Things to do in Rameshwaram

Ramanathaswamy Temple

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  One of the 4 Char Dhams and a Jyotirlinga, the Ramanathaswamy temple holds a special place in the hearts of devotees of Lord Rama & Lord Shiva.

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  It is believed that the Shivalinga here was installed by Lord Rama himself after his return from Lanka. Though victorious, Lord Rama prayed to Lord Shiva here for forgiveness for ‘Brahmahatya’, i.e., the killing of Raavan, a brahman.

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  There are 2 Shivalingas here: the first one, known as Ramalinga was created out of sand by Sita Maa, while the second, known as Vishwalingam was brought by Lord Hanuman from Mount Kailash.

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  There are 22 theerthams i.e., holy water bodies within this temple and bathing in all 22 of them is a sure way of getting forgiveness for one’s sins, as believed by devotees of both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.

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  Annadanam: Free meals for devotees are served within the temple premises. Packed prasad is also available for purchase.

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  Temple timings: Morning – 5:00 am to 1:00 pm | Afternoon - 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Best Areas to Stay in Rameshwaram

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  Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple: Home to the main temple, this area is popular with those seeking to stay near the pilgrim spots.

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  Rameswaram Railway Station: One of the major transit hubs in the city, this area is ideal for those seeking a quick getaway.

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  Pamban Bridge: With the second longest sea bridge in India, this area has resorts with easy access to the beach.

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  Rameshwaram Bus Stand: Close to the main road connecting Pamban Bridge to the Rameshwaram temples, this area has hotels for all budgets.

Other Popular Holy Places in Rameshwaram

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  Villoondi Theertham: This well with sweet spring water is set at the edge of the ocean. It is believed that Lord Rama shot an arrow into the sea to get this water source when Sita Maa was thirsty.

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  Agni Theertham: This is the sacred spot, where Sita Maa underwent Agnipariksha. Thereafter, Agni Dev took a dip in the sea and offered his prayers to Lord Shiva.

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  Lakshman Theertham: This sacred bathing place and the temple alongside is dedicated to Lakshmana.

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  Jada Theertham: The Jada Theertham is considered sacred as Lord Rama & Lakshmana washed their jada, i.e., hair at this pond before proceeding to install the Shivalinga at the Ramanathaswamy Temple.

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  Panchamukhi Teertham: This temple is famous for its 5-faced idol of Lord Hanuman. During the war with Ravana, Lord Rama and Lakshmana were kidnapped by Mairavana, the king of Patal Lok. To save them, Lord Hanuman took the form of 5 avatars simultaneously - Anjaneya, Narasimha, Garuda, Varaha, and Hayagriva.

Must Visit Attractions in Rameshwaram

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  Dhanushkodi Beach: At the tip of Rameshwaram island, this beach marks the starting point of the Ram Setu bridge. Though the bridge is no longer visible, the beach is still famous. The Bay of Bengal and the Gulf of Mannar merge here to form beautiful seascapes.

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  Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam Memorial: A memorial that celebrates the life and achievements of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, the Missile Man of India.

Good to know before you travel

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  How to Reach: Board a flight to Madurai International Airport, which is about 180 km from Rameshwaram. Visitors can also book a train ride to the Rameshwaram Railway Station or opt for a bus ride from neighbouring metros.

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  What to Buy: This city is well known for souvenirs like silk sarees and clothes, Spatika Lingam (crystal Shivalinga), Panchamukhi Hanuman idols, and seashell handicrafts.

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  What to Eat: While here, do try local specialties like Rameshwaram kootu, pulliyodorai, paruppu payasam, and filter coffee.

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  Water Sports: The sea around Rameshwaram is ideal for water sports like stand-up paddleboarding, jet skiing, and glass-bottom boat rides. Ariyaman Beach, in particular, is known for windsurfing, boating, and parasailing.