Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram

1 Temple Overview

The Ramanathaswamy Temple is a Shiva temple located on Pamban Island in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu, holding the distinction of being both one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and one of the four Char Dham sites.

Significance: One of 12 Jyotirlingas and one of the original Char Dham sites

2 Why Is It Famous?

The temple is famous for housing the longest temple corridor in the world (1,212 meters), lined with over 4,000 intricately carved pillars. It is deeply connected to the Ramayana, believed to be the spot where Lord Rama worshipped Shiva to atone for killing Ravana, and the 22 sacred wells (Theerthams) inside offer a unique ritual bathing experience.

3 Story and Legends

According to the Ramayana, after defeating Ravana in Lanka, Rama wished to worship Shiva to absolve himself of the sin of killing a Brahmin (Ravana was a learned Brahmin despite being a demon king). He sent Hanuman to fetch a lingam from Mount Kailash, but when Hanuman was delayed, Sita herself fashioned a lingam from sand, which became the primary worshipped idol — explaining the temple's deep connection to the Ramayana narrative.

4 History

The temple is associated with the Ramayana. Lord Rama is believed to have worshipped Shiva here before crossing to Lanka to rescue Sita. The famous corridor of the temple is the longest in the world at 1,212m.

Renovations: The temple's famous corridors were significantly expanded by the Sethupathi kings of Ramnad in the 16th-17th centuries, who are credited with much of the structure seen today.

5 Spiritual Significance

The temple has 22 sacred wells called Theerthams. Bathing in each well is believed to cleanse all sins. The island is connected to mainland India by the Pamban Bridge.

6 Architecture

The temple is renowned for its 1,212-meter long corridor (the longest in the world among Hindu temples), supported by over 4,000 ornately carved granite and sandstone pillars. Two main gopurams (towers) mark the eastern and western entrances, with the complex spanning approximately 15 acres.

7 Main Deity Information

Two lingams are worshipped here — the Ramalingam (made by Sita from sand, the primary worshipped deity) and the Vishwalingam (the one Hanuman brought from Kailash, worshipped first as per Rama's instruction out of respect for Hanuman's effort).

8 Festivals and Celebrations

Maha Shivaratri and Rama Navami are the most significant festivals here, drawing pilgrims connecting both the Shiva and Rama legends associated with the site.

9 Best Time to Visit

October to April for pleasant coastal weather, avoiding the intense summer heat.

Coastal Tamil Nadu climate; hot and humid most of the year, with relatively cooler temperatures November-February.

10 Darshan and Temple Timings

Aarti Schedule: Palli Arai Deepa Aradhanai (morning): 5:00 AM | Various poojas through the day per Agamic tradition

11 Pujas and Rituals

A unique ritual here involves bathing in all 22 sacred Theerthams (wells) inside the temple complex before darshan, each believed to cleanse specific sins — temple-appointed attendants assist pilgrims with water from each well.

12 How to Reach

Rameswaram has its own railway station. The nearest airport is Madurai (170km). Buses connect Rameswaram with Chennai, Madurai and other Tamil Nadu cities.

13 Accommodation

Range of hotels and lodges available in Rameswaram town, from budget to mid-range.

14 Food and Prasadam

South Indian vegetarian meals widely available; temple prasad includes traditional sweets and sacred well water.

15 Entry Fees and Costs

Free general entry. The 22 Theertham bathing ritual has a nominal fee for attendant assistance.

16 Rules and Dress Code

Traditional modest dress required; men often expected to be bare-chested in certain inner sanctum areas.

17 Nearby Attractions

Dhanushkodi (ghost town at India's southern tip), Pamban Bridge, Adam's Bridge viewpoint, Five-Faced Hanuman Temple.

18 Interesting Facts

At 1,212 meters, the temple corridor is recognized as the longest in any Hindu temple in the world. Rameswaram is connected to mainland India by the engineering marvel Pamban Bridge, one of India's oldest sea bridges.

19 Visitor Tips

Experience the 22 Theertham bath ritual early morning before it gets crowded — wear quick-dry clothing as you'll be doused with water repeatedly. Visit Dhanushkodi nearby for a unique, atmospheric experience.

20 Frequently Asked Questions

21 Quick Summary

22 Ratings