Meenakshi Temple
Meenakshi Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. It is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams — the Shiva temples glorified in the Tevaram hymns of the Nayanmar saints.
The Meenakshi Amman temple defines Madurai: a city-within-a-city of towering painted gopurams, thousand-pillared halls and ancient market streets that grew around it. Dedicated jointly to Meenakshi (Parvati) and Sundareswarar (Shiva), it is one of India's most spectacular living temples, and its shrine of Shiva as Sokkanathar is sung in the Tevaram.
Quick facts
| Deity | Shiva |
| Town | Madurai |
| District | Madurai district |
| State | Tamil Nadu |
| Sacred lists | Paadal Petra Sthalams |
🛵 Day tours: browse temple & heritage tours from Madurai.
Visiting
Most temples in Tamil Nadu open early morning and again in the evening, closing through the midday hours — plan darshan before noon or after 4pm and confirm timings locally, since festival days change everything. Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered), leave footwear at the stands provided, and note that some sanctums admit Hindus only while towers and outer courtyards welcome everyone. Photography rules vary; ask before shooting inside.
Timing a visit? Check today’s panchangam for auspicious windows and festival days, and use our free itinerary builder to slot temples, food and rest into your day.