Start your day at Murugan Idli Shop, which has been serving up delicious south Indian breakfast for over 30 years. The star of the menu is their idlis, which are soft and fluffy. Make sure to also try their vada and filter coffee to get the full experience. The restaurant opens at 6:00 AM and can get crowded, so come early to avoid waiting in line.
The Meenakshi Amman Temple is one of the most famous and ornate temples in Tamil Nadu. The temple complex is massive, with 14 gopurams (ornate towers) and a 16th century hall. Take your time exploring the halls and shrines, but make sure to also check out the temple tank, which is surrounded by smaller shrines. The temple opens at 5:00 AM and closes at 10:00 PM.
Sri Muniyandi Vilas is a small restaurant that specializes in Chettinad cuisine. The food is spicy and full of flavor, and the must-try dishes are the chicken chukka and mutton biryani. Wash down the spice with their refreshing buttermilk. The restaurant is open from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
The Gandhi Memorial Museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, and it houses a collection of his personal belongings, including his spectacles and walking stick. The museum is set in a serene garden and also has a library and an exhibition hall. The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 5:45 PM.
Head back to Murugan Idli Shop for a second round of their delicious breakfast. This time, try their dosas, which are crisp and served with a variety of chutneys. After breakfast, take a walk around the bustling streets of Madurai and take in the local culture and architecture.
The Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace was built in the 17th century and is a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The palace has extensive grounds and courtyards, and the highlights are the throne room and the dance hall. The palace is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Amma Mess is a no-frills restaurant that serves some of the best non-vegetarian food in Madurai. The portions are large, and the spices pack a punch. The chicken fry and mutton chukka are their signature dishes. The restaurant is open from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
The Vaigai Dam is situated on the outskirts of Madurai and is a popular spot for watching the sunset. The dam is a major source of water for the city, and the views of the dam and the surrounding hills are stunning. Entrance to the dam is free, and it is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
If you have more time, consider visiting the Koodal Azhagar Temple, which is another beautiful temple in Madurai. If you have less time, consider skipping the Gandhi Memorial Museum and Thirumalai Nayakkar Palace. Also, be prepared for the heat and humidity, so bring sunscreen, water, and light clothing. Lastly, be sure to try the Madurai Jigarthanda, a local sweet drink made with milk, almond gum, and nannari syrup.