Madurai is the city that has a glorious past and a beautiful present. This city lies in the banks of the river Vaigai. Looking to it’s past we can find out that the third “Tamil Sangam” occurred here. There is evidences dated back to 300BC for human settlement and Roman trade links. Madurai’s legacy contains the great Kings of Pandyas, Cholas, Madurai Sulthanate, Madurai Nayaks, Carnatic Kingdom etc. This “Thoonga Nagaram” (sleepless city) has an active night life.
The Palace of Thirumalai Nayak is build in an Indo-Saracentic style by Thirumalai Nayakar in 1636CE. The light and sound show in the palace displays the virtues of King Thirumalai and the features of the Palace. In the placid atmosphere this marvelous Palace can give you a charming experience.
The Palace of Rani Mangamma has lot to offer its visitors. This palace has been renovated into a Gandhi Memorial. It contains the blood stained garment worn by Mahatma Gandhi when he was assassinated by Nathuram Godse.
Looking for a picnic spot for the weekend. Turn your wheels to the Eco Park. The Eco Park spread around 5.5 acres contains 124 herbal trees. It does have a fountain that goes up to 110 feet along with the lights! The other amzing thing about the park is the optic fiber illuminated tress. Enjoy to the core in the lawns and breath in fresh air.
Athisayam Water Theme Park is what children love to visit. The wave pool, sliders and waterfall makes it a perfect place for fun and joy! It’s just 8 km away from Madurai city.
The most attractive part about the city in the past and the present is the Meenakshi Amman Temple. It is the core of the city. It’s construction is dated back to 1623-1655 CE. This enormous temple is dedicated to Parvathi and her consort Shiva. This temple has even been mentioned in the ancient Tamil literature too. The Thousand Pillar Hall ( Aayiram Kaal Mandapam ) conisit of 1000 pillars with unique carvings of yali! There are 4 gopurams for the temple that are multi-storied. This temple is one among the most visited place. The stone carvings and the architecture will leave mesmerized.
The Rajaji Children’s Park is located 2km from the central bus stand. It is a perfect place for a beautiful evening. It is open from 10am to 8pm.
St. Mary’s Cathedral church founded in 1840 is famous for it’s bell tower which is 42 meters high. This church dedicated to “Vaigulamatha” is build in European style. Tourists can enjoy it’s architecture and peace inside.
Do you wish to see the Dravidian style of architecture, then move on to the Koodal Azhagar Temple. This pristine place is dedicated to Lord Vishu. It can give you a varied feel and texture.
Next location on your list would be the Vaiga dam. It is build across the Vaiga river in the year 1959. It is the source for irrigation for Madurai district. This dam also has a small park for children.
This historical town has a lot in store for it’s guests. Don’t forget to make use of it! Enjoy the Tamil culture amidst the fragrance of jasmine flowers.
