Vandiyur Lake Park, Madurai

This was ad-hoc visit in our Madurai-Rameshwaram itinerary. We had quite tiring stay at Madurai due to lack of sleep and hit weather. The congested area nearby temple where we stayed increased our stress. The morning before heading to Rameshwaram, we were hunting for good breakfast area at the town. The nearby areas of temple town did not have good restaurants and bit unhygienic as well. The Parvathi bhavan along the Rameshwaram route was the one which looked promising. Even though some of dishes were spicy, the restaurant lives up to the mark as rated in google.

Once breakfast was done, our eyes wandered towards the lake park nestled right in front of the restaurant. This was in my wife's list of must visit place in Madurai. Even though the sun was dazzling and long journey ahead, we decided to have brief walk along the park. This was worth as well!

Here is map of lake park

We walked few metres before reaching the main gate. We spotted the park ticket counter at the entrance but did not see anyone collecting the fare. Perhaps, this is only applicable during evening hours? I assume that the morning visitors are mostly locals and arrive here to warm up.

The park is well maintained and clean. There are plenty of vegetation and greenery all around. 

Recreational facilities like boating and kids play area entertain the visitors. The boating was closed and might open during evening. We spotted the fare counter for boat ride.

Kids Ball pits arena

The lake bed was also well maintained. The lake pier was closed for ramp walk. We visited during unconventional hours looks like. Views from entrance of pier.

Seems like they allow morning hours fishing.

A large skating yard is constructed for skate learners.

Overall a must visit spot if you are in Madhurai. East Madurai seems to be the best maintained part of city. The temple area did not impress us much but the aura of east, negated all those myths. Hope the authorities work to tidy up the temple and surrounding areas also!

Thanks to overnight mild thunderstorm, the morning was azure and atmosphere was clean. Though weather was sweltering

Couple of signature lake view apartments springing up in far east shore. Perhaps best bet for real estate tycoon to grab extra bucks from buyers. Lakeside residences are a boon in hot-weather regions, thanks to the cool breezes they offer—unless a mighty downpour causes the lake to overflow

Disappointing depart though. We unnecessarily squandered time nearby temple area just to witness the clumsy streets. This would been ideal evening hangout for kids with dedicated play arena and evening boating. The docked boats and ticket counter suggested that boating activity was prevalent.

That was quick stop. I wish it could have been longer. When you visit Madurai with kids, don't skip to entertain them in this park along with spiritual journey! Here is quick video from lake.