Places to Visit in Madurai

The 4th century ‘temple city’ of Madurai boasts of ancient temples built by the Pandyan and Madurai Nayak kings. The destination draws pilgrims from far and near.

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Things To See & Do

Meenakshi Temple

Meenakshi Temple

Ancient Hindu Temple
Set on the banks of the Vaigai River, Meenakshi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva. It is widely recognised for its architecture and 14-coloured multi-tiered gopuram.

3-4 hours

Suggested Time

Arulmigu Sri Kallazhagar Perumal Temple

Arulmigu Sri Kallazhagar Perumal Temple

Ancient Vishnu Temple
Azhagar Kovil, located on a scenic hill in Madurai, is one of the 108 sacred abodes of Lord Vishnu, worshipped as Kallazhagar. The temple is renowned for its intricate sculptures, stunning mandapams, and surrounding greenery. It is believed that Lord Vishnu arrived here to give away Goddess Meenakshi to Lord Sundareswarar for their marriage.

1-2 hours

Suggested Time

Koodal Azhagar Temple

Koodal Azhagar Temple

Sacred temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu
Located in the city of Madurai, the Koodal Azhagar Temple is a temple known for its exquisite architecture and design, making it a popular destination for both pilgrims and architecture enthusiasts. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple is regarded as one of the 108 sacred abodes of Vishnu, where he is worshipped as Koodal Azhagar.

1-2 hours

Suggested Time

Gandhi Memorial Museum

Gandhi Memorial Museum

Historic Gandhi Museum
The Gandhi Memorial Museum depicts the life of Mahatma Gandhi through rare photographs, paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, personal effects and letters including one written to Adolf Hitler.

2-3 hours

Suggested Time

Samanar Hills

Samanar Hills

Hill Rock Complex
Samanar Hills are scenic hills with caves that have sculptures of Settipodavu and Pechipallam with images of Jain tirthankaras said to date back to the 9th century.

4-5 hours

Suggested Time

Thirumalai Nayak Mahal

Thirumalai Nayak Mahal

17th Century Palace
The 17th century Thirumalai Nayak Mahal represents Dravidian and Rajput architecture, and is divided in to two main sections with shrines, residences and royal effects on display.

3-4 hours

Suggested Time

Vandiyur Mariamman Temple

Vandiyur Mariamman Temple

Revered Hindu Temple
Vandiyur Mariamman Temple sits within the Mariamman Teppakulam square tank, which spans nearly 16 acres. The temple is dedicated to Mariamman, a revered village deity of Tamil Nadu.

1-2 hours

Suggested Time

Best Time To Visit Madurai

Ideal winter destination

  • OCT-MAR

    Peak Season

  • JUL-SEP

    Moderate Season

  • APR-JUN

    Off-season

  • What To Expect:Pleasant weather with moderately cool temperatures.
  • Things You'll Love:Visiting the temples and the festive celebrations.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Chithirai FestivalApril-May

Float FestivalFebruary

PongalJanuary

Book Your Trip to Madurai

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Travel Options to reach Madurai

Our Recommendations

Flight to Madurai Airport

4h 45m . One way

Booking Options Starting From

₹8,039

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Flight to Bengaluru Airport, then Flight to Madurai Airport

6h 10m . One way

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₹10,895

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Stay in Madurai

Recommended Options

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3 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹3,832

EXPLORE
Madurai Residency

Madurai Residency

Madurai Main

4/5

₹2,518

Onwards

JC Residency

JC Residency

Chinna Chokkikulam

4.3/5

₹5,500

Onwards

Ramrathna Residency

Ramrathna Residency

Near Madurai Bus Stand

3.9/5

₹3,480

Onwards

4 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹6,222

EXPLORE
Regency Madurai by GRT Hotels

Regency Madurai by GRT Hotels

Muthuramalingapuram

4.4/5

₹6,642

Onwards

Fortune Pandiyan Hotel, Madurai-Member ITC Hotel Group

Fortune Pandiyan Hotel, Madurai-Member ITC Hotel Group

Ramaond Reserve Line

4.3/5

₹6,749

Onwards

Sterling V Grand Madurai

Sterling V Grand Madurai

Near Madurai Bus Stand

3.9/5

₹5,275

Onwards

5 STAR HOTELS

Recommended For You

Average Price

₹9,546

EXPLORE
Grand Madurai by Grt Hotels

Grand Madurai by Grt Hotels

Anuppanadi

4.7/5

₹8,639

Onwards

Gateway Madurai

Gateway Madurai

Pasumalai

4.5/5

₹10,500

Onwards

Heritage Madurai

Heritage Madurai

Doak Nagar

4.4/5

₹9,499

Onwards

Tourist Places to Visit in Madurai!


Maduraiattractions present a culturally rich array of sites to explore. With breathtaking temples and grand palaces, Madurai tourist places like the Meenakshi Temple and Thirumalai Nayak Mahalare unique highlights that make the list of top places to see in Madurai.


