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11 Top Things to Do in Madurai

TripSavvy / Sharell Cook

Madurai is the third-largest city in Tamil Nadu and one of the state's top tourist destinations. Its history can be traced as far back as the fourth century BC when Greek ethnographer Megasthenes visited and wrote about it. The city's role in the spice trade with the Mediterranean led it to have cosmopolitan connections and a cultured lifestyle. Madurai also hosted gatherings of Tamil writers and poets during the ancient Sangam era and has remained a major center for Tamil culture and learning.

Many of the city's magnificent temples and buildings were constructed during the prosperous rule of the Nayak dynasty in the 17th century. Over time, Madurai came to be called the "Athens of the East" because of its similar architectural style, particularly the pedestrian walkways and the lofty towers of its Meenakshi Temple that could be seen from anywhere in the city (similar to the Greek Parthenon ). These days, Madurai attracts pilgrims and tourists in equal numbers.

Explore Madurai on a Walking Tour

Storytrails

Madurai is a city with centuries of history and countless parts to discover. It's exciting to explore on your own, but starting your trip with a professional guide is the best way to get your bearings and learn all about Madurai. Two companies that employ local guides for a truly immersive experience include Madurai Inhabitants and Storytrails . You can choose a tour of a specific attraction like the main temple or something more general, such as a food tour, markets tour, or cultural tour. The knowledgeable guides come from Madurai and love to share about their city.

Kutladampatti Falls

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An easy day trip from Madurai is the spectacular Kutladampatti Falls, which are about an hour outside of the city center. They are especially impressive during the monsoon season , which lasts from June to September and is the best time to visit. You can drive, catch a bus, or take a taxi to Kutladampatti, and it's just a 20-minute hike from the parking area to the waterfall. Visitors aren't supposed to bring food to the falls, which helps to keep the area clean of litter. Definitely bring a swimsuit along so you can swim in the natural pool underneath the falls.

Explore Meenakshi Temple

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The 17th-century Meenakshi Temple is a must-see South Indian temple and the focal point of Madurai. Apparently, the city was built around the Shiva lingam that's inside the temple's inner sanctum. The temple complex covers an extensive 15 acres, including the Hall of a Thousand Pillars and 14 towers that can be seen from across the city. You could easily spend days in there as it's a "living temple" with a lot going on (including a constant stream of couples waiting to be married in its corridors). It's worth going to the temple once in the morning and again in the evening for the night ceremony.

Go Shopping at Puthu Mandapam

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Opposite Meenakshi Temple's east tower is the cavernous 17th-century pillared entrance hall, Puthu Mandapam. Venture inside to find rows of tailors and stalls selling fabric, scarves, jewelry, fashion accessories, handicrafts, and artwork. You can get good-quality clothes made there including decent replicas of temple garb.

Admire Thirumalai Nayak Palace

Southeast of Meenakshi Temple, Thirumalai Nayak Palace is Madurai's second-biggest attraction. King Thirumalai Nayak built it as his residential palace in 1636 with the input of an Italian architect and it's a classic fusion of Dravidian and Islamic styles. The palace's distinguishing feature is its pillars and there are more than 240 of them. Sadly, only a quarter of the original structure is intact. This consists of the entrance hall, courtyard, dance hall, and audience hall. The palace was even used as a district court during the rule of the British and continued as such until 1970. There's a sound and light show every evening that tells the ancient Tamil love story Silappathikaram, which can be seen in Tamil or in English.

Pray at Saint Mary's Cathedral

Saint Mary's Cathedral is only five minutes walk from Thirumalai Nayak Palace, on East Veli Street in Madurai. Officially called the Church of Our Lady of Dolours, it was constructed in 1841 by the New Madurai Mission (a Jesuit mission originating from Portuguese colonization of Goa) and modeled on Saint Mary's Cathedral of Trichy in Tamil Nadu. The church was later expanded, in its present Gothic style, and completed in 1916. Its elegant architecture features two tall bell towers and beautiful stained-glass work.

Marvel Over the Banana Market

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Madurai's wholesale banana market is a fascinating place to visit. Apparently, 16 varieties of bananas are sold there! They arrive, clustered together on branches, by the cart load. Watch as wiry workers unload them and carry them inside, up to half a dozen branches at a time. There's a vegetable market next to the banana market, which is also a hive of activity and great for people watching.

Feast on South Indian Food

If you want to taste the best South Indian food in town, renowned Murugan Idli Shop on West Masi Street is the place! This restaurant is simple and unpretentious. with a focus on food rather than decor. Apart from idli and dosa , the highlight is their special blend of spicy chutney powder. It's ordered separately, along with oil to mix it with.

If you're keen to explore local cuisine, Foodies Day Out in Madurai does the best food tours in the city!

Learn About the Life of Mahatma Gandhi

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Across the dry Vaigai River, housed in the Tamukkam Summer Palace of Nayak queen Rani Mangammal, is one of many museums in India dedicated to Gandhi. It contains various items used by him including a shawl, spectacles, yarn, and the bloodstained dhoti (loincloth) that he was wearing when he was assassinated in Delhi in 1948. Gandhi took up wearing the dhoti in Madurai in 1921, as a sign of national pride. Admission to the Gandhi Memorial Museum is free, and it's open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 5.45 p.m. The Madurai Government Museum is also located in the same grounds.

Visit One of the Abodes of Lord Murugan

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If you have time, head out to Thiruparankundram, about 20 minutes southwest of Madurai. There you'll find one of the city's other impressive ancient temples, the Arulmigu Subramaniya Swamy temple, dedicated to Hindu god Murugan (handsome son of Lord Shiva). He's revered as a favorite god of Tamils. At the top of Thiruparankundram hill is a 14th century grave shrine of the Islamic saint Hazrat Sultan Sikandhar Badhusha. Time seems to have stood still there, and a single family has taken care of the shrine generation after generation.

See Artisans at Work at Vilachery Pottery Village

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On the outskirts of Madurai near Thiruparankundram, about 200 families in the interesting village of Vilachery craft small idols of Lord Ganesh for Ganesh Chaturthi and Bommai Kolu dolls for Navaratri out of clay. They also make nativity sets for Christmas. It's possible to take a walk through the village and see the artisans at work in their homes. Storytrails runs an insightful Potter's Trail tour to the village, where you'll get to uncover many stories and legends.

