Private Tour - Madurai Half Day City Sightseeing with Rickshaw Ride

Madurai , India

Private Tour - Madurai Half Day City Sightseeing with Rickshaw Ride

Active

3h - 4h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Madurai is an ancient city that is situated in the South state Tamil Nadu, India. It is the earliest recorded civilisation and there is evidence that there was human settlement here dating back to 300 BC. The town is built around the Meenakshi Temple. It is well known for various reasons one of them being the historical monuments like the Meenakshi Amman Temple and Tirumalai Nayak Palace. Madurai has also contributed a lot to Indian literature with its rich and abundant literary tradition. On your visit here admire the Dravidian style of architecture as you pay pilgrimage to Meenakshi temple. The pillars outside the temple are erected so cleverly that they one can hear different notes when touching them. Thirumalai Nayak palace is known as the living palace of the Nayak Kings, it was built in the 17th century and is a beautiful construction with several pillars and domes around. With only a fourth portion of this marvel surviving.

Available options

Private Tour - Madurai Half Day City Sightseeing with Rickshaw Ride

Pickup included

What's included

English Speaking Local Guide

Rickshaw Ride from Tirumalai Nayak Palace to Meenakshi Amman Temple

Pickup & Drop from the Hotel

Private Chauffeur driver Air Conditioned Vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Thirumalai Nayak palace is known as the living palace of the Nayak Kings, it was built in the 17th century and is a beautiful construction with several pillars and domes around. With only a fourth portion of this marvel surviving the beauty that it must have been before its destruction can only be left to the imagination.

Later on enjoy your ride by Cycle Rickshaw from palace to Temple through the local market

Stop 2

The town has developed encircling Meenakashi Amman temple built in the Dravidian style -one for Lord Shiva and the other for his spouse Meenakashi. It is one of the masterpieces of Dravidian architecture and one of the most important active temples in India. Dedicated to Meenakshi, a form of Parvati known as "the one with fish-shaped eyes", the wife of Shiva, in its Sundareshwara form, it has two shrines, one for each of the gods. It is one of the most visited holy places in India and attracts pilgrims who come to marry or purify themselves there. The pillars in 1000 Pillar Hall inside the temple are erected so cleverly that they one can hear different notes when touching them.

The temple will be usually open from 0500 hrs to 1230 hrs and 1600 hrs to 2030 hrs

What's not included

Food & Drinks

Monument Entry fees - INR100/person

Gratuities

Temple Entry fees

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We can meet you at the entrance of Tirumalai Nayak Mahal

About Madurai

Madurai is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and magnificent temples. Known as the cultural capital of Tamil Nadu, it offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and vibrant modern life.

Top Attractions

Meenakshi Amman Temple

One of the most famous temples in India, dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Shiva.

Historical/Religious 2-3 hours Free (Dress code applies)

Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal

A 17th-century palace built by King Thirumalai Nayakkar, showcasing Indo-Saracenic architecture.

Historical 1-2 hours INR 50 (Foreigners: INR 500)

Gandhi Memorial Museum

A museum dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi, housing a collection of his personal belongings and artifacts.

Museum 1 hour INR 10 (Foreigners: INR 100)

Koodal Azhagar Temple

A historic temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its unique architecture and religious significance.

Religious 1 hour Free (Dress code applies)

Viruppann Varadharaja Perumal Temple

A beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, known for its intricate carvings and religious significance.

Religious 1 hour Free (Dress code applies)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Idli and Sambar

Steamed rice cakes served with a lentil-based vegetable stew.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Dosa

A thin, crispy crepe made from fermented rice and lentil batter.

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian (can be made vegan)

Pongal

A savory rice dish cooked with lentils, ghee, and spices.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Jigarthanda

A refreshing drink made with milk, almond gum, and soda.

Drink Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Kodaikanal Boating in Kodaikanal Lake Spa treatments Beach visits in Rameswaram Temple visits Local festivals Beach activities in Rameswaram None

Best Time to Visit

October to March

This is the best time to visit Madurai as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

20°C to 35°C 68°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Tamil
Widely spoken: English, Hindi
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Indian Rupee (INR)

Time Zone

IST (GMT+5:30)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Madurai is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid scams and petty theft.

Important Precautions:

• Use app-based taxis for safer travel.
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help.
• Keep valuables secure.

Getting there

By air

Madurai Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Madurai Junction

By bus

Mattuthavani Integrated Bus Terminus

Getting around

Public transport

The city bus service is affordable and covers most parts of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Ola, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Maravapalayam KK Nagar Simmakkal

Day trips

Kazhugumalai

150 km from Madurai • Half day to full day

A small town known for its ancient cave temples and rock-cut sculptures.

Kodaikanal

120 km from Madurai • Full day to overnight

A picturesque hill station known for its scenic beauty and pleasant climate.

Rameswaram

164 km from Madurai • Full day to overnight

A pilgrimage town known for its ancient temples and beautiful beaches.

Festivals

Chithirai Festival • April-May Meenakshi Kalyanam • January Madurai Music and Dance Festival • January-February

Pro tips

Visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the temple's serene atmosphere.
Try local street food like idli, dosa, and pongal for an authentic culinary experience.
Use app-based taxis like Ola and Uber for safer and more convenient travel.
Carry a reusable water bottle and avoid plastic waste to support sustainable travel.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.