Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
The best food in Rameshwaram offers a fascinating blend of regional Tamil cuisine with unique island flavours. Located at the southern tip of India, Rameshwaram holds religious significance for Hindus and is a popular pilgrimage spot. As an island town, it offers not only seafood but also a variety of traditional vegetarian dishes. Whether you are visiting the temples or the ocean views, you can indulge in an array of delicious local meals that reflect the rich culture and heritage of Tamil Nadu.
10 Best Food In Rameshwaram
Discover the best food in Rameshwaram that every food enthusiast should try while visiting this historic town to add to the culinary experiences:
1. Puliyodarai
Photo: KALX999 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Puliyodarai is a well-loved tamarind rice dish that holds cultural significance in Tamil Nadu, particularly in Rameshwaram. The tangy rice is prepared by blending cooked rice with a tamarind-based paste, spiced with mustard seeds, dried chillies, and curry leaves. Peanuts add a pleasant crunch, making this dish both flavourful and satisfying. It’s commonly served in temples and eateries, offering an easy, portable meal option. Its simplicity and unique tangy-spicy profile have made it a staple of temple offerings and traditional meals in the region.
Timings: Available at most local restaurants throughout the day
Cost: ₹50 to ₹100 per serving
Location: Most local eateries, especially near the Rameshwaram temple
2. Filter Kaapi
Photo: Vallari.a / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
South Indian Filter Kaapi is a cultural experience in a cup, especially in Rameshwaram. Made from freshly ground coffee beans and chicory, the brewing method enhances the robust flavour. The coffee is then poured between two stainless steel tumblers to aerate and cool it slightly before serving. This process ensures a strong, aromatic cup, perfect for energising your morning or providing a relaxing evening break. It’s a popular choice for those looking to immerse themselves in local traditions.
Timings: Morning and evening
Cost: ₹20 to ₹40 per cup
Location: Coffee stalls near bus stands and around tourist spots
3. Nannari Paal Sarbath
Photo: Namitakhaire / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nannari Paal Sarbath is a refreshing drink, particularly popular during the hot months in Rameshwaram. Nannari syrup, derived from sarsaparilla roots, is mixed with cold milk, creating a cooling and slightly sweet beverage. Its herbal undertones offer a unique taste that sets it apart from typical refreshments. Known for its ability to beat the heat, it’s a favourite among locals and tourists. The drink is often enjoyed as a midday refreshment, offering a soothing alternative to commercial soft drinks.
Timings: Noon to evening
Cost: ₹30 to ₹50 per glass
Location: Local street vendors across the town
4. Rameswaram Kootu
Photo: Harshadpp / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Best known as one of the best veg foods in Rameshwaram, Kootu is a nutritious and comforting vegetarian dish. The dish is often served with rice and prepared using a coconut-based gravy, making it both creamy and mildly spicy. It is commonly found in traditional eateries, offering a healthy and comforting meal option. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a balanced, fulfilling meal. Its blend of flavours makes it a versatile dish that pairs well with rice.
Timings: Lunch and dinner
Cost: ₹60 to ₹120 per serving
Location: Traditional vegetarian restaurants near the Rameshwaram temple
5. Murukku
Photo: Vis M / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Murukku is a crunchy, deep-fried snack that holds a special place in South Indian cuisine. It is made from a dough of rice flour and urad dal, twisted into intricate shapes before being fried to a golden crisp. Its crunchy texture makes it an ideal companion for tea or coffee, and as an anytime snack. In Rameshwaram, Murukku is available in various shapes and sizes in local sweet and snack shops. It is a popular takeaway item for both tourists and locals looking to enjoy a traditional treat.
Timings: Available throughout the day
Cost: ₹10 to ₹50 per packet
Location: Local sweet and snack shops
6. Paruppu Payasam
Photo: Dr. Monty Khajanchi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Paruppu Payasam, a sweet lentil-based dessert, is one of the best local food in Rameshwaram. This traditional dish is commonly served during festivals and special occasions, offering a comforting blend of rich flavours. The creamy texture, combined with the sweetness of jaggery and the hint of cardamom, makes it a beloved dessert. In Rameshwaram, it’s a popular choice for a local dessert that brings together the essence of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.
Timings: Lunch and dinner
Cost: ₹40 to ₹100 per bowl
Location: Traditional South Indian eateries near the Rameshwaram temple
7. Rasam
Photo: Jamstechs / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Rasam is a tangy, spicy soup that is a staple in South Indian meals. This broth is traditionally made with tamarind, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, offering a warm, peppery flavour. Known for its digestive properties, rasam is often consumed at the end of a meal or served with rice. In Rameshwaram, this dish is especially popular due to its simplicity and rich taste. Whether enjoyed on its own or with other dishes, Rasam offers a distinctive flavour that’s both comforting and invigorating.
Timings: Lunch and dinner
Cost: ₹30 to ₹80 per bowl
Location: Traditional vegetarian restaurants around the temple
8. Prawn Fry
Photo: Rekhashastry / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
For those seeking the best seafood in Rameshwaram, prawn fry is a standout. The prawns are freshly caught and marinated in a special blend of spices before being shallow-fried. This is to achieve a crispy texture on the outside while remaining tender inside. This dish is celebrated for its bold flavours, with a spicy kick that complements the natural sweetness of the prawns. Often served as a starter or alongside rice, Prawn Fry offers a taste of Rameshwaram’s coastal cuisine.
Timings: Lunch and dinner
Cost: ₹150 to ₹250 per plate
Location: Seafood restaurants near Rameshwaram beach
9. Poriyal
Photo: CC0 Public domain / PxHere / Image For Representation Only
Poriyal is a stir-fried vegetable dish that is an essential part of a traditional South Indian meal. The vegetables are cooked with a light seasoning of mustard seeds, curry leaves, and a sprinkle of grated coconut. This dish celebrates the natural flavours of fresh, seasonal vegetables, offering a healthy and simple side dish. Poriyal is often paired with rice and lentils, adding a crunchy, slightly spicy contrast. In Rameshwaram, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a light and nutritious accompaniment to their meals.
Timings: Lunch and dinner
Cost: ₹40 to ₹80 per serving
Location: Vegetarian restaurants around the temple area
10. Fish Curry
Photo: Samphotography / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Rameshwaram’s fish curry is a spicy and aromatic dish that highlights the region’s coastal flavours. The curry is made using freshly caught fish, simmered in a coconut milk-based gravy with tamarind, garlic, and a blend of spices. The richness of the coconut milk balances the tanginess of the tamarind, creating a well-rounded, flavourful dish. Often enjoyed with steamed rice, this curry is a favourite among visitors wanting to explore local seafood. Its bold flavours and fresh ingredients make it a memorable part of the Rameshwaram dining experience.
Timings: Lunch and dinner
Cost: ₹100 to ₹250 per serving
Location: Coastal seafood restaurants near Rameshwaram Beach
The best food in Rameshwaram truly captures the essence of the region’s culinary culture. The popular tangy tamarind rice and a variety of fresh seafood create a memorable culinary experience. Visitors can explore local food stalls, savour traditional meals, and enjoy the vibrant local spices used in every dish. Whether you prefer vegetarian delicacies or fresh catches from the sea, Rameshwaram provides options for all. To enhance your food adventure, explore top travel deals on TripXL for a well-planned trip!
Cover Photo: SwatiGupta1986 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
