A Day in Madurai: Guided Journey Through Iconic Landmarks
Active
6h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Get to know the city through the eyes of a local guide. With no set itinerary, you can customize the tour or leave it to the local for an enlightening introduction to the city. With our private tours, you'll skip the mundane historical tours and experience the city through the eyes of a real local. Our Licensed local guides are passionate about their city and eager to share their knowledge and insights. The will offer an authentic and personal experience. By the end of the tour, you will feel comfortable navigating the city and confident that you have all the information you need to make the most of your stay.
Private tour for just you and your group. Your guide customizes your tour to your interests and personality . Get a deeper insight into Madurai's life than possible alone . See Madurai through the eyes of a local and discover its hidden gems.
Available options
Full Day Sightseeing Tour
Duration: 8 hours<br/>Sedan Car (Or) SUV Car<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private Tour Guide
Entry Fee for Foreigners
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Subramaniya Swamy Temple , dedicated to the Hindu god Murugan that is known as a handsome son of the Lord Shiva. Due to being having the deity of the one of the favourite Gods which Tamil’s worship, this temple in Madurai receives devotees and pilgrims in large numbers every day and throughout the year.
2
On the outskirts of Madurai near Thiruparankundram, about 200 families in the interesting village of Vilachery craft small idols of Lord Ganesh for Ganesh Chaturthi and Bommai Kolu dolls for Navaratri out of clay. They also make nativity sets for Christmas. It's possible to take a walk through the village and see the artisans at work in their homes.
3
Madurai's wholesale banana market is a fascinating place to visit. Apparently, 16 varieties of bananas are sold there! They arrive, clustered together on branches, by the cart load.
4
The Flower Market is a true pleasure for the senses (at least for the visitor’s sight and smell).
Similarly, the flower market is one of the best places to mingle with the locals. Although it is very frequented by tourists, it continues to be one of the most traditional bazaars in Madurai.
5
The Samanar hills in Madurai have been declared as a historically rich site and protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India. The hills are so called because it is common in Tamil Nadu to refer to ascetic sites, particularly of Jain tradition as Samanar.
6
One of the Most Beautiful Local Folklore temple and Iconic Photo Location.
7
Stop 7
Architectural Wonder Of Tamilnadu
8
Stop 8
The thousand pillar mandapam is regarded as the 'wonder of the palace'. There are around 985 beautifully decorated columns. Each pillar is beautifully sculptured and presents the glory of the Dravidan sculpture. This hall also houses a Temple Art Museum, where you can see icons, photographs, drawings, etc., exhibiting the 1200 years old history.
9
Stop 9
Explore king's palace a remarkable 17th-century king that has been the scene of the most important monument of madurai 's history since the 17 th century.
10
Formerly known as PUDHU MANDAPAM Market where you can enjoy the most typical products of the province.
Duration: 15 minutes
What's not included
Own Expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
24 reviews
5★
23
4★
1
3★
0
2★
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1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Not recommended for people has knee problem
Meeting point
We pick up our guests from any hotels in the city.
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
