Meenakshi Amman Temple : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Meenakshi Amman Temple is in the age-old city of Madurai in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Hailed as one of India’s most revered Hindu temples, it is built around the adopted daughter of a Pandyan King who was named Meenakshi. Here, pilgrims from across the globe are drawn to this magnificent temple but there are some interesting facts that not too many people know about Meenakshi Amman Temple. Here’s our blog on Meenakshi Amman Temple, all about its fascinating history, facts and travel guide.

Interesting Facts About Meenakshi Amman Temple

1. Meenakshi Amman Temple is one of the most important temples in Tamil Nadu and an important pilgrimage site for devotees.

2. It was originally built by Kulasekara Pandya in the 6th century.

3. The temple is over 1300 years old and has been continuously renovated over the centuries.

4. The temple complex has over 33,000 sculptures, including sculptures of 1000 gods.

5. The imposing 12 gopurams, four of which stand at the four corners of the temple.

6. The vibrant colors on the walls and gopurams are due to organically pigments.

7. Devotees from all around the world come to the temple to take a dip in the temple tank and offering prayers.

8. Every April, the Meenakshi Tirukalyanam, a festival dedicated to the goddess, is celebrated at the temple.

9. According to legend, the goddess Meenakshi was born here in the temple.

10. Tourists can also visit the nearby Thiruparankundram Temple and Panchmikabhava Temple, which are also located in the same complex.

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History & Information About Meenakshi Amman Temple

The Meenakshi Amman Temple, located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, is a historic Hindu temple dedicated to supreme goddess Parvati, also known as Meenakshi and her consort, Lord Shiva, known as Sundareswarar (the beautiful God). It is one of the most important temples in India and the largest in Tamil Nadu, covering an area of six hectares (15 acres). The temple has up to 12 towers, with the tallest being the eastern Raja Gopuram tower, rising to 170 ft (52 m).

The temple was built by the Pandya kings between the 7th and the 14th century CE. It was further expanded by Thirumalai Nayakkar, a 17th-century ruler and today the temple complex is a collection of four separate temples: the Meenakshi Amman Temple, the Sundaresvara Temple, the Ganapati Shrine and the Kumarakottam Temple.

The entrance through the grand entrance (Raja Gopuram) brings one to the inner courtyard, bordered by a thousand-pillared hall, or Ayirankal Mandapam, known for its beautiful sculptures. Also within the Temple complex is a tank, the Porthamarai Kulam, in which devotees take a holy dip.

The original Meenakshi Amman Temple was destroyed in the mid-14th century by Malik Kafur, however, it was rebuilt during the Nayakar dynasty, in the 16th and 17th centuries. Today, the temple attracts daily thousands of visitors from across the world and is an important pilgrimage center in South India. It also has great significance in the context of ancient Tamil Sangam literature and is often referred to as the sacred city of Madurai.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Meenakshi Amman Temple

1. When to Visit:

The Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai, Tamil Nadu is open every day from 5:00 am – 12:30 pm and again from 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm. However, the best time to visit is during the festival celebrations such as Chitra Pournami which is held every April-May and Navaratri which is held every September-October.

2. How to Reach:

The nearest major airport to Madurai is the Madurai Airport, located about 15 kilometers from the city center. Madurai is also well-connected by major train lines.

3. What to See:

The Meenakshi Amman Temple is an amazing temple complex filled with beautiful sculptures and architecture. It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Meenakshi, a form of Goddess Parvati, which includes 12 gopurams, or towers, as well as four large mandapams or main halls. Inside the temple, you will find an inner pillared corridor known as the thousand-pillared hall.

4. Where to Eat:

There are numerous restaurants and cafes near the temple. Some popular places to eat include Meenakshi Bhavan, Shanmugha Vilas, Sri Annapoorna, and Hotel Sindura.

5. Where to Stay:

There are many hotels and guesthouses near the temple that suit all budgets and needs. Some of the top-rated options include Hotel Park Plaza, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, and GRT Regency.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Meenakshi Amman Temple

Q. Where is Meenakshi Amman Temple located?

A. Meenakshi Amman Temple is located in the city of Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Q. What is the significance of Meenakshi Amman Temple?

A. Meenakshi Amman Temple is an important Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to the goddess Parvati, also known as Meenakshi. It is one of the most important religious sites in India and is also an important cultural landmark.

Q. What are the opening and closing times of Meenakshi Amman Temple?

A. The temple is open from 4:30 am to 12:30 pm and 4:30 pm to 10:30 pm.

Q. How many gopurams are there in the Meenakshi Amman Temple?

A. There are 12 gopurams in Meenakshi Amman Temple.

Q. Is there an entry fee for Meenakshi Amman Temple?

A. Yes, there is an entry fee of Rs. 20 for adults and Rs. 10 for children.

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