Madurai, in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu, is an energetic, ancient city on the Vaigai River. The 14 colourful gopurams (gateway towers) of Meenakshi Amman Temple dominate the city’s skyline. The Dravidian-style temple, which is covered in bright carvings of Hindu gods, is a popular pilgrimage site. Millions of people flock to the Chithirai Festival in April to celebrate Meenakshi and Lord Vishnu.
