Temples in Rameswaram
Rameswaram is one of the holiest towns in India for Hindus. The Ramanathaswamy Temple is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimages and one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Shiva, and according to tradition this is where Rama worshipped Shiva after returning from Lanka.
A visit here follows a set order for many pilgrims: a dip in the sea at Agni Theertham, a bath at the 22 wells inside the temple, then a change into dry clothes for darshan. It is an active place of worship with strict rules, so plan your clothes and leave your phone behind.
Famous Temples in Rameswaram
Ramanathaswamy Temple is the heart of the town. It is known for its long pillared corridors, often called the longest in any Indian temple, and for the 22 theerthams, holy wells inside the temple where pilgrims are drenched with buckets of water, one well after another.
Gandhamadhana Parvatham, about 3 km from the main temple, is a small two-storey shrine on the highest hillock on the island. It holds an imprint said to be Rama's feet and gives a view over the whole of Rameswaram.
Kothandaramaswamy Temple stands on the road to Dhanushkodi. It is dedicated to Rama and is said to have survived the 1964 cyclone that destroyed Dhanushkodi, so it makes a natural stop on the way.
Tips for Visiting Temples in Rameswaram
- Leave phones, cameras and smartwatches outside, as they are not allowed inside Ramanathaswamy Temple. Lockers are available near the entrance.
- Wear traditional dress: a veshti or dhoti for men, and a saree, salwar kameez or churidar for women.
- Bring a dry set of clothes and a towel if you take the 22 wells bath, as you cannot go for darshan in wet clothes.
- Go early in the morning for the shortest queues.
- Expect big crowds on new-moon (Amavasai) days, weekends and festivals.
- Leave your shoes at the shoe counter and be ready to walk barefoot on wet stone floors.
- Some rituals and parts of the temple may be restricted, so follow the staff's instructions and check timings locally.
Questions
Rameswaram — FAQ
What are the famous temples in Rameswaram?
The best known is Ramanathaswamy Temple. Nearby are Gandhamadhana Parvatham, a hilltop shrine with Rama's footprint, and Kothandaramaswamy Temple on the road to Dhanushkodi.
What are the 22 wells in Rameswaram?
The 22 theerthams are holy wells inside Ramanathaswamy Temple. Pilgrims move from one to the next in a fixed order while attendants pour a bucket of water over them at each well. It takes time, especially on busy days.
Can I take my phone inside Ramanathaswamy Temple?
No. Phones, cameras and smartwatches are not allowed inside. Use the lockers near the entrance, or leave them at your hotel.
Can I go for darshan in wet clothes after the 22 wells bath?
No. You must change into dry clothes before darshan, so carry a spare set and a towel. There are places around the temple to change.