Rameshwaram - The Temple Town of South India
Rameshwaram is one of the most sacred pilgrimage destinations in
India. No pilgrimage is over without taking a trip to this holy island of Rameshwaram. Whosoever visits Varanasi, is supposed to make a trip to Rameshwaram to consider his pilgrimage completed. Situated in the Ramanathpuram of Tamil Nadu, Rameshwaram is home to some of the most fascinating temples in entire India. This island in the Gulf of Mannar is connected to the mainland at Mandapam by Indira Gandhi Bridge. Completed in the year 1988, this was considered as an engineering marvel, a feat unparalleled at that time.
Rameshwaram, as it is said, is the place where Lord Rama offered thanks to Lord Shiva in return for his support in defeating King Ravana. This makes Rameshwaram an important pilgrimage destination for devotees of both Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.
Attractions of Rameshwaram
Most noted attractions of Rameshwaram are the many temples that bejewel this holy land. Calling them mere temple is not doing any justice to the grandeur of these structural marvels. Brush your hands on the chiselled walls of these temples it will feel as if you are reading a poetry written on stone. Most renowned of all is the Ramanathaswamy Temple situated right in the center of Rameshwaram.
The Beauty of Ramanathaswamy Temple
This magnificent temple is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas situated in different parts of India. Ramanathaswamy Temple also has its name in history books as it has the largest hallway anywhere in India. The construction of Ramanathaswamy Temple which was started in the 12th century was contributed to by many rulers. During its construction period, many dynasties came and fell and each of them put their input into the temple. However one thing that did not change was its Dravidian style of architecture. Ramanathaswamy Temple is an epitome of flawless Dravidian architecture.
The list of unique features in its construction seems to be endless. There is this huge hallway that is of approximately 1220 meters in length. Throughout the length of the hall, there are brilliantly carved pillars, the alignment of which will leave you totally mesmerized. The 54 meter tall Gopuram has become the symbol of divinity in the heart of many pilgrims; such is the beauty and presence of it. Another famous feature of Ramanathaswamy Temple are the 22 wells spread throughout the premises, It is said that water from each well tastes totally different. and have curative features. Don’t forget to taste it yourself.
