Weekend Escape to Madurai: Explore the City of Temples, Madurai, India

Madurai is often called the Soul of Tamil Nadu. It is one of India’s oldest continuously inhabited cities and a fascinating weekend destination for anyone interested in temples, local culture, and South Indian cuisine. From the tall Meenakshi Amman Temple to the lively markets and traditional eateries, this city is an unforgettable mix of history and spirituality.

I spent a few days in Madurai and in this article, I share my personal tips and favourite spots to help you plan a smooth and inspiring 2-day trip to Madurai. Whether you’re drawn by ancient architecture, unique rituals, or authentic Tamil food, this itinerary will help you make the most of your time in the city.

Madurai is well-connected by air, rail, and road. It is easy to reach for a weekend getaway. The city is served by Madurai International Airport (IXM), with direct flights from major cities like Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi. If you prefer travelling by train, Madurai Junction is a major railway in Tamil Nadu. There are frequent trains from Chennai, Coimbatore, Trichy, and Rameswaram. For road trippers, Madurai is accessible via national highways and is a 6-hour drive from Chennai or a 4-hour drive from Rameswaram or Trichy. Whether you’re flying in or taking a scenic train ride, getting to Madurai for a 2-day trip is convenient and hassle-free. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).