Rameswaram · Verified guide
Rameswaram Ramanathaswamy Temple: Complete Guide
The Ramanathaswamy temple on Rameswaram island is the southernmost of the twelve Jyotirlingas and one of the Char Dham. Most pilgrims bathe at Agni Theertham, take the 22 theertham bath inside the temple, then have darshan.
Changing information reviewed · Official sources separated from planning guidance
Quick answer
The temple is open about 5 am–1 pm and 3 pm–8 pm. The usual order is a dip at Agni Theertham (the sea), then the 22 theertham bath inside the temple (about ₹25), then darshan in fresh clothes. Reach by train over the Pamban bridge or by road; the nearest airport is Madurai, about 180 km away. October to March is the most pleasant time.
Key facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Deity | Ramanathaswamy (Shiva as lingam), with Goddess Parvatavardhini |
| Significance | One of the 12 Jyotirlingas (the southernmost) and one of the Char Dham |
| Lingams | Ramalingam (made of sand by Rama) and Vishvalingam (brought by Hanuman) |
| Theerthams | 22 inside the temple; 64 in and around the island |
| Corridor | Outer corridor about 3,850 ft long with about 1,212 pillars, described as the longest of any Hindu temple |
| Managed by | Tamil Nadu HR&CE Department |
A typical temple visit
- Agni TheerthamTake a dip in the sea at Agni Theertham, east of the temple.
- 22 theertham bathInside the temple, water from 22 wells is poured over you in turn. How it works
- Change clothesCarry a dry set of clothes and a bag for the wet ones.
- DarshanJoin the darshan queue for Ramanathaswamy and Parvatavardhini.
- Walk the corridorsLeave time to see the famous pillared corridors.
Plan your trip
- One day is enough for the temple; add half a day for Dhanushkodi and nearby sites.
- Many pilgrims combine Rameswaram with Madurai Meenakshi temple, about 180 km away by road.
- October to March has the most comfortable weather.
Book travel to Rameswaram
Fix your darshan first, then book the journey with buffer on both sides.
Frequently asked questions
What are Rameswaram temple timings?
About 5 am to 1 pm and 3 pm to 8 pm, closed in the afternoon.
What is the 22 theertham bath?
A ritual bath inside the temple in which water from 22 holy wells is poured over the pilgrim, one well after another.
Is Rameswaram a Jyotirlinga?
Yes. Ramanathaswamy is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas and the southernmost of them.
Which is the nearest airport to Rameswaram?
Madurai International Airport, about 180 km away.
Sources
- Ramanathaswamy Temple (Wikipedia)
- Rameswaram (Tamil Nadu Tourism)
- Rameshwaram temple guide, Aug 2026 (Thomas Cook)
Checked 6 Oct 2026. Rules can change; confirm with the official source before you travel.