Rameshwaram is a sacred island town in Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the four pilgrimage sites of Hinduism, known as Char Dham. Rameshwaram is also where Lord Rama built a bridge across the sea to rescue his wife, Sita, from the demon king Ravana. The town has many ancient temples, holy water bodies, and scenic beaches that attract devotees and tourists alike.
Some Of The Must Visit Places In Rameshwaram That You Should Not Miss:
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Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple
The Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameshwaram is the most famous and respected temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, known as Ramanathaswamy. It’s one of Shiva’s 12 most important places of worship, called Jyotirlingas. The temple is famous for its impressive architecture, including the world’s longest corridor with 1212 pillars and 22 wells. Within the temple complex are 22 theerthams, or sacred water bodies, believed to have healing properties. Pilgrims traditionally bathe in these before entering the temple. The main attractions of the temple are two lingams, symbols of Shiva, installed by Rama and Sita. The temple is open daily from 5 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 9 pm.
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Pamban Bridge
The Pamban Bridge is an impressive feat of engineering linking Rameshwaram island to the mainland. It’s India’s second-longest sea bridge, stretching over 2.3 kilometers. Constructed in 1914, it was India’s inaugural sea bridge. Divided into two parts, it includes a railway and road bridges. The railway bridge, a cantilever design, can be raised to allow ships to pass through.
Later 1988, the road bridge was added, running parallel to the railway bridge. Offering breathtaking views of the sea and the island, especially during sunrise and sunset, the bridge holds significant historical and cultural value. It served as the path for Rama and his army to reach Lanka and is where the revered poet Thiruvalluvar penned his renowned work, the Thirukkural.
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Kothandaramaswamy Temple
The Kothandaramaswamy Temple, located near Dhanushkodi beach, is a small yet significant religious site. Dedicated to Lord Rama, the temple depicts him with his bow alongside his wife Sita, brother Lakshmana, and devotee Hanuman. This temple marks where Rama crowned Vibhishana as the king of Lanka after defeating Ravana. It’s also where Rama performed the last rites of Jatayu, the eagle who tried to rescue Sita. Remarkably, the temple survived the 1964 cyclone, which locals consider a miracle. Open daily from 6 am to 6 pm, it remains an important pilgrimage destination.
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Gandhamadhana Parvatham
Gandhamadhana Parvatham is a hill located 3 kilometers away from Rameshwaram town. It’s the highest point on the island and offers a great view of the surroundings. Many people consider it sacred because they believe it’s where Rama rested after returning from Lanka. There’s a footprint of Rama on the hill that devotees worship. Additionally, there’s a temple dedicated to Rama on the hill. Inside the temple, there’s a chakra (a discus) given to Rama by Lord Vishnu. The temple is open daily from 7 am to 1 pm and 4 pm to 8 pm.
Rameshwaram is a unique destination that blends spirituality, history, and natural beauty. It offers a remarkable experience that will inspire you and inspire. When planning your visit to Rameshwaram, include these must-see places in your schedule to fully appreciate this town’s sacred atmosphere and beauty.
