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Madurai Sights and Landmarks Guide, India

Madurai is a very beautiful place to see in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is also known as the nectar city for its fruit and because of its blossoming atmosphere. Madurai is located on the banks of the Vaigai River. As the legend goes, Lord Shiva blessed the city of Madurai and its locals with the sacred name Madhurapuri. Over the time, Madhurapuri converted into the name Madurai. Madurai is the holiest location in the south of India and it attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourist each year from India and internationally as well.

Meenakshi Temple:

The Meenakshi Temple is very famous and it is the most beautiful temple in Madurai. In the Meenakshi temple, the eyes of Lord Sundareshwar have been shaped as fish eyes and he was the attractive companion of Lord Shiva.

Madurai is the holiest place for Hindu devotees in Southern India. Kulasekhara, the king of Pandya deforested the area of Madurai to clear way for this stunning temple and the king then created the surrounding city in the shape of a lotus. Actually; there are thousands of pillars in Meenakshi temple, each pillar has been finished with fine art and carved designs. If you tap a pillar, they will produce a beautifully harmonic sound. The Meenakshi temple has been preserved in order to support the Tamil culture, art, music, dance and literature.

The Temple of Koodalalagar:

The Temple of Koodalalagar is one of the oldest temples in India and it depicts the postures of standing, sitting and lying down of Lord Vishnu. While visiting this temple you will see the decorative windows and the wooden art. In the recent years, the Lord Rama's Pattabishekam panels have also been reconstructed.

Vandiyur Kanmoy Complex:

This complex was especially built for tourists. It is a great place to bring the family for a beautiful day out in Madurai. It has great landscaping and various local restaurants for a traditional Indian meal.

Thirumalai Nayak Mahal:

Thirumalai Nayak Mahal is the former king, Nayaka’s palace. It is a spectacular sight to see from its mere ambience to its awe inspiring architecture. There is a huge hall with elegant arches. There is also a show within the grand hall which tells the story of Thirumalai Nayaka via a lighting and sound system show.

Vandiyur Mariamman Temple Tank:

This tank was constructed underground of the bank of the Vaigai River. It was used to transport water to the various temples and this tank was also built for the protection of Lord Vigneshwara.

The locals of Madurai celebrate Lord Vigneshwara’s festival in the month of January to February and this festival attracts many tourists.