Top Tourist Attractions in Rameshwaram
Rameswaram is a calm and beautiful island town in Tamil Nadu, connected to the mainland by the famous Pamban Bridge. It’s one of the most important holy places in India and part of the Char Dham pilgrimage — making it very special for Hindu devotees. But Rameswaram isn’t just for religious travelers. It’s also a great destination for anyone who loves beaches, history, nature, or peace.
The town is known for the amazing Ramanathaswamy Temple, with its long corridors and sacred water tanks. But beyond the temple, you’ll find many interesting places to visit — like the quiet ghost town of Dhanushkodi, peaceful beaches like Ariyaman, spiritual spots like Agni Theertham, and even a memorial for Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, India’s former President.
Whether you’re coming for devotion, relaxation, or just to explore something new, Rameswaram gives you a mix of culture, nature, and soul-soothing experiences — all in one trip.
1. Ramanathaswamy Temple – The Spiritual Heart of Rameswaram
Ramanathaswamy Temple is the most famous landmark in Rameswaram — and for good reason. It’s not just a temple, but one of the twelve sacred Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. That makes it a major spiritual destination for Hindus across India and beyond.
This ancient temple is known for its breathtaking architecture, especially the longest temple corridor in the world. As you walk through the beautifully carved stone pillars stretching over 1,200 meters, you’ll feel the divine silence and cool breeze of tradition flowing through the halls. Each pillar and carving tells a story of devotion and history.
Another special feature is the 22 sacred Theerthams (holy water wells) inside the temple. Devotees take a dip in these waters before entering the main sanctum, believing it washes away sins and brings blessings. Each well has its own legend, and the water in every one tastes different!
It’s also believed that Lord Rama himself worshipped Lord Shiva here to seek forgiveness after the battle in Lanka. That’s why this temple is part of the Char Dham Yatra, making it a must-visit for pilgrims.
Whether you're deeply spiritual or just a curious traveler, Ramanathaswamy Temple offers peace, architecture, and a deep sense of connection to something greater than yourself.
2. Agni Theertham – The Sacred Sea of Purification
Located right in front of the Ramanathaswamy Temple, Agni Theertham is one of the most sacred sea spots in Rameswaram. Every day, you’ll see hundreds of devotees taking a holy dip here before entering the temple — it’s believed that the seawater at this spot has the power to purify the soul and wash away past sins.
The name “Agni Theertham” has an interesting origin. According to legends, Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva here and made an offering to the sea god Agni, asking for forgiveness after the battle in Lanka. Since then, the sea at this point has been considered divine.
Unlike many other pilgrimage spots, Agni Theertham is open and welcoming, with gentle waves, clean sands, and a calm spiritual atmosphere. Watching the sunrise from this beach is a magical experience — especially when the early morning light reflects on the water as priests and devotees chant prayers nearby.
Even if you’re not religious, visiting Agni Theertham offers a peaceful break, a touch of tradition, and a deep cultural insight into South Indian rituals and devotion.
3. Dhanushkodi – A Mysterious Ghost Town by the Sea
Dhanushkodi is one of the most unique and unforgettable places in Tamil Nadu. Located at the southern tip of Rameswaram island, this coastal village is where the Bay of Bengal meets the Indian Ocean. But what makes it truly special is its eerie charm — it’s often called the “ghost town” of India.
Once a busy port town, Dhanushkodi was completely destroyed by a massive cyclone in 1964. What remains now are ruins of churches, railway tracks, and homes, standing quietly along the shore. Despite the tragic history, the place has a peaceful vibe that’s hard to describe.
The beach itself is incredibly scenic — long stretches of white sand, crystal-clear blue waters, and barely any crowd. It’s perfect for photography, quiet walks, and simply soaking in the beauty of nature. You can also see the remains of the old Dhanushkodi Railway Station and the abandoned church, both standing as silent witnesses to the past.
According to mythology, this is the place where Lord Rama built the legendary bridge (Ram Setu) to Lanka with the help of Hanuman and his vanara army. You can even visit the exact spot called “Arichal Munai”, believed to be the starting point of the bridge.
Getting to Dhanushkodi is an adventure in itself. The drive on the narrow road surrounded by sea on both sides — known as the “Land’s End Road” — is absolutely stunning.
