About Madurai

Madurai is an ancient temple city on the Vaigai river surrounded by mountains in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Predominant are the manufacture of transport equipment, tobacco, sugar, and small-scale hand-loom weaving of silks and cotton have made Madurai famous throughout history. Locals refer to Madurai as the city that never sleeps & it is a great place to visit.

As you enter the city, the vibrant colors and tingling sound of temple bells will take over your visual and auditory senses. Madurai has numerous places that include temples, churches & palaces.

Tourist Attractions In Madurai : 8

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Religious

Fort/Palace

Dam/Reservoir

Historical/Monument

Nature/Picturesque

1: Meenakshi Amman Temple

Meenakshi Amman temple is on the southern bank of the Vaigai River. The mesmerizing architecture of the place is renowned globally. Meenakshi Temple, dedicated to Goddess Parvati, known as Meenakshi, and her spouse, Lord Shiva, makes this temple different from the others. The most exciting feature of the temple is its exquisite facade, which has highly minute details with great art pieces incorporated into the walls & pillars.

2: Thirumalai Nayakar Palace

Thirumalai Nayakar Palace is now a national monument & was built in 1636 AD by King Thirumalai Nayak. The magnificent palace depicts the perfect blend of Dravidian and Rajput styles, located close to Meenakshi Amman Temple.

3: Alagar Koil

Alagar Koil is a majestic temple in the northeast of Madurai & is the resting place of Lord Vishnu. The Alagar Koil temple is also called Azhagarkovil & the statue of the Lord is made entirely of stone.

4: Vaigai Dam

Vaigai Dam, a human-made structure, is constructed over River Vaigai near Andipatti. Andipatti lies about 70 km from Madurai, on the way to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. This place is a favorite picnic spot & one can spend hours admiring the splendid view. On one side of the dam is a beautiful garden with exotic flowers and plants known as Little Brindavan. On the other side are beautiful hills & lush greenery surrounding the dam.

5: Gandhi Museum

The Gandhi Memorial Museum is a tribute to the father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi. In the museum\'s galleries, you can see the history of pre-independence when the British committed atrocities & collections of historical stamps of British-ruled India & letters.

6: Koodal Azhagar

The Koodal Azhagar Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is in the center of Madurai city. It\'s a unique & famous temple constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture, built by the Pandyas. In Tamil, Koodal Alagar is another name for Madurai & Azghar, referring to Lord Vishnu as Koodal Alagar and Goddess Lakshmi as Mathuravalli.\r\n

7: Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam

Vandiyur Maiamman Teppakulam is a tiny pond near the premises of Vandiyur Maiamman Temple. There are underground tunnels connecting the pond to the river Vaigai, and the pond water is used for temple rituals & there is also a Ganesha Temple and a small garden in the center of the pond.

8: Meghamalai

Meghamalai is a petite yet beautiful place located in the Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu at an elevation of 1500 meters. This place is a perfect getaway nestled between the evergreen forest filled with the aroma of cardamom, cinnamon, & pepper. Among the lush green tea plantations, you can sip fresh piping tea amidst nature\'s beauty.

How To Reach Madurai

By Air - Madurai International Airport is located near State Highway 37, about 12 km south of the city center.

By Train - Madurai Junction railway station is the railway station serving the city.

By Bus - M.G.R Bus Stand, commonly known as Mattuthavani Bus Stand, is an integrated bus terminus in Mattuthavani, Madurai.

By Road - Madurai is well connected with nearby cities such as Chennai & others by scenic routes.

Local Transport - Autos, Taxis & cycle rickshaws are convenient, easy, and even cheaper if one knows how to bargain.

Traditional Food (Regional cusine of Madurai)

Madurai, a vibrant city in Tamil Nadu, India, is known for its rich cultural heritage and delicious South Indian cuisine. Here are some famous traditional dishes and places to eat in Madurai:

1. Meen Kuzhambu (Fish Curry):

- Specialty: Madurai is renowned for its spicy and flavorful fish curry, typically made with tamarind, coconut, and a blend of spices.

- Where to Try: Visit local seafood restaurants and eateries for authentic meen kuzhambu.

2. Chettinad Cuisine:

- Specialty: Chettinad cuisine, with its bold and aromatic flavors, is well-represented in Madurai. Dishes like Chettinad Chicken Curry and Chettinad Dosa are popular.

- Where to Try: Explore Chettinad restaurants in and around Madurai for an authentic experience.

3. Jigarthanda:

- Specialty: Jigarthanda is a famous Madurai drink made with milk, almond gum, sarsaparilla syrup, and ice cream, creating a refreshing beverage.

- Where to Try: Streetside stalls and local sweet shops are known for serving delicious Jigarthanda.

4. Pongal:

- Specialty: Pongal, a traditional South Indian dish made with rice and lentils, is often flavored with black pepper, cumin, and ghee.

- Where to Try: Many local eateries and restaurants serve Pongal as a breakfast item.

5. Parotta and Salna:

- Specialty: Madurai is famous for its flaky parottas, often served with salna, a spicy and flavorful curry.

- Where to Try: Street vendors and local eateries are popular for parotta and salna.

6. Kari Dosa:

- Specialty: Kari dosa is a type of dosa filled with a spicy minced meat mixture, offering a delicious combination of textures and flavors.

- Where to Try: Visit local dosa joints and small eateries for this unique dosa variant.

7. Murugan Idli Shop:

- Specialty: Murugan Idli Shop is a well-known chain in Madurai, offering a variety of South Indian breakfast items like idli, dosa, and Pongal.

8. Banana Leaf Meals:

- Specialty: Enjoy a traditional South Indian meal served on a banana leaf, featuring rice, sambar, rasam, poriyal (stir-fried vegetables), and more.

- Where to Try: Explore local restaurants and eateries for the banana leaf meal experience.

9. Chana Sundal:

- Specialty: Chana sundal is a popular snack made from boiled chickpeas seasoned with mustard seeds, curry leaves, and grated coconut.

- Where to Try: Look for street vendors and snack stalls for a quick serving of chana sundal.

10. Mutton Kola Urundai:

- Specialty: Mutton kola urundai is a flavorful and spicy minced mutton ball, deep-fried to perfection.

- Where to Try: Local non-vegetarian restaurants often feature this dish.

11. Amma Mess:

- Specialty: Amma Mess is a renowned eatery in Madurai, known for its authentic Tamil Nadu cuisine, including biryanis, curries, and more.

12. Sundakkai Vathal Kuzhambu:

- Specialty: Sundakkai vathal kuzhambu is a tangy and spicy curry made with dried turkey berries, tamarind, and a blend of spices.

- Where to Try: Look for traditional Tamil Nadu cuisine restaurants for this unique dish.

Madurai's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional South Indian flavors, offering a variety of dishes that showcase the region's culinary richness. Whether you're exploring street food or dining at local eateries, Madurai promises a gastronomic experience that reflects its cultural heritage.