Mother Earth, besides famous for her ravishing flora and fauna, is also blessed to have the most arresting and eye-catching destinations spread worldwide. When it comes to exploring the most peaceful and fascinating places in the world, one should opt for a country which is a collection of age-old traditions, spirituality, architecture and festivals. We are going to talk about the best places to visit near Madurai – an amazing destination situated in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu.
India is a fusion of cultures and religions which puts tourists – domestic and international – into a state of bewilderment. Countless destinations in this country enchant its visitors so much so that their visits turn into lifetime memories. Travellers seek to preserve all such memories as the momentous moments to be transmitted to future generations.
15 Places To Visit Near Madurai
Madurai is one of the ancient places and a major city in the current context in Tamil Nadu. It is one such place where you find inner peace and contentedness to the most. Flecked with its innumerable temples and spiritual places, it has been a conspicuous destination for all its visitors since centuries.
Here are 15 most beautiful places to visit near Madurai whose striking architecture and religious flash rejuvenate every traveler.
- Meenakshi Amman Temple: Pay A Visit With Fam
- Kodaikanal: The Gift Of The Forest
- Periyar: Largest Tiger Reserve Of India
- Dhanushkodi: The Ghost Town Of Tamil Nadu
- Munnar: Admire Green Vistas
- Rameshwaram Temple: For Spiritual Motivation
- Tuticorin: Explore Rich Wildlife
- Thattekad Bird Sanctuary: Haven For Bird Watchers
- Vagamon: Please Your Eyes With Greenery
- Thanjavur: Buy A Few Handicrafts
- Sivakasi: Residence Of The Shivalingam Of Kasi
- Kolli Hills: Witness The Bucolic Nature
- Alleppey: Admire The Backwaters
- Ooty: Queen Of Nilgiris
- Pondicherry: Nature Lovers’ Paradise
1. Meenakshi Amman Temple: Pay A Visit With Fam
Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for Wikimedia Commons
First on the list of places to see near Madurai is Meenakshi Amman Temple which is a famous temple with lavishing architecture that turns it into an important landmark in Tamil Nadu. The temple has been sculptured in the Dravidian style of architecture. It is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi who is a form of Parvati, besides her consort Sundareshwarar, the form of Shiva. Travellers feel religiously charged and re-impose faith upon arrival here. So, if you are looking for places to visit near Madurai within 50 kms, head to this religious shrine.
Distance from Madurai: 2.3 km
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Major Festivals: Thirukalyanam Festival, Chithirai Thiruvizha Festival
Famous for: Pilgrimage
Places To Stay: Hotel President, Royal Court, Cosmopolitan Hotel, The Madurai Residency, Madurai Kolam
Must Read: 8 Top Resorts In Madurai That Will Make You Wish To Stay Longer In This Temple City!
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2. Kodaikanal: The Gift Of The Forest
Image Credit: KARTY JazZ for Wikipedia
Kodaikanal is known to be a famous honeymoon destination in Tamil Nadu. Its wonderful climate, misty cliffs, mountains covered with clouds, mesmerizing valleys and dazzling lakes brings an intensely wonderful experience for honeymooners. It is located at 2,000 meters above sea level and surrounded by evergreen forests. Meaning of Kodaikanal in Tamil is “The Gift Of The Forest”. Bryant Park is very popular and the beautiful Botanical Garden located at the eastern side to the Kodaikanal Lake.
Distance from Madurai: 116.2 km
Best Time to visit: October to June
Famous for: Scenic environment
Places To Stay: FabHotel Tranquil Heights Kodaikanal, SkyHighVilla, Kodai Resort Hotel, Country Club Valley Vista, Wood green cottage
Things To Do: Night Safari, Boat Ride, Go Birdwatching
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
3. Periyar: Largest Tiger Reserve Of India
Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for Wikimedia Commons
If you are keen to explore natural habitats, then take pleasure in enjoying the Periyar Tiger Reserve. Indeed, it can prove an ultimate option for you to enjoy jungle vacation. Bamboo rafting is also a major attraction and can be enjoyed in the Periyar National Park. Its boundary is stretched into the boundless spice gardens that ease for diverse adventurous sports. Likewise, nature lovers are amused by the extremities of the Anakarra here.