Whether you're into history, mythology, nature, or offbeat travel, Dhanushkodi will leave you speechless and wanting to return again.
4. Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Memorial – Honoring the People’s President
Located in Pei Karumbu, just a few kilometers from the Rameswaram town center, the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Memorial is a place that inspires every Indian — and touches the hearts of all visitors, young and old.
This beautifully designed memorial is the final resting place of Dr. Kalam, India’s former President, renowned scientist, and one of the most respected leaders the country has ever known. Fondly called the “Missile Man of India”, Dr. Kalam was born and raised in Rameswaram, and even after reaching great heights, he remained simple, humble, and deeply rooted in his hometown.
The memorial’s architecture combines Indian, Mughal, and modern styles, featuring bronze statues, murals, and galleries that showcase Dr. Kalam’s life journey — from his childhood and education to his achievements in science and national service. You’ll find his personal belongings, photos, awards, and even models of rockets and missiles he worked on during his time with ISRO and DRDO.
One of the most touching parts of the visit is the calm and respectful atmosphere, surrounded by a well-maintained garden, Indian flags, and motivational quotes that reflect Kalam sir’s values — dream big, work hard, and stay humble.
This place isn’t just a memorial; it’s a symbol of inspiration for students, dreamers, and patriots. A must-visit for anyone coming to Rameswaram, especially if you want to understand the true meaning of simplicity, service, and greatness.
5. Pamban Bridge – A Historic Engineering Marvel Over the Sea
The Pamban Bridge is not just a bridge — it’s an emotion for everyone visiting Rameswaram. Connecting the island of Rameswaram to mainland India, this 110-year-old sea bridge is one of the most iconic structures in the country. Opened in 1914, it was India’s first sea bridge and remained the longest for several decades.
What makes this bridge so special? It's a rail bridge built over the ocean, with a section in the middle that lifts up like a drawbridge to allow ships to pass through — a rare sight to witness! Watching a train slowly chug along the bridge, surrounded by blue water on both sides, is something you’ll never forget.
The engineering behind the bridge is truly remarkable, especially considering it was built in an era without modern machines. Despite facing strong sea winds, corrosion, and even tsunamis, it continues to operate with strength and grace.
There’s also a road bridge (Annai Indira Gandhi Bridge) built parallel to it, which gives travelers a chance to stop and enjoy the breathtaking view of the rail bridge and the endless ocean.
Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply someone looking for a memorable travel experience, Pamban Bridge offers that magical moment — where history, beauty, and adventure meet in the middle of the sea.
6. Kothandaramaswamy Temple – The Temple That Withstood Time and Tide
Located around 12 km from Rameswaram, the Kothandaramaswamy Temple is a peaceful and spiritually rich destination surrounded by the sea on three sides. What makes this temple truly remarkable is that it’s one of the very few structures that survived the devastating 1964 cyclone, which destroyed much of nearby Dhanushkodi.
This ancient temple is closely linked to the Ramayana, the epic story of Lord Rama. According to legend, this is the spot where Vibhishana, the brother of Ravana, surrendered to Lord Rama after realizing his brother's wrongdoings. Rama accepted Vibhishana with open arms and gave him refuge — a story that teaches us about righteousness, forgiveness, and dharma.
Inside the temple, you’ll find serene idols of Lord Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Hanuman, and of course, Vibhishana. The temple’s quiet surroundings and the sound of the ocean waves make it a wonderful place for reflection and prayer.
Even though it’s not as grand or crowded as the Ramanathaswamy Temple, this small shrine holds immense spiritual value. Its simple beauty, mythological importance, and miraculous survival during a natural disaster make it a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to Rameswaram.
It's also a favorite for those who want to connect deeply with the Ramayana’s legacy and enjoy a moment of calm away from the usual tourist crowd.
7. Gandhamadhana Parvatham – A Peaceful Hill with Lord Rama’s Footprints
Located just a few kilometers from the heart of Rameswaram, Gandhamadhana Parvatham is the highest point on the island, though it's just a small hillock by height. What makes this place special isn't its elevation — it's the spiritual significance and the stunning panoramic views it offers.
