Get Around Madurai

By bus

There are government and private buses that will take you around Madurai and also to places like Munnar, Kodaikanal, Kuttralam etc. For travel within the city, state government owned buses are available. These are heavily crowded during peak hours (around 8:00AM, 1:00PM and 5:00PM), but are cheap with a 5km trip costing you just Rs.3/-. Since most of the route information displayed on the bus will be in Tamil, it is best to take the bus conductor's help before venturing into this mode of transport.

By car

As elsewhere in India, you probably won't be renting a car on your own, but it is possible to hire a car and driver. See the main India article for more.

Average car rental to go to places like Alagar Temple,Thiruparakundram,Naicker Mahal,Palamudurcholai is Rs.600-650. Please be beware of cheats as foreign tourists are easily duped into paying more.

By Auto Rickshaws

The Auto Rickshaws are unmetered, which means you need to pre-negotiate your fare before commencing your travel. The rule of thumb rate is Rs10 per km of travel during day time(as of 2007) and Rs 15 per km during night. It is likely for auto rickshaw drivers to quote exorbitant rates to Foreigners and non-Tamilian Indians. It is usually safe to hire from central, well lit locations like the railway station. Otherwise caution should be used.