Madurai, one of India’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and historic temples, earning it the nickname "Athens of the East." The city is renowned for its impressive temples, lively festivals, and traditional South Indian architecture. Well-connected by road, rail, and air, Madurai is easily accessible through its airport and railway station. Be sure to sample traditional South Indian cuisine, including dosas, idlis, and vadas, at local eateries.

Nearest Airport: Madurai Airport; 13 Kms from Madurai City centre.

Nearest Railway station: Madurai Railway station; Centrally located in the city. 2 Kms from Madurai City Centre.

Top places to visit in Madurai

Meenakshi Amman Temple

Located 1.5 Kms from Madurai railwaystation. An iconic temple dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi (a form of Parvati) and her consort, Sundareshwar (Shiva). The temple is famous for its towering gopurams (gateway towers), adorned with thousands of intricately carved figures of deities, mythological creatures, and celestial beings. There are four main gopurams, each marking one of the cardinal directions. The Golden Lotus Tank, A large tank within the temple complex, surrounded by beautifully carved pillars is a main attraction. It is used during religious ceremonies and festivals.

Modest attire is required for both men and women. The temple provides facilities to change into traditional clothing if needed.

Timing : 5 AM to 12.30 PM and 4 PM to 9.30 PM.

Entry Fee: Free

Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace

3 Kms from Madurai railway station. A grand 17th-century palace built by King Thirumalai Nayak, showcasing a blend of Dravidian and Islamic architectural styles. It served as the royal residence and administrative center of the Nayak dynasty. The majestic entrance, the central courtyard, and the palace's grand arches and domes are the highlights of the palace.

There is Sound and light show held about the story of Silappathikaram, timings for English show is from 6.45 PM to 7.35 PM. The show in Tamil is held from 8 PM to 8.50 PM. *Kindly check prior availability.

Timing : 9 AM to 5 PM.

Entry Fee: No

Gandhi Memorial Museum

Located 4.5 Kms away from Madurai railway station. A museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, housed in a historic building that was once the residence of the Rani of Panagal. Exhibits on Gandhi's life and teachings, including personal memorabilia, letters, and photographs are the main attraction there.

Entry Fee: Free

Timing: 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM. Friday closed.

Vandiyur Amman Temple

Vandiyur, approximately 6 kilometers from Madurai's city center. The temple is situated near the Vandiyur Lake. It is dedicated to Mariamman, a goddess revered for her powers to ward off disease and bring prosperity. The temple showcases traditional Dravidian architecture with intricate carvings and colorful sculptures. The entrance features a prominent gopuram (tower), adorned with depictions of various deities and mythological figures.

Modest dress is recommended.

Entry Fee: Free

Timing: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Mariamman Teppakulam

A large water tank built by King Thirumalai Nayak, used for the annual float festival. A temple pond complex with a man-made island in the middle, it is primarily used for religious purposes. It is associated with the Vandiyur Mariamman Temple. The Teppam Festival, also known as the Float Festival, is the most famous event associated with Mariamman Teppakulam. It is usually held in January or February, coinciding with the full moon day of the Tamil month of Thai.

Entry Fee: Free

Timing: Open throughout the day.

Alagar Koyil (Azhagar Temple)

A significant temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, located on the hills about 21 kilometers from Madurai. The temple's serene setting, scenic views from the hill, and the annual Chithirai Festival are the main attractions there. The temple is a fine example of Dravidian architecture, characterized by its large gopuram (gateway tower), intricately carved pillars, and detailed sculptures. The temple is located on a hill, and devotees often take a ritual bath in the nearby holy stream, known as the Noopura Ganga, before climbing the steps to the temple.

Chithirai Festival: Held in April-May, this festival attracts thousands of devotees. The highlight is the procession of the Alagar deity to Madurai, where he symbolically crosses the Vaigai River. During the festival, the deity from Alagar Koyil is carried to Madurai to participate in the celestial wedding of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar.

Entry Fee: Free

Timing: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Koodal Azhagar Temple

2 Kms from Madurai Railway station. An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its architectural beauty and intricate carvings. The temple is an excellent example of Dravidian architectural style, with its beautifully carved gopurams (gateway towers) and intricate sculptures. The temple is unique as it depicts Lord Vishnu in three postures—sitting, standing, and reclining—within the same complex. This rare representation is a major draw for pilgrims.

Entry Fee: Free

Timing: 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM

Samanar Hills

Located about 11 kilometers from Madurai, near the village of Keelakuyilkudi. A historic site with ancient Jain rock-cut caves and inscriptions that date back to the 1st century AD. A small temple dedicated to the local goddess Pechi Amman is located on the hill, blending the region’s Jain heritage with its later Hindu influence. Apart from its historical significance, Samanar Hills offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The hills provide a peaceful environment, ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a quiet retreat.

Entry Fee: Free

Timing: Sunrise to Sunset

Vaigai River

The river flows through Madurai and is associated with several important temples and landmarks. Vaigai Dam, located 9 kms from Madurai railway station is a popular picnic spot. The area around the dam is surrounded by hills and offers a peaceful environment.

Entry Fee: 10 Rs

Timing: 9 AM to 5 PM

Madurai Government Museum

5 kms from Madurai railway station. The museum is situated within the Gandhi Memorial Museum complex in the city of Madurai, making it easily accessible to visitors. A museum showcasing artifacts related to Madurai's history and culture.

Entry Fee:

Timing: 10 AM to 5 PM. Friday closed.

Pudhu Mandapam

An ancient hall located near the Meenakshi Amman Temple, originally used for commercial transactions and public meetings. The intricate carvings and pillars, and its historic significance as a center of trade and commerce are the highlights of the Mandapam. The ongoing use of Pudhu Mandapam as a marketplace and cultural hub illustrates the living tradition of the space, where history and modernity coexist.