At the top of the hill is a two-storeyed shrine, where you’ll find an imprint believed to be Lord Rama’s footprints on a chakra (wheel). Devotees believe that this is where Lord Rama stood and looked across the sea toward Sri Lanka, planning his journey to rescue Sita.
Climbing up here is not difficult, and once you reach the top, you’re greeted with cool sea breezes and beautiful views of the entire Rameswaram island. On a clear day, you can even see the distant outlines of the Pamban Bridge and the endless ocean surrounding the land.
The atmosphere here is calm and spiritual, making it an ideal place to meditate, pray, or simply enjoy nature’s silence. It’s less crowded than the main temple areas, so it offers a peaceful break during your pilgrimage or trip.
If you're someone who loves places that blend mythology, nature, and tranquility, Gandhamadhana Parvatham is a must-visit spot in Rameswaram.
8.Villoondi Theertham – The Sea That Holds a Divine Secret
Villoondi Theertham is a calm and peaceful beach located near Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu. What makes it really special is something truly rare — there's a freshwater spring right inside the sea!
According to legend, during the time of the Ramayana, Lord Rama was passing through this area with his army. At one point, his people were very thirsty, but all they had around was salty seawater. So, Lord Rama shot an arrow into the sea, and boom — fresh water started flowing out from that spot. That’s how this place got its name: "Villoondi" means "pierced with an arrow," and "Theertham" means holy water or sacred spring.
Even today, you can see that freshwater spring inside the sea. It’s amazing because the sea water is salty, but right there in that one spot, the water is sweet and drinkable. Many people believe that taking a dip here is a spiritual experience — they say it helps wash away sins and brings blessings.
Beyond the story, the place itself is super peaceful. You’ll hear the waves, feel the cool breeze, and enjoy a calm, quiet vibe. It’s perfect for relaxing, spending time with nature, or just experiencing a bit of divine history.
So if you ever go to Rameswaram, don’t miss visiting Villoondi Theertham — it’s a mix of natural beauty, mythological history, and peaceful vibes all in one place!
9.Ariyaman Beach – Where Peace Meets the Sea
Ariyaman Beach is a beautiful and clean beach located about 20 km from Rameswaram, in the Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu. It's a perfect spot for families, friends, and anyone who wants to relax away from the crowd.
The beach is known for its long stretch of soft sand, calm and shallow waters, and neat surroundings. Since the sea is not too deep here, it’s safe for children and people who are not strong swimmers. You can enjoy walking along the shore, playing in the water, or just sitting and enjoying the sea breeze.
One of the best things about Ariyaman Beach is that it’s less crowded, unlike many popular tourist spots. So, you get to enjoy some real peace and quiet. The place is also well-maintained by the local authorities, with shade huts, restrooms, and seating areas available for visitors.
For those who like a bit of fun, the beach sometimes offers boating, jet skiing, and other small water activities, especially during weekends or holidays.
There's also a children’s park nearby, and a few small stalls selling snacks, tea, and cool drinks — perfect for a family picnic or a chill evening with friends.
If you’re visiting Rameswaram or nearby places, definitely plan a few hours at Ariyaman Beach. It’s peaceful, clean, and gives you a nice break with the sound of waves and fresh sea air.
10.Lakshmana Theertham – The Sacred Pond of Devotion and Purity
Lakshmana Theertham is a sacred temple tank and pilgrimage spot located in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. It’s closely connected to Lord Lakshmana, the younger brother of Lord Rama from the Ramayana.
According to legend, after the war in Lanka, Lakshmana wanted to purify himself from the sins of battle. So, he prayed to Lord Shiva here and took a holy dip in this water. That’s why this place is called Lakshmana Theertham — “Theertham” means holy water or sacred pond.
Right next to the tank, there’s a beautiful temple dedicated to Lord Lakshmana. The architecture is traditional and peaceful, and the area gives you a very spiritual and calm feeling. The tank itself is square-shaped, clean, and often visited by devotees who take a dip in the holy water, especially during religious festivals.
What makes Lakshmana Theertham special is the combination of mythology, faith, and serene surroundings. It’s not just a place to visit — it’s a place where people come to find peace, offer prayers, and feel a divine connection.
If you’re exploring Rameswaram, this is a spot you shouldn’t miss. It’s close to many other theerthams (sacred water bodies) in the area, so you can easily include it in a temple tour or spiritual trip.