About Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram
On Pamban Island, close to the southern tip of India, the Ramanathaswamy Temple honors Shiva at a spot where Rama is said to have worshipped a linga after returning from Lanka. It is both one of the twelve Jyotirlingas and the southern abode of the Char Dham. The temple's outer corridors stretch for more than a kilometer, lined with over a thousand carved pillars, and are often called the longest in India.
A distinctive ritual sees pilgrims bathing at twenty two theerthams, or holy wells, inside the complex, with attendants pouring buckets of water over them before darshan. Many also take a dip at Agni Theertham on the seashore. Dhanushkodi, the ghost town at the end of the island, and the views toward Sri Lanka make a fitting side trip.
What to see
- Third corridor with over a thousand carved pillars
- Bathing at the 22 temple wells
- Agni Theertham seashore bath
- Pamban Bridge crossing to the island
- Dhanushkodi and Arichal Munai point
Visiting Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram: practical guide
- Best time
- October to April
- Hours
- Usually 5 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 9 pm
- Entry
- Free; small fee for well bathing and special darshan
- Dress code
- Traditional dress; bring a change of clothes for bathing
- Nearest airport
- Madurai Airport (IXM), 175 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Bathe at the wells before the main darshan
- Leave phones in the cloakroom
- Visit Dhanushkodi before sunset
Festivals and special days
- Maha Shivaratri
- Thirukalyanam
- Navaratri
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Hinduism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Remove shoes before entering temples and some homes.
- Dress modestly with shoulders and legs covered.
- Some temples, such as Puri Jagannath, admit only Hindus; respect posted signs.
- Ask before photographing shrines, rituals or cremation grounds.
- Use your right hand to accept prasad, the blessed food offering.
- Avoid bringing leather items or meat into temple grounds.
Location map
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram?
Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram is in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, India, Asia. GPS coordinates: 9.2881, 79.3174. The nearest airport is Madurai Airport (IXM), 175 km.
What is the best time to visit Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram?
October to April
Is there an entry fee for Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram?
Free; small fee for well bathing and special darshan Opening hours: Usually 5 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 9 pm
What should I wear when visiting Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram?
Traditional dress; bring a change of clothes for bathing
Which religion is Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram sacred to?
Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram is sacred to Hinduism. Active place of worship.
