Rameshwaram is situated in the Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserves in the sea, and it is a relatively small place. It is located between India and Sri Lanka and has clean sea breezes. The temples and sacred ponds are not too crowded. This famous “Island City” is very popular among travellers worldwide. Rameshwaram is one of the Char Dhams of India and is important for Hindu devotees. It is a must-visit destination for your travel list. If you are planning a trip to Rameshwaram and the Rameshwaram Temple, you might be wondering what activities you can do there.
Let’s Discuss The Top 10 Things to do at Rameshwaram Temple:
#1. Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple
This temple in Rameshwaram is special because it was built in a particular style called Dravidian architecture. It is one of the most famous temples in the area, and you should visit this temple while sightseeing in Rameshwaram. The Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple also known as Rameshwaram Temple is well-known for its collection of Lingas, which are objects made of sand, salt, stone, and other materials. There used to be 112 ponds here, but only 12 remain today according to stories. Also, this temple is a popular tourist attraction and has the second-largest pillared corridor in the world. It is a must-visit place in Rameshwaram.
It is the most popular spot in the city and even people with high standards for tourist attractions should include it in their list of places to visit in Rameshwaram in one day.
- Location: Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu 623526
- The speciality of the temple: The interior decoration and design of the temple
- Suggestion: Please note that the temple tends to be busy during the MahaShivratri period.
- Opening hours: Opening hours are from 5 am until 1 pm and from 3 pm until 9 pm.
#2. Agni Theertham
Agni Theertham is a special place in Rameshwaram, India, where people go to take a sacred bath. It’s one of the important places to visit in Rameshwaram. People believe that bathing in the sea at Agni Theertham can wash away their sins and make them feel pure inside. The beautiful beach is also used for important ceremonies, like honouring ancestors who have passed away. If pilgrims want to take a holy bath, they first need to dip themselves in Agni Theertham and then go to the Rameshwaram Temple for the actual bathing ritual.
According to belief, Sita, the wife of Lord Rama, bathed in the sea at that location and offered prayers to Lord Shiva. It is also said that Lord Agni, the god of fire, appeared there to reassure Rama of Sita’s fidelity during her captivity under Ravana.
- Location: Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu
- Speciality: It is among the 64 sacred baths in Rameshwaram.
- Suggestion: Every day is considered auspicious for taking a bath in the pond.
- Opening hours: From 5 am to 6 pm.
#3. The five-faced Hanuman Temple
This special temple is just 2 kilometres away from Rameshwaram Temple. It is famous because it has a statue of Lord Hanuman in five different forms. People think it is one of the best places to visit in Rameshwaram. The main idol in the temple is made from a precious Senthooram Stone that was very valuable in the past. Besides this, according to stories, the Hanuman Temple keeps some stones that were used to build the Rama Setu bridge. Hanuman and his monkey army built this bridge to rescue Goddess Sita from Lanka.
- Location: Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu 623526
- The speciality of the temple: The temple showcases a unique statue of Lord Hanuman with five faces.
- Suggestion: On Tuesdays and Saturdays, there is a large gathering of devotees.
- Opening hours: From 6 am to 1 pm and from 4 pm to 8 pm.
#4. Villondi Theertham
Rameshwaram is renowned for its temple tanks, but one particular location holds special significance: Villoondi Theertham. According to legend, this sacred spot was formed when Lord Rama shot an arrow into the sea, resulting in freshwater springing forth to quench his wife Sita’s thirst. Situated approximately 7 kilometres away from the Ramanathaswamy Temple, Villoondi Theertham offers awe-inspiring and dramatic views of the ocean. A lengthy pathway guides visitors to this sacred well, providing a magical experience as they witness the sea on both sides.
Despite being surrounded by saltwater, the water in the well possesses an intriguing sweetness, which devotees believe can bring them blessings if they partake in a sip. Adjacent to this location, there is a small temple-like structure. Standing at the platform’s edge, one can observe statues of gods and goddesses resting on the bed of water, creating a captivating sight that mirrors the charm of the place itself.
- Location:Thangachi madam, Rameswaram – 623526
- Speciality: The temple offers breathtaking views for visitors to enjoy.
- Suggestion: This is one of the 64 holy water bodies near Rameshwaram.
- Opening hours: Open for 24 hours
#5. Kalam National Memorial
The Kalam National Memorial was built to honour the respected Indian leader and accomplished scientist, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. He was a remarkable person who showed qualities of being humble, calm, and incredibly intelligent, and his memorial represents these qualities wonderfully. Located in Rameshwaram, it is an important place to visit. Kalam National Memorial also attracts tourists from around the world who want to experience the diverse culture of India.
The memorial displays various exhibits, such as missile replicas, information about the Pokhran Nuclear Test, and rockets, all of which were crucial to Mr. Kalam’s work. Additionally, the architecture of the site combines Mughal and Indian styles, making it a beautiful symbol of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s legacy.
- Location:Pamban- TharavaiThoppu Rd, Pamban, Tamil Nadu 623529
- Speciality: Its purpose is to pay tribute to the remarkable life and accomplishments of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam.
- Suggestion: It is ideal for individuals who appreciate art.
- Opening hours: 9:00 in the morning until 1:00 in the afternoon, and 2:00 in the afternoon until 5:00 in the evening.
