Madurai Walks : City Highlights Temple and Market Tour
Active
3h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the enchantment of Madurai like never before with our extraordinary walking tour! Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the city as you explore its charming neighborhoods,Local Markets,historical landmarks, and hidden treasures.
Our knowledgeable and passionate guides will unveil the secrets and stories behind Madurai's landmarks, ensuring you have a truly immersive and memorable experience. Get ready to be enchanted by the unique charm of Madurai, its captivating blend of old-world charm and vibrant modernity.
Available options
Majestic Temple Tour
Duration: 2 hours<br/>Covers : Sri Meenakshi Temple ,
Thousand Pillars Museum
City Walking Tour-4 Hours
This Walking tour Covers: Sri Meenakshi Temple,
Thousand Pillars Museum ,
Local Markets and
King's Palace<br/>Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes<br/>Pick up / Drop not included
What's included
All Fees and Taxes
Private tour guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
On this Private Sri Meenakshi Temple tour in Madurai,With so much to see and learn, there's no better way than to have a knowledgeable local by your side. Check out its best-known spots as well as those little details that only a local expert knows about, like Thousand Pillars Museum and Sri Meenakshi Temple.
Embark on an enriching journey where you'll get to know everything about this must-visit attraction with its ins and outs, its incredible history, insights, and fun facts. The more you explore, the more you'll discover why this place is so important to the locals and its cultural relevance.
2
One of the most serene places to visit in Madurai, this ancient temple dates back to the year 1628 when it was built by King Thirumalai Nayakkar in reverence to the Lord Sundareshwar and Goddess Meenakshi and to serve as their summer abode. One thing that immediately strikes the visitors is the temple’s architectural magnificence and finesse. You will see 124 pillars and columns intricately carved with Hindu scriptures and scenes from the wedding of the Lord and the Goddess and those of the Nayaka dynasty rulers.
3
Walk through the ancient streets of madurai to see the local markets.
4
Banana Market in Madurai is a wholesale market for bananas situated in Rukmanipalayam. The place sells as many as 16 varieties of the fruit and is a hot trading place in the city. The bananas are brought early in the morning from the factory outlets and are unbranched from the branches to sell them to the local vendor
5
Stop 5
Thirumalai Nayak palace is known as the living palace of the Nayak Kings, it was built in the 17th century and is a beautiful construction with several pillars and domes around. With only a fourth portion of this marvel surviving.
6
Stop 6
The Aayiram Kaal Mandapam is a hall of unparalleled beauty and grandeur, a true gem of Madurai, and a destination that should not be missed by those who are enamoured with history, architecture, and culture.
What's not included
Private transportation
Own Expenses
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
10 reviews
5★
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4★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
56 reviews
5★
56
4★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
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
A dress code is required to enter places of worship
No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed.
Knees (till the ankle)and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women.
Cigarette,Lighter,Knife,Cosmetic Items and big size of bags are not allowed to carry into the temple
Meeting point
Our host will meet you at Near South Entrance of Meenakshi Temple.
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
