Meghamalai

Looking for a gorgeous day-trip from Madurai? Look no further than Meghamalai!

Meghamalai

Often called the High Wavy Mountains, this mountain range is dotted with cardamom and tea plantations. At approximately 1500 metres above sea level, the cool climate and rich flora and fauna are the biggest draw for many visitors. Meghamalai is also home to India’s 51st Tiger Reserve which was opened in April 2021.

In the heart of the Meghamalai mountains one can spot Vellimalai, or The Silver Mountain. It is right here in this region that the river Vaigai originates, and this place provides an excellent opportunity to spot local wildlife.

 

Good to Know:

Location: 116km from Sterling V Grand Madurai

Other Attractions

Madurai Meenakshi Temple

Madurai Meenakshi Temple

1 hr

Dedicated to the Goddess Meenakshi – a form of Parvati – the Madurai Meenakshi Temple is the outstanding feature of the ancient temple city of Madurai.

Jallikattu

Jallikattu

1 hr

The 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

Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

2 hrs

Built 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

Saint Mary’s Cathedral

2 hrs

St. 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

Kazimar Big Mosque

2 hrs

Said 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

Wholesale Banana Market

1 hr

Are you bananas for bananas? Then you must visit the Wholesale Banana Market in Madurai.

Thiruparankundram Subramaniya Swamy Temple

Thiruparankundram Subramaniya Swamy Temple

2 hr

One 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

Vilachery Pottery Village

3 hrs

A 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.

Gandhi Memorial Museum

Gandhi Memorial Museum

2 hrs

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.

Pazhamudhircholai Murugan Temple

Pazhamudhircholai Murugan Temple

2 hrs

One 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

Vaigai Dam

2 hrs

Built 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

Chettinad Maharaja’s Palace

2hrs

Also known as the Kanadukathan Palace, this architectural wonder is a perfect example of traditional Chettinad Architecture.

Samanar Hills

Samanar Hills

2hrs

Samanar 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

Athisayam Theme Park

4hrs

If you’re looking for a fun day out with family or friends, head to the Athisayam Theme Park in Madurai.

The Madurai Food Experience

The Madurai Food Experience

2hrs

Food and Madurai are so synonymous that it draws foodies from around the globe. The food in Madurai has evolved over centuries.