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The temples in Rameshwaram are well-known for their deep spiritual importance and architectural beauty. Rameshwaram is one of India’s holiest pilgrimage locations, with multiple valued temples, including the well-known Ramanathaswamy Temple, which is devoted to Lord Shiva. These temples have a particular place in Hindu mythology, attracting pilgrims from all over the globe seeking blessings and spiritual consolation. The temples provide not only religious experiences but also insight into ancient South Indian temple architecture, making them a must-see for both pilgrims and history lovers.
10 Best Temples In Rameshwaram
Discover the top 10 temples in Rameshwaram, each providing a unique view into the region’s rich spiritual legacy and architectural magnificence:
1. Ramanathaswamy Temple
Photo: Wanderlusts / Wikimedia Commons
The Ramanathaswamy Temple is the most renowned and important temple in Rameshwaram. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples. It bears immense significance for Hindus as part of the Char Dham pilgrimage. The temple is famous for its fantastic design, particularly its lengthy hallways with artistically carved pillars reaching over 1,200 metres, making it the longest temple corridor in the world. Devotees gather here to perform rituals and take a plunge in the temple’s 22 hallowed wells, recognized for their purifying qualities. Visiting this temple offers a very spiritual and cultural experience.
Location: East Car Street, Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu
Timings: 5 AM – 1 PM and 3 PM – 9 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
2. Kothandaramaswamy Temple
Photo: Ryan / Wikimedia Commons
Kothandaramaswamy Temple, situated near Dhanushkodi, is immersed in the traditions of the Ramayana. This lovely temple in Rameshwaram by the sea represents the location where Lord Rama crowned Vibhishana, the brother of Ravana, following his surrender. Despite being the only tower that survived the 1964 storm that ravaged Dhanushkodi, the temple remains a prominent site of pilgrimage. The calm environment by the seaside and the historical relevance of this temple draws numerous worshipers and tourists. The temple also offers a quiet experience for tourists who come to seek blessings and contemplate the spiritual meaning of Lord Rama’s victory over evil.
Location: Dhanushkodi, around 12 km from Rameshwaram
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
3. Agnitheertham
Photo: Chandan Parihar / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Agnitheertham, located on the eastern shore of Rameshwaram, is one of the 64 sacred baths affiliated with the Ramanathaswamy temples. Pilgrims believe that a bath in the waters of Agnitheertham cleanses one of the sins and purifies the soul. This site is historically associated with Lord Rama, who gave prayers to Lord Shiva after slaying Ravana and this is the oldest temple in Rameshwaram. With the Bay of Bengal providing a stunning backdrop, the location carries spiritual veneration for pilgrims who begin their temple visits by having a plunge here.
Location: Rameshwaram Beach, just 100 metres from the Ramanathaswamy Temple
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: N/A
4. Dhanushkodi Temple
Photo: Vensatry / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Dhanushkodi Temple is located in the abandoned settlement of Dhanushkodi, at the tip of the Rameshwaram island. Known for its spooky and haunting beauty, Dhanushkodi was wrecked by a cyclone in 1964, leaving only a few structures surviving, including this popular temple in Rameshwaram. According to mythology, Lord Rama built a bridge from this precise site to Lanka with the help of his soldiers. Pilgrims visit the Dhanushkodi temples for its historical connection to the Ramayana and the spiritual significance of this land.
Location: Dhanushkodi, 18 km from Rameshwaram
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
5. Lakshmana Teertham
Photo: Garv Chaplot / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Lakshmana Teertham is a temple dedicated to Lord Lakshmana, the loving brother of Lord Rama. It has a tranquil pond that is considered sacred by followers, who think it has spiritual cleaning abilities. The temple compound is small but pleasant, providing a calm place for pilgrims to offer prayers. Visitors gather here to meditate on Lakshmana’s loyalty and assistance in Lord Rama’s voyage. The temple’s pond, surrounded by ancient architecture, is an essential destination for pilgrims wishing to connect with the legends of the Ramayana and immerse themselves in a tranquil spiritual experience.
Location: 2 km from Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameshwaram
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
6. Jatayu Teertham
Photo: Basile Morin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Jatayu Teertham, located a few kilometres from the town centre, is dedicated to the celestial bird Jatayu, who bravely fought Ravana in the Ramayana to rescue Sita. The shrine stands by a calm pond, considered sacred by devotees. Legend has it that Lord Rama performed Jatayu’s dying rites at this site. Pilgrims visit the shrine and the adjoining pond to honour Jatayu’s sacrifice. The temple, with its beautiful location and connection to the Ramayana, attracts tourists seeking both spiritual comfort and a chance to contemplate the courage and dedication of this mythological bird.
Location: 3 km from Rameshwaram town
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
7. Gandhamadhana Parvatham
Photo: Joydeep / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Gandhamadhana Parvatham is a two-storeyed temple built on the highest point of Rameshwaram Island. This venerated location has the footsteps of Lord Rama engraved on a stone. Pilgrims visit this temple in Rameshwaram to pay their respects to Lord Rama and to view the breathtaking vistas that surround it. The gorgeous location, paired with the sacred relics of Lord Rama, makes Gandhamadhana Parvatham a popular spot for people wishing to combine their spiritual journey with nature’s peacefulness.
Location: 3 km from Rameshwaram town centre
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
8. Nambu Nayagiamman Temple
Photo: Prosperosity / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nambu Nayagiamman Temple is a revered 14th-century shrine dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple, located about 8 kilometres from the town of Rameshwaram, is noted for its calm and peaceful surroundings., making it a peaceful refuge for pilgrims. The temple retains historical importance and is considered sacred by the people, who gather here to offer prayers and seek blessings. The finely crafted temple complex is surrounded by thick foliage, adding to its calm charm. Visitors typically come here to contemplate, worship, and immerse themselves in the temple’s calm surroundings away from the bustling town.
Location: Around 8 km from Rameshwaram
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
9. Thiruppullani Temple
Photo: Vikas Vaibhav / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Thiruppullani Temple, located roughly 64 kilometres from Rameshwaram, is devoted to Lord Adi Jagannatha (Lord Vishnu) and holds significant significance in the Ramayana. It is said that Lord Rama prayed to the Sea God here before beginning his voyage to Lanka. The temple’s spectacular architecture, sacred pond, and serene environs bring thousands of pilgrims each. The neighbouring Sarayu Teertham is another prominent attraction where devotees take a holy plunge.
Location: 64 km from Rameshwaram, in Thiruppullani
Timings: 6 AM – 9 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
10. Sugreevar Temple
Photo: iMahesh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sugreevar Temple is devoted to Sugreeva, the monkey king and close ally of Lord Rama in the Ramayana. Located near the Ramanathaswamy Temple, this small but significant temple serves as a reminder of the deep relationships of friendship and loyalty that Sugreeva had with Lord Rama. The temple’s architecture is essential, yet it attracts pilgrims who seek to offer prayers and ponder on the virtues of dedication and obligation. Its proximity to the more prominent Ramanathaswamy Temple makes it an easy addition to a temple tour, allowing devotees to enjoy the entire sweep of the Ramayana’s characters.
Location: Near Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameshwaram
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
Rameshwaram, with its rich mythological and historical associations, provides a wonderfully spiritual experience for pilgrims and tourists alike. Temples in Rameshwaram each have their own tales and rituals, making it a must-see site for anybody interested in Hindu culture and history. Plan your spiritual journey to Rameshwaram for a simple and cheap travel experience. Plan a trip with TripXl and make your journey a memorable one.
Cover Photo: CRS PHOTO / Shutterstock
