Meenakshi Amman Temple
We woke up early to beat the queue and the crowd of the Meenakshi Amman Temple, largest temple complexes in Tamil Nadu After leaving our shoes, we entered the 52-metre high southern tower. We strolled for a good 2 hours admiring the magnificent and colourful towers.
Meeting Professor Mohammed Siraj
After an Indian breakfast, we headed for the Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal temple. We struggled to find an auto rickshaw. The Diwali brought so many extra Indian tourists in an already crowded city. As we were waiting for our driver, we met a French teacher. He showed several poems he wrote, so we missed the only taxi we found. It didn't matter. The gentleman, Professor Mohammed Siraj, was so enthusiastic about his passion we enjoyed reading and correcting a few typos in his compositions.
Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal
Constructed by the King Thirumalai Nayak who ruled the Kingdom of Madurai in 17th Century Dravidian-Islamic palace has lost its glory. We ventured in the remains as most sections have been demolished. We left the badly maintained palace and wandered in the streets. India needs to conserve and restore their monuments or in a few years, their heritage will be gone forever.
Sunset Restaurant
To escape the street chaos, we went to the roof of the Sunset restaurant which offers beers and a panoramic view of the temples, the elephant rock and Kodaikanal. We laid back with a kingfisher and let the day run out...
Visiting Meenakshi Amman Temple: Essential guide
- Best Time to Visit: Arrive early (6-8am) to avoid crowds and heat. Temple opens 5am-12:30pm and 4pm-9:30pm. Fridays are especially crowded. Avoid festival days unless you want intense crowds.
- Entry Fees: Indians: Free. Foreigners: ₹50. Camera: ₹50 extra. Keep ticket for museum access. Shoes must be left outside (free shoe storage available).
- Dress Code: Shoulders and knees must be covered. Men: Long pants required. Women: Saree, salwar kameez, or long skirt recommended. Sarongs available for rent (₹20-50) if needed.
- Architecture: 14 towering gopurams (temple towers), tallest being 52 meters. Over 33,000 sculptures adorn the temple. Each tower is covered with painted stucco figures of gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures.
- Photography: Photography allowed with camera ticket (₹50). No photos inside sanctum sanctorum. Best shots: colorful gopuram towers, Hall of Thousand Pillars, and Golden Lotus Tank.
- Time Needed: Allow 2-3 hours to explore properly. Temple complex is vast (14 acres). Audio guides available (₹100) or hire local guide (₹300-500) for historical context.
- Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal: 17th-century palace 2km from temple. Entry ₹50 (foreigners). Sadly neglected - most sections demolished. Worth 30-45 minutes if interested in Indo-Saracenic architecture.
- Evening Ceremony: Attend 9pm ceremony when Lord Shiva is carried to Goddess Meenakshi's bedroom. Beautiful ritual with drums, chanting. Very crowded but worth experiencing.
- Auto Rickshaws: Difficult to find during Diwali and festivals. Use Ola/Uber apps or pre-book through hotel. Agree on meter use or fixed price before departure. Expect ₹50-100 for short rides.
- Rooftop Restaurants: Several restaurants near temple offer rooftop dining with temple views. Sunset Restaurant, Meenakshi Bhavan recommended. Great for evening beer (₹150-250) and panoramic photos.
- Local Interactions: You'll meet interesting locals - poets, artists, guides. Take time to chat. Professor types often hang around tourist spots eager to practice English and share their work!
- Conservation Concern: Many Tamil Nadu monuments are poorly maintained. Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal is deteriorating. Visit now while they're still standing. Support conservation by paying entry fees.
Note:
Meenakshi Amman Temple: Tamil Nadu's Most Magnificent Temple
Inside Meenakshi Temple: 33,000 Sculptures & Painted Pillars
Sunset Views: Meenakshi Temple From Above
Have you visited Meenakshi Amman Temple? What's your favorite Hindu temple in India? Any memorable encounters with local poets or artists during your travels?