Amma Mandapam Bathing Ghats is a historic and sacred site in the heart of Madurai in Tamil Nadu. It is one of the city's oldest and most important bathing ghats and is visited by thousands of devotees every day. The ghat is situated on the Vaigai River's banks and is considered one of the city's most sacred places.
The history of Amma Mandapam Bathing Ghats dates back to the 17th century when the Nayak dynasty ruled the city of Madurai. King Thirumalai Nayak built the ghat to provide a place for devotees to take a holy dip in the Vaigai River. The British later expanded and renovated the ghat in the 19th century.
The ghat is named after Queen Rani Mangammal, known as Amma (mother) by her people. She was a powerful queen who ruled the city of Madurai during the 17th century and was known for her philanthropy and charity.
The Amma Mandapam Bathing Ghats are divided into two sections - men's and women's. The men's team is on the ghat's left side, while the women's team is on the right. The ghat is open from early morning until late evening and is a popular destination for tourists and devotees.
One of the main attractions of Amma Mandapam Bathing Ghats is the annual float festival, which is held in January or February every year. During the festival, idols of Lord Sundareswarar and Goddess Meenakshi are taken on a procession on a decorated float that devotees pull through the streets of Madurai. The festival attracts thousands of devotees worldwide and is a grand celebration of the city's culture and traditions.
Meenakshi Amman Temple is a historic and famous Hindu temple just a few minutes from the Amma Mandapam Bathing Ghats. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and is known for its intricate carvings, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.
Thirumalai Nayak Palace:
Thirumalai Nayak Palace is a 17th-century palace just a few kilometres from the Amma Mandapam Bathing Ghats. The court is known for blending Dravidian and Islamic architecture and is a popular destination for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
Gandhi Memorial Museum is a museum dedicated to the life and works of Mahatma Gandhi. The museum is about 2.5 kilometres from the Amma Mandapam Bathing Ghats and houses several galleries, including a section on the Indian freedom struggle.
Vaigai Dam is a popular tourist spot about 7 kilometres from the Amma Mandapam Bathing Ghats. The dam is built across the Vaigai River and offers a scenic view of the surrounding hills and forests.
Koodal Azhagar Temple is a popular Hindu temple about 3 kilometres from the Amma Mandapam Bathing Ghats. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and is known for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.