Temples in Madurai
Madurai is often called the Temple City, and the whole old city grew up around the Meenakshi Amman Temple. Its gopurams can be seen from across the centre, and the temple is busy with worshippers from before dawn until late at night.
Beyond the Meenakshi temple, Madurai has ancient Vishnu and Murugan temples, both in the old city and on the hills around it. These are active places of worship with their own rules, so dress modestly and check the rules for phones and photography at each one.
Famous Temples in Madurai
Meenakshi Amman Temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva). It has 14 gopurams, the tallest of which, the southern tower, is about 52 m high, as well as the Golden Lotus Tank and the Hall of a Thousand Pillars. Every night, the temple holds a ceremony in which Sundareswarar is carried to Meenakshi's chamber, usually a little after 9 pm.
Koodal Azhagar Temple is an old Vishnu temple within about 1 km of the Meenakshi temple. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams, the most sacred Vishnu temples, and is known for its three-tiered tower with Vishnu shown sitting, standing and reclining.
Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple is about 10 km south-west of the city, cut into the side of a rocky hill. It is one of the six sacred abodes of Lord Murugan.
Alagar Kovil is a Vishnu temple about 21 km north-east of Madurai, at the foot of wooded hills. During the Chithirai festival, the deity Kallazhagar travels from here to Madurai. Pazhamudircholai, another of Murugan's six abodes, is on the hill above.
Tips for Visiting Temples in Madurai
- Phones and cameras are not allowed inside the Meenakshi temple. Leave them at the deposit counters near the gates.
- Non-Hindus can visit most of the Meenakshi temple, but not the inner sanctums of Meenakshi and Sundareswarar.
- Cover your shoulders and knees. Shorts and sleeveless tops are not allowed.
- Leave your shoes at the free shoe counters outside the temple gates.
- Visit early in the morning or in the evening, when the stone floors are cooler.
- Expect security checks and long queues at weekends, on festival days and during the Chithirai festival.
- Respect people who are praying and do not photograph rituals.
Questions
Madurai — FAQ
What are the famous temples in Madurai?
The best-known temples in and around Madurai are the Meenakshi Amman Temple, Koodal Azhagar Temple, Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple and Alagar Kovil.
Can I take my phone into the Meenakshi temple?
No. Phones and cameras must be left at the deposit counters near the temple entrances before you go in. Rules can change, so check at the gate.
Can non-Hindus enter the Meenakshi temple?
Yes, non-Hindus can visit most of the temple, including the corridors, the Golden Lotus Tank and the Hall of a Thousand Pillars. The inner sanctums of Meenakshi and Sundareswarar are open only to Hindus.
What is the night ceremony at the Meenakshi temple?
Every night, Lord Sundareswarar is carried in a procession to Goddess Meenakshi's chamber before the temple closes. It usually takes place a little after 9 pm, but check the time locally.