Known for its worldwide acclaimed Meenakshi Temple, the city of Madurai is called as the 'Athens of the East'. Situated on the banks of river Vaigai, it is the second largest city in Tamil Nadu. Being the hub of cultural activity, Madurai has sprung up as a potent place in case of travel and tourism, owing to the number of temples and historical monuments located here. Thousands of pilgrims and tourists throng the place every year to witness the grandeur of Dravidian architecture in British and Islamic styles. The city is also popular for its delectable food palate and festival celebrations.

Tourist Attractions

The major tourist attractions in Madurai include Meenakshi Temple, which is an excellent example of Dravidian architecture. Dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwasar, the temple claims to be the largest and oldest in the city. The most striking feature of the temple is the Gopurams (spires), which are twelve in number but the outer four, facing each of the four directions, are visible from a far off distance. There are a number of halls, towers and pillars worth watching for their sculptures, carvings and designs. The temple even houses an art museum, which contains icons, drawings and photographs, around 1200 years old.

Thirupparankundram Temple is another religious shrine dedicated to Lord Subramanya. Apart from this, there are a number of shrines located here, all of which are cut out of rock. The inner most shrine, is cut out of a single rock. This temple is considered an auspicious place for marriages, because according to popular belief, Lord Muruga was married to daughter of Lord Indra here. The Koodal Azhagar Temple is one of the 108 Divyadesams of the Vaishnavites. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is important from religion point of view.

The temple is made in tiers and bears the carvings of Vishnu in three postures, namely sitting, standing and reclining, one above the other. Adding royalty to the city environs, Thirumalai Nayak Palace was built by King Thirumalai as his residence. The Palace is famous for its courtyard and dancing hall. The paintings and sculptures in the interiors are quite fascinating. The effects of the King like furniture and utensils are also exhibited for the visitors. Light and Sound show is another attraction here.

Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam is a tank with an island and garden in the center. Situated in the vicinity of Meenakshi temple, it is the largest temple tank in South India. There is a Vinayakar Temple built on the island, which is dedicated to Lord Vigneshwara. The tank is popular for celebrations of the Float Festival. Another famous historical building in Madurai is Gandhi Museum. It was established in the loving memory of the Father of Nation, Mahatma Gandhi.

The museum is set up in the Palace of Rani Mangammal of Nayak Dynasty. There are various sections in the museum such as exhibition center, picture gallery, Khadi and Village Industries Section and a library. The picture gallery here showcases the biography of Mahatma Gandhi through photos, sculptures, paintings, quotations, manuscripts and other articles. The museum also has on display 27,000 letters, 62 reels micros-films and the blood stained dhoti of Gandhiji, which he wore when he was assassinated. Besides, other places worth visiting in Madurai are Adhisyam, Vandiyur Kanmoy Tourist Complex and Rajaji Park.

How to Reach
By Air: Madurai Airport is situated at a distance of 10 km from the city. There are daily flights to Chennai, Bangalore, Trichy and Coimbatore.

By Rail: Madurai is an important junction of Southern Railway and is directly connected to Chennai and Tirunelveli.

By Road: Madurai has five bus stands, which operate regular bus service, connecting it to all parts of Tamil Nadu and other nearby states effectively.