Madurai : Sri Meenakshi temple (camera Rs 30) is the landmark of Madurai with gopurams (towers) covered with breathtaking profusion of colourful images of gods, goddesses, animals and mythical figures (30 million sculptures). The 6 hectare temple has 12 highly decorated gopurams of which the 50 m high southern gopuram is the tallest. The Puthu Mandapam in the east forms a long and impressive entrance hall that leads to the eastern gopuram.

Long corridors leads to the gold topped Meenakshi shrine. Temple art museum is housed in the 1000 pillared hall. It contains friezes and stone and brass images, as well as one of the best exhibits of Hindu deities. Rooftop view from the nearby road (North Chitrai St.) is superb.

The nearby Madurai market and Flower market are worth a visit.

Tirumala Nayak palace : The Indo-Saracenic palace (1.5 km from temple, Admission Rs 5) has a 75 m * 52 m rectangular courtyard called Swargavilasa and a dance hall.