Rameswaram
( Tamil Nadu )
Introduction
Rameswaram, located on the Pamban Island of Tamil Nadu, is one of India’s most sacred pilgrimage destinations and a major part of the Char Dham Yatra. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Ramanathaswamy Temple is renowned for its majestic corridors, sacred theerthams, and powerful spiritual vibrations.
Surrounded by pristine blue waters, white-sand beaches, coral life, and historical sites linked to the Ramayana, Rameswaram is a perfect blend of divinity, culture, and natural beauty.
From the legendary Ram Setu to vibrant temples, peaceful ghats, and crystal-clear beaches — the island offers a serene and spiritually uplifting experience.
Whether you seek faith, history, or scenic coastline adventure, Rameswaram welcomes you with open arms.
Quick Info Box
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Ramanathapuram District, Tamil Nadu |
| Temple Timings | 5 AM – 1 PM & 3 PM – 9 PM |
| Best Time to Visit | October – April |
| Ideal Duration | 2–3 Days |
| Famous For | Ramanathaswamy Temple, Ramayana Sites, Beaches, Ram Setu |
| Nearest Airport | Madurai Airport (170 km) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Rameswaram Railway Station |
| Sea Level | 0–10 meters |
| Languages | Tamil, Hindi, English |
| Photography | Not allowed inside main temple corridors |
| Entry Fee | Free (Special Darshan Paid) |
Temple Overview
Rameswaram is believed to be the place where Lord Rama built the Ram Setu (Adam’s Bridge) to reach Lanka. The town holds immense religious significance, with sacred ponds, ancient shrines, sea ghats, and temples linked to Rama, Sita, Hanuman, and Vibheeshana.
The iconic Ramanathaswamy Temple is famous for housing one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and for having the longest temple corridor in the world, with over 1,200 pillars.
Visitors also explore the serene Dhanushkodi, floating stones, crystal-clear beaches, and historical places that narrate the Ramayana era.
With a peaceful spiritual environment, vibrant culture, and scenic coastline, Rameswaram is a destination that touches both the soul and the senses.
Top 11 Attractions in Rameswaram
1. Ramanathaswamy Temple (Jyotirlinga Temple)
Famous For: Jyotirlinga, world’s longest temple corridor
Timings: 5 AM – 1 PM & 3 PM – 9 PM
Expanded Description:
Known for its Dravidian architecture, massive corridors, and the sacred Shiva Lingam (installed by Lord Rama), this temple is the heart of Rameswaram. The 22 holy theerthams inside the temple are believed to purify the soul.
Tips:
• Visit early morning for peaceful darshan
2. Agni Theertham (Sea Ghat)
Famous For: Holy dip before temple darshan
Timings: Open 24 Hours
Expanded Description:
A sacred spot on the beach where pilgrims take a spiritual bath before entering the temple.
Tips:
• Sunrise view is breathtaking
3. Dhanushkodi Beach (The Ghost Town)
Famous For: India’s cleanest beach, ruins & mythological significance
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
A serene blue-water beach with remains of the old town destroyed in the 1964 cyclone. It’s believed to be the point from where Lord Rama’s army began building the Ram Setu.
Tips:
• No entry after dark
4. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial
Famous For: Tribute to India’s Missile Man
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Expanded Description:
A beautifully built memorial showcasing Dr. Kalam’s life, awards, and contributions.
Tips:
• Don’t miss the museum section
5. Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple (Floating Stones)
Famous For: Stones that float on water
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Expanded Description:
Contains the sacred floating stones believed to have been used in building the Ram Setu.
Tips:
• Small temple but very significant
6. Ram Setu Viewpoint (Adam’s Bridge)
Famous For: Historic bridge built by Vanara Sena
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
Located near Dhanushkodi, offering a glimpse of the Ramayana’s legendary bridge.
Tips:
• Best visited early morning
7. Lakshmana Theertham
Famous For: Holy pond near Lakshmana Temple
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Expanded Description:
Peaceful sacred pond with intricate temple carvings and calm surroundings.
Tips:
• Perfect for an evening visit
8. Gandhamadhana Parvatham
Famous For: Footprint of Lord Rama
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
The highest point in Rameswaram, offering panoramic views of the island.
Tips:
• Sunset here is mesmerizing
9. Pamban Bridge (Sea Bridge)
Famous For: India’s first sea bridge, iconic views
Timings: Open 24 Hours
Expanded Description:
An engineering marvel connecting Rameswaram to mainland India. Watch trains pass over the ocean!
Tips:
• Great for photography
10. Kothandaramaswamy Temple
Famous For: Temple where Vibheeshana surrendered to Rama
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
Located near Dhanushkodi, standing strong amidst the sea breeze.
Tips:
• Combine with Dhanushkodi trip
11. Ariyaman Beach
Famous For: Calm family beach & water sports
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Expanded Description:
A peaceful white-sand beach offering swimming, boating & kids-friendly activities.
Tips:
• Great for families & relaxing evenings
Best Cafés & Local Eateries
1. Sri Murugan Mess
Delicious South Indian meals.
2. Ahaan Restaurant
Multi-cuisine with great ambiance.
3. Gujarat Bhavan
Pure vegetarian Gujarati thali.
How to Reach
By Train:
• Rameswaram Railway Station → well connected to Chennai, Madurai, Trichy, Bangalore
3-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Temple Visit
• Check-in
• Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple
• Explore the 22 Theerthams
• Sunset at Agni Theertham
Day 2: Ramayana Trail & Beaches
• Visit Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple
• Floating Stones
• Dhanushkodi Beach & Ghost Town
• Ram Setu viewpoint
• Kothandaramaswamy Temple
Day 3: Heritage & Nature
• APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial
• Gandhamadhana Parvatham
• Pamban Bridge
• Ariyaman Beach
• Departure
Budget Breakdown (Approx.)
| Category | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 800–2500/night |
| Food | 300–600/day |
| Local Transport | 200–800 |
| Temple Special Darshan | ₹50 – ₹200 |
| Dhanushkodi Jeep Trip | ₹1200–2000 |
| Misc | 300–700 |
Hidden Gems of Rameswaram
1. Villondi Theertham
Legend says Rama dipped his bow here to draw freshwater.
2. Kunthukal Beach
Quiet, clean beach ideal for solitude.
3. House of APJ Abdul Kalam
The humble birthplace showcasing his early life.