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| Pilgrim Centres |
Madurai - The Athens of the East
 Madurai City is the oldest and second largest city in Tamilnadu, which is called Athens of the East because of its historical and cultural importance. It is on the banks of river Vaigai and has been a centre of learning and pilgrimage for several centuries. Greek and Indian documents record the existence of Madurai City from the 4th century BC as the heartland of Dravidian culture, learning and commerce. It was famous for its academy of critics, poets and savants who were highly esteemed by both kings and commoners of that age. |
 Sri Meenakshi Sundareswar Twin Temple is indeed a city within the city. Massive gateways, hall of thousand pillars, each pillar featuring ornate sculptures and corridors with matchless musical pillars are some of the architectural wonders that enchant the visitor. The temple is believed to have been constructed 2000 years ago and substantially expanded 400 years ago during the reign of King Thirumalai Nayak. Lord Siva, in his incarnation as Sundareswar has been enshrined in this temple together with his spouse Meenakshi (The fish-eyed). |
| The temple is usually open between 5.00 am and 12.30 pm and again between 4.00 pm and 9.30 pm. To visit the temple without the distracting crowds around you, a visit in the early morning or in the late evening is recommended. Allow yourself plenty of time to observe and appreciate the thousands of sculptural, artistic and architectural masterpieces in the temple. |
 The Thirumalai Nayak Palace, just 1.5 km from the Meenakshi Temple, was built in 1636 by King Thirumalai Nayak. The absence of the support of rafters and girders in the brick and mortar work is a puzzle even to the modern engineers. Massive white pillars, stuccowork on the domes and arches and polished black stone pillars add to its magnificence. There is a daily sound and light show in English at 6.45 pm and in Tamil at 8.15 pm. |
| Besides these architectural wonders, there are popular places of worship like the Alagar Koil and the Koodal Azhagar Temple, museums like the Gandhi Museum and Government Museum and several centres of learning, meditation, etc., in Madurai city. Modern Madurai is also a centre of much commercial and industrial activity. |
| Veerapandi - The royal temples |
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| The Pandya King Veerapandi of the 14th century is believed to have regained his sight by praying to Gowmariamman and Kanneeswaramudaiyar. He built temples for both these deities at Veerapandi, on the banks of the perennial Mullai River. Hundreds of devotees flock to these temples throughout the year and a grand festival attracts thousands during the month of May. |
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