Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady
Thekkady is located in Idukki District of Kerala at a distance of 140 kms from Madurai. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, famous for its scenic beauty is located here. Surrounding by the picturesque Periyar lake, it is probably one of the few places, where one can observe elephants in their natural habitat. The best months for visiting the park are from October to April. Boating facility is also available. Read more>>

Kumbakkarai Water Falls
The scenic waterfalls of Kumbakkarai is an ideal tourist destination, located around 105 kms from Madurai, 6 kms from Periyakulam and 35kms from Periyar bus stand on the way to Kodaikanal. It also serves as the base camp for trekkers venturing into the hills of Kodai. The pristine beauty of the Kumbakkarai hills is highlighted by its charming waterfall falling from a height of 87ft. These falls offer a breath taking view of the surrounding nature. A 500 year old temple dedicated to Goddess Thadagai Nachiamman, is located near this spot. Around 7kms from the falls is the amusement park Sirumalai. 

Suruli Waterfalls
Suruli falls is located in Theni district about 120 km from Madurai on the way to Thekkadi (Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary) via Uthamapalayam. The location of this cascade in a salubrious green and natural setting makes it a good picnic spot for domestic tourists. Originating from the Meghamalai mountain range, the falls which drop in two stages from a height of 150 feet, gathers into a pool, flows for a short distance and again plummets to a depth of 40 feet. The waterfalls draws tourists from different parts of the state, particularly during the months of June to October. The place also serve as the venue of the annual Summer Festival, organized by the Tamil Nadu Tourism Department. The Kailasanathar Cave Temple at a height of 800 meters above Suruli falls is an added attraction of the place.

Courtallam
Courtallam famed as the 'Spa of South' in Tirunelveli district is around 160kms from Madurai. The main attraction of this summer resort situated at an elevation of about 167 mts. on the Western Ghats is its waterfalls. The waters of Courtallam is believed to have medicinal qualities as it flows through a forests of herbs. The falls which attracts large number of visitors are :
Main Falls (Peraruvi); Small Falls (Chitraruvi); Shenbagadevi falls (not safe to take bath); Honey Falls (Thenaruvi) ; Five Falls (Aindharuvi); Tiger Falls(Puli Aruvi); Old Falls (Pazhaya Courtallaruvi); New Falls (Puthu Aruvi); Fruit Garden Falls (Pazhathotta Aruvi). 
Near the main water falls, there is the Kutralanathar Temple dedicated to Lord Siva. Read more>>