About Madurai Located on the banks of Vaigai River, Madurai is the second largest city in Tamil Nadu. The city, known as the Athens of the East, is globally famous for its "Jasmines". The city, 450 Km south of Chennai, is well connected by air, rail and road. Location & Attractions Meenakshi-Sundareswarar Temple One of the most important Hindu pilgrim spots and an international tourist attraction, the twin temple is located at the heart of the city. It reflects the cultural and religious life of the people of the city. It is said that the people of the city wake up with the chanting of hymns at the temple. This pre-Christian era temple, actually built by Kulasekara Pandya, was in ruins before Tirumalai Nayak who restored this magnificent structure to its original glory. Tirumalai Nayakar Mahal The palace of Tirumalai Nayakar, one of the last Nayak kings, is about 1 km away from the Meenakshi - Sundareshwar temple. This Indo-Saracenic building, constructed in 1523, was originally four times larger than its present size. The most remarkable part of this palace is the Swarga Vilasam or the audience hall. The Swarga Vilasam has a dome that is a true engineering marvel as it, rises to a height of 20 m without any kind of support. Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam This is a tank with a mandapam (covered platform) at the centre, enshrining Lord Vigneshwara. The Float festival is conducted here very year between January and February. The Gandhi Museum The old city palace in Madurai has been dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi. Visiting hours are 10.00-13.00 hrs and 14.00-17.30 hrs. Thirupparankundram Located 8 km from the centre of the city, Thirupparankundram is one of the six abodes of Lord Subramanya. Ancient Koodal Azhagar Shrine This shrine is well known for its sculptures of Vishnu in sitting, standing and reclining postures, placed one above the other. Festival The Chithirai Festival, Festival of Vandiyur Mariamman Temple and the Avani Moolom Festival are the biggest festivals in the city.