MADURAI

Sri Meenakshi Amman - Sundareswarar Temple

History of Madurai evolves around the Meenakshi Sundareswarar twin Temple. The Meenakshi Temple is one of the largest of its kind in India and undoubtedly one of the oldest too. The temple grew with the contribution of each dynasty and victorious monarchs, into an enormous complex extending over an area of 65000 Sq m. The temple first came in to being 2000 years ago and was substantially expanded during the regime of Thirumalai Nayak(1623-55 AD).

Lord Siva in his incarnation as Sundareswarar and his fish-eyed spouse, Meenakshi, are enshrined in this twin temple. There are four massive gateways enclosing these two shrines. Even a casual visitor is fascinated by the many paintings and sculptures. A striking feature of the temple is the astonishing structure know as “Ayiramkaal Mandapam” or the Hall of Thousand Pillars and each pillar features high, ornate, bold sculptures that look life like. View from any angle these pillars appear to be in a straight line, an architectural masterpiece indeed In the outermost corridors are situated the matchless musical pillars carved out of stones. When it is tapped, each pillar produces different musical note.

Madurai Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple History in Tamil

Thirumalai Nayakar Palace

About 1.5 Kms from the Meenakshi temple, this palace was built in 1636 by the Mannar Thirumalai Nayakar. The imposing appearance is famous for the moldings and decorative work on its domes and impressive arches. The Sorgavilasam (Celestial Pavilion), constructed entirely of brick and mortar without the support of a single rafter or girder, is a marvel of indo-Saracenic architectural style. Among other striking features of the palace are the massive white pillars, several of which line the corridor that runs along the courtyard. Connected by high decorated arches, these pillars measure 20m in height and have a circumference of 4m. Elsewhere, there are polished black stone pillars of varying heights. It was King Thirumalai Nayakar's grandson who demolished much of the fine structure and removed most of the jewels and woodcarvings in order to build his own palace in Trichy. The palace was partially restored, and the subsequent restoration works carried out several years ago, today, we get to see the Entrance Gate, The Main Hall and the Dance Hall.

Timings : The Palace is open for visitors between 0900 hrs and 1300 hrs and again between 1400 hrs and 1700 hrs.

Mariamman Theppakulam

Mariamman Theppakulam is a beautiful square tank spread over a huge area of almost 16 acres, located about 5 kms East of Meenakshi Temple. The tank is the scene of the colourful float festival held in January/February to celebrate the birth anniversary of King Thirumalai Nayak, who built this tank. The deities of Meenakshi and Sundareswarar are placed in a float, called “Theppam”, decorated with flowers and illuminated with hundred of lights. This float is taken around the tank to the sound of traditional music. On the Northern side of the tank a temple is dedicated to Mariamman , a famous deity of Tamil Nadu.

Gandhi Museum

Housed in the old Palace of Rani Mangammal, the Gandhi Museum depicts the highlights of the freedom struggle and contains a picture gallery of the Gandhian movement. Also can be seen are a gallery of relics, Khadi and village industries section and South Indian Handicrafts section.

Timings: 1000 hrs to 1300 hrs and 1400 hrs to 1730 hrs. (Open all days)

Alagar koil

About 21 Kms North East of Madurai, stands a celebrated Vishnu Temple dedicated to Lord Alagar. The temple is situated on a hill amidst panoramic surroundings. The shrine is know as Alagarkoil and the hill , Solaimalai. The temple also contain some beautiful carvings and makes the visit rewarding. Palamudirsolai, one of the six abodes of Lord Subramaniya is located atop the Hill.

Thirupparankundram Temple

It is located 8 Kms South of Madurai Railway Junction. The temple here is one of the six abodes of Lord Subramaniya . Its innermost shrine is cut out of a solid rock.

Tirupparankundram Subramania Swamy Temple History in Tamil