Distance from Madurai: 139 km, via NH85 and NH 183
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Famous for: Elephants and tigers
Places To Stay: Gavi County, L&G Riverview Haven, Cassells Jungle Resorts , Mount Haze Resort Sathram, Aiden’s Abode
Suggested Read: 7 Airports In Tamil Nadu For An Awesome Flying Experience
4. Dhanushkodi: The Ghost Town Of Tamil Nadu
Image Credit: Gouravgola89 for Wikimedia Commons
Dhanushkodi is known to be hit by the largest storms in India. It is a compact and less populated beach town in Tamil Nadu. The famous Dhanushkodi Beach is worth exploring for its white sand. Likewise, another astonishing place which can’t be ignored in Dhanushkodi is Adam’s Bridge. It is said to be a bridge connecting India and Sri Lanka. Ramar Patham Temple is situated at about 20 km from Dhanushkodi where it is believed that a stone has the footprints of Lord Rama.
Distance from Madurai: 191.8 km via NH 87 and Kochi – Madurai – Dhanushkodi road.
Best Time to Visit: October to February
Famous for: Hindu mythology
Places To Stay: Hotel Prakash, Hotel Saara, Hotel Ragavendra Rameswaram, Hotel Sri Ganesh, Hotel Harish
Ideal Duration: 1 day
5. Munnar: Admire Green Vistas
Image Credit: Kondephy for Wikimedia Commons
The tranquil hill station namely Munnar is prominent for tea estates, luxuriant green areas, cliffy peaks and delivering peaceful vibes located in Kerala. This hill station near Madurai is the world’s largest commercial centre for tea and is said to be servicing tea to almost every nook and corner of the world. Several endemic and endangered species including Nilgiri Tahr and Neelakurinji are found in the protected niche of Munnar. Eravikulam National Park is one of the famous national parks here. Similarly, the famous waterfalls – like Lakkam, Attukad and Thoovanam are some of the tourist places around Madurai.
Distance from Madurai: 153.4 km via NH85
Best Time to Visit: September to May
Famous for: Tea plantations
Places To Stay: The Lake View Munnar Resort, Wyte Mist Mountain Club, Le Celestium, Moselberg Riverside Cottages, Kollenkeril Plantation Bungalow
Things To Do: Rock Climbing, Tree House Stay, Trekking
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Suggested Read: 30 Amazing Places In India To Celebrate New Year
6. Rameshwaram Temple: For Spiritual Motivation
Image Credit: Vinayaraj for Wikimedia Commons
If you are seeking spiritual motivation with the sensation of piety besides willing to explore natural beauty as a tourist, then don’t forget a visit the island city of Rameshwaram. It is a perfectly preserved place in Tamil Nadu as part of the captivating Pamban Island. The well-known Pamban channel connects it to India’s mainland. Rameshwaram Temple is popularly known as a place where Lord Rama had built a bridge to Sri Lanka to release his wife Sita from Ravana, the great king of Lanka. You will find about 64 tirthas or holy water bodies in Rameshwaram, wherein a bath is said to wash away your sins.
Distance from Madurai: 172.5 Km via NH87
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Famous for: One of the 12 jyotirlingas
Places To Stay: Hotel Sri Ganesh, Ambika Lodge, Hotel New Island Star – ” Ramanathasamy Temple View, Rightchoicehotels, Hotel Saara
7. Tuticorin: Explore Rich Wildlife
Explore Tuticorin to endure rich wildlife and a unique set of ecosystem. You will fall in love with this place which is famous as a beach town and also one of the busiest ports in the country. Anyone travelling will definitely enjoy the mouth-watering dishes. Enjoy the delicacies of this destination – from South Indian to North Indian – to International cuisines. Plan a visit to the beaches here if you are looking to plunge down your stress levels at places to visit near Madurai.
Distance from Madurai: 150 km via NH38
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Famous for: Pearl fishing
Places To Stay: Regency Tuticorin, Hotel Geetha International, Kani Residency Hotel, SRM Hotel, Mari Ammal Home
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Suggested Read: 15 Romantic Airbnbs In India That Will Make You Fall In Love All Over Again
8. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary: Haven For Bird Watchers
The avid bird watchers and nature lovers can’t miss this destination as it is listed in the top tourist places near Madurai. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary in Kerala hosts a plethora of birds that makes it a bird watcher’s paradise. This Bird Sanctuary is also famous as Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and is full of eloquent birdlife. Over 500 species of birds can be found with rare birds like Wayanad Laughingthrush and Rufous Babbler. Traverse about 10 km to get a glimpse of the beautiful Bhoothathankettu Dam which is also considered as a picnic spot for the travellers.
