Rameshwaram, on Pamban Island, in Tamil Nadu, is one of
India’s most sacred places of spiritual endeavour and pilgrimage as part of the
Char Dham pilgrimage. Rameshwaram is famous for its ancient temples, tourist places in Rameshwaram, serene beaches, and historical significance. The town is a beautiful intersection of
mythological stories and stunning scenery. It is believed to be the place where
Lord Rama built the famous bridge, Ram Setu to reach Lanka. Thus, this place is
extensively revered among Hindus.
Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Rameshwaram
Discover the top tourist attractions in Rameshwaram, a sacred town known for its spiritual charm and natural beauty. From the iconic Ramanathaswamy Temple to the serene shores of Dhanushkodi, Rameshwaram offers a perfect blend of pilgrimage and scenic experiences. Marvel at the historic Pamban Bridge, explore ancient temples, and unwind at peaceful beaches. These tourist places in Rameshwaram make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking history, spirituality, and coastal charm in one unforgettable trip.
1. Ramanathaswamy Temple
The Ramanathaswamy Temple is the spiritual and cultural
center of the region of Rameshwaram. Known for its awe-inspiring architecture,
and its long corridors, the Ramanathaswamy Temple boasts 22 sacred wells and is
among the twelve Jyotirlingas dedicated to Lord Shiva. According to tradition,
Lord Rama worshipped Shiva and the temple after returning from Lanka. The
temple is one of the Tourist places of Rameshwaram for anyone wanting to witness subliminal
peace from God and the essence of South Indian temple architecture.
- Entry Fee: Free (Special Darshan ₹50–₹250)
- Best Time to Visit: October to March; early morning or evening
- Travel Tip: Wear traditional clothes and carry extra clothing if you plan to bathe in the temple wells.
2. Agni Theertham
Agni Theertham is the sacred beach immediately outside of the Ramanathaswamy Temple. The faithful devotees take a holy dip in the sea here before entering the temple. Lord Rama probably took a dip in this sea to rid the sin of killing Ravana. In addition to its spiritual offerings, Agni Theertham has very calm waters and is noted for its peaceful sunrises, perhaps an ideal way to start your day when exploring the tourist attractions of Rameshwaram.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: Sunrise hours
- Travel Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds and carry towels or a change of clothes.
3. Pamban Bridge
Pamban Bridge is India's first sea bridge that connects
Rameshwaram Island with the mainland. It is a marvel of engineering, and the
beautiful blue waters beneath provide one of the most picturesque views in
Rameshwaram. The train ride over Pamban Bridge is breath-taking. It is one of
the lovely sights in Rameshwaram to see a train pass by in slow motion while
the ocean surrounds it.
- Entry Fee: Free (Train fare applicable)
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon
- Travel Tip: Don’t miss the nearby Indira Gandhi Road Bridge for panoramic photo opportunities.
4. Dhanushkodi Beach and Ghost Town
Dhanushkodi was once a busy town before a cyclone hit it in
1964. Today, it's a eerily beautiful ghost town at the southern tip of
Rameshwaram. Dhanushkodi is fully surrounded by sea and is believed to be where
Lord Rama started building the Ram Setu. The unspoilt beach and ruins are
popular with photographers and thrill-seekers alike.
- Entry Fee: Free (Jeep ride ₹150–₹200 approx)
- Best Time to Visit: October to March; before sunset
- Travel Tip: Carry drinking water and visit only during daylight hours as night entry is not permitted.
5. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial
This is a memorial dedicated to India’s Missile Man and
former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. It is a memorial to his life and the
story of his life. The memorial will allow you to see a collection of Dr.
Kalam's possessions, photos and medals. A place of inspiration and national
pride, this is one of the must-see places in Rameshwaram.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: Morning hours
- Travel Tip: Maintain silence inside the museum; photography is not allowed in certain sections.
6. Gandhamadhana Parvatham
Gandhamadhana Parvatham is the highest point in Rameshwaram,
where Lord Rama's footprints on a chakra are said to be. The temple on the hill
is a quiet environment and provides tremendous views of the sea and town
nearby. The place is blissful and pleasant for people looking for solitude and
a peaceful vibe, as well as pretty surroundings.
- Entry Fee: ₹5 per person
- Best Time to Visit: Evening
- Travel Tip: Ideal spot for sunset views; bring a camera or binoculars for better viewing.
7. Kothandaramaswamy Temple
Located by the sand is this temple which is still standing
after the cyclone in 1964 which destroyed Dhanushkodi. It is thought to be the
site of where Vibhishana surrendered to Lord Rama. The site offers a calm
location, historic architecture, and mythological significance which make it a
must-see site for tourists visiting Rameshwaram and Ramayana fanatics.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon
- Travel Tip: It’s best to include this site while visiting Dhanushkodi for convenience.
8. Jada Tirtham
Jada Tirtham is a temple along the way to Dhanushkodi. It is
believed that Lord Rama washed his (jada) hair here before worshipping Lord
Shiva. There are some very old trees surrounded by a calm little atmosphere. It
is known to be a spiritual place and a site where visiting pilgrims would like
to experience Ramayana and nature.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning
- Travel Tip: Plan a short stop here while heading towards Dhanushkodi; there are no food stalls nearby.
9. Ariyaman Beach
Ariyman beach is situated about 21 km from Rameshwaram. The
beach is known for its clean sand, gentle waves and peaceful environment. It is
great for families to relax and kids to play. Available for rental are water
scooter rides on the sea, boating, and children’s park. It is less crowded from
beaches along the primary Rameshwaram coast for a refreshing escape along the
coast.
- Entry Fee: ₹20 approx
- Best Time to Visit: October to February
- Travel Tip: Carry snacks and sun protection; restrooms and changing rooms are available.
10. Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple
The temple houses a unique extraordinary five-faced idol of
Lord Hanuman, and it is one of the holy places to visit in Rameshwaram. One of
the significant attractions here is the floating stones that the idol, and
devotees, believe were used to build the Ram Setu. People come to offer
prayers, and view the more interesting oddities pertaining to their own
spirituality in alignment with the Ramayana.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Best Time to Visit: Morning or early evening
- Travel Tip: Take time to observe the floating stones and read the storyboards inside the temple.
Plan Your Trip to Explore Tourist Places in Rameshwaram
The tourist attractions in Rameshwaram ranges from divine temples and legendary bridges to ghost towns and solitude on empty beaches; they will take you on a beautiful and unforgettable journey of devotion and experience. Plan your Rameshwaram Tour Package from Delhi to explore the tourist attractions in Rameshwaram. Every pilgrim or traveler on this break will find incredible sacred tourist places to visit in Rameshwaram or discover hidden gems to make their own. We wish you the utmost success planning your travels to one of my favourite coastal spiritual destinations. There's something magical in this sacred land that will draw you in for the journey!