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Madurai Walking Trail: Discover Ancient Stories of Gods, Kings, and Everyday Customs
4.8
21 Ratings
Madurai
Embark on a captivating walking trail in Madurai and uncover the ancient tales of gods, kings, and everyday customs. Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of this enchanting city.
Duration:
3 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
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Highlights
- Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple - We walk through the bylines around this prominent temple that is at the heart of Madurai city. This tour does not take you into the temple.
- Puthu Mandapam - We walk past this 350 year old monument that is literally called the ‘New Hall’ in Tamil. We stop at the large Nandi statue, the Rayagopuram behind this hall, and walk up to the Vittavasal and the iconic Pattuthoon.
What's Included
- Bottled water
- Beverages
- Professional guide
What's Not Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Additional Information
Embark on a leisurely stroll through the historic city of Madurai as we unravel tales hidden within common scenes. We’ll share narratives of divine figures and their magnificent constructs, alongside tales of past monarchs who shaped Madurai. You’ll also gain insights into many common traditions and rites that continue to be practiced on the streets of Madurai today.
- Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Not recommended for child aged 6 and under
- Dress conservatively keeping knees and shoulders covered for both men and women
Location
North Tower, Arulmigu Meenakshi Amman Temple
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
4.8
(21 Ratings)
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Liz
Mar 25, 2023
Excellent walking tour - We did an early morning walk in the lanes around the temple learning about the history, mythologies and religion. Swarna was a fascinating guide and took us at just the right pace, explaining everything clearly and with humour. Many memorable moments and little details that brought it all to life. Highly recommended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Davidpollock1000
Mar 18, 2020
Excellent Tales! - Excellent Tales! My charming storyteller was articulate, amusing and professional...she enlivened my visit to Madurai hugely and I commend this experience to anyone interested in the mythological roots of modern India
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jrmf-l-2020
Mar 4, 2020
Once upon a time in Madurai - What a lovely way to see the city of Madurai in a different light, to understand a little of its history and culture through stories beautifully told by our guide, Priya, in the atmospheric streets around the temple. It was a really special evening, thanks.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Dashlife
Feb 20, 2020
Excellent trail! - We got off to a 7am start outside the North exit of the Meenakshi Temple when it was cooler and not busy. Our guide, Swarna, was an excellent storyteller for our small group of 3. She brought great context and understanding of Hinduism through the lens of Madurai culture and customs. And good humour! She also helped me get appropriate medical attention for a foot infection. Thanks again, Swarna!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
88beverleys
Feb 18, 2020
Home cooking experience is great - Spice trails in Madurai was an interesting visit to a house to learn about cooking. We made a drink if ginger, green chilli, yogurt, salt, water (coriander and curry leaves churned) and garnished with coriander and curry leaves. Delicious. We loved doing the home cooking in the host’s own house. Such a good vibe for an authentic experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Flyer661462
Feb 8, 2020
Not to miss! - Don't just visit the temple, when in Madurai, because this tour takes you into the small alleys around the famous monument. Lots of stories there, great tour, wonderful guide. I really enjoyed ist, thank you Swarna!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Grahamb771
Feb 7, 2020
A really enjoyable and informative walk - Swarna was our guide for the tour and was superb.
It is all well planned and executed, from placing the booking, to having a sign at the meeting point so that you can be sure you are in the right place, to the earpieces they provide so that you can hear all that your guide says and breakfast at the end.
The group was us and one other couple and we found that there was plenty of opportunity to ask questions, which Swarna was superb at answering.
Really glad we chose to do this tour - highly recommended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Cate
Jan 29, 2020
A must do in Maduai - for foodies and everyone else!!! - This is a great way to see Madurai and to find some excellent and safe food when there. We tried delicious foods that we would not normally have tried. Everywhere Praveena took us to was excellent and the food, snacks and drinks were delicious. There are lots of courses and snacks to try to pace yourself to fit it all in! Praveena gave us the background and ingredients to each dish which was fascinating. Super highly recommended. Praveena was a wonderful guide and host to her city
Review provided by Tripadvisor
826pauls826
Jan 25, 2020
Entertaining and informative - I really enjoyed my tour with Swarna who bubbled with enthusiasm telling her tales about the history of Madurai, its myths and customs.
Her stories helped put the temple in context when I visited the next day.
I really enjoyed the pace and wit of the tour.
Great value for money.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Gianugoturista
Jan 29, 2020
A different way to see an South-Indian temple city - A very entertaining visit to the surrounding area of the main Madurai temple, with a mix of local history, legends and the never-ending adventures of Hindu gods. Great to discover hidden corners, such as the Jain temple and the 11 pillars. The guide was very kind and used her voice skillfully to enhance the presentations.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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