Home to the famed Meenakshi Amman Temple, Madurai is one of the oldest cities of
India. The city is famous for is rich cultural heritage and glorious tradition,
and finds mention in ancient Greek and Roman texts. The three Tamil Sangams evolved
and flourished here. The Meenakshi Amman temple is situated in the heart of the
city, and there are a number of temples in and around the city. The city has been
a centre for learning and pilgrimage for centuries.
Eating Out!
Madurai is a culinary delight for its distinct brand of traditional south Indian
food. For example, a trip to Madurai isn't complete without savouring the piping
hot idlis (and sambar) and myriad chutneys served at the Murugan Idli Shop. Another
must-try is the 'Jigirithanda', a traditional milkshake with a distinct flavour
that is synonymous with the city. The city also has its fair share of excellent
multi-cuisine restaurants, including the Taj Garden Retreat, and Aaharam (inside
the GRT Regency).
SpiceJet Recommendations!
Meenakshi Amman Temple; Thirumalai Nayak Palace; Gandhi Museum; Kazimar Masjid.
The Gateway Hotel (Taj Garden Retreat) Pasumalai
Madurai
Madurai Residency
Madurai
Fortune Pandiyan Hotel
Madurai
- Meenakshi Amman Temple
The Meenakshi Amman temple complex is a splendid example of the south Indian architectural
idiom, and is one of the biggest temple complexes of India. Four immense gopurams
or temple towers crown the gateways at each cardinal direction, easily visible from
a distance. Each tower is encrusted with more than a thousand brilliantly painted
sculptures depicting an assortment of mythological and auspicious themes. The temple
also houses the famed Ayirankaal Mandapam (1000 Pillared Hall), an architectural
masterpiece containing close to a thousand pillars, that appear to be in a straight
line when viewed from any angle ! In the outermost corridors are situated the matchless
musical pillars, each producing a different musical note when tapped. In addition,
the temple complex has a beautiful art museum, several shops, and a large temple
tank that is closely associated with that legendary Tamil Sangams.
- Thirumalai Nayak Palace
The palace complex of Thirumalai Nayakar Mahaal was constructed in the Indo-Saracen
style by Thirumalai Nayakar in 1636. It was used for administrative purposes during
the British rule. The Archaeological Department has declared the palace as a national
monument, and is now a popular tourist attraction, especially for a daily half-hour
(in English at 6:45pm, and in Tamil at 8:15 pm) sound and light show that extols
the virtues of King Thirumalai and his passion for the arts.
- Gandhi Museum
One of the five Gandhi Sanghralayas in the country, the Gandhi Museum includes a
part of the blood-stained garment worn by Gandhi when he was assassinated. In addition
to its large pictorial gallery and numerous exhibits, the Museum also contains a
library with a large collection of books, open air theatre and a khadi and village
industries section.
- Kazimar Big Mosque
Constructed under the supervision of Kazi Syed Tajuddin, believed to be a descendant
of the prophet Mohammed, Kazimar mosque was the first Muslim place of worship in
the city, and is the second oldest mosque in Tamil Nadu.