Mathichiyam and East Masi Street together form one of the most photogenic markets in south India. The wholesale flower trade — jasmine for women's hair, marigold and rose for temple offerings — runs through the small hours and is largely done by 7 or 8 am, with sacks of petals dyeing the wet street pink and white.
For a quieter version go in the late afternoon, when the retail trade picks up again and the temple priests come through with brass trays of bought flowers. The smell, particularly the jasmine, is unforgettable.