This 16th-century temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, the consort of Lord Shiva. The complex houses 14 magnificent Gopurams (gateway towers) adorned with thousands of colorful sculptures. This temple is the soul of Madurai and is a must-visit attraction for both religious and architectural enthusiasts. Plan to spend at least an hour exploring this vast temple complex.
This palace was built in the 17th century by King Thirumalai Nayak and is an excellent example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The palace complex has deteriorated over time, but some parts have been restored and can be visited. The grandeur and opulence of the palace and its blend of Dravidian, European and Islamic styles will leave you in awe. Plan to spend about 45 minutes here.
This vegetarian restaurant serves traditional South Indian food and has a great reputation for its quality and hospitality. Make sure to try their Thali, which is an assortment of various curries, rice, and bread, served on a banana leaf.
This temple is one of the six abodes of Lord Murugan, also known as Kartikeya. It is situated in Thiruchendur, a coastal town in the Tirunelveli district. The temple is surrounded by the Bay of Bengal on one side and the Western Ghats on the other. The temple complex houses several shrines, mandapams, and a majestic Gopuram. Note that proper dress code and decorum are a must for entering the temple.
This serene and clean beach in Manapad is an excellent place to relax and enjoy the sunset. The beach is quite secluded and offers stunning views of the sea and the surrounding hills. You can swim or just sit back and enjoy the sound of waves. The beach is good for collecting seashells. Make sure to carry your sunscreen and drinking water.
This vegetarian restaurant is located in Tirunelveli and serves a variety of South Indian dishes including dosas, idlis, and vadas. They also serve North Indian, Chinese and Continental dishes. Their filter coffee is a must-try.
If you have more time, you can explore other attractions in Madurai such as Gandhi Memorial Museum, Alagar Kovil, and Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam. If you have less time, skip the Thirumalai Nayak Palace or Manapad Beach and spend more time at the other attractions. Carry comfortable shoes and clothes as you will be walking a lot in the temple complex. Be mindful of the timings and dress code at the temple. Plan your day well in advance and hire a private taxi. Public transport is not very reliable and can be time-consuming.