Arunachalam to Madurai Meenakshi Temple distance
Arunachalam to Madurai Meenakshi Temple Distance and Travel Cost Guide you plan a spiritual journey in Tamil Nadu, two of the most famous temples are the Arunachalam Temple in Tiruvannamalai and the Meenakshi Amman Temple in Madurai. Many devotees wish to visit both temples on the same trip. Let us look at the distance, travel options, and travel time between these two holy places.
Distance Between Arunachalam and Madurai Meenakshi Temple
The distance from Arunachalam (Tiruvannamalai) to Madurai Meenakshi Temple is about 380 to 400 kilometers by road, depending on your chosen route.
Travel Time
- By car or taxi, it usually takes 7 to 8 hours.
- By Bus, the travel time is around 8 to 9 hours.
- The journey may take 7 to 10 hours by Train, depending on the train route and timings.
Best Way to Travel
- A private car or taxi is the best option if you want a comfortable journey.
- Budget travelers can choose government or private buses.
- Trains are also a good choice if you want to travel overnight.
Why Visit Both Temples
- Arunachalam Temple (Annamalaiyar Temple) is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is famous for the Girivalam (holy walk around the hill).
- Madurai Meenakshi Temple is one of the most beautiful temples in India, and it is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar.
Visiting both temples will give you a complete spiritual experience in Tamil Nadu Arunachalam to Madurai Meenakshi Temple Distance and Travel Cost Guide.
Distance from Arunachalam to Madurai Meenakshi Temple
Travel by Road
Bus Services: Tamil Nadu State Transport (TNSTC) and private buses run from Tiruvannamalai to Madurai. Overnight buses are also available.
Car / Taxi: Hiring a taxi or driving by car is comfortable if you travel with family. You can enjoy the scenic route along the highways.
Bike Ride: Some devotees prefer to ride bikes for a spiritual journey. It is possible, but the long distance requires proper planning.
Travel by Train
Tiruvannamalai has a railway station connected to major cities.
You can take a train from Tiruvannamalai to Madurai Junction (with a change at Villupuram or Katpadi).
From Madurai Junction, the Meenakshi Temple is only 2 km away, and you can easily reach it by auto, taxi, or Bus.
Travel by Flight
The nearest airport to Arunachalam is in Chennai (about 200 km away).
You can take a flight from Chennai to Madurai Airport.
The temple is around 12 km from Madurai Airport, and taxis or buses are readily available.
Travel Options and Cost
By Bus
Government buses (TNSTC) and private buses are available.
Ticket price ranges between ₹400 and ₹700 per person.
Comfortable for budget travel.
By Train
You can take a train from Tiruvannamalai to Madurai Junction.
Sleeper class costs around ₹250 to ₹350, while AC classes cost between ₹600 and ₹1,200.
Train travel is cheaper and safer.
By Car / Taxi
Hiring a taxi costs between ₹5,000 and ₹7,500 one way, depending on the vehicle type.
Travel time is faster and more comfortable.
Good option for family trips.
By Bike or Own Car
Fuel cost for a car (petrol/diesel) will be around ₹2,500 to ₹3,500 one way.
Bike ride fuel cost is about ₹1,000 to ₹1,200.
Best for those who like road trips.
Entry Fee at Madurai Meenakshi Temple
- No entry fee for darshan.
- Special darshan tickets are available at ₹50 to ₹100.
- For VIP darshan, the cost is around ₹200 per person.
Madurai Meenakshi Temple Timings
When you reach Madurai, you can visit the world-famous Meenakshi Amman Temple. Here are the temple timings:
- Morning Darshan: 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM
- Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
These timings may change slightly on festival days or special occasions, so checking locally before your visit is good.
Madurai Meenakshi Temple Nearby Attraction
Madurai, also called the “Temple City of India,” is famous for the beautiful Meenakshi Amman Temple. Many travelers visit Madurai to see this historic temple, but the city has many more places to explore nearby. If you are planning a trip, here are the top nearby attractions around Madurai Meenakshi Temple that you should not miss.
1. Thirumalai Nayakkar Mahal
Located just 2 km from Meenakshi Temple, this palace is a masterpiece of Indo-Saracenic architecture. The grand halls, tall pillars, and beautiful arches will take you back to the royal days of Madurai. The evening light and sound show about King Thirumalai Nayak is also worth watching.
2. Gandhi Memorial Museum
About 3 km away, the Gandhi Memorial Museum is one of the critical Gandhi museums in India. It displays many rare collections, letters, and items used by Mahatma Gandhi. It is a peaceful place to learn about India’s freedom struggle.
3. Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakulam
Just 5 km from the temple, this is a large temple tank connected to Meenakshi Temple. The famous Float Festival (Teppam) is celebrated here, where the idols of Meenakshi and Sundareswarar are taken on decorated boats. It is an excellent spot for photography and evening walks.
4. Koodal Azhagar Temple
Situated around 1 km from Meenakshi Temple, this is one of the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple’s beautiful sculptures and unique three postures of Lord Vishnu (sitting, standing, and lying) make it very special.
5. Alagar Kovil (Azhagar Kovil)
Located about 21 km from Madurai city, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu (Alagar Perumal). Surrounded by the Alagar Hills, it is a scenic and spiritual destination. The Chithirai Festival celebrated here is very popular.
6. Pazhamudhir Solai
Near Alagar Kovil, this temple is one of Lord Murugan’s six abodes (Arupadai Veedu). It is on a hill covered with greenery, making it a perfect mix of nature and spirituality.
7. Samanar Hills
Around 10 km from Madurai, Samanar Hills is a historic spot with ancient Jain caves and stone inscriptions. It is also a good place for trekking and offers a calm environment away from the busy city.
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