The perfect confluence of traditional legacy and natural adornments, the holy town of Rameswaram is placed perfectly on the Pamban Island. Even if you are not a religiously-inclined traveller, a visit to Rameswaram will leave you spiritually stirred and surprised. Primarily a pilgrimage site known for its gorgeous Hindu temples, this tiny fishing town in the southern state of Tamil Nadu is blessed with picturesque beaches, unrivalled underwater natural wonders, a sanctuary for birds, and so much more. To discover the destination in its glorious entirety, here are the places we recommend you should see:
Ramanathaswamy Temple
Hindu devotees flock to the Ramanathaswamy temple as part of their Char Dham yatra. Built in the 17th century, this temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is an architectural wonder housing one of the longest and largest pillared corridors in the world. There are over 1200 grand columns, each of which is beautifully carved and painted with a lion figure. Besides, the temple is also known for its Dravidian-style architecture and twelve ponds.
After you seek blessings at the temple, set on a stroll to the Agni Teertham. Take a holy dip here and catch the breathtakingly beautiful sunset and the orange-hued sky.
Hanuman Temple
This temple is a short distance away from the Ramanathaswamy Temple, and features a five-faced Hanuman idol. Devotees are known to smear the statue with sindoor or vermillion. The statue is perpetually covered in sindooram, a saffron coloured powder. Religious connotations aside, another thing to marvel at are the stones that mysteriously float on water. These are believed to be the same stones that were used to build the bridge from India to Lanka for Lord Rama by his monkey army. The temple is situated in close proximity to Rameswaram’s most popular museum called ‘House of Kalam’. The museum traces the life and works of the iconic scientist and humanitarian APJ Abdul Kalam and makes for a worthy visit.
Dhanushkodi Temple
Years ago, a cyclone hit Dhanushkodi and destroyed most of the Kothandaramaswamy Temple that has been elaborately described in the ancient texts of Ramayana. Today, in this island town located at the south-eastern part of Pamban, the temple’s ruins holding statues of Rama, Lakshman, Sita and Hanuman still continue to draw visitors from far and wide.
Dhanushkodi and Ariyaman Beach
There are two beaches in Ramanathapuram that warrant a visit for every tourist — the Dhanushkodi beach and Ariyaman beach. At one hand where Dhanushkodi beach offers a tranquil and refreshing time, the latter is where the action is. Go boating and enjoy water sports such as parasailing. If travelling with children, Ariyaman beach also has a children’s park, an aquarium and a museum. Dhanushkodi beach, on the other hand, is bordered by the Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean on either side. With gentle waves lapping the shore, this beach is a perfect getaway for those looking to stay away from the crowds and spend some time in solitude. This town has a population of merely 500 fishermen and their families.
Pamban Road and Rail Bridge
Probably India’s first sea bridge, Pamban Bridge or Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge on Palk Strait connects Rameswaram Island with the mainland. The rail bridge and road run parallel with the former boasting a functional double leaf bascule section midway to allow ships through. The bi-lane road, on the other hand, offers uninterrupted views of the azure waters and the 100-year-old cantilever railway bridge. A long drive on this track ensures a scenic experience.
Rama Setu
While the religious debates may continue for many years to come, tourists should visit the Rama Setu or Adam’s Bridge’ to see the beautiful collection of limestone shoals arranged in a chain starting from Rameswaram’s Dhanushkodi tip, all the way into the ocean. The bridge connects the Pamban island to the Mannar island of Sri Lanka.
Water Bird Sanctuary
Birdwatchers must visit Rameswaram to witness native and migratory birds in the city’s water bird sanctuary. October to January are the perfect months to visit when they come here in large numbers for breeding and feeding. The sight of the flocking birds is one to behold. Carry along your camera to capture some beautiful wildlife shots here.
How to Reach?
Rameshwaram city is less than 200 kilometres from the city of Madurai in Tamil Nadu, reachable via flight from most major cities in India. Alternatively, book yourself a seat on a train going to the Rameshwaram Railway Station. But the best way to this southern city is via the road while enjoying a picturesque and refreshing drive. Source: Makemytrip
Rameshwaram: The Temple City