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Places to Visit in Madurai

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Tourist Places to Visit in Madurai

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

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

Best of Chennai

Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

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

Best of Ooty

Goripalayam Dargah

Alagar Koyil

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

Best of Pondicherry

Samanar Hills

Koodal Azhagar Temple

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

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

Best of Kodaikanal

Gandhi Museum

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

Best of Kanyakumari

Mariamman Teppakulam

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

Best of Tirupati

Kazimar Big Mosque And Maqbara Mosque

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

Pazhamudhir Solai

Best of Rameswaram

St. Mary's Cathedral Church

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

Location: Narasingam, Tamil Nadu 625104

Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal Temple

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

Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple

Pudhu Mandapam

People Also Ask About Madurai

Which are the best places to visit in madurai, what are the most popular things to do in madurai, what is meenakshi temple famous for, how long does it take to visit the meenakshi temple.

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

How many days are required to visit Madurai?

What is madurai famous for, what is the best time to visit madurai.

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14 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Madurai

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Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple

#1 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

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

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Thirumalai Nayak Mahal

#2 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

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

Koodal Alagar Temple

#3 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

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

Thirupparankundram Temple

#4 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

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

Alagar Koil

#5 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

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

Srivilliputhur Andal Temple

#6 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

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

Gandhi Museum

#7 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

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

Vandiyur Mariamman Temple

#8 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

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

#9 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

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

Pazhamudhir Solai

#10 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

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

#11 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

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

Kumbakkarai Waterfalls

#12 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

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

Suruli Waterfalls

#13 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

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

#14 of 14 Places to Visit in Madurai

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

Most Asked Questions on Madurai

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

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

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

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

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

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States › Tamil Nadu › Madurai

Madurai Travel Guide

Vivacious, mythical, chaotic and soulful-that's what best describe the city of Madurai which is steeped in Tamil culture. Often referred to as the city that never sleeps by locals-Madurai is worth visiting. Be prepared to be greeted by bright colours and tingle of temple bells taking over your visual and aural senses as you step into the city. There are numerous places to visit in Madurai that include temples, churches and palaces. It is a unique place where the old and news co-exist. The ancient structures of the many temples and other architecture adorning the skyline of the city are enough to make the modern-day skyscrapers fade away. Despite being steeped in traditional Tamil culture and history, IT and urban developments have forayed in and coexist in harmony. The history of Madurai dates back to the 3rd century BC and finds reference in the works of Arab, Roman and Greek travellers, including Megasthenses. Today, it is one of the major centres of South India that promotes Tamil culture and traditions through Sangams. The city has been ruled by the Pandayas and the Nayak. Over the time, the city has transformed into a cultural hub that ends up attracting thousands of tourists round the year. Tranquil and graceful- Madurai is the place to lose yourself in the streets and take a journey to discover the divine.

Strategically located in Tamil Nadu, the city makes for an ideal weekend getaway for the people of South India. Madurai with its many colours, charms and idiosyncrasies is bound to make your tour memorable. Be it the famous Meenakshi Temple or the Koodal Azhagar Temple, Kalamegaperumal Temple or the St Mary's Cathedral Church, the experiences of visiting the numerous religious shrines of the city will make you feel a lot more blessed. One of the most famous places to visit in Madurai happens to be the Sri Meenakshi Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, a form of Parvati, the temple is an absolute wonder. Built in the Dravidian style of architecture, it leaves pilgrims and travellers in awe who pay homage here to fill themselves with a sense of satisfaction and gratitude. Other places to visit in Madurai includes the Koodal Azhagar Temple, Alagar Koil, Vaigai Dam, Gandhi Museum, Idaikattur Church and pottery village. In our Madurai Travel Guide, we have compiled an extensive list of all the places to visit and things to do in and around the city. Whether its worshipping the Goddess at the Meenakshi Temple or the deities at the ISKCON temple, spending a day at Tirumalai Nayak Palace or a visit to the St. Mary's Church- our Madurai travel guide has it all.

Best Time to Visit Madurai

As a travel destination, Madurai can be visited any time of the year. However, the best time to visit Madurai is winters, especially the months of December to February. Thousands of travellers and pilgrims flock to the city during these months. Summers and monsoons comparatively attract less number of tourists as hot tropical climate characterizes the region.

Summers are warm and sunny hence attract less number of tourists. However, while the early summer months (February and March) do attract some tourists, peak summers in Madurai are best avoided. Temperature often soars up to 40°C, making it somewhat uncomfortable for travellers.

Monsoons in Madurai span from July to September and the region experiences somewhat moderate rainfall. Humidity levels go up substantially thereby making it unbearable for the tourists. Despite that, tourists do flock to Madurai, though in less number during these months. In case you want to visit, carrying an umbrella is a must.

Winters are the best time to visit Madurai. This season in the city spans from November to early February and the temperature ranges anywhere between 20°C and 27°C making it soothing for travellers. Humidity in the air is reduced thus, making it easier for travellers to be able to enjoy to the fullest.

Popular Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in and Around Madurai

Those who want to experience true Tamil culture and soak into its ethos, Madurai is a must visit place. Whether it's the numerous temples or the churches or getting lost into the narrow alleys or striking up a bargain with the shopkeepers in its colourful bazaars-the places to visit and things to do in Madurai are almost endless.

Sri Meenakshi Temple

Probably the most popular place to visit in Madurai, the Sri Meenakshi Temple is almost synonymous to the city. The presiding deity here is Goddess Meenakshi (a form of Parvati) and her consort Sundareshwarar or Lord Shiva. The temple is an outstanding example of Dravidian architecture. It houses nearly 33,000 sculptures and is surrounded by four gopurams. The hall of thousand pillars is a magnificent structure and is worth a visit. Raed more

Pazhamudhir Solai

Located roughly 20 kilometres from the centre of Madurai, the Pazhamudhir Solai Temple is yet another popular religious shrine in the region. Dedicated to Lord Murugan, the temple is one of the six abodes of Lord Murugan. Devotees not only offer prayers at the Pazhamudhir Solai Temple but also take a dip at the nearby natural spring known as Nubragangai.

Aayiram Kaal Mandapam

Located inside the Meenakshi Temple, the Mandapam houses nearly 1000 pillars that are intricately carved upholding exquisite Dravidian architecture. This exquisite masterpiece was made out of one particular rock. Maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the monument puts every visitor in awe of its beauty. There's a Temple Art Museum that records the shrine's thousand year-old history.

