About Karaikudi
Madurai to Karaikudi distnce : 88 km
Estimated travel time : 1.5 hours
Madurai to Karaikudi is very popular route for tourism and religion. Karaikudi is famous for its limestone houses that is called โKarai veeduโ.
Karaikudi is situated in Sivaganga district in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is part of the area commonly referred to as "Chettinad". It is believed that town got its name from the plant Karai. Town is known for best educational institutes of country and it is also a hot spot for film makers of South India. Town houses several temples and iconic place. One of famous landmark is Aayiram Jannal Veedu which is a house with thousand windows and very popular among tourists. Other attractions include Karpaga Vinayagar temple at Pillaiyarpatti, Sri Meenakshi-Sundareswarar temple with 108 statues of Ganapathy, Muthu Mariamman Temple, Tamil Thai Kovil, Kamban Manimandabam etc. Karaikudi is also known for local cuisine like cheeyam, kandharappam, llandhosai, masala paniyaram, velliam paniayaram and thaalicha idiyappam.
Taxi from Madurai to Karaikudi is readily available at CabBazar.
Route Information
Madurai to Karaikudi by car is well connected through NH38 and Thiruppathur - Madurai road and is very convenient and comfortable drive. Madurai to Karaikudi distance is 88 Km and is 1.5 hours journey. Other famous tourist places on this route and nearby are :
1. Thirumayam Fort - Situated about 40 kilometers from Madurai, it is a 17th-century fort known for its architectural splendor and historical significance.
2. Chettinad Palace - Located in Kanadukathan, it is a magnificent mansion showcasing the grandeur and opulence of the Chettinad region.
3. Athangudi - Known for its handmade terracotta tiles, Athangudi is famous for its traditional craftsmanship and colorful patterns.
4. Pillayarpatti Vinayagar Temple - Located in Pillayarpatti, this temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is known for its rock-cut architecture and impressive sculptures.
5. Karaikudi Heritage Museum - In the heart of Karaikudi, this museum showcases the rich cultural heritage and unique lifestyle of the Chettinad region.
6. Kundrakudi Murugan Temple - Situated in Kundrakudi, this temple is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is known for its picturesque surroundings and religious significance.
7. Tiruppattur Kasi Vishwanathar Temple - Located in Tiruppattur, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is famous for its intricate carvings and architectural beauty.
8. Kanadukathan - A small village in the Chettinad region, Kanadukathan is known for its beautiful mansions, temples, and authentic Chettinad cuisine.
Tourist Attractions
Chettinad Palace: A magnificent mansion showcasing the grandeur of the Chettinad architecture.
Athangudi Tile Factory: Witness the handcrafting of vibrant, unique tiles using traditional techniques.
Kundrakudi Murugan Temple: A sacred site dedicated to Lord Murugan, known for its exquisite architecture and serene ambience.
Kanadukathan: Explore the heritage village renowned for its well-preserved mansions adorned with intricate carvings.
Pillayarpatti Karpaga Vinayagar Temple: Visit this ancient temple housing a 6-feet tall idol of Lord Ganesha carved out of a single stone.
Alagapuram Rani Palace: An opulent palace boasting Indo-Saracenic architecture and once used by the royal family.
Kamban Manimandapam: A memorial dedicated to Tamil poet Kamban, famous for his rendition of the Ramayana in Tamil literature.
Soorakudi Mariamman Temple: Seek blessings at this temple dedicated to Goddess Mariamman, known for its annual fire-walking festival.
Gandhi Square: A bustling commercial center with shops, restaurants, and a statue of Mahatma Gandhi.