Things to do in Madurai

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Madurai travel guide

Intricately sculpted gopuram (tower) of Azhagar Temple, a historic Dravidian-style Hindu temple in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India. The colorful carvings depict mythological figures and divine stories.

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What to do in Madurai

Popular places to visit

India, Madurai, Sri Meenakshi Temple, carvings and gold roof, close-up

Meenakshi Amman Temple

After visiting Meenakshi Amman Temple, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Madurai. Take some time to visit the temples in this culturally rich area.

Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam

After visiting Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Madurai. Take some time to visit the temples in this culturally rich area.

Close-up of Thirumalai Nayak in Madurai, India

Thirumalai Nayak Palace

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Thirumalai Nayak Palace during your travels in Madurai. Take some time to visit the temples in this culturally rich area.

Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple

After visiting Sri Subramanya Swamy Temple, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Thiruparankundram. Take some time to visit the temples in this culturally rich area.

ISKCON Madurai, Sri Sri Radha Mathurapati Temple

ISKCON Madurai, Sri Sri Radha Mathurapati Temple is just one of the places to see in Madurai, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Take some time to visit the temples in this culturally rich area.

Samanar Hills

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Samanar Hills during your travels in Madurai. Take some time to visit the temples in this culturally rich area.

Vaigai River

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Vaigai River during your travels in Madurai. Take some time to visit the temples in this culturally rich area.

St. Mary's Cathedral Church

St. Mary's Cathedral Church is just one of the places to see in Madurai, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Take some time to visit the temples in this culturally rich area.

Gandhi Museum - Madurai

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Gandhi Museum - Madurai during your trip to Madurai. Take some time to visit the temples in this culturally rich area.

Areas of Madurai

India, Madurai, Sri Meenakshi Temple, carvings, close-up

Madurai Main

If you're spending some time in Madurai Main, Thirumalai Nayak Palace and Pudhu Mandapam are top sights worth seeing.

Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, India.

KK Nagar

Though KK Nagar may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Gandhi Museum - Madurai and Vaigai River.

Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India: December 25, 2018: Beautiful sculptures in the Minakshi Sundareshvara Temple, Madurai, Tamilnadu, India

Goripalayam

When in Goripalayam, you can plan a visit to Gandhi Museum - Madurai and Thirumalai Nayak Palace, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Andalpuram

While Andalpuram isn't home to many top sights, Thirumalai Nayak Palace and Samanar Hills are some notable places to visit nearby.

Tallākulam

While Tallākulam isn't home to many top sights, Gandhi Museum - Madurai and Thirumalai Nayak Palace are some notable places to visit nearby.

Simmakkal

While Simmakkal isn't home to many top sights, Thirumalai Nayak Palace and Gandhi Museum - Madurai are some notable places to visit nearby.

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Frequently asked questions

Is Madurai worth visiting?

Madurai has an interesting mix of culture, attractions and local charm. Whether you're into history, outdoor activities or local cuisine, there are many things here to enjoy.

How do I spend a day in Madurai?

Thirumalai Nayak Palace and Madurai Government Museum are two good places to begin your adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and shopping options in Madurai while you're in town too.

What is the top tourist attraction in Madurai?

Don't leave without checking out Thirumalai Nayak Palace, ranked the top tourist attraction in Madurai.

Is three days enough to stay in Madurai?

You can easily tour leading sights like Thirumalai Nayak Palace, St. Mary's Cathedral Church and Madurai Government Museum with a three-day break in Madurai. On average, most travellers plan two days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so stick around longer and venture to Thiruparankundram.

Is Madurai a walkable city?

Some top sights in Madurai, such as Thirumalai Nayak Palace and St. Mary's Cathedral Church, are within walking distance. You can also enjoy several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Only 0.32 kilometres from the city centre of Madurai is Madurai Main and KK Nagar is 3 kilometres away.

What are some activities to do in Madurai with kids?

Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Check out our recommendations for what to do in Madurai with kids.

What to do in Madurai for adults?

There are plenty of things to do in Madurai, with experiences for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Goripalayam Mosque or Kazimar Big Mosque and Maqbara.

Are there free things to do in Madurai?

In Madurai, St. Mary's Cathedral Church is an unmissable spot for anyone planning to tour the city without taking their wallet out. Also, wander around the green spaces and other neighbourhoods, and ask for ideas from a local tour guide. It's a great way to discover the best free things to do in Madurai.

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