Koodal Azhagar Temple

Dedicated to Koodal Azhagar (Lord Vishnu), the temple is located right at the heart of the city. It is an ultimate example of the Dravidian style of architecture. The religious shrine is believed to be built by the Pandyas more than thousands years ago with later additions made by the Vijayanagar Empire and the Madurai Nayaks. The temple is one of 108 Divyadesam and is highly revered by the Vaishnavite sect.

Alagarkoil Temple and Shrine

The Alagarkoil Temple and shrine is located roughly 21 kilometres from the centre of Madurai. The shrine is surrounded by the ruins of a fort and is positioned atop a hill, Alagarmalai. The impressive tower at the entrance is believed to have been built by Pandya Kingdom. The Kalyana Mandapam and the pillars within it are specimens of Nayaka art.The presiding deity of the temple is Paramaswamy and his consort Kalyana Sundaravalli.

Gandhi Museum

One of the most dedicated Gandhi Sangrahalaya of India, the museum is housed in the famous 17th century Tamukkam Palace, belonging to the Nayak Dynasty. The exhibits include a lot of personal belongings used by Mahatma Gandhi. This even includes a piece of the blood-stained loin cloth worn by him at the time of his assassination. Other exhibits include a letter written by Gandhi to Adolf Hitler addressing him as "Dear Friend". Read more

Tirupparankunram

Tirupparankunram is a locality in Madurai famous for its Murugan Temple. It is popularly termed as the Tirupparankunram Murugan Temple. One of the six abodes of Lord Murugan,the temple is built in two major styles - rock-cut architecture and typical Dravidian style of architecture as well. Do remember to visit the Tirupparankunram Murugan Temple while in Madurai and seek blessings from Lord Murugan.

Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal

One of the chief historical sites and a major place to visit in Madurai is the Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal. The palace was constructed in the mid-17th century by Thirumalai Nayak of the famous Nayak Dynasty. The palace was designed by an Italian architect and is an exquisite amalgamation of Dravidian and European architecture with subtle influence of Indo-Saracenic style.

St. Mary's Cathedral Church

The St. Mary's Cathedral Church is a major religious shrine in Madurai. Built in the Roman style of architecture the church has an imposing structure and leaves its visitors awe. What sets apart the temple is the European architecture outside while the interiors look very absolutely Indian with bright-coloured walls. It has one of the best-looking cross station and an amazing Christ in three-dimensional glass coffin along with a statue of Our Lady of Perpetual Suffering. Read more

Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam

The term Teppakulam literally translates into temple pond mainly used for devotional festivals. It's a huge square-shaped tank spanning an area of 16 acres. The tank was constructed by King Thirumalai Nayak in 1646. At the centre of the tank, there's an idol of Lord Vigneshwara, installed on a platform. One of the largest temple tanks in Tamil Nadu, Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam is a major tourist attraction.

Kalamegaperumal Temple

One of the prominent Hindu religious shrines in Madurai, the Kalamegaperumal Temple is located in Melur, the temple's presiding deity happens to be Lord Vishnu. The temple is one of the 108 Divyadesams and here Lord Vishnu is worshipped as Neelamegha Perumal and Lakshmi, his consort as Tirukannapura Nayagi. More than 2000 years'-old the temple is yet another example of the Dravidian style of architecture.

Idaikattur Church

Located 36 kilometres away from the main city, on the Madurai-Rameshwaram Highway, the Idaikuttur Church is a prominent religious shrine of Tamil Nadu. The church was built in 1894 by a French missionary upon the request of a lady of the same nationality. Dedicated to the Roman Catholic sect, the church attracts several devotees and travellers throughout the year. Built in the typical Gothic structure, a visit to the church will make you feel more blessed.

Sri Ramana Mandiram

Located very close to the Meenakshi temple, the Sri Ramana Mandiram is a sacred site dedicated to the Tamilian Hindu Sage Sri Ramana Maharshi. The place where the shrine is located is the dwelling where Maharshi lived for some time before attaining enlightenment.

ISKCON Madurai

Though ISKCON temples are present in almost major cities in India, this particular one is a somewhat smaller compared to the ones in Bengaluru and Ahmedabad. Despite that, the temple is still praised for its architectural wonder and a lot of devotees throng to the shrine to seek blessings from the divine.

Puthu Mandapam

Puthu Mandapam is a bustling area of commerce with traders and customers alike thronging the shops. If you want to experience shopping like a local Maduraiite, then you must visit Puthu Mandapam. The structure where the shopping complex now exists originally dates back to the 17th century and was constructed by the rulers of the Nayaka Kingdom. Over time, the mandapam has been transformed into a huge shopping complex.

Banana Market

The banana market is yet another interesting and a popular tourist destination in Madurai. Whether you love eating bananas or not, do visit this market for gathering a completely different kind of experience. At the market you will come across 16 varieties of bananas. Needless to say, that you can taste as many bananas as you want. You can end up buying as many as you want - raw or ripe both.

Villacherry Pottery Village

Opt for a one-day guided tour of the Villacherry Village, popularly known as the pottery village. Sunburned and sleepy, Villacherry is just like any other archetypal Indian village. Interact personally with the villagers and watch them turn creators as they fashion potteries with absolute dexterity. A tour of the Villacherry Pottery Village will fill you with an absolute sense of delight.

Keelakuyilkudi and Samanar Hills

Located in the Keelakuyilkudi village, 12 kilometres away from Madurai, the Samanar Hills is one of the major attractions in the city. The Samanar Hills are a beautiful blend of history and nature. Preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India, the hills are an interesting site to visit that provides a glimpse of the historical richness of South India. Two sculptures, Settipodavu and Pechipallam are major attractions of the hill.

Where to Stay in Madurai?

As a popular tourist spot, Madurai has lots of accommodation options for all kinds of travellers. Whether you are a backpacker from a different country or a visiting local family - you will be spoilt for choice in terms of accommodation options in Madurai. Budget hotels, mid-range ones and high-end hotels - all are available even in prime locations of the city and also within the vicinity of the places of interest. Most of the hotels can be booked online beforehand.

How to Reach Madurai?

A prominent city of Tamil Nadu, Madurai is easily accessible from almost throughout the country. The city has its own airport and a railway station, making it convenient for all to commute to the city easily. Other nearest airports and railway stations happen to be Chennai and Coimbatore.

Madurai has its own airport which is well-connected by the rest of India. Number domestic airlines operate on the route and several flights ply on a daily basis to Madurai. Another option is to take a flight to Chennai from any part of India and then take another flight to Madurai from thereafter.