#6. Lakshmana Tirtham
This is a renowned destination in and around Rameshwaram that holds great spiritual and architectural appeal. If you desire to experience additional tranquillity during your visit to the serene land of Rameshwaram, this is the ideal location. Known as a sacred pond adjacent to the Lakshmana temple, it is conveniently located near the magnificent Ramanathaswamy Temple. Many visitors who come to the Lakshmana temple choose to immerse themselves in this pond for a refreshing dip.
- Location: Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu 623526
- Speciality: The temple is decorated with pictures from the story of Ramayana on its walls.
- Suggestion: You can cleanse your soul by taking a bath in the sacred pond to make up for your mistakes.
- Opening hours: From 6 am to 1 pm and from 4 pm to 8 pm
- Entry fee: No entry fee is required; only a puja fee of 60/- is required.
#7. The Rama Setu
If you are visiting the Rameshwaram Temple, you absolutely cannot afford to overlook this extraordinary location. The Adam’s Bridge, also known as Rama Setu, serves as a significant historical bridge that links India’s Rameshwaram island with the north-western coast of Sri Lanka. Comprised of a series of limestone shoals, the bridge originates from Dhanuskodi, located at the tip of Pamban Island in India, which is connected to the mainland by a 2 km long bridge.
In addition, this viaduct has always been a topic of heated discussions among historians and archaeologists and is highly favoured among tourists as a famous attraction in Rameshwaram. Also, its geographical and spiritual significance makes it one of the most promoted sites by Rameshwaram tourism.
- Location: Adam’s Bridge, Tamil Nadu
- Speciality: Situated amidst the islands of Mannar, Sri Lanka, and Rameshwaram, India, it holds a unique position.
- Suggestion: To ensure a smooth and convenient experience, we recommend booking your tour in advance before your visit.
- Opening hours: no specific timing
#8. Kothandaramaswamy Temple
The Kothandaramaswamy temple is in Dhanushkodi. It is next to the peaceful beaches and has a great view of the beautiful blue sea. If you go to the Rameshwaram temple, you should also visit this one. It’s a famous tourist spot in Rameshwaram and also it looks like an old temple from the story of Ramayana. The temple has statues of Rama, Lakshman, Sita, and Hanuman. In addition, people believe that Vibhishana, Ravana’s younger brother, lived there.
- Location: Kochi, Madurai Dhanushkodi Rd, Munichallai, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625009
- Speciality: The temple’s notable feature is its robust and sturdy architectural design.
- Suggestion: It is recommended to visit the temple with your family.
- Opening hours: The temple opens from 6:30 am to 10:30 am and from 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm
#9. Dhanuskodi Beach:
Dhanuskodi is at the very bottom of Rameshwaram, where the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean meet. You can see the high tides of the Bay of Bengal and the low tides of the Indian Ocean at the beach. People like to visit Dhanuskodi when they come to Rameswaram. Long ago, many people lived in the beach town, but a big storm in 1964 caused a lot of damage. Now, only 500 fishermen and their families live there. The government calls it a “Ghost Town” because it’s mostly empty. Even though it is abandoned, Dhanuskodi is still an important place to visit in Rameshwaram.
- Location: Tamil Nadu
- Speciality: Dhanushkodi is considered to be the location where Lord Ram, along with his army, constructed the Ram Setu.
- Suggestion: The only way of reaching Dhanushkodi is by taking a taxi, as there is no railway station available in the area.
- Timing: Any time
#10. Jatayu Tirtham
The Jatayu Tirtham is a special temple devoted to Jatayu. Jatayu was a very loyal eagle who helped Lord Rama during difficult times. It is said that the eagle sacrificed its life to protect Lord Rama, so people worship it as a god. Jatayu temple is built where the eagle was buried. To truly understand the significance of this place, you should visit to gain deeper insights.
- Location: Tamil Nadu, 630314
- Speciality: temple Jatayu is built on the place where the Jatayu was buried.
- Suggestion: As it is a serene place of worship, please maintain silence and behave respectfully.
- Opening hours: The temple opens from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm.
Conclusion
So, we have discussed some of the top things to do in Rameshwaram while visiting Rameshwaram temple. Visiting Rameshwaram and going to the Rameshwaram Temple is a great way to experience different cultures. You can find what you are looking for, whether it’s spiritual guidance, learning about the past, or enjoying nature’s beauty. Rameshwaram will leave an enduring impact on you and also let you connect with India’s deep traditions and amazing nature.
FAQs:
Q. Which is the best month to visit Rameshwaram?
The ideal time to travel to Rameshwaram is from October to April. During these winter months, the weather is enjoyable. Also, the temperature ranges from 17° C to 25° C.
Q. Is it mandatory to take a bath in Rameshwaram?
Taking a bath in the waters of Rameshwaram is not compulsory. It is completely up to you whether you want to take part in the religious practice of bathing or not. Rameshwaram holds great importance for Hindu devotees who often engage in rituals and bathing at the Ghats in Rameshwaram.
Q. What is special in Rameshwaram temple?
The Rameshwaram Temple holds great fame as it is one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlingas. This temple represents the divine light of Lord Shiva, in India. This temple is chiefly famous for being the southernmost Jyotirlinga in India, establishing its significance as a prominent religious reason in the country
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Q. What is not allowed in Rameshwaram temple?
If your clothes are wet, you can’t go inside the temple, whether you are a man or a woman.
We hope that you will find this blog to be informative. Please share your valuable feedback and stay in touch with us for more such informative and interesting blogs.
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