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Madurai Junction - new look
Yali carved in stone
Sri Meenakshi Sundareshvara Temple
Marret Street, behind Royal Court hotel
Can anyone guide me the fastest way from Madurai to Kochi?
Detailed information appreciated.
Fastest way is by bus or by charted car.
There seems only one direct train that arrives in Cochin at odd hours.
There is so far no direct flights connecting directly form Madurai to Cochin.
The temple was originally constructed in the 7th through 10th centuries. . .newer sections date from the 14th to 17th. This is an amazing place to spend time people watching. . .there is a constant buzz of activity. We were able to stay long enough to see Sundareshwara (Shiva) taken to Meenakshi's shrine. . .the procession takes place every evening ~ fascinating!
The Meenakshi complex has 12 gopuras (gateways) with plaster carvings. The figures are fixed, painted and re-blessed every 12 years.
There are some pretty fierce images on the gopuras ~ acting as guardians ~ check out the character in the bottom left corner of the photograph. Yes, those are intestines he's pulling out. . .
As elaborate as the detailing of the exterior of the Sri Meenakshi Temple is, don't forget to keep your eyes open for decoration where you least expect it. The Ayirrakal Mandapa, or Thousand-Pillared Hall, has 985 columns sculpted with lions and other animals. There is also a beautifully painted ceiling to boot.
Approximately 8km south of Madurai is a large rock in arid land. On one side of the rock is a Pandyan rock-cut shrine dating back to the 8th century.
Figures directry carved out of the rock face are found in and out of the shrine walls. Scripture, animal figures and game etched on the rock are also found on the rock and the floor of the shrine interior.
Today, a Hindu temple is situated atop the hill where it is believed to be one of six adobes of Lord Subramanya.
Within Meenakshi temple is a thousand-pillar hall now converted into a museum. Among the pillars, some are said to produce "music" when tapped.
Museum contains photos describing the temple history and festivals, remains of earlier wall decoration i.e., paintings and wood carvings.
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