Meenakshi Amman Temple
Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India
Welcome to the magnificent Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, Tamil Nadu! This ancient temple, also known as Meenakshi Sundareswarar Temple, is like a giant, colorful storybook. Imagine thousands of years of history etched into towering gateways and vibrant sculptures! It's a must-see destination for any India travel and tourism enthusiast.
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Top Activities in Meenakshi Amman Temple
- 1
Admire The Intricate Gopuram Carvings.
- 2
Attend A Temple Ceremony.
- 3
Explore The Hall Of Thousand Pillars.
- 4
Take A Dip In The Golden Lotus Tank.
- 5
Visit The Meenakshi Nayakkar Mandapam.
Detailed Information
Best Time to Visit
October to March
When to visit place on the day
Early Morning
Approximate expense
₹500 per person
History
The history of the Meenakshi Amman Temple dates back to the 6th century CE, although the current structure is largely attributed to the Nayak rulers of Madurai who rebuilt and expanded the temple in the 16th and 17th centuries. Legend says that Lord Indra discovered a Shiva lingam in this area and built a small shrine. The Pandyan kings further developed the temple. The temple was significantly damaged during the invasion of Malik Kafur in the 14th century, but was later rebuilt by the Nayaks. Thirumalai Nayak played a crucial role in shaping the temple's present form, adding several mandapams (halls) and gopurams. The temple has been a center of learning and cultural exchange for centuries, preserving and promoting Tamil traditions.
