Rameswaram

Situated in the district of Ramnathapuram in Tamil Nadu, Rameswaram is a small island. Surrounded by Palk Strait and the Gulf of Munnar, Rameswaram is a beautiful island known for its aquamarine oceans and sandy beaches with crystal blue water. It is regarded as one of the most holy cities in India and is famous for its Ramnathswamy temple. It is fine to visit Rameswaram any time of the year, however weather-wise January to March is the best time to visit.

Home to one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India, Ramnathswamy temple is popularly known as the Rameswaram temple. Legend has it that this temple was built by Lord Rama as a symbol of his devotion towards Lord Shiva. It is said that Rama asked Hanuman to bring a Shiva lingam from Mount Kailash. Hanuman could not return in time and hence Sita herself created a lingam of sand and Rama installed this lingam. On returning, Hanuman was disappointed to know this. Rama consoled Hanuman and installed the lingam Hanuman returned with (Visvalingam) next to the main lingam. The main sanctum in the temple houses the Ramalingam, while the Visvalingam is to the right. Dating back to the 17th century, this shrine was built in the dravidian style of architecture. Spread over 15 acres of land, it has enormous walls, towering Gopurams, and a huge Nandi. This temple boasts of a stupendous corridor that is said to be the longest in the world. This corridor is 1220 m long and has 4,000 ornately carved pillars. The pillars stand on a raised platform and are beautifully carved with images. It is said to be carved of a single granite rock, which is said to have been imported and transported miles across the sea. The ceiling of the corridor also displays beautiful colored pictures. There are many mandaps within the temple dedicated to different deities. The eastern Gopuram towers at the height of 126m and looks truly awe inspiring. The idol of the Nandi is captivating because of its sheer size. It is 9 feet tall and 12 feet in length. There are 22 different teerthams in the temple complex. Devotees traditionally bathe in the teertham before entering the temple. Each teertham is said to have a different healing benefit.

The magnanimous structure, skilled architecture and intricate carvings make this temple a magnificent sight.

Other attractions in Rameswaram

Ramjharoka temple : Situated at the highest point on the island, this temple houses the imprints of Lord Ramas feet, which are placed on a chakra. It is one of the major tourist attractions in Rameswaram

Rameswaram is full of various temples dedicated to Lord Rama.

The Rameswaram Island is intoxicating and immensely beautiful with its luscious greenery, gorgeous golden beaches, blue water and coral reefs. It makes for a lovely destination for a relaxed vacation.

Kurusadai Island : Situated at a distance of 20 kilometers from Rameswaram, Kurusadai Island is another destination worth exploring.