Madurai, the oldest
pilgrimage spot of Tamil Nadu is located on the bank of Vaigai River.
The place is blessed by Lord Shiva for constructing a temple for
himself, on this fortunate occasion some Divine nectar “Madhu" fell
from the knotted locks of Shiva and hence the city was named "Madhurapuri".
Madurai's history starts about 2500 years ago and can be divided
into four periods. It was the capital of the Pandyan Kings and remains
with it till the decline of the empire. Madurai seems to be the
cultural capital of Tamil Nadu and an important part of Tamil Tour.
It is an important pilgrims attraction grabs thousands of devotees
from India as well as abroad.
Prime pilgrimage attractions of Madurai
Meenakshi Temple: Meenakshi temple is a 2000
years old construction, situated at the heart of the old town. Meenakshi-Sundareswarar
temple is successful in attracting Indian and International tourist
all through out the year. It is the finest example of Dravadian art
and architecture. Accurately there remain 985 pillars and each of them
is precisely and exquisitely carved. Being the most revered spot of
Hindu Pilgrimage its gopurams and mandapams covered with an abundance
of multi-coloured images of gods, goddesses, animals and legendary figures.
The temple is also designed with an art museum filled the history and
culture of the old city.
Koodal Azhaar Temple: It is also a significant
ancient temple of Madurai, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. There exists lord
Rama’s Coronation in the intricate woodcarving. Groups of pilgrims
all across the world come to see different postures of lord Vishnu in
different position as sitting, standing and reclining.
Azhagar Koil: Azhagar
Koil is placed just 18 kms northwest of Madurai on a majestic
hilltop. The temple is also dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Pilgrims
from different parts of the state comes to see gold image
of Azhagar travels in the Celestial wedding during the Chithirai
Pazhamudhirsolai: Pazhamudhirsolai, situated
on the same hill of Azhagar Koilthis frequently visited
by pilgrims. The temple is regarded as one of the six abode of
Thirupparankundram: Thirupparankundram is
also considered, as one of the abodes of Lord Sundareshwara,
situated just 8 kms from the cities center. The temple
is widely visited for it’s being a highly unique rock cut structure.
Vaniyur Mariamman Teppakulam: This
gigantic temple tank is run by water from the Vaigai
River. Devotees generally attracted towards the tank
because of its hosting of colorful float festival.
The tank has a mandapam at the middle, preserving Lord