Just like the airport, Madurai has its own railway junction which is well-connected to all major cities in Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Even if you cannot avail a direct train to Madurai, you can avail trains either from Chennai or Coimbatore. Express trains from Trichy, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram are also available connecting the cities to Madurai.

Madurai can also be reached by road. Travellers can take either a bus or a car. National Highway 45 and 45B connects Madurai to Chennai. It is one of the amazing drives that one can experience. Apart from that, Madurai can be reached from Bengaluru via NH 49. Other cities from where direct buses for Madurai are available include Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram.

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"The Lotus City"

Madurai tourism.

Madurai, the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities of India. Ruled by Pandya kings for the longest time in its history, it is called as the 'Lotus City' as it was planned and built in the shape of a lotus. Madurai is known for Meenakshi Amman Temple, dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi with a sanctum for her consort, Sundareshwarar. 

There are many other ancient temples in Madurai, including Thiruparankundram. It is one of the important old temples dedicated to Lord Muruga(Karthikeya) and is located on a hillock approximately 8 km from the city. Having trade ties with ancient Rome, the place holds a great cultural heritage. With bustling bazaars and fantastic street food, Madurai has heritage walks conducted throughout the day. Madurai is instrumental in promoting Tamil language and preserving the culture.

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Chennai may be the capital of Tamil Nadu, but Madurai claims its soul. Madurai is Tamil-born and Tamil-rooted, one of the oldest cities in India, a metropolis that traded with ancient Rome and was a great capital long before Chennai was even dreamed of.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Meenakshi Amman Temple

The colourful abode of the triple-breasted warrior goddess Meenakshi (‘fish-eyed’ – an epithet for perfect eyes in classical Tamil poetry) is generally…

Gandhi Memorial Museum

Housed in a 17th-century Nayak queen's palace, this impressive museum contains a moving, comprehensive account of Gandhi's life and India’s struggle for…

Tirumalai Nayak Palace

What Madurai's Meenakshi Amman Temple is to Nayak religious architecture, Tirumalai Nayak's crumbling palace is to the secular. It’s said to be only a…

Pudhu Mandapa

This 16th-century pillared hall stands outside the Meenakshi Amman Temple, opposite the eastern gopuram. It's crammed with colourful textile and crafts…

Temple Art Museum

Inside the eastern gopuram of the Meenakshi Amman Temple, you'll find the Nayak-period Thousand Pillared Hall (with 985 columns) on your right. Now the…

Mariamman Teppakkulam Tank

This vast tank, 3km east of the old city, covers an area as big as the Meenakshi Amman Temple and is the site of the incredible annual Teppam (Float)…

St Mary's Cathedral

This 20th-century neo-Gothic construction's simple stained-glass windows and bold-orange vaulting are offset by a magnificent blue-and-white exterior with…

Madurai Government Museum

Attached to the very interesting Gandhi Memorial Museum, this is a sadly neglected collection of archaeological finds, sculpture, bronzes, costumes and…

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

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

17 Best Places To Visit In Madurai

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

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

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

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

Meenakshi Amman Temple –  2 Day Madurai Itinerary

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

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

Koodal Azhagar Temple – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

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

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

Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

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

Gandhi Museum – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

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

Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

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

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

2 Day Madurai Itinerary – Day 2

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

Azhagar Kovil | Alagar Koyil – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

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

Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

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

Kazimar Big Mosque – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

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

Yanaimalai – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

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

St. Mary’s Cathedral – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

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

Pazhamudhircholai Murugan Temple – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

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

Samanar Hills – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

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

Kutladampatti Falls – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

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

ISKCON Temple – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

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

Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal Temple – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

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

Goripalayam Dargah | Goripalayam Mosque – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

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

Vaigai Dam – 2 Day Madurai Itinerary

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

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

How To Reach Madurai

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

Reaching Madurai By Air

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

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

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

Reaching Madurai By Road

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

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

Where To Stay In Madurai

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

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

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

2 Day Madurai Itinerary – FAQ

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

23 Mar 2023

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

20 Best Places To Visit In Madurai

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

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

1. Meenakshi Amman Temple: Colorfully Aesthetic

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

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

Must Read: 34 Places To Visit In Kodaikanal That’ll Make You Fall For The Western Ghats

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2. Koodal Azhagar Temple: Admire The Beauty

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

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

Suggested Read: 57 Best Places To Visit In Kerala For A Vacation To Remember

3. Thirupparamkunram Murugan Temple: Pay A Visit

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

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

Suggested Read: 14 Itineraries Including Best Honeymoon Places In And Around Karnataka

4. Alagar Kovil: Intricate Carvings

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

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

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5. Pudhu Mandapam: For Temple-Hopping

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

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

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6. Gandhi Memorial Museum: Dig Deep In The History

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

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

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

Suggested Read: 8 Top Resorts In Madurai That Will Make You Wish To Stay Longer In This Temple City!

7. Kazimar Big Mosque: Bow & Seek Blessings

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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9. Yanaimalai: Hill Like Elephant

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

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

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

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

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

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

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11. Vaigai Dam: Admire The Man-Made Marvel

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

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

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12. Samanar Hills: For An Ideal Sunset View

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

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

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13. Athisayam: Fun Place To Enjoy

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

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

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14. Mariamman Teppakulam: Pay A Visit With Fam

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

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

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15. ISKCON Madurai: Seek Blessings

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. Meghamalai: The High Wavy Mountains

Image Credits: Shivmirthyu for Needpix

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

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

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

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18. Banana Market: An Offbeat Splurge 

Image Credits: DomJ for Pexels

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

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

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

19. Murugan Idli Shop: Scrumptious Delicacies

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

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

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

20. Vilachery Pottery Village: A Walk Through Artistic Lanes

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Question About Places To Visit In Madurai

What is the famous food in Madurai?

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

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

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

Is it safe to visit Madurai during Covid times?

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

Which are the places to see in Madurai?

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

What is Madurai famous for?

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

What is famous in Madurai for shopping?

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

Is there any beach in Madurai?

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

Is photography allowed in Madurai Meenakshi Temple?

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

Is there any dress code in Madurai Meenakshi Temple?

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

Is mobile phone allowed in Madurai Meenakshi Temple?

