Pudhu Mandapam

One of the most historical place in madurai and surrounding so many shops are available there Rushing are so we have to go by bike is good option , four wheeler are not advisable

This is a famous place in Madurai. Previously there was many shops were there. Now the encroachment is removed. I visited at evening. I think day time they allowed the visitor to see the sculptures. Beautiful and very big mandapam. This is opposite to main Swami temple Gopuram. Back side a big Nandhi is erected. Previously this place was a roundana with big well like place.

Nice place to purchase toys and temple pooja items quite different place...

Devine materials and books purchase here.... good place

Puthu Mandapam or pudu Mandapam is just opposite to east tower of Godess Meenakshi temple in Madurai. It is an architectural master piece. The stone sculptures are so beautiful that one can admire the beauty. Though it is neglected and over crowded by shops still looks beautiful. For shopping enthusiasts, one can look for brass, bronze items for pooja, decorative, cooking. Stone vessels, cast iron skillets, stone mortars etc are available at reasonable prices. But bargain... bargain... bargain.

It is an amazing place with lot of wonderful architectural carvings. The place is so cool that Goddess Meenakshi from Meenakshi Amman temple visits this place during summer evenings. It's so true. One can feel the cool breeze inside while it is hot outside. Lot of shops were there before, but it's closed now. But still the ritual is God 's visit continues during summer.

Architectural excellence ! This puthumandapam is made with rocks only. The height is 15 feet+. Each pillar has unique sculptures carved out of it. But, the puthu mandapam is now a shopping area. There are a wide range of shopping items available there ( mainly handicrafts and ornaments related, usual temple views). Some of ethnic items I found interesting. Sadly, this mandapam is not maintained nicely. First impressions itself it's full of dust and densely packed shops. The government should renovate this area, without affecting the lively hood of the business men there.

Puthu Mandapam is near to Meenakshi Mandir in the bazar. It is closed as of now due to some work (probably restoration, we did not see anyone inside though) being carried out by ASI. But from the outside you can see the figurine carved on stone pillars and those are astonishing. Those almost look alive. Beautiful piece of work. Make dure to stop by while in Meenakshi Mandir.