• Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple - A magnificent example of Dravidian architecture and sculpture, this temple features two sanctums, one dedicated to Shiva as Sundareswarar and the other to his consort Meenakshi. It is among the largest temple complexes in the nation. Among the numerous sculptures, the depiction of the divine marriage of goddess Meenakshi with Sundareswarar is particularly striking. The temple’s highlight is the ‘Hall of Thousand Pillars’, which contains 985 pillars adorned with intricate and bold sculptures. From any angle, these pillars appear to be in a straight line, showcasing an architectural marvel. In the outermost corridor, the unique musical pillars carved from stone produce different musical notes when tapped. The museum of icons, photographs, and illustrations in this hall is highly intriguing. The temple is generally open from 0500 hrs to 1230 hrs and 1600 hrs to 2130 hrs.
• Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal - This grand palace was constructed in 1636 AD by King Tirumalai Nayak, a prominent ruler of the Nayak dynasty that governed Madurai. The current structure is the main palace where the king resided, originally four times larger. The palace complex primarily consisted of two sections. The impressive building is renowned for the ‘stucco work’ on its domes and grand arches. The ‘Sorgavilasam’ (celestial pavilion), built entirely of brick and mortar without any rafters or girders, is a marvel of Indo-Saracenic architectural style. The palace houses a museum with sections dedicated to the history of Madurai and the art and architecture of Tamil Nadu.
• Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam - Also known as Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, it is located just 2 km from Meenakshi Temple in the town. There are Ghats on all four sides with 12 steps. It is believed that this pit was dug to obtain sand for constructing Thirumalai Nayakar Palace. The pit was later transformed with brickwork into a Holy tank, and Thirumalai Nayakar also built the Vandiyur Mariamman Temple on the northern side of the tank. In the center of the tank is a Mandapam called Maiya Mandapam [center Mandapam] with a small Ganesh Temple and a garden. The Float Festival at Mariamman Teppakulam is one of the most vibrant temple festivals, held annually in the month of Thai [Jan-Feb] to celebrate the birth anniversary of King Thirumalai Nayak. Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar are seated on an illuminated Float [Theppam], beautifully decorated with flowers, and the Theppam moves around the tank with traditional music in the background, witnessed by thousands of devotees.

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Local guide
• Private tour
• Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle

• Camera charges at monuments
• Gratuities
• Food and drinks

Madurai, situated on the banks of the Vaigai River, is believed to have been a significant settlement for around two thousand years. It ranks among the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities and is a prominent Hindu pilgrimage destination in India. Join our private full-day sightseeing tour to discover the city, renowned for its temples constructed by the Pandyan and Madurai Nayak kings in the Dravidian architectural style.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.