Meenakshi Temple · Verified guide
Madurai Meenakshi Temple: Complete Visitor Guide
The Meenakshi Sundareswarar temple stands at the heart of old Madurai on the southern bank of the Vaigai. Its 14 gopurams, Golden Lotus Tank and Thousand Pillar Hall make it one of India's most visited temples.
Changing information reviewed · Official sources separated from planning guidance
Quick answer
The temple opens early morning (around 5 am), closes from 12:30 pm to 4 pm, and stays open till about 9:30 pm. General darshan is free; special darshan tickets cost extra. Mobile phones, cameras and bags are not allowed inside, and clothing must cover shoulders and legs.
Key facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Deities | Goddess Meenakshi (Parvati) and Sundareswarar (Shiva) |
| Location | Southern bank of the Vaigai, central Madurai, Tamil Nadu |
| Gopurams | 14 towers; the tallest, the southern gopuram, rises about 52 m (170 ft) |
| Golden Lotus Tank | Porthamarai Kulam, about 50 m × 37 m |
| Thousand Pillar Hall | Has 985 carved pillars and an art museum |
| Main festival | Chithirai Thiruvizha with Meenakshi Thirukalyanam (April–May) |
| Managed by | Tamil Nadu HR&CE Department |
Before you go
- Leave your phone, camera and bag at the cloakroom or your hotel; they are not allowed inside.
- Wear clothes that cover shoulders and legs. Dress code and rules
- Avoid the afternoon closing (about 12:30 pm–4 pm).
- Allow at least two hours to see the temple, more on festival days.
Plan your trip
Timings
Opening hours, darshan periods and the best time to go.
Read guideChithirai festival
Madurai's biggest festival and the divine wedding.
Read guideMadurai + Rameswaram
A two-day plan for both temples.
Read guideWhere to stay
Hotels near the temple.
Read guideBook travel to Madurai
Fix your darshan first, then book the journey with buffer on both sides.
Frequently asked questions
What are Meenakshi temple timings?
The temple opens early in the morning (around 5 am), closes from about 12:30 pm to 4 pm, and is open in the evening until about 9:30 pm. Exact times vary slightly between sources; check at the temple.
Are mobile phones allowed in Meenakshi temple?
No. Mobile phones, cameras and other electronic devices are not allowed inside.
Is there an entry fee for Meenakshi temple?
General darshan is free. Paid special darshan tickets give a faster queue.
What is the dress code at Meenakshi temple?
Clothing must cover shoulders and legs. Shorts and similar short clothing are not allowed.
Sources
- Meenakshi Temple (Wikipedia)
- Meenakshi Temple guide, updated Mar 2025 (TravelTriangle)
- Meenakshi temple timings, updated Sep 2026 (Yatradham)
Checked 6 Oct 2026. Rules can change; confirm with the official source before you travel.