Begin your day with a visit to one of the biggest and most famous temples in South India - the Sri Meenakshi Temple. The temple complex houses 14 magnificent gopurams (tower gateways) intricately carved and painted with various mythological figures. The main sanctum houses the idol of Lord Shiva as Sundareswarar and his consort Meenakshi as Parvati. The temple attracts thousands of devotees every day, and your visit could take around two hours.
Next, head to the Gandhi Museum, which is a homage to Mahatma Gandhi's life and his nonviolent struggle for Indian freedom. The museum houses a personal library, photo gallery, and a collection of Gandhi's personal belongings, including his blood-stained dhoti (loincloth) worn during his assassination. The museum also has a multimedia gallery, where you can explore his life journey. You can spend around an hour learning more about one of India's greatest leaders.
After a morning filled with history, indulge in some authentic south-Indian food at Amma Mess. Known for its delicious meals, the place serves an array of vegetarian as well as non-vegetarian dishes. You can try their signature biryani, mutton gravy, and chicken fry, which are all popular among locals and tourists alike. A lunch break at Amma Mess can take around 45 minutes-1 hour.
After a delicious lunch, make your way to Ramanathaswamy Temple, which is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples, considered one of the most important in Hinduism. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and it's believed that Lord Rama, on his journey back from Lanka, prayed here to atone for the sin of killing Ravana, a Brahmin. The temple's design and architecture are fascinating, and the holy waters of the 22 tirthas (wells) inside the complex are considered to wash away sins. You can expect to spend around an hour here.
A visit to Dhanushkodi is incomplete without witnessing the stunning view of Pamban Bridge. The bridge connects the mainland with the island of Rameswaram and stretches across the breathtakingly beautiful waters of the Palk Strait. The bridge is the longest sea bridge in the country, measuring almost 2.5 km. You can take a walk on the bridge or sit on the rocks nearby and enjoy the panoramic view of the sea and the railway tracks. You can spend around 30-45 minutes here.
End your day by taking a dip in the Bay of Bengal at Dhanushkodi Beach, which is located on the eastern tip of the island. The water is crystal clear and refreshing, and the beach is surrounded by the Gulf of Mannar on one side and the Bay of Bengal on the other. The beach is also known for its unique black sand and is a perfect spot for unwinding and watching the sunset. You can spend around an hour here before you head back to Madurai.
If you have an extra day, you can visit other places in Rameswaram, such as the Ramar Patham temple, Agni Theertham, the Kalam House, or the Water Bird Sanctuary. However, if you have limited time, you can skip the Gandhi Museum or the Pamban Bridge, depending on your preference. A private taxi or a rental car is the most convenient way to reach and explore these places. Avoid traveling during monsoon season, as it can be risky due to heavy rainfall and strong winds.