Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on Rameswaram island in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples, which are considered highly sacred in the Shaiva tradition. The temple has magnificent architecture, renowned for its long corridors, towering gopurams (gateway towers), and elaborately sculpted pillars. The temple's sanctity is linked to the epic Ramayana, where it is believed that Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva here to absolve the sin of killing Ravana.
Temple About
Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on Rameswaram Island in Tamil Nadu. It is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines and part of the Char Dham pilgrimage.
Temple Description
The temple is renowned for its magnificent corridor architecture, massive pillars, and sacred water tanks (Theerthams). Built in Dravidian style, the temple has the longest corridor among all Hindu temples in India, stretching over 1,200 meters. The temple’s history is closely associated with Lord Rama, who worshipped Lord Shiva here before crossing over to Lanka to rescue Sita.
Temple Speciality
One of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Famous for its longest corridor among all Hindu temples in India.
Contains 22 holy wells (theerthams) where pilgrims take a purification bath.
Rich in Dravidian architecture, featuring intricate sculptures and massive pillars.
Temple Address
SRI Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu 623526, India.
Temple Location (Longitude and Latitude)
9.2881° N, 79.3129° E
Temple Timings
Morning: 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Evening: 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Temple Sevas
Spatika Linga Darshan
Special Abhishekam
Rudrabhishekam
Gho Pooja
Panchamrita Abhishekam
Sahasranama Archana
Kumbhabhishekam
Traveling Facilities
Food Facilities
Several vegetarian restaurants and eateries around the temple premises.
Many offer traditional South Indian cuisine.
Stay Facilities
Numerous hotels, guesthouses, and lodges available for pilgrims.
Ranging from budget accommodations to luxury hotels.
Temple Devasthanam also provides choultries and guest rooms for pilgrims.
Transportation
Nearby Railway Station
Rameswaram Railway Station (Code: RMM)
Nearby Airport
Madurai Airport (IXM) - approximately 174 km from Rameswaram.
Nearby Bus Station
Rameswaram Bus Stand
Bus Routes to Temple
Regular buses available from Madurai, Chennai, Coimbatore, Trichy, and other major cities in Tamil Nadu.
Train Routes to Temple
Direct trains from major cities like Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, and Trichy to Rameswaram.
Airways to Temple
Nearest airport is Madurai Airport, with regular flights from Chennai, Bengaluru, and other major cities. From Madurai, one can take a bus, taxi, or train to reach Rameswaram.
Nearby Cities to Temple
Madurai (approximately 174 km)
Tiruchirappalli (approximately 228 km)
Chennai (approximately 560 km)
Coimbatore (approximately 380 km)
Nearby Visiting Temples and Other Places
Dhanushkodi (ruined town)
Pamban Bridge
Agnitheertham
Gandhamadhana Parvatham
Kothandaramaswamy Temple
Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge (Pamban Bridge)
Shopping Famous For
Handicrafts
Sea Shell Items
Spices
Conch (Shankh) Items
Traditional South Indian artifacts and souvenirs
Visiting the Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple offers a profound spiritual experience, enriched by its historical and architectural magnificence. With convenient travel options, ample accommodation, and a variety of nearby attractions, the temple serves as a pivotal destination for pilgrims and tourists. Whether you're seeking spiritual solace, architectural wonder, or cultural richness, the temple and its surroundings provide a fulfilling and memorable journey.