Ramanathaswamy Temple

The Ramanathaswamy Temple is a magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the holiest places in India. Here are some of the must-see sights within the temple complex:

• The Longest Corridor: One of the most astonishing features of the Ramanathaswamy Temple is its long corridor, consisting of over 1200 pillars. These intricately carved pillars are a marvel of architecture and craftsmanship.

  

  Ramanathaswamy Temple long corridor

• Shrines and Lingas: The temple complex houses a multitude of shrines dedicated to various Hindu deities. The most sacred of these is the Ramanatha Swami shrine, which houses the Ramanathalinga, the holy Shiva linga.

  

  Ramanathaswamy Temple Ramanatha linga

• The Sacred Tanks: Within the temple complex, there are 22 theerthams (sacred water bodies). Devotees consider bathing in these tanks to be a way to wash away sins and attain spiritual merit. One of the most well-known is the Shayana Theertham, a large tank with a colonnaded walk way.

Here are some other interesting places you can explore near the Ramanathaswamy Temple:

• Ram Theertham: It is believed that Lord Rama himself bathed in this theertham after returning from Lanka. Devotees bathe here for blessings.

• Gandhamadana Parvatham: This is a hillock within the temple complex, believed to be a part of the mythical Mount Gandhamadana.

• The Five-Faced Hanuman Temple: A unique temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the monkey god. Here, Hanuman is depicted with five faces.

  

  Ramanathaswamy Temple FiveFaced Hanuman Temple

The Ramanathaswamy Temple is located in Rameshwaram, an island town also famous for other sightseeing options:

• Pamban Bridge: This bridge connects Rameswaram to mainland India and is the longest bridge in South India. It also has a unique design with a central section that can be lifted up to allow ships to pass through.

  

  Pamban Bridge, Rameshwaram

• Dhanushkodi Beach: This beach was once a thriving town but is now mostly in ruins due to a cyclone. However, it’s a popular spot for its scenic beauty and its connection to the Ramayana legend.

  

  Dhanushkodi Beach, Rameshwaram

• Ram Theertham: It is believed that Lord Rama himself bathed in this theertham after returning from Lanka. Devotees bathe here for blessings.

  

  Ramanathaswamy Temple Ram Theertham

• Gandhamadana Parvatham: This is a hillock within the temple complex, believed to be a part of the mythical Mount Gandhamadana. You can find a temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu here.

  

  Ramanathaswamy Temple Gandhamadana Parvatham

• Water Bird Sanctuary: A great place for bird watching. You can spot a variety of birds here including flamingos, pelicans, and herons.

  

  Water Bird Sanctuary, Rameshwaram

• Kalam National Memorial: This memorial is dedicated to Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, the 11th President of India, who was known as the “Missile Man of India” for his work in developing missile technology. The memorial houses a museum that showcases his life and achievements.

  

  Kalam National Memorial, Rameshwaram