Best Places to Visit in Madurai with Family:


Meenakshi Temple:

Meenakshi Templeis an iconic and historic Hindu temple located on the southern bank of the Vaigai River, it is dedicated to Parvati and her consort, Shiva.


Kallazhagar Temple:

Kallazhagar Templeis a esteemed for its architectural magnificence and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, attracting devotees throughout the year.


Koodal Azhagar Temple:

Koodal Azhagar Templeof the ancient temples in Madurai, it features the deity Koodal Azhagar, a form of Lord Vishnu, and is known for its intricate stone carvings.


Gandhi Memorial Museum:

Gandhi Memorial Museumis one of the five Gandhi Sanghralayas in India, this museum showcases the life and principles of Mahatma Gandhi through photographs, paintings, and artefacts.


Best Places to Visit in Madurai with Friends


Samanar Hills:

Samanar Hillsis located roughly 10 km from Madurai, these hills contain ancient Jain remnants and provide panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.


Thirumalai Nayak Mahal:

Thirumalai Nayak Mahalis a 17th-century palace erected by King Thirumalai Nayakkar, it exemplifies the blend of Dravidian and Rajput architectural styles and is a significant symbol of Madurai’s cultural heritage.


Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam:

This temple is located near to a grand temple tank which is the largest of its kind in Tamil Nadu, and is famous for its colourful float festival held during the Tamil month of Thai (January/February).


Best Time to Visit Madurai


The best time to visit Madurai, is during the winter months, from October to March. During this period, Madurai weather is more pleasant and cooler, making it perfect for sightseeing and other outdoor activities. The temperatures during this season generally range from 20°C to 29°C.


Top Places to Visit in Madurai at Night


Maduraiat night uncovers a different charm. Whether you're savouring a meal at Ahaaram Multi-Cuisine Restaurant or unwinding at the JC Residency, the city by night presents varied experiences.


Restaurants in Madurai


  • Zaitoon Restaurant
  • Vaadivaasal Restaurant
  • Madurai Kitchen
  • Murugan Idli Shop
  • Ahaaram Multi Cuisine Restaurant

Places to Visit in Madurai in 1 Day


Embark on your journey at the Meenakshi Temple, visit the Koodal Azhagar Temple before you grab a quick snack at the charming Murugan Idli Shop, and end your day of visiting Madurai tourist places by taking a deserved break at the Courtyard by Marriott Madurai.


Places to Visit in Madurai in 2 Days


Your second day in Madurai could unfold with a historical exploration at the Gandhi Memorial Museum peaceful moments at the Kallazhagar Temple a typical Madurai lunch at Kumar Mess, and a twilight retreat at The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai Madurai.


Places to Visit in Madurai in 3 Days


Your third day in Madurai might call for a visit to the serene Vandiyur Mariamman Temple, a fun-filled afternoon at the Fortune Pandiyan Hotel, a scenic visit to Samanar Hills offering a panorama of natural beauty and historic value, and conclude with a delightful dinner at Phil's Bistro offering a palate of regional specialities.


Best Tourist Places Near Madurai


Travellers may wish to consider nearby destinations such as Kodaikanaland Rameshwarampopular for their picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offering a further extension to the diversified list of Madurai tourist places. In conclusion, visiting Madurai isn’t just a journey, it’s an enriching experience. The vibrant culture, captivating history, architectural wonders, and absolutely delicious cuisine make it an unmissable destination.


Tourist Places in Madurai

Vandiyur Mariamman Temple, Samanar Hills, Thirumalai Nayak Mahal, Kallazhagar Temple, Gandhi Memorial Museum

State

Tamil Nadu

Best Time to Visit in Madurai

October to March

Things to Do in Madurai

Koodal Azhagar Temple, Meenakshi Temple, Courtyard by Marriott Madurai, Fortune Pandiyan Hotel, Regency Madurai by GRT Hotels

Places to visit in Madurai with Family

Madurai Residency, Hotel Royal Court, JC Residency, The Gateway Hotel Pasumalai Madurai, Kumar Mess

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Madurai

What are the top things to do in Madurai?

Madurai is an incredibly lively place and is popularly known for its topmost things to do like Meenakshi Temple, Kallazhagar Temple, and Koodal Azhagar Temple. You will have a great time here, then why wait? Book your trip now!

What are the activities you can explore during the peak season and moderate season in Madurai?

In the peak season months October, November, December, January, February and March you will experience pleasant weather with moderately cool temperatures wherein around moderate season i.e. July, August and September you will enjoy heavy rainfalls with high humidity levels. Whatever that suits your calendar, Madurai awaits you for a good time.

What are some of the most famous restaurants and eateries to explore in Madurai?

If you are a foodie, Madurai is the right place for you. Madurai has many famous restaurants and eateries for you to explore, some of which are Murugan Idli Shop, Kari Kanji and Kumar Mess.