Meenakshi Amman Temple: About Madurai

Madurai

Madurai is the oldest inhabited city in the Indian Peninsula.Madurai is an ancient and prestigious city in the Indian , situated on the banks of the River Vaigai .Madurai is known as The Temple City and also called as city of four junction.It is the second largest city in Tamil Nadu.Madurai was the capital city of ancient Southern Civilization.Madurai's cultural heritage goes back 2,500 years,the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple is situated in the center of Madurai.Through satellite Madurai was seen as a Lotus and Meenakshi Amman Temple in the center of it.Madurai is also called as Thoonga Nagara.

Satellite view of Madurai

History

Madurai was the seat of power of the ancient Pandyan empire of Tamilakam.In legend, the original town of Madurai, traditionally called ThenMadurai or Madurai of South was destroyed by a tsunami in ancient Kumari Kandam. Madurai flourished till 10th century AD when it was captured by Cholas, the arch rivals of the Pandyas. The glory of Madurai returned in a diminished form in the earlier part of this millennium as it later came under the rule of the Vijayanagar kingdom and Madurai was ruled by the Nayak Emperors, the foremost of whom was Tirumalai Nayakar.

The King's throne in Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal

Tourism In Madurai

Madurai is famous for tourism in Tamil nadu.Thousands of foreigners enter madurai every month.
In Madurai you can visit

1.Meenakshi Amman Temple
2.Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal
3.Kazimar Big Mosque
4.Gandhi Museum
5.Thiruparankundram
6.Theppakulam
7.St. Mary’s Cathedral Church

Carvings of pillars in Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal

Eye catching Teppakulam with lightning effects

Entertainment in Madurai

The city houses the following weekend spots:

Athisayam Water Theme Park

Athisayam water theme park:

The water park situated on the outskirts of Madurai (20 km from the city) attracts people of all age groups and from different places in and around Madurai. Several high-tech entertainment games offer interesting experiences to visitors. The park is scientifically designed and perfect during the summer heat.

Eco park:

The park situated near city corporation building where the lighting and fountain arrangements are impressive and the illuminated optic fiber trees add luster to the beauty. The most attractive thing in the park is the water show with music.

Hava valley:

It is located on the Natham road in the outskirts of Madurai. This place is filled with natural beauty with the hills in the backdrop. It houses a restaurant and also a Modern go-kart track.

Rajaji children park:

It is situated in between the Gandhi museum, and the Tamukkam grounds. It has lots of children play with some hotels like Poonga Arya bhavan and some other eateries shops. Also there are some collection of birds and some Light and music play. This park is run by madurai corporation within its limits.

MGR Race Course Stadium:

It is an athletic stadium which has a synthetic track. Several National Meets are held here and also International Kabadi Championship was held here.