Ramanathaswamy Temple, located in Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu, is one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is part of the Char Dham pilgrimage and is also one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India. The temple is famous for its long corridors, sacred wells, and deep connection to the Ramayana. The Ramanathaswamy Temple is known for its extensive corridors, with the longest being the Third Corridor, spanning 1,200 meters. This corridor features 1,212 intricately carved sandstone pillars, each 30 feet tall.
History & Mythology of Rameshwaram Temple
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Rama installed the Shiva Lingam here after defeating Ravana. He worshipped Lord Shiva to seek forgiveness. While Hanuman was sent to fetch a lingam from Kailash, Sita Devi crafted a small lingam in the meantime. This lingam is now the main deity of the temple.
Over the centuries, the temple was expanded by the Pandya, Chola, and Sethupathi dynasties.
Best Time to Visit Rameshwaram Temple
The best time to visit is between October and April, when the weather is pleasant. Additionally, you can visit during major festivals:
Mahashivaratri (Feb/March) – Special rituals and celebrations
Aadi Amavasya (July/August) – Ancestral rituals are performed
Karthigai Deepam (Nov/Dec) – Thousands of lamps light up the temple beautifully
How to Reach Rameshwaram Temple
✈️ By Air
Nearest Airport: Madurai International Airport (175 km)
From Madurai, take a taxi (₹3,500 – ₹5,000) or bus (₹500 – ₹800) to reach Rameshwaram.
🚆 By Train
Nearest Railway Station: Rameshwaram Railway Station (2 km away)
Direct trains are available from Chennai, Madurai, and Coimbatore.
🚌 By Road
TNSTC buses are available from Chennai, Madurai, and Trichy.
Self-driving via the Pamban Bridge offers stunning sea views.
Estimated Travel Cost (Per Person)
| Departure City | Travel Mode | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Madurai (175 km) | Bus / Taxi | ₹500 – ₹5,000 |
| Chennai (560 km) | Train / Bus / Flight | ₹1,500 – ₹6,000 |
| Bangalore (600 km) | Train / Bus / Flight | ₹2,000 – ₹7,000 |
| Mumbai (1,350 km) | Train / Flight | ₹4,000 – ₹12,000 |
| Delhi (2,500 km) | Flight | ₹6,000 – ₹18,000 |
Temple Timings & Rituals of Rameshwaram Temple
Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 1:00 PM & 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Special Puja Services:
Spatika Lingam Darshan
Abhishekam
Rudrabhishekam
22 Sacred Wells (Theerthas): Pilgrims bathe for purification (₹25–₹100 per well)
Entry Fee: General darshan is free. Special puja services cost ₹500+.
- Here is the official temple website for any queries and donations.
Nearby Attractions to Rameshwaram
While you’re in Rameshwaram, don’t miss these places:
Pamban Bridge – A sea bridge offering breathtaking views
Dhanushkodi – A ghost town with mythological and historical importance
Agni Theertham – A sacred bathing ghat near the temple
Gandhamadhana Parvatham – A hilltop offering panoramic views and a footprint of Lord Rama
Recommended Trip Duration
1-Day Trip: Temple darshan, Agni Theertham, Pamban Bridge
2-Day Trip: Includes Dhanushkodi and Gandhamadhana Parvatham
3-Day Trip: Relaxed itinerary with nearby islands and markets
Accommodation & Food
Stay Options:
Budget: Hotel Tamil Nadu, Sri Saravana Bhavan (₹1,000 – ₹1,500/night)
Mid-Range: Jiwan Residency, Hotel SS Grand (₹2,000 – ₹3,500/night)
Luxury: Hyatt Place, Daiwik Hotels (₹4,000 – ₹6,000/night)
- Here are the links for booking Booking.com/rameswaram. makemytrip.com/rameswaram
Food Tips:
Enjoy temple prasadam (free)
Try authentic South Indian meals
Don’t miss Rameshwaram dosa and coconut-based curries
Essential Travel Tips
Carry extra clothes and a towel if you plan to bathe in the temple wells.
Book special puja services in advance to avoid last-minute rush.
Dress modestly; traditional Indian attire is preferred.
Plan your darshan during early morning or evening to avoid heat and crowds.
Stay hydrated, especially if visiting during summer.
Final Thoughts
Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameshwaram is a perfect blend of spirituality, history, and scenic beauty. Whether you are a pilgrim or a traveler, this temple offers an experience that stays with you forever. Use this guide to plan a meaningful trip to one of India’s most sacred destinations.
“If you’re planning temple trips in South India, you might also enjoy reading our guide on the Tirumala Temple.”
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