Ramanathaswamy Temple: One of the most famous Shiva Temples, this temple is notably the most visible structure here. Constructed in Dravidian-style, the temple is known for its long corridors, which are elaborately carved and styled. A total of 1212 intricately carved pillars can be seen here. There is a huge statue of the Nandi Bull and the sanctum is guarded by dwarpals. Within the main sanctum is the lingam created by Sita and on the right is the Vishwa-lingam, brought by Hanuman and which is worshipped first everyday. The consort to Lord Shiva as Ramanathaswamy is Goddess Parvatavardhini, and her shrine is located left on the main sanctum. The shrine to Vishalakshi, consort of Vishwa-lingam, is also located here. Other interesting structures here are the shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Sethu Madhava and the shrine dedicated to Nataraja.
Prior to entering the main temple, pilgrims are required to take a dip at the holy Agniteertham, where Lord Rama is also said to have taken a bath. There are several helpers here who assist you in this ritual, as well as that of visiting the 21 other teerthams (tanks). Remember to carry a change of clothes, since you cannot enter the temple is damp clothes.
Open from: 4.00 am-1.00 pm, 3.30 pm-9.00 pm
Gandhamadana Parvatam: This 2-storey temple houses the marble imprints of Lord Rama's foot. It is believed that Hanuman first leaped from here while en route to Lanka. The top storey offers stunning views of the sea.
Open from: 7.00 am-1.00 pm, 3.00 pm-6.00 pm
Kothandaraswamy Temple: Located almost 12 kms from the city centre, this temple is dedicated to Rama, Sita, Lakshmana and Hanuman. It is believed that Ravana's brother, Vibhishana surrendered to Lord Rama at this spot. Some images of the gods can still be found here, though the idol of Hanuman is the only remaining structure.
Dhanushkodi: Deriving its name from Lord Rama's bow, this is the Land End. Shaped like a conch, the chain of small islets and reefs in the sea between Sri Lanka and Dhanushkodi are collectively known as Adam's Bridge. It is believed that Lord Hanuman and his army laid boulders and used them to reach across to Sri Lanka. Dhanushkodi was completely destroyed by the cyclones of 1964 but the Kothandaramaswamy Temple remained intact.
Erwadi: Located almost 24 kms from Rameshwaram, Erwadi is an important Muslim pilgrim spot famous for the tomb of Ibrahim Sahid Auliya. Muslims from across the globe visit Erwadi, especially during December to participate in the annual festival held to pay tribute to this saint.
Uthirakosamangai: This site is famous for its Shiva temple, the deity of which is carved in emerald. Also worshipped here is Goddess Mangalesvari. The annual Arudhra Festival in December attracts a large number of tourists.
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