Rameswaram | Tamil Nadu | Places to Visit in Rameswaram

Rameswaram

Rameswaram is one of most famous place located on Pamban Island in Tamil Nadu. Rameswaram is one of the holiest places for Hindus pilgrimage, people came here from all over the world to visit the Ramanthaswamy temple, ram setu (Adam Bridge), Dhanushkodi and many more place near it. 

and Piligrimage especially came here for perform rituals like Rudrabhishe and Moksha. Rameswaram is known for its rich cultural, religious activity, historical significance and well known for the  Temple. 

Places to Visit in Rameswaram

Ramanathaswamy Temple 

Ramanthaswamy temple is located in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva and Char dham sites of India with Badrinath, Puri and Dwarka. The temple is closely associated with the Ramayana because Lord Rama worshipped here, for the Shiva before going to war with Ravana, After completing the war he performed the Rudra Yagna to absolve himself of the sin of killing a Ravana (Brahmin).

The Ramanathaswamy Temple is more famous for its longest corridors and the 22 sacred wells. The total length of the corridor's is about 3850 feet (appro). There are 1212 Pillars which are carved with sculptures on it. The temple has 22 sacred wells, with each well believed to have medicinal and healing properties. Devotees often baths in these wells before entering the temple to clean themselves spiritually.

Devotees can perform various rituals at the temple, including Abhishekam and Puja. The temple is also known for its Pradosham (observance of Lord Shiva) and other offerings during auspicious times. On the day of Mahashivaratri and Ramanavami there was a huge crowds how were came here for the birth celebration. 

Ram Setu (Adam Bridge)

The Ram Setu lies between Rameswaram (India) and Mannar Island (Sri Lanka). The Palk Strait, which separates the two countries, is the body of water where the bridge is located. The ram Setu was made by the Lord Rama and his Vanar sena to reach Sri Lanka and rescue Sita Mata from Ravan.

The appearence of ram setu look like a chain of islands, shoals, and sandbanks that are submerged under waters at most points. Ram Setu is a popular tourist attraction due to its mystical, natural beauty and religious significance. Pilgrims visiting Rameswaram and came to Ram Setu because its is a part of their religious journey, to connect with the Lord Ram and the story of Ramayan.

Ram Setu holds deep significance for people across the world and in india. Its was a spiritual legacy, as well as its geological mystery, which makes Ram Setu as a one of the most fascinating and revered landmarks in India.

Dhanushkodi

Dhanushkodi is a  small town located at the southern tip of Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu, The town is surrounded by the Bay of Bengal on the eastern side and the Palk Strait on the western side, making it one of the most unique coastal regions in India.

Dhanushkodi holds immense significance in Hindu mythology, particularly in the Ramayana. It is believed to be the site where Lord Rama broke the Dhanush to win the hand of Sita. The name “Dhanushkodi” is derived from the words "Dhanush" (bow) and "Kodi" (end), meaning "the end of the bow."

In 1964, the town was almost completely destroyed by a devastating cyclone, which caused massive damage and loss of life. Due to Cyclone hundreds of people were died and people who left there has leave the town in. The Indian government declared Dhanushkodi  as a Ghost Town.

The area surrounding Dhanushkodi is home to various species of birds and marine life. The region is especially famous for birdwatching, with many migratory birds flocking to the area.

Dhanushkodi is known for its beautiful, pristine beaches, with clear blue waters and soft sands. The Bay of Bengal on one side and the Palk Strait on the other create a serene and peaceful environment.

Accessibility: Dhanushkodi is accessible from Rameswaram by a 20-25 km drive through mud roads, often navigated by jeep or other off-road vehicles. While the town itself is off-limits for permanent settlement, it is open to tourists for a day-trip.

Pamban Bridge 

The Pamban Bridge, also known as the Rameswaram Bridge, is one of the most iconic and historic railway bridges in India. Located in the Tamil Nadu state, it connects the Rameswaram Island to the mainland of India. The bridge is famous for the engineering marvel and its breathtaking views.

The Pamban Bridge was constructed between 1911 and 1914, and it was officially opened to traffic in 1914. It was an impressive feat of engineering at the time, considering the challenging conditions of the Palk Strait, which is strong winds and saltwater.

The Pamban Bridge is one of the oldest sea bridges in India. The bridge spans 2.3 kilometers (1.4 miles) over the Palk Strait, linking the town of Rameswaram on the island to Mandapam on the mainland.

APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial

The memorial of the APJ Abdul Kalam is situated in Pei Karumbu a small village near Rameswaram Tamil Nadu. The Pei Karumbu is place where  the APJ Abdul Kalamwas was born. 

The another name of the APJ Abdul Kalam is "The Missile Man of India" because of his work in aerospace, defense and in the role of development of India in nuclear weapons and the missile. 

The APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial was inaugurated in 2017 after the death of  APJ Abdul Kalam, The Memorial was contributions to India nuclear weapons and the missile and his immense popularity among the people. The memorial is not just a place of remembrance but also an educational center showcasing his life, work, and vision for the future of India.

The memorial includes Statue of Dr. Kalam, in standing posture that represent his characteristic humility, wisdom, and determination towards his work,  his scientific achievements, his tenure as president, and his vision for India's development in science, technology, and education, information about his work with India’s space program, nuclear weapons, and missile defense systems.

Dr. Kalam’s final resting place is located near the memorial. It is an open-air tomb located at Pei Karumbu. It is a place of homage where his admirers from around the world come to pay their respects. Dr. Kalam’s tomb is simple, reflecting his personal humility, and it is beautifully surrounded by lush green trees and serene landscapes.

The memorial is not just a monument, but also a source of inspiration for the younger generations. It’s designed to inspire people, especially students, to follow Dr. Kalam’s teachings of hard work, discipline, and dedication to public service.

Gandhamadhana Parvatham

Gandhamadhana Parvatham is a hill station located on Rameswaram Island in Tamil Nadu. The place is deeply connect with Hindu mythology and is considered one of the most sacred spots on the island. It offers both a spiritual significance and a panoramic view of the surrounding areas. 

Gandhamadhana Parvatham is situated at a height of 60 meters (around 200 feet) and offers a spectacular panoramic view of the surrounding areas of Rameswaram. From the top, you can see the beautiful coastline of the island, including the famous Pamban Bridge connecting the island to the mainland and the blue waters of the Palk Strait.

Gandhamadhana Parvatham is traditionally associated with the great Ramayana epic. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama placed his "gandham" (scent or fragrance) after his victory over Ravana in Lanka (Sri Lanka).

According to legend, it was at this hill that Rama gave his "Gandham" to his devotee Hanuman before Hanuman's journey to Lanka to bring back the sanjeevani herb.