Madurai Warnings Or Dangers

The temple is open from 5 am to 12.30 pm and from evening 4pm onwards .In between every one is locked out of the main temple .Though you can linger in the shops inside the outer wall,Once you walk out you are not allowed inside till the opening hours.

In summer the heat is unbearable and walking around the temple on the hot stone pavement is an ordeal.Like all temples shoes are not allowed So visit during early morning hours or evenings that way you can relax.

The traffic in Madurai (and everywhere else for that matter) is like nothing I've ever seen. Roads that look narrow even for a single lane of traffic actually handle traffic moving in two directions. Motorcycles zip around and are often pushed to the side of the road by larger vehicles. You'll see everything from bicycles to huge trucks using the roads. The auto-rickshaws, which are a huge presence in the cities and villages, are even seen on major highways. And the only traffic "rule" I ever witnessed being observed was honking before passing another vehicle.

When you add it all up, it's a terribly dangerous environment for pedestrians, especially considering that decent sidewalks are rare. Most of the time pedestrians just share the roads with vehicles. I'm really quite amazed we never saw anyone get hit, though we did see a couple motorcycle accidents during our two-week visit. So be careful, and definitely don't drive unless you simply cannot avoid it.

Be aware that there is quite a strong police presence at the temple entrance and your bag will be searched. Cameras are fine and first aid kits are also allowed (don't be surprised if your asked if you are a doctor!). Penknives are not allowed and will be confiscated and returned when you leave. I left a leatherman with them and it was returned with every gadget opened - they hadn't figured out how to close it and thought it was broken. A situation that was quickly fixed much to the guards relief :)