East Masi Street Police Station - Madurai Tourism

Located near Vilakuthoon is the East Masi Street police station. With a 200 year old history, it is yet another historic gem of the city. It was the Police Main Guard in the 17th century and the historicity of the building is still maintained.

At the entrance, one can see a plaque on the right compound wall which says that the place was the Kotwal Chavadi (inscribed in English as the Cutwals Choultry) the Main Guard of Madurai. Traits of Nayak architecture are visible inside the police station. There is also a structure, which seems like a stable indicating that the area was use to keep horses or camels. Most renovations were carried out during the British rule.

The cash locker, lockups and the room for arms and ammunition are still intact inside the station. The locker is a very unique old fashioned peice that if fixed and concealed inside the wall. Though the building has been refurbished many times, it stil maintains its old glory. The arcitectural excellence is highlighted when even on an extremely hot day, one doesnt feel the heat.

Since the station, is still functioning as a police station, one is not allowed inside, but if you do pass by the Vilakuthoon, be sure to take a peek because even if it is for just a moment, it really will take you back to the quaint, charming place that Madurai was once upon a time!