Start your gastronomic journey with a visit to one of India's largest and most famous temples, the Madurai Meenakshi Temple. Known for its rich history and stunning architecture, the temple is also home to some of the best street food in Madurai. Try out local delicacies such as the crispy Vazhakkai Bajji (plantain fritters) and soft, fluffy Paniyarams. You can also sample some refreshing drinks like the sweet and tangy Jigarthanda or the chilled Madurai Special Buttermilk.
Explore the grandeur of the Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace, a 17th-century palace built in Indo-Saracenic style. After enjoying the splendid architecture and gardens, explore the museum for an enlightening experience about Indian independence at the Gandhi Museum. After that, grab some Kari Dosa, a dosa stuffed with spicy meat and Jigarthanda from Murugan Idli Shop, a famous place for dosa in Madurai.
Take a break from city life and enjoy the cool breeze at the Samanar Hills, a hill revered by Jains with a beautiful view of Madurai. Then, head to Pazhamudircholai, one of the six abodes of Lord Muruga, and try the Aravanai Dosai, a crispy dosa made with the essence of cassava, and Mukkani Payasam, a sweet pudding made with three fruits in this famous South Indian temple.
End your trip with the best of South Indian cuisine and a tour of Thirumalai Market, Madurai's busiest market. Try some of the local snacks like Kadalai Mittai (peanut candy) and Sundal (spiced chickpeas), as well as fresh produce like mangoes and bananas. Finish your food adventure on a high note with a banana leaf meal at Arya Bhavan, where you'll be served piping hot rice, a variety of curries, crispy papad, and a sweet dessert.
If you have more time, take a day trip to nearby attractions such as the Kodaikanal Hills or the Rameswaram Ramanathaswamy Temple. Alternatively, if you have less time, consider prioritizing the food experiences at the places you visit and opting for a quick tour instead.