Private Tour: Madurai Sightseeing with Guide
Active
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Madurai is an ancient city that is situated in the South state Tamil Nadu, India. It is the earliest recorded civilisation and there is evidence that there was human settlement here dating back to 300 BC. The town is built around the Meenakshi Temple. It is well known for various reasons one of them being the historical monuments like the Meenakshi Amman Temple and Tirumalai Nayak Palace. Madurai has also contributed a lot to Indian literature with its rich and abundant literary tradition. On your visit here admire the Dravidian style of architecture as you pay pilgrimage to Meenakshi temple. The pillars outside the temple are erected so cleverly that they one can hear different notes when touching them. 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.
Available options
Private Tour: Madurai Sightseeing with Guide
Pickup included
Private Tour with French Guide
Private Air Conditioned Vehicl: For 1-2 people, Private Air Conditioned Sedan with Driver will be provided
For 3-4 people, Private air Conditioned Innova
<br/>French Guide: Explore Madurai with Local French Speaking Guide<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water during the tour
Hotel Pick-up & Drop
Transport by private Air-Conditioned Vehicle
Language Speaking Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The town has developed encircling Meenakashi Amman temple built in the Dravidian style -one for Lord Shiva and the other for his spouse Meenakashi. It is one of the masterpieces of Dravidian architecture and one of the most important active temples in India. Dedicated to Meenakshi, a form of Parvati known as "the one with fish-shaped eyes", the wife of Shiva, in its Sundareshwara form, it has two shrines, one for each of the gods. It is one of the most visited holy places in India and attracts pilgrims who come to marry or purify themselves there. The pillars in 1000 Pillar Hall inside the temple are erected so cleverly that they one can hear different notes when touching them.
The temple will be usually open from 0500 hrs to 1230 hrs and 1600 hrs to 2030 hrs
2
Stop 2
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 the beauty that it must have been before its destruction can only be left to the imagination.
3
Teppakulam (Temple Tank) is the venue of the float festival, 4kms from the Meenakshi Amman Temple.
4
The life history of Mahatma Gandhi depicted in the pictures along with the discription. Also, you can see the cloth he was wearing while being killed
What's not included
Food and Drinks
Gratuities
Temple Darshan & Darshan tickets
Monument Entrances Fees & camera Fees For All, Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.5
2 reviews
5★
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4★
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2★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
5 reviews
5★
5
4★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Shoes must be removed at places of worship, Dress code is smart casual (Please be advised to dress accordingly for places of worship; shorts or sleeveless tops are not recommended)
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
