Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai is a living symbol of South Indian temple architecture and devotion. Dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi (Parvati) and her consort Sundareswarar (Shiva), it is famed for its 14 intricately carved gopurams, the Golden Lotus Tank, and the 1000-pillar mandapam with an art museum. The temple has ancient origins but was expanded by the Nayak rulers in the 16th–17th centuries. Daily rituals, vibrant sculptures, and the grand Chithirai Festival celebrating Meenakshi’s celestial wedding make it a spiritual and cultural epicenter.
Darshan & Daily Rituals
Temple opens with Thiruvanandal Pooja.
General darshan is open. Morning rituals are performed.
Temple is closed for Uchikkala Pooja (midday rituals) and cleaning.
Temple reopens for evening darshan.
Sayarakshai Pooja (evening prayer) is performed. Darshan continues.
General darshan continues.
Ardhajama Pooja (final night rituals) and closing ceremony.
General Darshan
Free queue-based entry for all. Access to inner sanctums is restricted to Hindus.
Special Darshan
Paid ticket for a separate, faster-moving queue for quicker entry.
Sundareswarar
Shiva, consort
Murugan
Son
Vinayaka
Guardian deity
Chithirai Festival
The grand annual 12-day spring festival celebrating Meenakshi’s divine marriage with Sundareswarar; attended by lakhs of devotees.
Navaratri
A nine-day festival celebrating the Goddess with cultural programs, music, dance, and special pujas at the Kolu Mandapam.