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

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Ancient Madurai

Antique for Home Decor at affordable price in India

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

May 14, 2022

An updated list of 2022

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

A First-Timer’s Guide to Visit Madurai 

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

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

Tourist Attractions In Madurai : Places To Go

1. MADURAI MEENAKSHI AMMAN TEMPLE 

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

2. POTTERY VILLAGE OF VILLACHERRY

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

3. ANCIENT MADURAI STUDIO

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

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

4. CHITHIRAI FESTIVAL

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

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

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

5. VAIGAI RIVER

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

6. VANDIYUR MARIAMMAN TEPPAKULAM

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

7. SAMANAR HILLS

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

8. TRIMURTHI CAVE

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

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

9. THIRUMALAI NAYAKKAR MAHAL

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

Tourist Attractions In Madurai : Things To Buy

1. THALAMPOO KUMKUM

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

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

2. THE MAGNIFICENCE OF MADURAI SUNGUDI SAREES 

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

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

3. MADURAI MALLIGAI

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

Tourist Attractions In Madurai: All You Can Eat

1. JIGARTHANDA 

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

2. MADURAI IDLI

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

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

3. KEERAI VADA

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

4. PARUTHI PAAL

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the ideal time to visit madurai.

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

How do I get to Madurai?

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

What Are The Nightlife Activities in Madurai?

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

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Madurai District

A place worth a thousand visits, referred to as the ‘athens of the east’ due to the lofty towers of meenakshi sundareswarar temple just like the greek pantheon, the city finds reference in many literary works of arabs, romans and greek travellers like megasthenes..

Situated on the banks of river Vaigai, Madurai district is primarily famous for Sri Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Temple. Melur, Vadipatti, Thirumangalam, Thirupparankundram, Peraiyur and Usilampatti are some of the main towns in the district which is a hub for film shootings. Alanganallur, Palamedu and Avaniyapuram in the district are popular for Jallikattu.  Madurai is Tamil Nadu’s culturally active and vibrant district. Its cultural heritage extends to more than 2,500 years from the great Tamil era. The district was an important cultural and commercial centre even as early as 550 AD. The capital city for the great Pandya kings was Madurai.  Witnessing hot and humid weather throughout the year, Madurai is considered as the hottest district and city of Tamil Nadu. The South West Monsoon is in the district from June to September and is followed by the North-East Monsoon from October to December.   Alagar Temple, Pazhamuthircholai, Gandhi Memorial Museum, Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal, Theppakulam, Vandiyur, Thiruvathavur Thirumarainathar Temple, Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal Temple, Thirupparamkunram Murugan temple, 1000 Thoon Mandapam, Eco Park, Kuruvithurai Vallaba Perumal Temple, Vaigai Dam, Anaipatti Anjaneyar Temple, Kodaikanal, Suruli falls, Kutladampatti falls and Kazimar Big Mosque are some of the tourist places in the district.

• How to Reach
• Best Time to Visit

National Highway 45 and 45B connects Madurai to Chennai. Madurai can be reached from Bengaluru via NH 49. Madurai has three bus terminals - M.G.R. Bus Stand (Mattuthavani), Arappalayam (for inter city buses) and Periyar Bus Stand (for intra city buses).

Madurai Domestic Airport, Avaniyapuram. The airport has direct connectivity with international destinations like Colombo, Dubai and Singapore. It is also well connected with popular domestic destinations like Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai and New Delhi.

Madurai Junction is the major railway station serving the city.

Madurai has a hot tropical climate. It is a destination that can be visited any time of the year. However, for the best experience, visit the destination during December to February.

Destinations

An ancient city that takes you back in time; where you will stand wondering about the evolution of culture, traditions and civilization. Walk further and you will be amazed by how such a historic city has a bustling urban face too.

Kutladampatti Falls, Madurai

Explore the unspoiled beauty of nature at Kutladampatti waterfalls. The picturesque beauty of this place has made this one of the most loved tourist spots.

Gandhi Memorial Museum

A must visit place in Madurai, Gandhi Memorial museum is housed in the splendid old palace of Rani Mangammal. The museum is a window to the glorious episodes of freedom struggles, glimpses from the Gandhian movement and a rich collection of relics.

Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal Temple, Madurai

Welcome to the enchanting world of Thirumohoor Kalamegaperumal Temple, a magnificent abode of divinity steeped in rich history and revered by devotees from far and wide. A hallowed haven of spirituality and grandeur, this temple is an architectural marvel, where the beauty of its intricate carvings and spectacular sculptures combine to create a sublime tapestry of art and devotion.

Koodal Azhagar Temple

Located in Madurai city, Koodal Azhagar temple is known for its brilliant architecture and design, making it a popular destination for pilgrim tourism as well as for those with a taste for fine architecture.

Alagar Kovil

Situated on a hill in a panoramic backdrop, Azhagar Kovil temple is a popular destination in Madurai. It is one of the 108 abodes of Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped in the name of Kallazhagar.

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.

Aayiram Kaal Mandapam

The mystical city of Madurai is where ancient histories and cultural richness interweave to create a tapestry of splendour. There, in the midst of this enchanting land, lies a hall of unparalleled grandeur and beauty—the Aayiram Kaal Mandapam. This hall, renowned as the "1000-pillar hall," is a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Tamil civilization. Nestled within the venerated grounds of the Meenakshi Amman Temple, this hall has been a source of awe and inspiration for generations.

Samanar Hills

History, culture, and nature come together at Samanar hills, a rocky stretch of hillocks, known for its many Jain and Hindu monuments dotted across its landscape. Locally known as Thiruvuruvagam, Samanar malai or Melmalai, the Samanar hills is located near Keelakuyilkudi village in the Madurai district.

Pazhamudhir Solai

Nestled atop a hill and surrounded by dense forest, Pazhamudhircholai attracts devouts in good numbers. It is one among the six abodes of Lord Muruga; Thiruparankundram Subramanya Swamy Temple, Palani Dandayudhapani Swami Temple, Swamimalai Swaminatha Swami Temple, Tiruchendur Senthil Andavar Temple and Tiruttani Subramanya Swamy Temple being the other abodes.

Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal

Among the numerous historic structures in Madurai, the beautiful Nayakar Mahal is unparalleled in its architectural splendor.

St. Mary’s Cathedral

If you are in Madurai, you can’t miss out on visiting the famous St. Mary's cathedral. With its stupendous bell towers and marvelous architecture, the cathedral is a popular destination in Madurai.

Tirupparankundram

Carved out of the mountain, Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple is an absolute architectural marvel. The temple is one of the famous shrines in Madurai.

Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam

This magnificent temple pond complex with a manmade island is something you can't afford to miss when you are in Madurai. Associated with Vandiyur Mariamman temple, the place is just 2 kms away from the Meenakshi Sundareswara temple.

Kazimar Periya Pallivasal

Kazimar Periya Pallivasal or Kazimar big mosque is a sprawling structure located in the heart of Madurai.

Jain Circuit, Ariattapatti

Arittapatti, a quaint village nestled in the verdant landscapes of Tamil Nadu, beckons you with its treasure trove of ancient Jain monuments and scenic vistas. Steeped in history and culture, Arittapatti offers a mystical and captivating experience that transports visitors to a bygone era.

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

Magical Madurai

Bustling and yet soulful, ancient and yet modern, cultured and progressive, Madurai epitomises the best of Tamil Nadu. Part 12 of an Outlook special on tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu.

5 Reasons To Travel To India’s Tamil Nadu

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• Meenakshi Amman Temple
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Travel to Madurai, India: What to See & Do in This Ancient City

If you are looking for things to do in Madurai and the best places to visit , continue reading.

After my trip around Kerala , I traveled to Madurai. I have to admit, I had never heard of Madurai before, but I am very glad I went!

Why should you travel to Madurai?

Madurai is an energetic, ancient city in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The city’s skyline is dominated by the 14 impressive and colorful gateway towers of the Meenakshi Amman Temple, which is a major pilgrimage site, attracting visitors from all over India and beyond.

If you love visiting cities with a rich history, vibrant culture, delicious food, and welcoming people, Madurai deserves to be on your list.

Things to Do in Madurai

Madurai, because of its rich history, has been nicknamed Athens of the East .

You could spend days, if not weeks roaming the streets, talking to the locals, and admiring the incredible buildings.

But, you probably won’t have weeks to explore Madurai. That’s why in this article I will share with you the main things to do in Madurai and the highlights of this city, so that you know exactly what the best tourist places in Madurai are and what else makes Madurai worth visiting.

10 Places to Visit in Madurai

1. meenakshi amman temple.

For most people, this temple is the main reason to travel to Madurai .

Now let’s start with the name of this temple because that is where it gets confusing. If you are doing some research about tourist places in Madurai, you might find a wide variety of names for the temple: Sri Meenakshi Amman Temple, Meenakshi Temple, Sri Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, Meenakshi-Sundareshwara Temple or Meenakshi Madurai Temple. They are all talking about the exact same temple.

This historic Hindu temple in the center of Madurai is one of the oldest and largest temples in India .

The enormous temple complex extends over an area of 65,000m² (700,000 square feet) and was first constructed 2000 years ago. Most of the present structure, however, was rebuilt after the 14th century, and further repaired, renovated and expanded in the 17th century.

The temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswara, who is an incarnation of Lord Shiva.

As a non-Hindu I find Hinduism a complex religion with all the different gods and different forms or incarnations of gods. I would therefore highly recommend getting a guide when visiting the temple . Plenty of guides will offer their services inside or around the temple and that will really teach you a lot about the temple, its history, and Hinduism.

The temple is open from 5:00 am – 12:30 pm and from 4 pm – 10:00 pm.

It attracts over 15,000 visitors per day, so expect it to be crowded and allocate enough time because the temple really is massive!

Entering Madurai’s Famous Temple

Both the dress code and rules regarding what you can take into the temple are very strict (this was different in the past).

As a woman, wearing a dress or skirt that just covers the knees is not enough . Make sure it covers your entire legs and wear something that covers your shoulders. With men they seem more lenient but please dress conservatively.

You are not allowed to take pictures inside the temple and you are also not allowed to take your phone or any type of electronics inside the temple. That includes power banks, charging cables, thumb drives… ANYTHING!

Two of my friends were also stopped for carrying soft drinks, cigarettes, and a lighter.

So my advice, since you can securely store your belongings at the entrance, store everything there. The last thing you want is to stand in line for half an hour to then be sent back by security because they found something in your purse or pocket that they didn’t like. You will also have to leave your shoes at this same place.

There are certain parts of the temple that can only be accessed by Hindus. These parts are clearly marked, in English.

2. Gandhi Memorial Museum

There are actually several Gandhi museums in India and this might not be the most famous one, but it definitely is one of the main places to visit in Madurai.

Among the exhibits at the museum you can find the blood-stained garment worn by Gandhi when he was assassinated by Nathuram Godse and a letter he wrote to Adolf Hitler addressing him as ‘Dear Friend’.

It’s an interesting museum if you want to learn more about who Mahatma Gandhi was and what he did during his life.

The building that houses the Gandhi Memorial Museum is a historic palace built around 1670 , belonging to Rani Mangammal of the Nayak Dynasty.

3. Thirumalai Nayak Temple Palace

This beautiful palace was built in 1636 by King Thirumalai Nayak, who ruled Madurai from 1623–1659.

It is famous for the stuccowork on its domes and impressive arches . Unfortunately only part of the palace remains, but it’s worth a visit and I wish I would have had time to see their daily light show.

There is a daily sound and light show in English and in Tamil. The one in English starts at 6:45 pm. 

4. Elu Kadal Street

Elu Kadal Street is an ancient street in the center of Madurai.

Elu Kadal means “Affluence of Seven Seas” and the street comes with an interesting legend.

Legend has it that Kanchanamala, the mother of Goddess Meenakshi wished to take a sacred bath in seven seas. When Lord Siva heard about this he miraculously brought water from seven seas to Madurai and formed a tank in this street to house the water, to help his mother-in-law take her bath.

Today there is still a Siva temple, on the western side of the tank, believed to have been worshipped by Kanchanamala and her husband Malayathuvasan.

On my trip to Madurai I took a walking tour of the city with Storytrails who told me this and many other interesting stories about Madurai.

Because Madurai’s history is so rich and complex, I can highly recommend a guided tour!

5. Temple Cars

There are two big and impressively decorated wooden temple cars at the center of the East Masi Street. The cars are mainly used in processions to carry images of gods and goddesses.

They are incredible works of art and if you go on a guided tour you will learn a lot about the history and the usage of the cars, plus the different gods and celebrations.

But even if you don’t, check out these cars just to see how big they are and imagine them being dragged around the city in a procession… Very impressive!

6. Ten Pillar Lane

These are ten pillars in a lane (hence the name), on the northern side of the Thirumalai Nayak Palace.

