Rameswaram is a pilgrimage site located in the south eastern end of Tamil Nadu, India. It boasts of rich cultural and mythological significance. Ramanathaswamy temple is a popular place of worship and a prominent tourist attraction in Rameswaram. The shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve jyotirlinga temples in India. In addition, it is one of the 276 padal petra sthalams.
The legend behind the temple is associated with Lord Rama from the Indian epic Ramayana. It is believed that Lord Rama, after defeating the demon king Ravana, wanted to worship Lord Shiva as part of atonement. He asked Hanuman to bring him a Linga from Kashi. When Hanuman delayed his return, Goddess Sita made a Shivalinga using sand so that Rama could offer his prayers. It is believed that the self-same Shiva Linga, known as Ramalingam, is now worshipped at the Ramanathaswamy temple. The lingam brought by Hanuman from Kailash is called Vishwalingam. There are 22 Theerthams (holy water bodies) inside the temple where devotees bathe to atone for their sins.
Best Places to Visit in Rameswaram
- Arulmigu Ramanatha Swamy Temple
- Dhanushkodi Beach Point
- Pamban bridge
- Agni Tirtham
- Villoondi Tirtham
- Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Memorial
- Ariyaman Beach
- Hanuman Temple
- Kothandaramaswamy Temple
- Kunthukaal
- Gandhamadhana Parvadham
