Madurai
is one of the oldest cities in south Asia situated on the banks
of the river Vaigai with a 2500 years old history and is often described
as ‘the Athens of the East’.
SUGGESTED PLACES TO VISIT
Meenakshi Temple
Synonymous
with Madurai is the magnificent temple dedicated
to Goddess Meenakshi which is one of the largest
temple complexes in India. The temple occupies
approximately 640000 square feet.
Azhakarkovil
This ancient temple is placed atop a picturesque
wooded hill called Alagarmalai and has many beautiful sculptures.
Theppakulam Tank and
the Floating Festival
The tank was built by Tirumalai Nayak
in 1646 and is connected to the Vaigai River by underground channels.
It is one of the huge Temple tank in south India. The Floating
Festival is celebrated here on the Full Moon Day of mid-Jan
to mid-Feb every year.
Thirumalai
Nayak Palace
The palace is situated 2kms south east of Meenakshi
Temple. The palace was built in 1636 by Thirumalai
Nayakar. It is an impressive monument even though the remains
that stand here today are a result of the restoration in 19th Century.
‘son et lumiere’ in English depicting the story of Trirumalai
Nayaks is organised most evenings.
Gandhi Museum
This museum dedicated to Gandhi-his
life and works-is housed in the 300 years old Mangammal Palace.
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