3 Best Tourist Attractions in Madurai

Why The Best:
Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal is a majestic destination worth exploring during a tour of Madurai. The Mahal was constructed in 1635 by King Thirumalai Nayak, this palace was envisioned as a masterpiece for royal accommodation. Initially designed as the king's residence by an Italian architect, Thirumalai Nayak Palace boasts foliated brickwork. The Mahal polished texture is achieved through chunam, a shell lime and egg white mixture. A notable feature of the palace is the captivating light and sound show narrating the story of Silappathikaram, held every evening. Declared a national monument immediately after independence, the palace has undergone several stages of restoration over the years. Presently, visitors can explore the entrance gate, the dance hall, and the main hall. Located approximately 3 km from Madurai railway station and 10 km from Madurai airport, Thirumalai Nayak Palace is easily accessible. Tourists can opt for cabs, locally-run auto-rickshaws, or buses that operate at regular intervals to reach this historical site.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• Indo Saracenic Architecture
• History of King Thirumalai.

Why The Best:
Vaigai Dam is a remarkable human-made structure in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Over the years, it has evolved into a favoured picnic destination. The dam is enchanting in the evenings, especially on weekends, offering a splendid view that can captivate visitors for hours. On one side of the dam is a delightful garden named Little Brindavan, meticulously preserved for tourists. This garden showcases a variety of exotic flowers and plants, making it a sought-after retreat for nearby nature enthusiasts. For parents seeking a relaxing time while their kids enjoy, a specially designed play area allows children to have fun in the unpolluted air. Serving as the primary water source for Madurai's drinking and irrigation needs, the Vaigai Dam holds great strategic and political significance. The dam features a musical fountain on weekends and public holidays, adding to its attractions. Vaigai Dam reaches its peak beauty during the monsoon, with a significant rise in water levels and lush greenery extending as far as the eye can see. The picturesque hills on the opposite side of the river and the verdant surroundings of the 111-foot-tall dam further enhance the scenic charm, making it an ideal time to appreciate the splendour of Vaigai.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• No Entry Fee.

Why The Best:
Samanar Hills is locally known as Thiruvuruvagam. The Hill was the dwelling place for Jain monks approximately 2000 years ago. The inscriptions in Tamil and Kannada found here offer valuable insights into the city's history, the monks' way of life, and the laws they adhered to. Within this complex, visitors can observe the stone beds used by the monks for resting, explore two significant caves, and view carvings on the walls depicting their most revered and famous monks. Samanar Hills is adorned with Gomateshwara, Yaksha, and Yakshi sculptures within its premises. This historical site is open for visits throughout the year, and tourists also have the opportunity to explore the nearby Karuppanasamy Temple situated at the foot of the hills. Admission to Samanar Hills is free for visitors. Once used by monks for resting, numerous stone beds are scattered throughout the site. The complex houses two major caves, with Settipodavu being more easily accessible and the Pecipallam cave, containing about eight sculptures, requiring a more challenging climb. The serene location, coupled with the wealth of information on Jain life within the monastery, makes Samanar Hills a worthwhile destination for exploration.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• Famous Place
• No Entrance Fee.