The pillars were part of the palace. They are believed to be part of the courtyard of a section of the palace created as the king’s younger brother’s residence.

It’s a small sight but worth a visit because of its historic value. 

7. Mariamman Teppakulam

This is a famous temple tank located about 4 km east of the Meenakshi Amman Temple.

Literally, Teppakulam means ‘temple pond’. It is mainly used for devotional festivals and is famous for the colorful Float Festival held here around January/February.

When I visited there was no water in the tank but most of the year there is. Again, if you want to learn more about the history of all of these sights in Madurai exploring the city with a guide is highly recommended.

8. Goripalayam Dargah

Although Madurai is predominantly a Hindu city, there is also a notable Muslim and Christian influence .

The Goripalayam Dargah or Goripalayam Mosque is the largest mosque in Madurai. It contains two graves (tombs) of Sultans of Yemen and the invisible grave of Khaja Syed Sultan Habibuddin Razi, also known as Ghaibi Sulthan, who came to India to spread Islam.

It is said that the mosque was built by Thirumalai Nayak for his Muslim subjects.

9. St. Mary’s Cathedral

This church was originally built in 1841 as a small chapel for about 30 Christian families in the area.

It received the status of cathedral in 1969 and is now the seat of the Madurai Roman Catholic Archdiocese.

10. Jain Caves

Another religion you will find in Madurai, if you look closely, is Jainism .

Jainism is an ancient Indian religion that teaches that the way to liberation and bliss is to live a life of harmlessness and renunciation. There is still a small minority in Madurai that practices Jainism.

If you want to know more about Jainism I suggest planning a guided tour to one of the Jain caves around Madurai.

Most caves are located on the periphery of the city and involve a short hike up a rocky hill, giving you a good view of Madurai.

I visited the Jain Cave listed on Google maps as ‘Jain Sculptures’, north-east of the city. Another popular location is Keelakuilkudi, at the foot of the hill Samanamalai.

Shopping in Madurai

You’ll find a wide range of shops throughout Madurai and if you are looking for souvenirs, clothes, jewelry, etc. you will enjoy shopping in Madurai.

But apart from all the shops you see when you are exploring the city, I want to highlight a few specific places worth visiting during your trip to Madurai.

1. Flower & Vegetable Markets

Madurai is known for the trade of flowers and vegetables and is often called the city of markets.

So a visit to a market, and especially the large Mattuthavani flower market (also referred to simply as the ‘Madurai Flower Market’), is a must.

It’s a great look into local life in Madurai.

2. Shopping Malls in Madurai

Madurai has two main shopping malls: Vishaal De Mal and Milan’em Mall.

Both malls offer a wide range of modern shops, similar to malls around the world but with many regional and national brands. 

What to Buy in Madurai

Madurai is a hub for textiles and jewelry, making those the two obvious choices for what to buy in Madurai.

If you are looking for something unique, then get yourself a Sungudi Sari. Madurai Sungudi is a cotton fabric of Madurai, which is an exclusive textile product traditionally produced using tie dye method by people from the Saurashtra region who migrated to Madurai in the 16th century.

But, you will also find plenty of “classic souvenirs”, from keychains to T-shirts, with plenty of options that are locally made.

Brassware is another popular thing to buy in Madurai.

And, with Madurai being nicknamed ‘the jasmine capital of India’, buying jasmine ( malli ) is also a favorite of many visitors.

A Food Tour in Madurai

One of the things I love when traveling is trying all the local food.

Foodies Day Out offers a great food tour in Madurai, taking you to some hidden gems to taste Madurai’s delicious food.

But, whether you join their tour or not, definitely try some idli (Madurai’s comfort food), a dosa (one of my favorite things to eat in India) and a Tamil style thali served on a banana leaf.

I was surprised to see that the food in Madurai is quite different from the food in neighboring Kerala . That’s definitely one thing I love about India: it’s such a big and diverse country that every part you travel to offers a different experience! 

Also Read: Street Food Recipes From Around the World

Travel to Madurai

I want to thank Madurai Travel Club for inviting me to visit Madurai. I had a great time getting to know this city and its people.

Tip: Madurai has a big annual celebration, the Chithirai Festival , in April. If you plan to travel to Madurai around that time, don’t miss this festival!

Or get a taste of the folk arts of the region by joining a live performance at Kadambavanam’s Culture Center, just outside of Madurai.

Traveling in India? Also Read:

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• Best Places to Visit & Things to Do in Kerala
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Map of Places to Visit in Madurai

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Disclaimer: although my trip to Madurai was sponsored by Madurai Travel Club, as always all opinions are my own. This blog about things to do in Madurai contains an affiliate link. I may receive a commission for purchases made through this link, at no additional cost to you. 

2 thoughts on “Travel to Madurai, India: What to See & Do in This Ancient City”

Loved your blog on Madurai. Thanks for sharing your wonderful experiences. I recently visited Madurai and found it an interesting place with many delights.

You have given very good information about Madurai, from food of Madurai to temple worship and souvenirs have also been told about Keelakuilkudi, popular place of Madurai. Thanks for sharing this beautiful blog.

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Places to Visit in Madurai

Introduction

Madurai, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, has a legacy dating back over 2,500 years. This ancient city has witnessed the rise and fall of various dynasties and empires, leaving behind a treasure trove of architectural wonders and cultural heritage.

History and Culture of Madurai

Madurai has a fascinating history that intertwines with myth and legend. It was the capital of the Pandyan Kingdom, a powerful dynasty that ruled Southern India for centuries. The city flourished under their patronage, becoming a center for art, literature, and trade.

Meenakshi Amman Temple

No visit to Madurai is complete without exploring the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi (Parvati) and her consort Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva), this temple is a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. The intricate carvings, towering gopurams (gateway towers), and sacred tanks make it a sight to behold.

Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal, a splendid palace built in the 17th century, showcases the architectural brilliance of the Nayak dynasty. The palace complex features a stunning courtyard, grand halls, and an impressive throne chamber. The sound and light show held in the evenings narrates the palace's history, adding to the immersive experience.

Gandhi Memorial Museum

Located in the heart of Madurai, the Gandhi Memorial Museum is a tribute to the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi. The museum houses a vast collection of photographs, artifacts, and documents that depict the life and teachings of Gandhiji. It serves as a reminder of India's struggle for independence and the principles of non-violence.

