Rameshwaram is a sacred town located on Pamban Island in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. It holds great religious significance for Hindus and is one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in the country. Rameshwaram is situated in the Gulf of Mannar and is connected to the mainland by the Pamban Bridge, a famous engineering marvel. Pilgrims from all over India visit Rameshwaram to perform ancestral rituals and seek blessings. The town's religious and cultural heritage, coupled with its beautiful coastal surroundings, makes it a must-visit destination for both religious and leisure travelers. Popular places to visit in rameshwaram are :
Rameshwaram Temple : A perfect blend of mind-boggling architecture and spiritual significance, Rameshwaram Temple, also known as Ramanathaswamy Temple of Tamil Nadu is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It also boasts of being one of the 12 Jyotirlinga temples of India. Not just spiritually, Rameshwaram Temple is appealing architecturally also. With the longest corridor of the world and immaculate carvings on pillars, it is definitely a treat for your eyes.
The lingam in the Rameshwaram Temple was installed by Lord Rama but, the construction was led by several rulers over the centuries. Inside the temple, there are two lingams- Ramalingam and Shivalingam. The latter is still worshipped first to preserve the words of Lord Rama. Besides daily Abhishkams and poojas performed with great zeal, there are absorbing festivals worth witnessing.
Dhanushkodi : Is a small, sparsely populated beach town on the coast of Tamil Nadu . In the 1964, Dhanushkodi was hit by one of the worst storms India has ever seen. Ever since then, Tamil Nadu has rebuilt this town to become one of the most unique and unusual beach towns of India. This small town redefines the term isolated. Cut off from the rest of the world, this town seems untouched by time. While the rest of India is vying to get ahead in the race for prosperity, this town seems frozen in history, reflecting it grandeur and beauty.
Jatayu Tirtham : Is the holy temple constructed in the memory of Jatayu, who was the most loyal eagle of Rama and who helped lord Rama at various instances in getting herbs from the mountains. It is said that this eagle lost its life in order to save the life of lord Rama and hence its sacrifice is always appreciated and it is worshiped as a deity even today. It was buried in the soil when it died and Jatayu temple has been created at the place of its burial.
The whole of its pit was filled with vibhuti, which is the holy ash that is obtained after the yagnas. It is believed that it was buried in the soil whenafter death and Jatayu temple has been created at the place of its burial. The whole of its pit was filled with vibhuti, which is the holy ash that is obtained after the yagnas.
ALSO READ : The tourist Destinations of Odisha
Agnitheertham : One of the 64 sacred baths in Rameshwaram, the Agnitheertham is one of the most important theertham and receives a large number of tourists each day. Located on the beach side of Sri Ramanathaswamy temple, Agnitheertham is the only theertham sited outside the temple complex. In the Sanskrit language, the word agni means fire; while the word theertham means holy water. Agnitheertham has been mentioned several times in the ancient texts and mythological legends as a pilgrimage of significant importance among the Hindus. The devotees visiting the theertham offer their prayers to the deity and atone their sins by taking a dip in the holy waters.
ALSO READ : Coorg, Karnataka: A Mesmerizing Hill Station
Villoondi Tirtham : Is a beach which is also considered a sacred natural water body and a favourite amongst tourists. It also has a spring inside the sea which makes the attraction a unique one and is often associated with the Legend of Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Rama shot an arrow to create this spring to help his people with drinking water. Pilgrims visiting Rameshwaram often take a dip in the Villoondi Tirtham before proceeding to the Ramanathaswamy Temple.
It is believed that bathing in the holy waters of the pond can cleanse one's sins and purify the soul. The water from the pond is also used for performing various rituals and pujas (religious ceremonies) within the temple premises. Villoondi Tirtham is situated at a short distance from the Ramanathaswamy Temple and is easily accessible for visitors. Its religious significance and serene surroundings make it a significant spot for spiritual seekers and devotees visiting Rameshwaram.
Shillong, Meghalaya: Exploring the Enchanting "Scotland of the East"
The tourist Destinations of Bihar
A Guide to Effortless Travel Planning
Highest Peaks In India To Travel