Things to Do in Madurai
Although when you think of Tamil Nadu, its capital might strike you as a place of major attraction. There’s no wonder that Chennai in itself is a versatile city with loads of ethnic practices to check out, nevertheless, India’s one of the oldest cities, Madurai, has attracted a lot of tourists for its rich history which started long before the existence of Chennai. Considering the best things to do in Madurai, the place thrives with the resonation of being one of the prevalent cities that traded with Rome, which is subtly reflected by its people’s lifestyle and culture.
The Meenakshi Amman Temple is renowned throughout the world and tourists both native and foreign to India craze over this majestic maze-like structure since its inception. Madurai is one of those prominent Indian spots that vehemently dictates a sharp disjunction between being a cultural hub of religious enthusiasts and historical fanatics and having an economy that is driven by IT. Its charmingly bustling crowd and hustling streets are crowned with the fact that this city is effortlessly managed by a well-rounded system that tourists absolutely adore.
Being an exclusive attraction for its temples built by the Pandyan kingdom and Madurai Nayak kings in the Dravidian style of architecture, it carries a sharply distinctive form of architecture that is unique to India and an inspiration for the world.
Madurai could be accessed by air, train, and road since it is a major hub of tourists throughout the year. Due to the limitation of its size, the city does not entertain any metro or local train facilities for touring within; however, one can always find bus, auto-rickshaw and hired cars for touring.
The best things to do in Madurai mainly include temple and monumental sightseeing, which is found extremely tasteful by those who are stoked with architectural senses. The rich history of Madurai gives this city a weight like no other place in the whole of India.
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
Meghamalai has beautiful and rugged nature trails that take one deep into the forests at the local wildlife sanctuary that house hundreds of species of exotic birds like spotted doves, blue robins, and the Great Indian hornbill. Some parts of the forests also provide habitat to leopards, Indian gaurs, elephants, and tigers. Don’t miss to see the beautiful Suruli and Meghamalai waterfalls and visit dams like Manalar, Thekkady, Vanniar, etc. that are stunningly lush enclaves of nature. There are ancient temples like the hilltop Murugan and Mangala Devi Temples that are not only visited by thousands to pray but are also great viewpoints for people to soak in panoramic views of the place.
Erected in the year 1635, the palace was a magnificent vision by the king for his royal stay. If you’re a history lover and appreciate the marvels of architecture then this is the place to be. The light and sound show here, every evening, makes the visit even more memorable.
Visiting time of the palace: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Time spent in the palace: About 2 hours to explore all the accessible areas
Entry fee: Rs 5 for children
Best time to visit: Mid-afternoon to explore all the accessible areas of the palace and catch the light and sound show.
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
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
There is an interesting inscription here that details how the dargah came into being during the ancient Pandiyan regime when Madurai was mostly under Islamic rule and influence. The dargah, in shades of pristine white, is easy to spot amidst the surrounding winding alleys due to its tall minarets and its huge dome. It has a beautiful Islamic-Dravidian architecture that includes ornate arches, stone pillars, and cool marble floors. It even houses a shelter where people of all faiths stay for days and months to seek divine blessings amidst the serene ambience of Quran recitals and the holy azaan.
Timings: Every day from 7:00 am - 7:00 pm.
The carvings on the walls give an account of the way of living and the rules that monks followed. There is also a beautiful lotus temple situated on the premise.
Visiting time of the hills: Sunrise to sunset
Time spent in the temple: Around 2 hours
Best time to visit: Early morning, to beat the sun during the hike to the top
Things to remember: The trek to reach the top of the hill can take up to 2 hours
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
Built as a memorial, the museum showcases a plethora of artefacts related to Gandhi, from letters to photos and sculptures and historical documents, that reflect the instrumental role he played during the freedom movement of India. But what attracts most of the visitors is the blood-stained cloth that was worn by him when he was assassinated.
Museum visiting time: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm
Time spent in museum: 1- 2 hours
Entry fee: There is no entry fee however, a Rs.50 fee is levied for the use of cameras
Best month to visit: October to January, as these are the months of birth and month of death of Gandhi; hence, special events are held during these months
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
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Resounding Krishna hymns, curling clouds and fragrance of burning incense, and tinkling bells offer the perfect atmosphere for meditation here. The stark-white marble idols of Lord Krishna and Radha are adorned with beautiful ‘vastrams’ and jewellery. Don’t miss to attend the evening aartis, devotional lectures, and kirtans not only to gain more spiritual knowledge but to also lose yourself in an ambience that reverberates with hypnotic chants and divine rhythms. There is a small eatery inside the complex that serves simple but delicious vegetarian food.
Timings: Every day from 4:45 am-12: 30 pm and 5:00 pm-8: 15 pm.
Location: Mani Nagaram Main Road, Madurai, Tamil Nadu.
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)
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
It is located 20 km away from the city of Madurai and sits quietly atop a hill and is close to the Vishnu temple of Azhagar Kovil.
