Private Once Upon A Madurai Trail Walking Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant_then_manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join us on an easy walk through the ancient city of Madurai and discover stories behind everyday sights. We'll tell you stories of Gods and their towering monuments, and of Kings and Queens who made Madurai. We'll also talk about many everyday customs and rituals you will see on the streets of Madurai even today.
Available options
OUAM Trail Morning
OUAM Trail AM: This tour departs at 7:00 am
OUAM Trail Evening
OUAM Trail PM: This trail departs at 4:00 PM
What's included
Headsets to hear the guide clearly
Bottled water
Private tour
Snacks
Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
We walk through the bylines around this prominent temple that is at the heart of Madurai city. This tour does not take you into the temple.
2
We walk past this 350 year old monument that is literally called the 'New Hall' in Tamil. We stop at the large Nandi statue, the Rayagopuram behind this hall, and walk up to the Vittavasal and the iconic Pattuthoon.
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.8
21 reviews
5★
17
4★
4
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Not recommended for child aged 6 and under
Dress conservatively keeping knees and shoulders covered for both men and women
Important notes
• Please dress conservatively keeping your shoulders and knees covered, for both men and women. You may be refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Please report at the venue at least 15 minutes before the scheduled tour departure 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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
