Rameshwaram, a sacred island town in Tamil Nadu, is a blend of deep spirituality and coastal charm. Famous for its temples, sea views, and mythological significance, it offers a soul-stirring experience for pilgrims and travelers alike. Here are the most popular attractions in Rameshwaram.
1. Ramanathaswamy Temple
Why visit: One of the twelve Jyotirlingas, this temple is central to Rameshwaram’s identity and is revered for its religious significance and architectural beauty.
Highlights: – Longest temple corridor in India – 22 sacred wells (theerthams) – Early morning rituals
Timing: 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Entry: Free (special darshan ₹100–₹500)
2. Agni Theertham
Why visit: Located just outside the temple, this sea-facing theertham (holy water body) is where pilgrims perform purifying rituals before entering the main temple.
Highlights: – Sunrise over the Bay of Bengal – Ritual bathing – Spiritual atmosphere
Timing: Open all day
Entry: Free
3. Dhanushkodi Beach and Ghost Town
Why visit: This eerie, windswept strip of land offers beautiful ocean views and the haunting remains of a town destroyed in the 1964 cyclone.
Highlights: – Confluence of Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean – Ruined church and railway station – Scenic coastal drive
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free (jeep ride from check post ₹150–₹200)
4. Pamban Bridge
Why visit: India’s first sea bridge and an engineering marvel, it connects Rameshwaram island to the mainland and offers incredible views of the sea.
Highlights: – View of moving trains over the sea – Sunrise and sunset photography – Watch boats pass below
Timing: Open all day (best in early morning or evening)
Entry: Free
5. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial
Why visit: A tribute to India’s beloved former President, this memorial honors his legacy with photos, models, and his resting place.
Highlights: – Life-size statue and exhibits – Missile replicas – Peaceful garden
Timing: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (closed on Fridays)
Entry: Free
6. Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple & Floating Stone Exhibit
Why visit: Home to a unique five-faced Hanuman idol and stones said to have been used to build the Ram Setu—these stones famously float in water.
Highlights: – Spiritual significance – View floating stones – Devotional setting
Timing: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: Free
7. Gandhamadhana Parvatham
Why visit: The highest point in Rameshwaram, offering panoramic views and housing a footprint believed to be that of Lord Rama.
Highlights: – 360° views of the island – Spiritual ambiance – Breezy, peaceful setting
Timing: 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Entry: ₹10
8. Kothandaramaswamy Temple
Why visit: A remote and serene temple near Dhanushkodi where Lord Rama is believed to have met Vibhishana.
Highlights: – Coastal temple – Painted wall murals – Historical and mythological link
Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: Free
9. Sea World Aquarium
Why visit: A fun stop especially for families, showcasing marine life native to the Gulf of Mannar.
Highlights: – Small but interesting collection – Shells, fish, coral displays – Good for kids
Timing: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry: ₹10
10. Ariyaman Beach
Why visit: A clean, lesser-known beach located 25 km from Rameshwaram, perfect for a relaxed outing away from the crowds.
Highlights: – Calm waters – Family-friendly – Boating and local snacks
Timing: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry: ₹10 (parking and activity charges extra)
Feature Image:- Photo by Suriya Narayanan on Unsplash
