• Heritage Walk through the Temple Town

Heritage Walk through the Temple Town

Duration: 2 hours
All days of the week

“Do you not feel the southern breeze blowing from the city and bringing us the mixed fragrance of sacred black agarwood and sandalwood? The breeze is laden also with the smell of saffron, chives, and musk. On its way it may have wandered near newly opened buds of sweet water lilies; or trailed among champaks in bloom, or lost its way in groves of jasmine and madhavi, or caressed the buds of garden mullai."

So sang the bards in Silappadikaram, one of Tamil Nadu's major epics. They were describing Madurai, which already by 3 BC was a city of great renown, famous for its grand temples and bazaars. On this walk, we will explore the innermost areas of this historic city on foot, including the iconic Meenakshi Amman Temple and the Thirumalai Nayakar Palace.

Beginning with the East Tower of the Meenakshi Amman Temple, we will explore the marvellous architecture and legends of the temple. We will understand the temple rituals, see its water-tank and grand 1000-pillar hall. We will walk through East Chithirai street, leading out from the temple, into the vibrant bazaars of the city. The tour then meanders through small streets, passing the tailor's market, vegetable market, banana market, flower market, and many other specialty shops. The walk ends at the Thirumalai Nayakar Palace, where we will see the beautiful entrance gate, main hall and dance hall.

Morning Tour: Starts 9:00 a.m., from East Gate of the Temple.

Afternoon Tour: Starts 4:00 p.m. from ticket counter of Thirumalai Nayak Palace.

Cost:

  • INR 750 for 7-10 persons
  • INR 1250 for 5-6 persons
  • INR 1750 for 3-4 persons
  • INR 2450 for 2 persons
  • INR 4250 for a solo traveler

Includes: Guided tour, snacks/coffee at a small local café if you’re tired and want a break, all taxes.

Prior reservation is mandatory. Email deepa@magictoursofindia.com or WhatsApp wa.me/+919867707414.

Tour Notes: Please dress modestly and ensure you follow the rules of the temple authorities. Please ask the guide for specific instructions regarding photography in the temple. People of non-Hindu faith are not allowed inside the innermost sanctum of the temple. In the markets, please ask permission if you are photographing people. Some people do not like it, but some will allow it. Please do not attempt to pay or tip people for allowing photography. Please note there are no toilets in this area, not even in the cafes.