Interesting facts about Meenakshi Amman Temple

Situated in the ancient city of Madurai, the temple city of India is the Meenakshi Amman temple. Home of worship to The Goddess Meenakshi, the avatar of Goddess Parvati. There are many alluring facts about this sacred site.

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Largest Temple Compound in Tamil Nadu

As previously said, this is the temple city of India, and, with no surprise, it holds the largest temple compound in Tamil Nadu. It is also celebrated as among the seven wonders of India.

Location

Situated in the city of Madurai, it’s about 11 Km away from Madurai Airport. Travel by bus or train is also possible, and it is only about 2 Km away from the bus terminal. One can also drive their personal car/taxi from Chennai, which is about 6 hours and 30 minutes drive.

Over 33,000 Sculptures embellish it

This sacred temple has over 14 gateway towers or Gopurams and two beautifully ornate golden Vimanas. All of these sit above the sanctum, with the tallest one being the southern one at about 170 feet high, and over 33,000 sculptures that speak for its beauty. It is also considered the ‘Taj Mahal of the South’ especially because of its deep history and the religious value that this ancient heritage site holds.

The opulent history behind the Goddess Meenakshi

The Goddess was the daughter of a Pandya king, Malayadhwaja, who prayed to Lord Shiva to bless him with a child. He received the child, but she was born with three breasts and a beautiful fish eye. A divine voice prophesied that upon meeting her husband, the third breast would disappear. And it did as foretold upon meeting Sundareswarar, who is a form of Lord Shiva.

An incredible range of magnificent architecture

Among its most renowned is the incredible sculpture of Nataraja built upon a silver altar. Also among the most famous and rich in history is the Meenakshi Nayakkar Mandapam. It consists of rows of pillars stretching across the hallway. Among these, 985 are carved in the devotion of many other prominent Hindu deities like Yali, Shiva, and Ganesha.

Additional Information’s :

Features: The temple complex showcases 12 gopuras (gateway towers) embellished with colorful stucco figures.
Opening Times: 4:00 am to 12:30 pm & 4:00 pm to 9:30 pm, daily
Best Time to Visit: Late October to early March
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Travelled By: Foot
Cost: Temple Art Museum – Indian/foreigner Rs 5/50, camera Rs 50
Address: Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India

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Has a history dating over 2500

The temple’s records date long back all the way to 6 BC. However, its earliest record in the texts is dated to the 14th century the time when it was invaded and looted of its temple treasure. It had gone through renovation many times since, with a complete restoration happening once every 12 years.

Over 15,000 visitors a day

This profound architecture receives millions of worshippers from all over the world every year, with an expected 15,000 visitors on a daily basis. It also generates a massive revenue of Rs. 6 Crore annually from donations.

Largely famous for celebrating The Chithirai Thiruvizha

In the month of April and May, to celebrate the marriage of Meenakshi and Sundareswarar, the festival of The Chithirai Thiruvizha is celebrated with much passion and devotion. It is on the 10th day of Chithirai when the Meenakshi Thirukalayanam is held. This entire festival attracts over a million pilgrims from across the world. They are also quite famous for their celebration of the Kumbhabhishekam following the renovation process.

Conclusion:

The Meenakshi Amman temple is sought with reverence by many Hindu worshippers across India. It holds quite a special place in South India, especially because most temples are dedicated to male deities. If you are looking to explore this monumental architecture, you can plan a trip with Tusk Travel at affordable rates. You can expect complete support and assistance from our company. You can definitely have a good trip experience with us.