Meenakshi Amman Temple
Also known as Meenakshi Sundareshwarar Temple
Meenakshi Amman Temple, the living heart of Madurai, honours Meenakshi and Sundareshwarar beneath fourteen gopurams covered in painted stucco figures.
Photos of Meenakshi Amman Temple
- Presiding Deity
- Devi
- Established
- 6th century CE (present form 16th–17th c.)
- Architecture
- Dravidian
- Address
- Madurai Main, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625001
- Timings
- 05:00–12:30, 16:00–22:00 daily
History of Meenakshi Amman Temple
Believed to have been founded by Kulasekara Pandya. The present structure was rebuilt by the Nayak rulers after the Delhi Sultanate sack, with expansion continuing through the 17th century.
Festivals Celebrated at Meenakshi Amman Temple
- Chithirai Festival
- Avani Moola Utsavam
- Navaratri
How to Reach Meenakshi Amman Temple
Madurai has its own airport and is well connected by rail to Chennai, Bengaluru and Trivandrum. The temple is a short auto ride from the station.
Frequently Asked Questions about Meenakshi Amman Temple
Where is Meenakshi Amman Temple located?
- Meenakshi Amman Temple is located at Madurai Main, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625001, in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Meenakshi Amman Temple?
- The presiding deity at Meenakshi Amman Temple is Devi (also known as Shakti, Durga), worshipped in the Shakta tradition.
What are the timings of Meenakshi Amman Temple?
- Meenakshi Amman Temple is generally open 05:00–12:30, 16:00–22:00 daily. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Meenakshi Amman Temple built?
- Meenakshi Amman Temple was established 6th century CE (present form 16th–17th c.). Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Meenakshi Amman Temple?
- Meenakshi Amman Temple is built in the Dravidian style, characteristic of Devi shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Meenakshi Amman Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Meenakshi Amman Temple include Chithirai Festival, Avani Moola Utsavam, Navaratri. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Tamil Nadu and beyond.
How can I reach Meenakshi Amman Temple?
- Madurai has its own airport and is well connected by rail to Chennai, Bengaluru and Trivandrum. The temple is a short auto ride from the station.
Why is Meenakshi Amman Temple significant?
- Meenakshi Amman Temple, the living heart of Madurai, honours Meenakshi and Sundareshwarar beneath fourteen gopurams covered in painted stucco figures.
Is there an entry fee at Meenakshi Amman Temple?
- Entry to the main shrine of Meenakshi Amman Temple is generally free for darshan. Special sevas, abhishekams and priority queues may carry a nominal fee — check with the temple office on arrival.
What is the dress code at Meenakshi Amman Temple?
- Meenakshi Amman Temple follows the traditional dress code observed at Tamil Nadu temples — modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Many shrines in the region also expect men to remove upper garments before entering the sanctum.