Ramanathaswamy Temple is one of the holiest places in India and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Spread over 15 acres, the temple has one of the longest corridors in the world. The architecture is a blend of Dravidian and Islamic styles. The temple has a 22-well bath complex known as the Agni Theertham. Here, visitors take a dip in the sea before entering the temple. Don’t forget to check out the 1000-pillared hall with intricate carvings. Plan to spend at least two hours exploring the temple complex.
Take a walk on the Pamban Bridge, India’s first sea bridge built in 1914, connecting Rameshwaram Island to the mainland. The bridge is 2.3 km long and offers stunning views of the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean on either side. The elevated portion of the bridge rises to let ships and boats pass. You can watch the mechanism in action from a nearby park.
Pay tribute to India’s beloved former president Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam at his memorial. The Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Memorial is located in his hometown of Rameshwaram and has many exhibits that showcase his life and achievements. You can also see replicas of missiles and rockets on display. The memorial has an auditorium where a documentary about Dr. Kalam is shown.
Visit Ram Setu Point, a natural sand bridge that is believed to be built by Lord Rama to reach Lanka. The bridge is located on the sea and is a popular spot for both tourists and devotees. Take a boat ride to get a closer view of the bridge. On the way back, you can visit the Dhanushkodi Beach, one of the easternmost points in India where the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean meet.
Gandhamadhana Parvatham is a hill that has great spiritual significance for Hindus. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama stood and looked for his wife Sita after defeating Ravana. The hill has a temple dedicated to Hanuman, and a footprint of Lord Rama. The hill offers panoramic views of Rameshwaram Island and the Bay of Bengal.
The Rameshwaram Beach is a great spot to relax and unwind. The shallow waters and soft sand make it a perfect beach for families with children. You can rent a beach umbrella and chairs and enjoy a picnic with your loved ones. There are plenty of food stalls and vendors selling souvenirs along the beach.
If you have more time, you can visit the House of Kalam, a museum dedicated to Dr. Kalam's life. The museum has his personal belongings, photographs and books. Another notable temple in Rameshwaram is the Kothandaramaswamy Temple, located on the beach with a stunning view of the sea. If you have less time, skip the beach and visit the Kothandaramaswamy temple before going to the railway station. Remember to carry enough water and sunscreen as the weather can get hot and humid, especially during the summer season.