List of Madurai Places To Visit Madurai is virtually synonymous with the Meenakshi Temple which undoubtedly is the pièce de résistance of the city. A visit to this place would be incomplete without visiting this magnificent Meenakshi temple, in fact, the temple is the lodestone which draws multitudes ...
Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple
Madurai is synonymous with Sri Meenakshi Amman temple. A famous pilgrimage spot, the temple is renowned for its classic architectural style, stupendous structures and carvings. The temple abounds in legends and myths. It is believed that Indra discovered the presence of Swayambhu lingam during his trip through Madurai and he enshrined it.
Marvels of Madurai: Exploring the Magnificent Meenakshi Temple
Places to Visit Nearby Madurai: Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace: Explore the grandeur of this 17th century palace known for its Indo Saracenic architecture. ... Meenakshi Amman Temple, located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India, is a historic and significant Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi. If you're planning to visit the Meenakshi ...
Meenakshi Amman Temple
The Meenakshi Amman Temple is the heart of the ancient city of Madurai in Tamil Nadu, India. A religious and mythological symbol dating back 2,500 years, the temple's 14 towers are each covered ...
Meenakshi Amman Temple: A Jewel of Madurai
The Meenakshi Amman Temple, also known as Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, is steeped in mythology and history dating back over 2,500 years. Legend has it that the temple was built by the Pandyan king, Kulasekara Pandya, under the divine guidance of Lord Shiva himself. The temple's primary deities are Meenakshi, an incarnation of the goddess ...
Majestic Spires of Madurai
Here are some recommendations for places to visit in Meenakshi Temple: Meenakshi temple gopurams; ... Sarala Prasad Complex,3Rd Floor,47/48,West Tower Street Near West Tower Of Meenakshi Amman Temple, 625001 Madurai, India: Rs. 990: 6: Royal Court: No.4, West Veli Street, 625001 Madurai, India:
Meenakshi Amman Temple / Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple in Madurai
A visit to this temple makes every Madurai Tour memorable. Timing of Sri Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai Image Gallery of Meenakshi Amman Temple / Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple in Madurai ; Opening timings of Madurai Meenakshi temple is from 5 AM to 12.30 PM. It again opens for darshan at 4 PM to 9.30 PM.
Meenakshi Temple: A Guide For Witnessing It In All Its Glory In 2023
However, there is an art museum and its entry ticket costs INR 5 for Indian tourists and INR 50 for foreign tourists if you wish to visit it. Darshan Duration: Meenakshi Amman Temple is undoubtedly the most famous tourist attraction in Madurai and there is a possibility that you may spend hours in the queue for visiting the inner sanctums to ...
Meenakshi Temple, Madurai Complete Travel Guide: How to Reach, History
Timing of Meenakshi Temple. The Meenakshi temple in Madurai is open daily from 5 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. It reopens at 4 p.m. and closes at 9 p.m. for darshan. Plan to spend at least two to three hours at Meenakshi Temple for darshan and a tour of the temple & deity. Getting darshan might take up to 5 hours during the event.
Madurai Tourism
Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple, Tamilnadu - history, travel guide with places to visit & things to do, weather, timings, festivals, season, map & trip duration. Menakshi Temple is the one of the largest temples in India & Madhurai is the oldest continually inhabited city
An Unforgettable Journey: Must-Visit Places In Madurai
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.
Meenakshi Amman Temple
Meenakshi Amman Temple is a popular landmark in the city of Madurai, and so, reaching it is not difficult once you reach Madurai. Madurai city can be reached by bus, train or air. Maduraiâ€™s airport - Madurai International Airport is well connected to major cities in India and other parts of the world. Maduraiâ€™s major train ...
THE 10 BEST Things to Do Near Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple
Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal. #8 of 47 things to do in Madurai. 952 reviews. Mahal Vadampokki St Near Meenakshi Temple, Madurai 625001 India. 0.5 miles from Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple. Book a Tour. Private Immersive culture tour of South India... from $1,225.00. More Info.
How to Visit the Wonders of Madurai Meenakshi Temple
The Madurai Meenakshi temple is a huge complex of high walls, impressive gateways and sacred spaces where it is easy to lose yourself among the more than 30,000 sculptures. There is even a bazaar and a museum, all within the Madurai Meenakshi temple complex. Don't think a quick sneek peek inside can satisfy you. A visit to the Madurai ...
Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai Tourist Guide
You visit Meenakshi Temple (Also known as Arulmigu Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Thirukkoil) to witness the architecture style of the Dravidian period.A sense of spirituality and tranquility is felt at its best here. The temple marks its existence 3500 years back. The historic informative books explain that the Meenakshi amman Temple, Madurai was the city center from which the boulevards ascended ...
5 famous places to visit in Madurai for a perfect vacation
Here are 5 famous places to visit in Madurai for a perfect vacation. 1. Meenakshi Amman Temple. The first site on the list of attractions near Madurai is the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a well-known temple with beautiful architecture that makes it a significant landmark in Tamil Nadu. The temple has been built in the Dravidian architectural style. 2.
THE 10 BEST Things to Do Near Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple
Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal. #8 of 47 things to do in Madurai. 952 reviews. Mahal Vadampokki St Near Meenakshi Temple, Madurai 625001 India. 0.8 km from Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple. Book a Tour. Private Immersive culture tour of South India... from ₹1,04,980.67. More Info.
45 of the best places to visit in India: temples, tigers, Taj Mahal—oh
5. Meenakshi Amman Temple Hindu temple in the city of Madurai. When it comes to sights to see in India on our South India & Sri Lanka: Game Drives, Temples & Tropical Coasts tour, the rainbow-hued Meenakshi Amman Temple can't be missed. It's an icon of Dravidian architecture and notable for its towering gopurams (gateway towers), carved ...
Places to Visit Near Meenakshi Temple Madurai
Periyar Tiger Reserve -. A park that is famous for wildlife such as elephants. October to June is the right time to visit this place. But quite far off from Madurai. The distance that needs to cover for reaching Periyar Tiger reserve from Meenakshi Amman temple is 7.8 m, and the time required to reach the Periyar tiger reserve from Meenakshi ...
Chithirai festival: Devotees celebrate Meenakshi
Madurai (Tamil Nadu), April 22 (ANI): Thousand of devotees thronged Madurai's Meenakshi Amman Temple to celebrate the Chithirai festival on April 22. The Chithirai festival commemorates the ...
Meenakshi to Kedarnath
With staggering 155 feet tall with 7 stories, it is a site of marvel. This group of Hindu and Jain temples are located in Chhatarpur, Madhya Pradesh. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for ...
ஆடி அசைந்து வரும் மீனாட்சி சொக்கநாதர் தேர்.. மதுரை சித்திரை
Today, the 11th day of Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple Chithirai Festival, which is world famous, is taking place. Thousands of devotees pull the chariot by pulling the rope.
Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple's Chithirai Thiruvizha Chariot
The renowned Chithirai Thiruvizha of the Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple is in full swing. This morning (April 22) at 6:30 AM, the Meenakshi Amman-Sundareswarar chariot embarked on its gran

A Guide To Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple

Meenakshi Amman Temple History

Legends Associated With The Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple

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Things To Do At The Meenakshi Temple

Temple Tour

Visit The Potramarai Kulam

Admire The Stunning Scriptures

Explore The Aiyaram Kal Mandapam

Shop At Puthu Mandapam

Witness The Night Ceremony

Meenakshi Amman Temple Timings

Best Time to Visit The Meenakshi Temple

How To Get To The Meenakshi Amman Temple

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Discover the Majesty of Meenakshi Temple in Tamil Nadu

Madurai's Meenakshi Temple and How to Visit It

Important Festivals at the Temple

A Clean Temple

How to Visit Meenakshi Temple

Temple Security and What You Can't Take Inside

Highlights Inside the Temple

Darshan (Viewing) of the Goddess

Puja (Worship) Schedule

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Meenakshi Temple Night Ceremony

Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai – Things to know before you go

History of Meenakshi Amman Temple

Architecture of the Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai

Major Gopurams of the Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Major Mandapams of Meenakshi Temple Madurai

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Darshan at Meenakshi Amman Temple Madurai

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Meenakshi Temple

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