 The Float Festival at Mariamman Teppakulam Mariamman Teppakulam is a beautiful square tank spread over an area of almost 16acres. It is located about 5 kms east of Madurai. This tank is the scene of the colorful float festival held in January/February to celebrate the birth anniversary of king Thirumalai Nayak, who built this tank.
The deities Meenakshi and Sundareswarar are placed in a float, called the "teppam" which is decorated with flowers and illuminated with hundreds of lights. This float is taken around the tank to the sound of traditional music. On the northern side of the tank a temple is dedicated to Mariamman, the village deity of Tamil Nadu.
Chithirai Festival It is celebrated every year on the Full Moon day of the Tamil Month of Chithirai, (April-May). Legend has it that Lord Vishnu, as Azhagar, rode on a golden horse to Madurai to attend the celestial wedding of Goddess Meenakshi to Lord Sundareswarar (Lord Shiva). This festival is marked by solemnity and serenity.
Tourist Festival During this festival there are cultural programmes depicting the ancient traditions and cultural heritage of Tamil Nadu. It is organised by the Department of Tourism within the Thirumalai Nayak Palace, during the Pongal festival. The Tamil Nadu Government also conducts the Chithirai Exhibition for a month, during the Chithirai Festival.
Aavanimoolam Festival takes place during September. It is to celebrate the coronation of Lord Sundareswarar (Lord Shiva). A lila or prayer is performed. The temple priests recite the stories of Lord Shiva and his 64 miracles, which is said to have protected the city of Madurai from adversity.
Kutladampatti Waterfalls is located 36 kms from the Periyar City Bus Stand on the way to Kodaikanal. It is 7 Kms away from Kutladampatti near Vadipatti village. The waters of this fall drops from a height of 87 feet. During holidays and festival days tourists enjoy the natural beauty of this scenic spot and bathe in the waters of the fall. Near the falls is located a 500 years old temple dedicated to Goddes Thadagai Nachiamman.
Navratri Festival for nine nights is held in honour of Goddess Meenakshi in all her forms. The forms embody fury, compassion and wisdom. During this nine-day festival, Goddess Meenakshi is offered nine varieties of cooked rice and nine varieties of flowers.
Pongal Festival also known as the "harvest festival", takes place during the middle of January. The Department of Tourism makes special arrangements for foreign tourists to view Pongal festivities and the famous Jallikattu,which is the Taming of the bull at Alanganallur.
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