Madurai is one of the oldest cities in India and originally traded silk, pearls and spices with Rome before Chennai was even thought of. As a result of its wealth Meenakshi Amman Temple (Sri Meenakshi Temple) was born; a soaring and colourful temple complex fragranced with incense and crowded with pilgrims. Today the temple is both the geographical heart of the city as well as its ritual core. It is arguably one of India’s finest and most intricate temples and without a doubt South India’s most important temple complex. Huge decorative gopurams (gateway towers) surround the inner complex and no fewer than 15,000 people pass through its gates every day, more so on a Friday. Visitors and pilgrims are attracted to its colourful mythological figures, soaring towers and exuberant festivals and processions. The city has become synonymous with Meenakshi, which is why it’s the main basis for our half-day tour. You will also visit the vegetable and flower market, along with Tirumala Navak Palace if time permits. Please note you are unable to take cameras into Sri Meenakshi Temple but you can use mobile phones to take pictures.
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