MADURAI
MADURAI – TAMILNADU TRAVEL GUIDE
INTRODUCTION
Planning for a vacation? How about the mystical destination of Madurai? Madurai happens to the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu besides being the second largest city in the state. The city derives its name from the divine nectar (Madhu) that was showered from the locks of Lord Shiva according to a popular belief. The temple city of Madurai is situated on the banks of the River Vaigai. .
How to Reach :
1.By Road :
Madurai in Tamil Nadu has connectivity with cities in its state and other important metropolises. From Madurai; Coimbatore (221km), Kochi (234km), Trivandrum (258km) and Bangalore (449km) are easily accessible. The state bus network, A/C buses as well as Non A/C buses, private cabs and taxis connect the city.
2.By Train :
Madurai Railway station is an important station in south India. The city has rail connections with almost every region in the country. Madurai Junction, Kudalnagar and Tirupparangundram are the important landmarks to reach the city by railways. The railway station is connected to the metropolis. Auto rickshaws, private cars, buses and cars takes you to any destination in the city.
3.By Air :
Madurai Airport services the city. The air terminus is 10 kilometers from the heart of the city. The domestic terminal has frequent flight connections from cities all over India. The nearest international airport is 244 kilometers. The Coimbatore International Airport connects the city with cities all over the globe. From the airport cabs, buses and auto rickshaw take you to the city.
Best Time to Visit :
Madurai in south India is a beautiful city with treasures of heritage. The best time to visit the second largest city of Tamil Nadu is from October to March. These months are blessed with pleasant weather ideal for sightseeing, vacationing and outdoor activities. During the summer season, from March to June, it is extremely hot. Temperature go upto 41 degree Celsius hence it is not advisable to visit during this time. Medium to heavy rainfall is showered in the monsoon months, from July to August. It is best to avoid the seasons for the unbearable humidity and the uncomfortable sightseeing and adventures. The soothing winters optimizes the fun of your holiday.
Places to Visit :
Life in Madurai revolves around the Meenakshi Amman Temple. Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Shiva are the main deities of the temple. The temple has 985 beautifully sculptured pillars that form the Thousand Pillar Mandapam Hall. Since ages the temple has been the center of Tamil culture, sponsoring literature, art, music and dance. The temple is worth more than a visit. The other prime attraction in Madurai is the Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam. It hosts the annual float festival in the months of January and February. Lord Vigneshwara is the presiding deity at the tank.
Besides the temples the Tirumalai Naik palace is a must visit spot for the tourists. The Indo-Saracenic style of architecture and the Sound and Light shows add to the significance of the palace. Madurai also boasts of another old palace Gandhi Museum that has been dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. The ancient temple city of Madurai is now days renowned for its textile mills, engineering industries and large university areas.
Munnar, Thekkadi Wildlife Sanctuary and Palani Hills are other places of interest around Madurai. While in Madurai do check out the idlis, vadas and the filter coffee besides the fresh warm Thirumalveli halwa . In terms of shopping Madurai’s Pudu Mandapam Market is the best place to check out the curios. Relax unwind yourself in the evenings at the Pottramarai tank and get entrapped in the magic of Madurai.
