Things to do in Madurai

Meenakshi Amman Temple

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  Also known as Meenakshi Sundareshwara Temple, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva in their incarnations as Meenakshi and Sundareshwar, respectively.

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  Dating back to the 6th century, this temple complex is famous for its Hall of Thousand Pillars, the sacred Golden Lotus Pond, and the brilliant artwork throughout the complex.

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  After the last puja every day, Lord Sundareshwar is taken on a ceremonial procession with traditional music to the shrine of Goddess Meenakshi for the night.

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  Temple Timings: Morning – 5:00 am to 12:30 pm | Evening – 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm

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  Aarti Timings: Morning - 5:30 am to 5:45 am | 6:30 am to 7:15 am | 10:30 am to 11:20 am | Evening – 4:30 pm to 5:15 pm | 7:30 pm to 8:15 pm | 9:30 pm to 10:00 pm

Best Areas to Stay in Madurai

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  Meenakshi Amman Temple: The centre of all action, this neighbourhood is where you will find the best of all experiences and numerous accommodation options.

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  Madurai Railway Station: As the main transit hub, this locality is well-connected to all parts of the city & has multiple stay options for all budgets.

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  Mattuthavani Bus Terminus: Home to the city’s main bus station, this area offers a quick getaway to visitors from neighbouring states & cities.

Must-visit Attractions in Madurai

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  Gandhi Memorial Museum: Housed in a 17th-century palace, this museum showcases Mahatma Gandhi’s life and his role in India's freedom struggle through its exhibits.

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  Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace: A 17th-century palace conducting light & sound shows every evening.

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  Samanar Hill, Keelakuyilkudi: On the outskirts of Madurai, this rocky hillock range is home to several ancient Jain and Hindu monuments, a lotus pond, and a 17th-century dargah.

Other Popular Temples in Madurai

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  Arulmigu Koodal Azhagar Temple: One of the 108 divya desams, this historical temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his incarnation as Koodal Azhagar. Temple Timings: Morning - 5:30 am to 12:30 pm | Afternoon - 4:00 pm to 9:00 pm

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  Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam: Among South India’s largest temple tanks, this sacred water body has an island temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It is especially famous as the venue of the temple festival, Teppoothsavam. Temple Timings: 6:00 am to 9:00 pm

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  Thirumogoor Shri Kalameghaperumal Temple: On the outskirts of Madurai, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his avatar as Kalamega Perumal and is one of the 108 divya desams too. Temple Timings: Morning - 7:00 am to 12:00 pm | Afternoon - 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm

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  St. Mary's Cathedral: One of the oldest churches in the city, this cathedral is well known for its architecture, two bell towers & stained-glass interiors.

Good to Know Before You Travel

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  How to Reach: Book a flight to the Madurai International Airport (12.6 km from the city centre), opt for a train ride to the Madurai Junction, or board a bus to the M.G.R. Bus Stand.

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  What to Buy: This city is famous for its silk sarees & dhotis, handicrafts, jewellery, and pooja items.

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  What to Eat: Madurai is renowned for its paruthi paal (cottonseed milk), jigarthanda (milk-based drink), fish curry, bun parotta, and idiyappam (rice-based noodles).