Temples in Rameswaram

Rameshwaram, a serene island in Tamil Nadu, is one of the holiest places in India, offering a spiritual retreat for pilgrims and travelers alike. Known for its ancient temples, breathtaking architecture, and tranquil vibes, this sacred town is a treasure trove of devotion and history.

1. Ramanathaswamy Temple

Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram is a revered pilgrimage site, known for being one of the 12 Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to the Ramayana, Lord Rama and Goddess Sita prayed here, with Lord Hanuman bringing a Shiva Linga from Mt. Kailash. The temple is also famous for its stunning southern architectural style, featuring Gopurams, Nandi, and the Chokkattan Mandapam, along with the world's longest pillared corridor. This unique blend of devotion and architecture makes it a top attraction for visitors worldwide.

2. Nambu Nayagiamman Temple

Nambu Nayagiamman Temple, located 8 km from the Ramanathaswamy Temple, was built in the 14th century by the people of Ramnad District to honor Goddess Dakshina Kali. This peaceful and holy site is visited by devotees seeking blessings for children and to resolve personal issues. It was established after two sages, Dakshina Duruvan and Pachima Duruvan, were graced with a divine sighting of the Goddess, making it an important part of Rameswaram's spiritual landscape.

 3.  Dhanushkodi Temple

Dhanushkodi Temple, around 500 years old, is a significant temple in Rameswaram dedicated to Lord Rama. It features an idol of Lord Rama holding his bow, known locally as 'kothandamin', which is why the temple is also called Kothandaramaswamy Temple. According to legend, this is the spot where Vibhishana, the brother of the demon king Ravana, swore his allegiance to Lord Rama to help defeat his sibling.

 4. Jada Theertham

Jada Theertham is a small but important sacred site in Rameswaram, linked to the story of Lord Rama. After defeating Ravana, Lord Rama came here to wash his matted hair (Jata) to purify himself before worshipping Lord Shiva. This holy spot features a water tank surrounded by trees and a nearby temple, making it one of the most revered religious destinations in Rameswaram.

 5. Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple

Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple, located near the Ramanathaswamy Temple, is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The temple features a unique five-faced statue of Hanuman, representing five Hindu deities: Hanuman, Adivaraha, Narasimha, Garuda, and Hayagriva. An ancient structure, it is also famous for housing floating stones that were used to build the Rama Setu. This temple is a popular tourist destination in Rameswaram, rich in history and spirituality.

 6. Gandhamadhana Parvatham 

Gandhamadhana Parvatham, located 3 km from the city center, is where Lord Hanuman is believed to have carried the mountain with medicinal herbs for Lord Laxman. The site features a two-story shrine of Lord Rama and is famous for his foot imprints on a Chakra. Its elevated position offers a beautiful panoramic view of the island, making it a serene and important Rameshwaram attraction.

 7. Lakshmana Theertham

Lakshmana Theertham, dedicated to Lord Lakshmana, is a popular temple in Rameswaram, known for its Dravidian architecture and beautiful sculptures of Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, and Lord Lakshmana. Located 1 km from the main temple, it honors Lord Lakshmana's role in the Ramayana and is close to other holy sites like Rama Theertham and Sita Theertham.

 8. Jatayu Theertham Temple

Jatayu Theertham Temple, one of the 22 theerthas in Rameshwaram, honors Jatayu, the king of birds, who fought valiantly to rescue Mata Sita from Ravana. Located at the site where Jatayu fell after sacrificing his life, this temple is surrounded by sand dunes. It features a sacred pond with water known for its sweet taste, making it a significant and peaceful attraction in Rameswaram.

 9. Thiruppullani- Adi Jagannatha Perumal Temple

Thiruppulani, a small village 12 km from Ramanathapuram, is home to the Adi Jagannath Perumal Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Known for its stunning Dravidian architecture, this temple is an important part of Rameswaram tourism. It houses a beautifully crafted idol of Lord Vishnu, along with idols of Goddesses Sri Devi, Bhudevi, and Goddess Padmasini. The temple's highlight is the striking idol of Lord Dharbasayana Ramar in a reclining posture, making it a revered site in South India.

10. Villoondi Theertham

Villoondi, a significant site in the Ramayana, is believed to be the place where Lord Rama dipped his bow in the seawater to satisfy Goddess Sita's thirst. Villoondi Theertham is a deeply spiritual spot that should not be missed by pilgrims visiting the holy temples of Rameswaram.