Koodal Azhagar Temple

Koodal Azhagar Temple is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple's intricate sculptures and exquisite architecture exemplify the skill of ancient artisans. It is a spiritual haven where devotees seek solace and witness the rituals and traditions of Vaishnavism.

Alagar Koyil

Nestled amidst the picturesque hills of Alagar, Alagar Koyil is a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his form as Alagar (Kallazhagar). The temple's serene surroundings and the annual Chithirai festival attract thousands of devotees and tourists. The processional deity is carried to Madurai during the festival, symbolizing the divine union of Meenakshi and Alagar.

Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam

Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam is a magnificent temple tank spread over an extensive area. The tank is a spectacle during the Float Festival, where the deities are placed on a colorful float and taken around the tank. The vibrant festivities and the sheer grandeur of the tank leave visitors in awe.

Samanar Hills

For those interested in ancient history and Jainism, Samanar Hills is a must-visit site. These hills are home to ancient rock-cut cave temples and sculptures dating back to the 1st century BC. The intricate carvings and inscriptions provide insights into the lives of Jain monks who resided there.

Pazhamudir Solai

Pazhamudir Solai is a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, the son of Lord Shiva. Surrounded by lush greenery and located on a hill, the temple offers breathtaking views of the city. The annual Skanda Sashti festival attracts devotees from far and wide, adding a festive charm to the atmosphere.

Athisayam Water Theme Park

Athisayam Water Theme Park is a popular destination for families and thrill-seekers. The park boasts a variety of water slides, wave pools, and thrilling rides, providing an adrenaline-pumping experience for visitors of all ages. It is a perfect place to beat the heat and have a fun-filled day with family and friends.

Thirupparankundram Murugan Temple

Thirupparankundram Murugan Temple is a significant pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Murugan. The temple is carved into a rock hill and showcases a fusion of architectural styles. The deity is believed to have married Goddess Deivanai in this sacred spot, making it a place of immense religious importance.

Vaigai Dam, situated on the Vaigai River, is a major water reservoir that provides irrigation and drinking water to Madurai and its surrounding areas. The dam's scenic beauty, especially during the monsoon season, attracts nature enthusiasts and offers a serene ambiance for a leisurely stroll.

Kazimar Big Mosque and Maqbara

Kazimar Big Mosque and Maqbara is an ancient mosque with a rich history and cultural significance. It is believed to have been built by Hazrat Kazi Syed Tajuddin, a descendant of Prophet Muhammad. The architecture showcases a blend of Islamic and Dravidian styles, reflecting the harmonious coexistence of different cultures in Madurai.

Madurai, with its ancient temples, palaces, and cultural heritage, offers a captivating glimpse into India's glorious past. Each of these tourist attractions in Madurai has its unique charm and significance, contributing to the city's allure. Exploring these sites will not only enrich your knowledge but also leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

1. How do I reach Madurai?

To reach Madurai, you can take a flight to Madurai International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. The city also has a railway station with regular trains plying from various parts of the country. Additionally, Madurai is well-connected by road, and buses are available from neighboring cities.

2. What is the best time to visit Madurai?

The winter season (October to March) is considered the best time to visit Madurai, as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. However, do keep in mind that the temple festivals, such as Meenakshi Temple's Meenakshi Tirukalyanam, attract a large number of visitors, so plan accordingly.

3. Are there any accommodations available near these tourist places?

Yes, Madurai offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget. From luxury hotels to budget guesthouses, you can find options near popular tourist places, ensuring a comfortable stay during your visit.

4. Can I explore all these places in a single day?

It is recommended to spend at least two to three days in Madurai to explore these tourist places comfortably. Some sites may require more time, especially if you wish to delve deeper into their history and soak in the spiritual ambiance.

5. Is photography allowed inside the temples?

Photography regulations may vary from one temple to another. While photography is generally allowed in most places, it is advisable to respect the religious sentiments and follow the rules and guidelines set by the authorities.

Trip plan idea!

• Start your day by visiting the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple. Explore the temple complex, admire the intricate carvings, and witness the rituals.
• Afterward, head to Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal and marvel at its architectural splendor. Don't miss the sound and light show in the evening for a captivating experience.
• Begin your day by visiting the Gandhi Memorial Museum and learn about Mahatma Gandhi's life and teachings.
• Next, head to Koodal Azhagar Temple and soak in the spiritual ambiance while witnessing the rituals and admiring the beautiful sculptures.
• Start the day by visiting Alagar Koyil and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills. If possible, plan your visit during the Chithirai festival to witness the grand procession.
• Next, explore Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam and be amazed by its vastness. If you're lucky, you might catch the Float Festival.
• Venture to the historic Samanar Hills and explore the ancient Jain cave temples and sculptures.
• Afterward, visit Pazhamudir Solai, located on a hill, and enjoy panoramic views of the city while immersing yourself in the serene ambiance of the temple.
• Spend the day at Athisayam Water Theme Park, enjoying thrilling water slides and rides with your family and friends.
• Start the day by visiting Thirupparankundram Murugan Temple, carved into a rock hill. Experience the divine atmosphere and witness the rituals.
• Next, head to Vaigai Dam and enjoy a leisurely stroll while admiring the scenic beauty of the dam and the surrounding landscape.
• Conclude your trip by visiting Kazimar Big Mosque and Maqbara. Take in the architectural fusion of Islamic and Dravidian styles and appreciate the historical significance of the mosque.

Remember to plan your visit according to the temple timings and check for any festival schedules. Madurai is a city rich in history and spirituality, and this itinerary will ensure you have a memorable and fulfilling trip exploring its top tourist places.

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

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

1. Meenakshi Amman Temple

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

2. Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

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

3. Gandhi Memorial Museum

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

4. Koodal Azhagar Temple

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

5. Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam

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

6. Pazhamudircholai Murugan Temple

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

7. Madurai Kamaraj University

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

8. Samanar Hills

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

9. Athisayam Theme Park

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

10. Alagar Kovil

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

Q & A Section:

What is the famous of Madurai?

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

Why is Madurai called the sleepless city?

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

What food is Madurai famous for?

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

What is famous things to buy in Madurai?

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

How many days are enough for Madurai?

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

Is there any beach in Madurai?

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

What language is spoken in Madurai?

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

What is the nickname of Madurai?

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

What is unique in Madurai?

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

Which saree is famous in Madurai?

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

Why is Madurai holy?

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

Which sweet is famous in Madurai?

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

Which cool drink is famous in Madurai?

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

What is the best time to visit Madurai?

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

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