Visiting time of the temple: 5:30 am to 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Time spent in the temple: 1 - 2 hours
Entry fee: There is no entry fee
Best time to visit: Early morning, for good darshan and to avoid queues for the spring water
Best months to visit: March, to witness Panguni Uthiram being celebrated with full grandeur
Things to remember: As it is a place of worship, visitors should dress respectfully and conservatively
Visiting time of the church: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm
Time spent in the temple: Visitors spend around half an hour while devotees can spend over an hour
Best time to visit: Between 7:30 am to 6:00 pm
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
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
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
What makes this temple special is its rock-cut architecture which, in popular belief, was built by the Pandyas. People believe that it is auspicious to get married in the Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple for a happy and successful married life.
Temple visiting time: 5:00 am to 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Time spent in temple: 1 - 2 hours
Best months to visit: Mid March to April, during the 14-day long festival
Distance: The temple is situated 8 km away from Madurai are the month of birth and month of death, respectively, of Gandhi
The temple hosts the popular festivals of Avani Moolam, Theppam, Navarathri, etc. that bring thousands of people from all over Southern India. The temple complex houses a traditional market that's been functioning since the 1920s, where you can pick up beautiful local textiles, holy books, jewellery, and sandalwood products.
Timings: Every day from 9:00 am- 8:30 pm.
Location: E Chitrai Street, Chinnakadai Area, Madurai.
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Madurai Things To Do FAQs
What are some of the must do things in Madurai?
Madurai is the third largest city in Tamil Nadu and reflects the cultural and historical might of the city with its temples and architectural stands. While most of the people come here due to the attraction of the Meenakshi Temple, however, the best things to do in Madurai do not end with this one spot. There are other places and activities to highlight that are a must if you are visiting:
- Visit Nagamalai, Yaanaimalai and Samanarmalai mountains surrounding the city
- Attend a temple concert
- Visit the legendary Gandhi Museum
- Shop for cotton fabrics, batiks, and handmade crafts
- Experience Madurai’s bullion bazaar
- Try the Murugan idli shop
- Experience the Teppam (float) Festival
Which places are good for food trail in Madurai?
Several vendors in Madurai offer mind boggling tours throughout the city to experience the local Madurai cuisine that would be impossible if you are a stranger here. Most of the trails here start after dusk when all the local food stalls spring up their recipes for the people to try. As one of the best things to do in Madurai, the best places where you can try the local cuisine of this city are:
- Prema Vilas Lala Sweet Shop
- Murugan Idli Shop
- Amma Mess at Thallakulam
- East Marrat Street
- Visaalam Coffee in Goripalayam
- GobuIyengar near Meenakshi Temple
Is it worth going for Cycle Rickshaw tour of Madurai?
There is no literal another way to experience the raw intimacy with Madurai except through the cycle-rickshaw tour. Unravel the historical mysteries and local’s culture with this magical South Indian journey through the streets of Madurai. The marketplaces, exquisite architecture and the temples are what make this city what it is, and the cycle-rickshaw tours include some of the best things to do in Madurai.
It usually takes 2-3 hours per tour when you shall taste the local bites and meet the native people in the charming narrow alleys and the bustling streets. It is definitely worth a try as the city is hard not to love.
Is it worth visiting Potters’ village in Madurai? What is special about it?
If you have developed a keen interest in the artistry of human hands and minds, then Potters’ Village in Madurai is a necessary visit. This tour normally consists of walking or driving around the village to see the villagers bring outstanding creations out of mud to life and hear their stories about priests, Gods, and Goddesses.
Navratri Golu dolls and paper mache dolls are the two signature creations of this village; no wonder a visit here is considered as one of the best things to do in Madurai. You could even participate in trying your hand at the pottery and the doll making while you listen to their unique mythical stories.
Which are some famous temples to visit in Madurai?
Madurai is the most loved city in India, which is revered for its brilliance of architecture made by artisans. The city is a hub of temples, a religious cluster of people and is known by the name, ‘the city that never sleeps’. Madurai is busy during any time of the day or night, and you are usually sure to find food and entertainment if you stroll. Temple hopping is one of the best things to do in Madurai; check out the following:
- Meenakshi Amman Temple
- Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple
- Koodal Azhagar Temple
- Pazhamudhir Solai
- AlagarKoil
- Mariamman Teppakulam
- Kallazhagar Temple
Which are some famous places to shop in Madurai?
The shopping experience in Madurai is not a piece of cake and if crowds do not bother you, then the shopping options are literally limitless. As the city is renowned for its textile industry, the cotton fabrics and batiks dominate the clothing industry while handmade crafts are a major gifting attraction. Shopping is unique and one of the best things to do in Madurai, so check out the following places to shop when in Madurai:
- Vishaal de Mal
- PuthuMandapam
- Hajeemoosa Textiles
- Cottage Industries Emporiums
- Government emporiums
