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Koodal
Azhaar Temple - This is one of the most ancient temples
in Madurai, Koodal Azhagar temple is dedicated to Lord
Vishnu. In this temple he is seen in various postures
sitting, standing, reclining one over the other. There are
intricate woodcarvings in here, including one of Lord Rama's
coronation.
Vandiyur Kanmoy Tourist Complex - This is an ideal
picnic spot with TTDC providing boathouses restaurants
services.
Thirumalai Nayak Mahal - This palace is an excellent
example of Indo-Sarcenic architecture. It was built in 1523
AD and originally was four times larger than what it is
today. The gardens, the defensive wall all have gone and
what remains are the main entrance gate, the dancing hall
and the main hall. Lord Napier renovated the palace in
1866-72 and later further restoration works were carried on.
Today, the main attraction of the palace is light and sound
show, which is based on the life of "Tirumalai Nayak" and "Silapathikaram".
Vanditur Mariamman Teppakulam - This huge tank is
covers an area equal to the six of Meenakshi temple.
Tirumalai Nayak built it in 1646. It is said that channels
from the Vaigai River connect the tank. Today, this tank
remains empty for most of the year except during the Teppam
Festival.
The Gandhi Museum - The museum was initially the
palace of Rani Mangammal. It gives a clear account of the
history of Independence movement of India. This museum also
tells some little known facts about Gandhiji but the real
piece of Gandhi Memorabilia is the blood stained Dhoti,
which he was wearing at the time of his assassination. The
local government museum is also situated over here. The
small bookshop offers plenty of reading material from
Gandhiji's works.
Thirupparankundram - This is one of the abodes of
Lord Sundareshwara, a rock cut temple carved out of a
mountain, just 8-km from the city.
Azhagar Koil - This temple is dedicated to Lord
Vishnu and is located 18-km northeast of Madurai on a
picturesque hilltop. The gold image of Azhagar travels for
the Celestial marriage during the Chithirai festival.
Pazhamudhirsolai - On the same hills of Azhagar
Koilthis is again one of the six abodes of Lord Subramanya. |