Distance from Madurai: 217.8 km via NH85
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Famous for: Different species of birds
Places To Stay: Jewel Homes, Blue Wings Resort, Budgies Cottage, Vayal Farm Stay, Sandye Camp
Ideal Duration: 1 day
9. Vagamon: Please Your Eyes With Greenery
An immensely great option for nature lovers, enjoy the serene beauty of lush greeneries and peaceful atmosphere. Vagamon is located about 1100 meters above sea level. It could be your eccentric hill station which is away from other tourist spots. Do plan a visit to Vagamon Pine Forest – an amazing man-made forest used for various movie shootings. It is a great place to breathe in fresh air.
Marmala Waterfalls known for its tranquillity and calmness is quite famous here. It is nestled between the enormous greenery and is a popular tourist spot. You can also plan a visit to the famous Thangal Para pilgrimage center for inner peace. An International Paragliding Festival is also celebrated here at Vagamon each year by AASTA.
Distance from Madurai: 184 km via NH85 and NH183
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Famous for: Green valleys
Places To Stay: The Grasmere, Beyond Pines, Winter Vale Green Stay Resorts, The Kissing Mountains, Spice Green Residency
Things To Do: Trekking, Off Roading, Boat Ride
Ideal Duration: 1 day
Suggested Read:Nightlife In Chandigarh: 25 Best Places To Experience Night Scenes Of The City!
10. Thanjavur: Buy A Few Handicrafts
Image Credit: Karthic Ashokan for Wikimedia Commons
Painting enthusiasts must visit Thanjavur because it is the city of opulence cultural values and is known globally for the Tanjore Paintings. You can witness antiques and handicrafts besides perfect shopping spots to buy sarees and various types of musical instruments. Due to housing several pilgrimage centers, it witnesses the flocking of pilgrims as well. Its magnificent culture and heritage gives a seething impact. Saraswathi Mahal Library is an excellent place for the book lovers.
Likewise, Siva Ganga Garden, Art Gallery and Sangeetha Mahal are popular spots that seek the attention of tourists as tourist attractions. Alangudi Guru Temple is a very well sculptured religious place here.
Distance from Madurai: 189.3 km via NH38
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Famous for: Art and handicrafts
Places To Stay: Hotel Gnanam, Rams Inn, Hyders Park The Business Hotel, Hotel Green Palace, Barnabas Homestay
11. Sivakasi: Residence Of The Shivalingam Of Kasi
Located in the Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu, Sivakasi is popular for its industries, especially fireworks and match boxes. It equally attracts the tourists with its enchanting beauty. Due to the presence of several famous temples at this place, devotees keep flocking here throughout the year. Sivakasi carries the priceless treasures of the ancient sculptures and unique architecture to arrest the attractions of tourists coming from worldwide locations. Different architectural structures reflect the splendour and achievements of modern India. Sri Badrakaliamman Temple, The Parasakthi Mariamman Temple, Ayyanar Falls, Nenmeni and the popular Vembakottai add more sparkle to this region’s beauty.
Distance from Madurai: 78.6 km via NH44
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Famous for: Temples and firecrackers
Places To Stay: Hotel Ajay Residency, Sudesikudil
Suggested Read: 38 Romantic Honeymoon Places In South India
12. Kolli Hills: Witness The Bucolic Nature
Live through the greatest Mountain Ranges and endure the delightful experience of nature in the Kolli Hills in Tamil Nadu’s Namakkal district if you are searching for places to visit near Madurai within 300 kms. The Mountain Ranges spread to almost over 280 sq. km. and are approximately 1,000 to 1,300 m in height. Its captivating natural beauty remains untouched by commercialization that preserves its natural splendour. Arappaleeswarar Temple is a pilgrimage spot here which carries a secret pathway to Lord Shiva Temple at Rasipuram. Masilla Falls and Swami Pranavananda Ashram are other notable attractions that seek the attention of large chunk of tourists.
