Half Day Private Evening Ceremony at Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Madurai , India

Half Day Private Evening Ceremony at Meenakshi Temple Madurai

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Like any traditional Hindu temple, the Meenakshi temple opens at dawn with a custom of awakening God and Goddess from their celestial rest by traditional music with an opening prayer. Around evening time, during the last supplication of the day, God Siva, spouse of Meenakshi is regularly taken in a palanquin from his temple and accompanied to his living spot, where Goddess Meenakshi waits in her shrine for her husband to come home. This ceremony is accompanied by music along with a gathering of devotees. When the God Siva arrives at his home, they rest in their bed chamber which is made of pure silver.

The entire experience is very evocative and a nice opportunity to witness first-hand a traditional religious ceremony and interact with locals.

Available options

Half Day Private Evening Ceremony at Meenakshi Temple Madurai

Pickup included

What's included

Two bottles (250 ml) of water per person

Transportation to and from the hotel in AC vehicle

Entrance fees

English Speaking Guide

All applicable taxes

Detailed itinerary

Madurai’s skyline is dominated by the 14 colourful gopurams (gateway towers) of Meenakshi Amman Temple. Built in the 14th century, it has four impressive towers called Gopurams and the tallest one is about 170 feet high. More than 33,000 sculptures adorn the temple and the roof is covered with intricate motifs. A couple of other striking features are the 1000-pillar hall and the musical pillars.
In the late evening, you will witness the incredible pooja (prayer) ceremony at the Meenakshi Temple. During the ceremony, the idols of Sundareshwar (an avatar of Lord Shiva) and his consort Meenakshi (an avatar of Parvati), are carried in a grand procession to the bedchamber, where they are kept for the night.

What's not included

Gratuities

Extra fee US$ 20 for pick-up from hotels outside the radius of 5 Km from the city center

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

If you have limited mobility, please let us know in advance

You must be able to climb and descend stairs

Please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby 15 minutes prior to your scheduled pick-up time

Please arrange pickup from your hotel or a nearby location when you call to confirm your reservation

Photography not allowed in temples

You must wear clothing that covers your arms and legs for visiting sacred or holy places

This activity is subject to cancellation based on inclement weather

Guided Language tours are available at a supplement

Non-Hindus are not allowed in the main temple

You must contact Le Passage to India at least 24 hours before your activity date to confirm your reservation and arrange transportation. Use the contact and email details on the voucher/ticket

Upon pickup, please present your printed voucher and photo ID in exchange for your activity. Le Passage to India will respond within 24 hours to confirm your pickup time

Pickup is included from most centrally located hotels; if your hotel falls outside this area you may need to pay a supplement for hotel pickup.US$ 20 is the supplement for pick-up from hotels outside the radius of 5 Kms from the city center.

Important notes

You must contact Le Passage to India at least 24 hours before your activity date to confirm your reservation and arrange transportation. Use one of the contacts on this voucher:
+91 120 3341962 /+91-9971804040 / ashvini@lpti.in
Upon pickup, please present your printed voucher and photo ID in exchange for your activity. Le Passage to India will respond within 24 hours to confirm your pickup time.

About Madurai

Madurai is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and magnificent temples. Known as the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, it offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and vibrant modern life.

Top Attractions

Meenakshi Amman Temple

One of the most famous temples in India, dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Shiva.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours Free (Dress code applies)

Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

A 17th-century palace built by King Thirumalai Nayakkar, showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture.

Historical 1-2 hours INR 50 (Foreigners: INR 500)

Gandhi Memorial Museum

A museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, housing a collection of his personal belongings and artifacts.

Museum 1 hour INR 10 (Foreigners: INR 100)

Koodal Azhagar Temple

A historic temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its unique architecture and religious significance.

Religious 1 hour Free (Dress code applies)

Viruppann Varadharaja Perumal Temple

A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its intricate carvings and religious significance.

Religious 1 hour Free (Dress code applies)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Idli and Sambar

Steamed rice cakes served with a lentil-based vegetable stew.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Dosa

A thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter.

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian (can be made vegan)

Pongal

A savory rice dish cooked with lentils, ghee, and spices.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Jigarthanda

A refreshing drink made with milk, almond gum, and soda.

Drink Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Kodaikanal Boating in Kodaikanal Lake Spa treatments Beach visits in Rameswaram Temple visits Local festivals Beach activities in Rameswaram None

Best Time to Visit

October to March

This is the best time to visit Madurai as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

20°C to 35°C 68°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Tamil
Widely spoken: English, Hindi
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

IST (GMT+5:30)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Madurai is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid scams and petty theft.

Important Precautions:

• Use app-based taxis for safer travel.
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help.
• Keep valuables secure.

Getting there

By air

Madurai Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Madurai Junction

By bus

Mattuthavani Integrated Bus Terminus

Getting around

Public transport

The city bus service is affordable and covers most parts of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ola, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Maravapalayam KK Nagar Simmakkal

Day trips

Kazhugumalai

150 km from Madurai • Half day to full day

A small town known for its ancient cave temples and rock-cut sculptures.

Kodaikanal

120 km from Madurai • Full day to overnight

A picturesque hill station known for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate.

Rameswaram

164 km from Madurai • Full day to overnight

A pilgrimage town known for its ancient temples and beautiful beaches.

Festivals

Chithirai Festival • April-May Meenakshi Kalyanam • January Madurai Music and Dance Festival • January-February

Pro tips

Visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the temple's serene atmosphere.
Try local street food like idli, dosa, and pongal for an authentic culinary experience.
Use app-based taxis like Ola and Uber for safer and more convenient travel.
Carry a reusable water bottle and avoid plastic waste to support sustainable travel.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.