If you have been stunned by the rich heritage and
architectural splendor of Madurai, hold on, the city has much more to
offer. There are a number of tourist places around the temple city, to
make your trip memorable. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city,
these excursions not only provide relief but also rejuvenate your senses
completely. So pick up your bags and move on to explore some of the most
popular as well as the most exotic locations of the India.
Vaigai Dam
Vaigai dam is a popular picnic spot, situated at a distance of 69 km
from Madurai. The place is a unique blend of artificial as well as
natural beauty. There are manmade gardens on one side and mountains and
the river on the other. Tourists flock the picturesque place on Sundays,
when the dam is beautifully illuminated.
Kumbakkarai Water Falls
Located amidst the splendid beauty of the Kodai Hills, the Kumbakkarai
Water Falls lie at a distance of 105 km from Madurai. These falls serve
as a perfect destination for trekkers. Enjoying the scintillating water
of the falls and then exploring the pristine beauty of the woods is a
unique experience.
Courtallam
One of the major excursions around Madurai is the city Courtallam. It
lies 160 km from the temple city and is famous for its waterfalls.
Popularly known as the 'Spa of the South', it is blessed with immense
natural beauty. A panchayat town, it is situated on the Western Ghats of
India, at a height of about 167 m.
Kodaikanal
Situated at a distance of 120 km from Madurai, Kodaikanal is a
picturesque hill station of South India, nestled amidst the Pali Hills.
At an altitude of 2133 meters (7,000 feet), the mesmerizing scenic
beauty of the place enchants the tourists.
Megamalai
Megamalai is located on the slopes of the Western Ghats, amidst the
lush green Tea plantations and Cardamom estates. It is popularly called
'High Wavy Mountains'. It is a cool and misty mountain range and lies at
a distance of 130 km from Madurai.
Palani Hills
Located at a distance of 122 km from Madurai, Palani Hills are of great
religious importance for Hindus. The major attraction of the hills is a
temple, dedicated to Lord Subramanya. The temple is situated on top of a
hill, reached by a flight of 659 steps.
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Periyar National Park is located at the Tamil Nadu-Kerala border in
India. This Tiger Reserve lies 155 km from Madurai and is host to many
animals and birds. The Park came to existence because of the love of the
Maharaja of Travancore for nature.
Suruli Falls
Situated amidst rich flora fauna, Suruli Falls serve as a perfect
picnic spot. They lie on the way to Periyar National Park, at a distance
of 123 km from Madurai. The falls originate from the Megamalai hills and
descend from a height of 150 feet.