Distance from Madurai: 214 km via NH44
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Famous for: Waterfalls & natural beauty
Places To Stay: Pepy Madhu Resort, RVR Hotels, RJ Grand Resort, Samy Hotel
Ideal Duration: 2 days
13. Alleppey: Admire The Backwaters
Alleppey is going to take you to the most fascinating and beautiful backwaters, beaches and lagoons in the southern state of Kerala. It is also popular as the ‘Venice of the East’ therefore worth exploring in a lifetime. This place is a spectacular one as popular for its web of interconnecting canals as backwaters besides the revitalizing Ayurvedic Resorts. Beautifully decorated houseboats carry you along the backwaters where you can witness green paddy fields and unique lifestyle of the locals. Alleppey Beach is a famous beach that rejuvenates the souls and lies in the Arabian Sea.
Distance from Madurai: 275 kms via NH85 and NH183
Best Time to Visit: June to March
Famous for: Houseboat cruises
Places To Stay: Malayalam Lake Resort, New Seaside Residency, Nightstay Houseboat, Shalom Villa, La Riva Heritage Villa
Things To Do: Experience Village Life, Nightwalk, Explore Beaches
Ideal Duration: 1-2 days
Suggested Read: Top 51 National Parks In India: A List You Just Can’t Ignore!
14. Ooty: Queen Of Nilgiris
If you are looking for an adventure yet also love nature, then you should plan a visit to Ooty which is known as the “Queen of Nilgiris.” The spellbound beauty of Blue Mountains shall take you to this heaven which is one of the best places to visit near Madurai. It is a perfect picturesque place that nestles between Nilgiri Hills at an altitude of 2,240 meters above the sea level.
Distance from Madurai: 304.2 km via NH44
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the Year
Famous for: Tea plantations
Places To Stay: Ooty White House, Delightz Inn, Paradise Perfect, Greenwood Bungalow, Ooty Castle
Things To Do: Visit Toda Huts And Dolphin’s Nose
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
15. Pondicherry: Nature Lovers’ Paradise
Commonly known as Puducherry or simply Pondy, it is a place full of grandeur and is one of the 7 Union Territories of India. Also known as the French Riviera of the East, it holds the dazzling sights and is regarded as the most endearing beauty of India worth exploring. If you are planning a vacation to South India then you must visit Ponsicherry as it is one of the best places to visit near Madurai.
Distance from Madurai: 333.9 km via NH38
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Famous for: Auroville and water activities
Places To Stay: Royal Grand Residency, Hotel White, White Pearl Residency , King park, Lee Serrnity Apartment
Things To Do: Boat Ride, Bird Watching, Scuba Diving
Ideal Duration: 2-3 days
Further Read: 10 Vegan Indian Food Items That Will Turn You Into A Vegan Overnight
There is something beautiful about Madurai – it is a spiritual and magical destination. Hover around to all the beautiful places to visit near Madurai to complete a peaceful, divine yet adventurous trip. Experience lots of nature, quiet towns and capture whole load of beautiful memories. It’s time to pack your bags today and head to Madurai!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit Near Madurai
What is the best time to trek Kolli Hills?
The Best Time to trek Kolli Hills is post-monsoon – October to February.
How far is the Echo Point located from Munnar?
Echo Point is located at a height of 600 ft. and is about 15 km from Munnar. You can enjoy several adventurous sports there.
What is the best time to visit Adam’s Bridge?
Although the weather is stable throughout the year, still you can enjoy the perfect view from November to March months.
Which are the famous beaches in Alleppey?
Some of the famous beaches in Alleppey are:
1. Alappuzha Beach – Venice of the East
2. Andhakaranazhi Beach
3. Marari Beach
4. Thottappally Beach
5. Thumpoly Beach
6. Punnapra Beach
Which places are near Madurai for one day trip?
Some of the places to visit near madurai in one day are:
1. Kodaikanal
2. Vagamon
3. Munnar
4. Alleppey
5. Ooty
What are the enjoyable places near Madurai?
Some of the places where one can enjoy near Madurai are:
1. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary
2. Pondicherry
3. Kolli Hills
For which items Madurai is famous?
Madurai is famous for delectable food items like Kothu Parotta, Kari Dosa, Elumbu Roast, Idiyappam, and more.
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