The Shree Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga Temple in Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu, is one of the 12 sacred Jyotirlingas and among the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. This ancient temple, renowned for its Dravidian architecture, is believed to have been established by Lord Rama before his journey to Lanka.

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The temple features the longest corridor in Hindu architecture (1,212 pillars) and 22 holy wells (theerthams), where devotees take ritual baths. The Jyotirlinga here is worshipped as Ramanathaswamy (Lord of Rama), with two lingams - one made by Sita (sand) and another brought by Hanuman (stone).

Rameshwaram is significant for both Shaivites and Vaishnavites, attracting pilgrims year-round, especially during Maha Shivaratri, Thai Amavasya (Jan-Feb), and Adi Amavasya (Jul-Aug). The temple's spiritual aura and coastal beauty make it a must-visit destination.

How to Reach Rameshwaram Temple

• By Air: Nearest airport – Madurai (174 km, 3-hour drive).

• By Train: Rameshwaram Railway Station (1 km) connects to major cities.

• By Road:

  • From Chennai: Buses/taxis (12-hour journey).

  • From Madurai: Regular buses/trains (4-5 hours).

Rituals & Aarti Timings

• Morning Pooja: 5:00 AM

• Abhishekam: 5:30 AM – 1:00 PM (with milk, honey, and sacred water).

• Evening Aarti: 6:00 PM

Major Festivals:

• Maha Shivaratri (Feb-Mar) – Grand processions and night-long prayers.

• Thai Amavasya (Jan-Feb) – Holy dip in Agni Theertham.

• Adi Amavasya (Jul-Aug) – Special rituals for ancestors.

Things to Do

1. Take a holy dip in Agni Theertham (sea) and the 22 temple wells.

2. Walk the temple corridors – Marvel at the 1,212-pillar architecture.

3. Visit Gandhamadhana Parvatham – Footprint of Lord Rama (3 km).

4. Explore Dhanushkodi – Ghost town at India’s southern tip (18 km).

5. Attend the evening Aarti for a divine experience.

Nearest Tourist Places

1. Dhanushkodi – Scenic ruins and beaches (18 km).

2. Adam’s Bridge (Rama Setu) – Mythical bridge to Lanka (viewable by boat).

3. Ariyaman Beach – Pristine shoreline (27 km).

4. Kurusadai Island – Marine biodiversity spot (20 km).

5. Madurai – Meenakshi Temple (174 km).

FAQs

Q1. What is the best time to visit Rameshwaram?

• Oct-Mar for pleasant weather; avoid monsoon (Oct-Dec) due to cyclones.

Q2. Are there accommodation options near the temple?

• Yes, budget lodges, dharamshalas, and hotels in Rameshwaram.

Q3. Is photography allowed inside the temple?

• No, photography is restricted in the sanctum.

Q4. Why is Rameshwaram Jyotirlinga unique?

• It is linked to Ramayana and has 22 sacred wells for ritual baths.

Q5. Can non-Hindus visit the temple?

• Yes, but only Hindus are allowed near the main deity.

🚩 Travel Tip: Wear traditional attire for temple entry and carry dry clothes for post-dip change! 🙏