Madurai, like Varanasi to the north, is one of the oldest continually inhabited towns in India. The city of Meenakshi Sundareswarar is famed for its Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, which is located on the banks of the Vaigai River in Tamil Nadu. Madurai is noted for its food, cuisine, architecture, shopping, and lovable people, in addition to being a pilgrim town, a famous tourist destination, a cultural centre, and the historical capital of the Pandyan empire. Madurai is known by a variety of names, including Koodal nagaram (City of Junctions), Malligai maanagar (City of Jasmine), Koil maanagar (Temple city), Thoonga nagaram (City that Never Sleeps), and Naan Maada koodal (junction of four towers, which refers to Madurai's four major temples).

THINGS TO DO WHEN IN MADURAI

• Have an adrenaline rush at Adhisayam- Adhisayam is a big water cum entertainment park near Madurai, located on the Madurai - Dindigul National Highway. The park has a total of 40 gaming and 20 aquatic rides spread out across 70 acres of ground. A 7D theatre, a cafe, and a children's amusement garden are all available at the park.

• Tour to Teppam festival- The idols are dressed for a boat ride on a raft-like floater with flowers, petals, handcrafted garlands, lamps, and lights. The boat is then linked to ropes, which are subsequently pulled by the thousands of devotees who fearlessly participate in the parade, one from the island's side and the other from the banks.

• Climbing in Samanar Hills- Climbing the Samanar Hill is well worth it for the stunning view areas from the summit. It's also a fun area to visit if you're looking for some adventure. Trekking up to the hills and visiting the surrounding areas will allow you to spend some time with the local flora and fauna.

• Trekking and Jeep Safari in Megamalai - The forests of Meghamalai are ideal for walking and discovering hidden treasures, whether they are trees, birds, or animals. The excursions are straightforward and full of dignified beauty that will fill your heart with joy. A jeep safari across Megamalai's rocky landscape is a fascinating experience. It is a must-do for anyone who enjoys an adrenaline rush.

BEST TIME TO VISIT MADURAI

The winter season lasts from December through February, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 29 degrees Celsius. The greatest time to visit Madurai is during the summer, when the weather is warm and pleasant. Madurai's summers are scorching. The weather is warm, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 34 degrees Celsius.

PLACES TO VISIT IN MADURAI

• Meenakshi Temple - The Meenakshi Temple is devoted to Parvati, also referred as Meenakshi, and her husband, Shiva. The concept that both God and Goddess are venerated simultaneously sets this temple apart from others. The temple's most prominent feature is its gorgeous exterior, which is rich in intricate features and incorporates excellent art pieces into the walls and pillars.

• Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal - The palace is a wonderful combination of Dravidian and Rajput architecture. This palace was named a national monument after independence, and it remains one of Southern India's most stunning monuments to this day. It was built during the reign of the Nayak Dynasty and depicts Saracenic architecture.

• Vaigai Dam - A stunning man-made structure built across the Vaigai River near Andipatti in the Theni District of Tamil Nadu, India. Andipatti is around 70 kilometres from Madurai, and it is frequently visited by visitors on their route to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The place has become a popular picnic spot over the years since it is wonderfully illuminated in the nights, particularly on weekends, and one can spend a lot of time admiring the magnificent view.

• Alagar Koil - Alagar Koil is a magnificent temple in Madurai's northwestern outskirts. The temple is Lord Vishnu's resting place and a sacred site for many of Lord Vishnu's devotees in the area. It's also known as Azhagarkovil because it's located in the Alagar hills. The Lord's statue is completely constructed of stone, and it is a marvelous work of art fashioned in kallalagar.

• Koodal Azhagar Temple - The Koodal Azhagar Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and located in the heart of Madurai, Tamil Nadu, is a unique and notable temple of historical significance built in the Dravidian style of architecture and allegedly established by the Pandyas. Vishnu is known as Koodal Alagar and his empress Lakshmi is identified as Mathuravalli. Koodal is another name for Madurai, and Azghar means 'beautiful one' in Tamil.

HOW TO REACH MADURAI

• By Air- Madurai Airport is about 12 kilometres from the city centre. Domestic flights connect it to and from a number of important Indian cities.
• By Road - State and national roadways connect Madurai to the rest of the country. Madurai, other important cities in Tamil Nadu, and neighbouring states are served by intercity and interstate buses on a regular and frequent basis.
• By Rail - Madurai Junction Railway Station is part of a vast rail network that connects Madurai to the rest of India. Many direct trains connect Madurai to the country's major cities and towns.