MADURAI
Madurai
Madurai is one of the oldest Indian cities with deep-rooted ancient heritage and culture. This place is mostly famous across the world for its antique Dravidian architecture. And being a ‘temple city’ the worship of Lord Balaji or Lord Vishnu is very popular amongthe locals.
Best time to visit Madurai
Though most people avoid the months from March to June because of the extreme heat and humidity, the rest of the months from September to November will be very comfortable for exploring. The floating boat ceremony during this time deserves special mention. But the fact is that Madurai is a kind of place that you can visit in any month because of the continuous celebration of cultural programs and festivals.
Places to see in Madurai
Meenakshi Amman Temple
Meenakshi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and was built in the centre of the city. It is one of the oldest temples and interestingly, the first ever temple in Madurai. Though Madurai is the city of many more beautiful temples, Meenakshi Temple is the heart of this city.
Thiruparankundram
Thiruparankundram is also considered as one of the oldest temples in Madurai which is devoted to Lord Muruga. This temple is 8 km away from the main city. The interiors of this temple and scriptures by ancient priests attract hundreds of tourists every day.
Samanar Hills
Samanar Hills forms one breath-taking landscape which surprises with the panoramic view of the river and temples from the top. It is 300 steps above the ground and is filled with the sculptures created by the ancient Jain monks and the stones where the monks used to sleep or rest.
Things to do in Madurai
Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal
Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal was built in the 1636 AD by King Thirumalai Nayak and used to belarger and more beautiful during the olden days. The sculptures here blend in both Dravidian and Rajput art techniques. You can view the amazing lightings and sound performances apart from touring the whole palace compounds on foot.
Athisayam
Athisayam is known as the Queen of India’s Themed Amusement Parks. It is both a water park and an amusement park which is absolutely thrilling and very entertaining for both young and old. It is a great place to spend some fun time with friends and family.
Visit The Murugan Idli Shop
Even though you would get to eat idli-dosa at every Madurai shop, Murugan Idli is the most popularamong the locals and famous for preparing the tastiest chutney ever and itsheavenly taste.
How to reach Madurai?
Closest Railway Station/bus stop to Madurai
The nearest railway station in Madurai is the Madurai Railway Junction, which is located at 2.8Km from the central part of the city.
Though Madurai is a huge city, there are rarely any issues related to public transportation services. It is very conveniently connected by road to all the surrounding important cities.
Closest Airport to Madurai
The nearest airport is the Madurai Airport (IXM) which is approximately 10Km away from the main city.