Madurai heatwave fuels tourism boom to hill stations, coasts

As temperatures in Madurai soar past 38°C, residents are flocking to hill stations and beachside getaways across Tamil Nadu to escape the scorching heat. Popular destinations like Ooty, Kodaikanal, Yelagiri, and Thekkady are seeing a steady influx of tourists, while coastal retreats such as Rameswaram and Kanyakumari continue to attract crowds with their breezy shores and cultural sites.
Local travel agents report a surge in demand for short leisure trips, especially over weekends. "Kodaikanal is still the top pick," said S Ramesh, a travel agent. "But due to travel restrictions and high occupancy, many opt for Sirumalai, which is less crowded and equally scenic."
Despite Madurai's cultural appeal, many residents prefer quick escapes. T Nagendra Prabhu, a guide with the Tamil Nadu tourism department, noted a shift toward alternatives like Thekkady and Munnar. "They're slightly farther but cheaper, have more stays, and offer spectacular views," he said.
On the coast, Rameswaram is gaining popularity, aided by recent infrastructure upgrades including the new vertical-lift Pamban bridge. "Private beaches like Kushi Beach are drawing more visitors, and the town is a hotspot for temple tourism and birdwatching," Prabhu said. "The town is a hub for temple tourism and birdwatching. It's connected by highway and takes only about 2.5 hours from Madurai by road," he added.
Weekend tourism, which rebounded post-pandemic, is now thriving. "Many tourists are bypassing commercial hubs like Ooty for serene spots like Munnar," said M Mustafa of the Tourism Club in Madurai. "This revival of short domestic travel is energising the tourism sector and local economies," he added.
For families, these short getaways are a welcome respite. "We plan a trip every month," said Selva Rani, a Madurai resident. "It's a break from the heat and a chance to explore nature and history." With summer vacations around the corner and temperatures climbing, tourism operators expect the trend to accelerate further.