Rameswaram is a pilgrimage destination in Tamil Nadu, India, set on Rameswaram island. Its main draw is Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple, a Hindu shrine dedicated to Shiva and one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples. The temple is also a Char Dham pilgrimage site and is known for its 22 theerthams and long corridors. Other places connect religious interest with the island’s coastal setting, including Ramar Padam temple, Sri Panchmukhi Hanuman temple, Dhanushkodi Beach and Pamban Bridge. Visitors can also explore the House of Kalam, a museum in the former residence of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, and his memorial. The destination suits pilgrims, travellers interested in Hindu temples and visitors who want to see beaches, sea views and notable religious sites in one island setting. Kothandaramaswamy Temple adds another important shrine dedicated to Rama, while the bridge links the island with mainland India.
Known for: Hindu pilgrimage, Ramanathaswamy Temple, Island temples, Dhanushkodi Beach, Sea bridge
Top things to do in Rameswaram
Sri Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple: One of India’s twelve Jyotirlinga temples, this Shiva shrine draws pilgrims to its 22 theerthams and impressive corridors.
Dhanushkodi Beach: At the tip of Rameswaram island, this beach is where the Bay of Bengal and Gulf of Mannar meet.
Pamban Bridge: Drive across this sea bridge for views of the Indian Ocean and to see its engineering.
House of Kalam (APJ Abdul Kalam House / Museum: A former residence of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, this museum presents his personal belongings and life journey.
Ramar Padam temple: This temple is associated with Lord Rama’s footprints and offers a panoramic view of Rameswaram.
Sri Panchmukhi Hanuman temple and Floating Stones: This Hanuman temple is known for floating stones believed to have been used in Ram Setu and related legends.
Kothandaramaswamy Temple: This sea-surrounded shrine is dedicated to Rama and includes deities of Lakshmana, Sita, Hanuman and Vibhishana.
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Memorial: A memorial to Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, it combines Mughal and Indian architectural elements and displays India’s cultural heritage.
When is the best time to visit Rameswaram?
Best months: January to March
January to March is the usual time to visit, dry and before the hot months. October to December bring the heaviest rain, with November the wettest.
January: 58 mm of rain, dry (good time to go)
February: 20 mm of rain, dry (good time to go)
March: 19 mm of rain, dry (good time to go)
April: 53 mm of rain, dry
May: 89 mm of rain, some rain
June: 29 mm of rain, dry
July: 42 mm of rain, dry
August: 51 mm of rain, dry
September: 74 mm of rain, some rain
October: 194 mm of rain, rainy
November: 298 mm of rain, rainy
December: 189 mm of rain, rainy
How to reach Rameswaram
By air: Madurai Airport (IXM), about 147 km from Rameswaram in a straight line
By air: Tuticorin Airport (TCR), about 154 km from Rameswaram in a straight line
By train: Rameswaram railway station, about 1 km from Rameswaram in a straight line