HOME DESTINATIONS Madurai
Gandhi Memorial Museum
Not many people know this, but the city of Madurai has played quite a role in the life of the Nation’s Father Mahatma Gandhi.
The freedom fighter who for many years stood against the colonial rule had many iconic moments in the city of Madurai. It was here that Mahatma Gandhi took a historic step in his fight against untouchability, when he entered the magnificent Meenakshi Temple with Harijans. The Gandhi Memorial Museum represents this and many other important facets of Mahatma Gandhi’s life.
Gandhi Memorial Museum not only offers a glimpse into these aspects of Mahatma Gandhi, but also has quite a bit of historical significance. Originally the palace of Rani Mangammal of the Naick dynasty, this building has seen many rulers over the decades and represents the history of Madurai. Spread over an area of 13 acres, this palace is a fine example of architectural finesse.
The museum has a variety of sections that showcase different aspects of Gandhi’s life, including a blood-stained cloth from the day of his assassination. This piece of cloth, which is said to be a replica of the original cloth, has been preserved carefully in a glass box. Other relics at this section include a letter written by Mahatma Gandhi to Adolf Hitler in which he has address Hitler as a ‘dear friend’.
Did you know that it was during his visit to Madurai, that Mahatma Gandhi decided to adopt the khadi loincloth as his permanent attire? Learn more about the Father of the Nation through a visit to this must-see place in Madurai.
Good to Know:
Location: 4.5km from Sterling V Grand Madurai
Timings: 10AM – 1PM; 2PM – 5PM | Open on all days except Fridays
Entry Fee: Free; INR 50 for camera.
Time Required: 1- 2 hours
Other Attractions
Madurai Meenakshi Temple
1 hrDedicated to the Goddess Meenakshi – a form of Parvati – the Madurai Meenakshi Temple is the outstanding feature of the ancient temple city of Madurai.
Jallikattu
1 hrThe traditional and radically different Indian alternative to the famous Spanish sport of bull fighting, Jallikattu is a sport played as a part of the celebrations during the harvest festival of Pongal.
Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal
2 hrsBuilt in 1635, by the King Thirumalai Nayak who had the vision of creating a masterpiece of a royal residence, it was designed for the king by an Italian architect.
Saint Mary’s Cathedral
2 hrsSt. Mary’s Cathedral, Madurai, also known as the Church of Our Lady of Dolours, is one of the most popular churches not only in Madurai but also in Tamil Nadu.
Kazimar Big Mosque
2 hrsSaid to be the first Islamic place of worship in Madurai city, Kazimar Big Mosque was built in 13th century by a descendant of Prophet Muhammad, Hazrat Kazi Syed Tajuddin who had visited the city from Yemen.
Wholesale Banana Market
1 hrAre you bananas for bananas? Then you must visit the Wholesale Banana Market in Madurai.
Thiruparankundram Subramaniya Swamy Temple
2 hrOne of the 6 temples of the ‘Arupadaiveedu’, dedicated to Lord Murugan, the Thiruparankundram Subramaniya Swamy Temple is one of the most prominent religious shrines in south India.
Vilachery Pottery Village
3 hrsA 30-minute drive from Madurai will take you to the fantastic and quaint village of Vilachery, best known as a pottery village where almost every single one of the 200 homes belongs to pottery artisans.
Meghamalai
2 hrsLooking for a gorgeous day-trip from Madurai? Look no further than Meghamalai!
Pazhamudhircholai Murugan Temple
2 hrsOne of the six important abodes of Lord Murugan – otherwise known as the ‘Arupadaiveedu’ - the Arulmigu Solaimalai Murugan Temple is located on the Pazhamudhircholai hill, north of Madurai.
Vaigai Dam
2 hrsBuilt across the river Vaigai, the Vaigai dam is one of the premier picnic spots in the area. The Vaigai dam itself is a lifeline for the people of Madurai, Theni and Dindgul.
Chettinad Maharaja’s Palace
2hrsAlso known as the Kanadukathan Palace, this architectural wonder is a perfect example of traditional Chettinad Architecture.
Samanar Hills
2hrsSamanar hills are a beautiful blend of nature with history. Declared as a protected monument by the Archaeological Survey of India, these hills are associated with Jainism and Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions depict various facets of the religion.
Athisayam Theme Park
4hrsIf you’re looking for a fun day out with family or friends, head to the Athisayam Theme Park in Madurai.
The Madurai Food Experience
2hrsFood and Madurai are so synonymous that it draws foodies from around the globe. The food in Madurai has evolved over centuries.