About Meenakshi Amman Temple

The Meenakshi Amman Temple is one of the very important places of Hindu pilgrimage in India. According to legend, the temple was built in the 6th century B.C., when in fact it was built in the 6th century A.D. It is the most famous landmark in Madurai, and the heart of the city. The temple is dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi. She was born to a king on earth but was later discovered to be the incarnation of the goddess Parvati. She married Shiva, the sun god. The temple columns and pillars are covered in sculptures depicting the celebrations of her marriage. There are 985 pillars on 14 towers, all colorfully and beautifully painted. The temple is one of the very few dedicated to a female deity.

Come and celebrate one of the many festivals of Tamil Nadu. Leave your alarm clock at home, and wake up to the hymns being chanted at the temple instead.

Must See

  • Murals 
  • 1 Chithirai gopuram 
  • 5 five-floored gopurams 
  • 2 three-floored gopurams 
  • A hall with thousands of pillars 
  • A sacred pool with golden lotus 
  • A wedding hall 
  • Innumerable small shrines 
  • Gardens 
  • Elephant sheds

How to reach

By Train

Rameswaram-Madurai Passenger- 56726,56724 & 56722 runs between the two stations. Ticket Information is available on the Indian Railways Site.

By Car

It takes about 20-25 minutes to reach the Temple.

Tips

  • Wearing shorts, dresses, lungi, caps or socks are not allowed inside the temple premises.
  • Anything made of animal skin is not allowed inside so don't carry them with you.
  • Mobile phones and cameras are also banned.
  • Photography not allowed inside.
  • Best time to visit in the morning and evening.
  • Amazing collection of sculptures of painted gods, goddesses, animals and demons.
  • Wheelchair assistance is available.
  • Can carry strollers for children and toddlers.

Visit Time

Sunday                                    9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Monday                                    9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday                                   9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday                              9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Thursday                                  9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Friday                                       9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Saturday                                   9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

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Waiting Time

No wait time

 

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Entrance Fee

No

 

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Time you can spend

3-4 hours

 

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Weather

Overcast Clouds 24.97°C

 

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