Endearingly known as the Temple City, Madurai is an ancient city in Tamil Nadu that boasts of a rich heritage influenced by various dynasties. Located on the banks of River Vaigai, the city covers an area of 147.97 sq. km and is the third-largest city in Tamil Nadu. The city is popular for its unique architectural structures with Meenakshi Amman Temple being the main highlight of the city. With so many age-old historical and religious tourist spots, the city has earned the tag of the “Cultural Capital of Tamil Nadu”. It is also considered as a significant educational and industrial hub of South Tamil Nadu.
Things to do in Madurai
Popular for its temples, Madurai has a lot more to offer to its visitors. Seek blessings at the religious sites and visit the age-old structures to get an insight into the history, culture and architecture of the city. Hiking from Samanar Hills to the Jain Caves is an experience not to be missed here. Go on a South Indian food ventures and satisfy your taste buds with delicacies such as dosa, idli, uttapam and vada. Do remember to indulge in a shopping spree before leaving the city.
Tourist attractions in Madurai
Madurai is studded with so many historical, cultural and religious architectures including the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple, which is a prominent religious site of Hindus. The temple with its intricate carvings, brilliant architecture and spiritual ambience is sure to mesmerise you. Other popular attractions in the city are Koodal Azhagar Temple, St. Mary’s Cathedral Church, Thirumalai Nayak Mahal, Gandhi Museum, Nagamalai and Vagai Dam.
Places to shop in Madurai
Bustling with local markets, malls and stores offering a variety of options, shopping in Madurai is a whole new level indulgence that you must not miss. The Avani Moola Street, Puthu Mandapam Market, Vishal De Mall, Masi Street, Madurai Mall and Hajeemoosa are the popular places to buy anything you love, from traditional silk sarees and jewellery to fashionable clothing and accessories.
Best time to visit Madurai
With a hot and dry climate for most of the year, Madurai is best visited from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Also, the city is vibrant with festivities of Navratri, Diwali and Pongal during this season.
Modes of transport
Tourists can travel to Madurai from other cities via air, rail or road. Intra-city transport modes include buses, auto-rickshaws and taxis. Cycle rickshaws are the preferred mode of local transport used for covering for small distances.
Weather in Madurai
Summers in Madurai are extremely hot and dry with temperatures rising to 34°C, making it unfit for exploring the city. Monsoon season in Madurai lasts from June to August. The south-west monsoon winds bring in heavy showers leaving the weather gloomy. The city experiences moderately cool winters from December to February with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 28°C.
Airport in Madurai
IndiGo operates several flights from Madurai Airport (IATA: IXM) to other destinations, enabling the flyers a swift and safe journey. The airport provides several amenities, including the e-visa facility, for the convenience of the passengers. For the complete flight schedule, you may visit the official website.
