Rameshwaram's Spiritual Gem: Ramanathaswamy Temple and Its Sacred Legends

Ramanathaswamy Temple- Rameshwaram

History of Rameshwaram Ramanathaswamy Temple

An old Hindu temple called the Ramanathaswamy Temple, often called the Rameshwaram Temple, is situated on the island of Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu, India. It is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and one of the holiest Hindu pilgrimage places. The mythology of Lord Rama and his journey to Lanka to save his wife, Sita, connects with the history of the Ramanathaswamy Temple.

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Rama, accompanied by his devotee Hanuman and an army of monkeys, built a bridge of floating stones across the ocean from the mainland of India to Lanka (present-day Sri Lanka). The bridge, known as Ram Setu or Adam's Bridge, is believed to have been constructed near the location of the current temple. After successfully defeating the demon king Ravana and rescuing Sita, Lord Rama and his consort Sita returned to India. As an act of gratitude and to seek redemption for killing Ravana, Lord Rama wanted to worship Lord Shiva.

Hanuman was given the task by Lord Rama to transport a lingam, a depiction of Lord Shiva, from the Himalayas for worship. Hanuman tried to return with the lingam in time but was unable to do so as the lucky hour drew near. Then Sita fashioned a tiny lingam from sand, which is thought to be the initial design of the god found at the Ramanathaswamy Temple. Hanuman was dismayed to discover that Lord Rama had already fixed the sand lingam when he brought the lingam back from the Himalayas. Hanuman's dissatisfaction caused Lord Rama to proclaim that Sita's sand lingam would be given more prominence and be worshipped first.

The Ramanathaswamy Temple is believed to have been built during the reign of the Pandya dynasty in the 12th century CE. The temple complex underwent several renovations and expansions over the centuries. The main sanctum of the temple houses the lingam, believed to be installed by Lord Rama. The lingam is known as the Ramalingam or the Ramanathaswamy lingam, which means "the Lord of Rama." The temple is also known for its magnificent corridors, which are one of the longest in India, stretching for about 1.2 kilometers.

The architecture of the Ramanathaswamy Temple is a blend of Dravidian and Vijayanagara styles. The temple complex is comprised of several mandapams (halls) and gopurams (tower gateways) adorned with intricate carvings depicting various mythological stories. The temple's sacred tank, known as Agni Theertham, is considered holy by pilgrims, and it is believed that taking a bath in the waters of the tank can cleanse one's sins.

The Ramanathaswamy Temple has been an important pilgrimage site for centuries, attracting devotees from all over India and beyond. It holds immense religious significance and is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple continues to be an architectural marvel, a symbol of devotion, and a revered place of worship for millions of Hindus around the world.

Ramanathaswamy Temple Architecture

The architecture of the Ramanathaswamy Temple is a beautiful blend of Dravidian and Vijayanagara styles, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship and artistic brilliance of ancient South Indian architecture. Here are the key architectural features of the temple:

Gopurams (Tower Gateways): The temple complex is adorned with towering gopurams at its entrances, creating a grand and majestic appearance. The gopurams are intricately carved with sculptures depicting various deities, celestial beings, and mythological stories. These gateways serve as the main entrances to the temple and lead to the inner sanctums.

Mandapams (Halls): The temple boasts several mandapams, which are large pillared halls used for various rituals, gatherings, and processions. The mandapams are known for their exquisite stone carvings, depicting scenes from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata. The most prominent mandapam in the temple is the Thousand Pillar Hall, which is renowned for its intricate sculptural work and its unique architectural design.

Corridors: The Ramanathaswamy Temple is renowned for having one of the longest temple corridors in India, stretching for about 1.2 kilometers. These corridors, known as prakarams, surround the main sanctum and are adorned with countless pillars, each uniquely carved with elaborate details. The ceilings of the corridors are adorned with exquisite frescoes and intricate stucco work.

Vimana (Tower): The central shrine of the temple, housing the main deity, features a vimana, which is the towering structure above the sanctum. The vimana is typically pyramid-shaped and rises to a significant height. It is adorned with elaborate sculptures and carvings of deities, celestial beings, and intricate motifs.

Sculptures and Carvings: The entire temple complex is adorned with intricate stone sculptures and carvings. These carvings depict various gods and goddesses, celestial beings, divine scenes, mythological episodes, and intricate floral and geometric patterns. The level of detail and craftsmanship in these sculptures is awe-inspiring, showcasing the mastery of ancient artisans.

Sacred Tanks: The temple complex features several sacred tanks, known as teerthams, which are believed to hold spiritual significance. The most revered teertham is the Agni Theertham, located at the entrance of the temple. Pilgrims believe that taking a holy bath in these teerthams can purify their souls and grant them spiritual blessings.

The architecture of the Ramanathaswamy Temple is not only visually captivating but also reflects the religious and cultural heritage of South India. It stands as a testament to the rich architectural traditions of the region and continues to be a significant pilgrimage site, attracting devotees and tourists from all over the world.

Things to know before visiting Ramanathaswamy Temple

Before visiting the Ramanathaswamy Temple, here are a few things you should know to make your visit more convenient and enjoyable:

Dress Code: The temple follows a strict dress code. Both men and women are required to wear traditional attire. Men should wear a dhoti (a wrapped garment) or pyjamas, and women should wear sarees or modestly covered traditional attire. Shorts, skirts, and sleeveless tops are not allowed inside the temple premises.

Temple Timings: The temple opens early in the morning and remains open throughout the day with specific timings for darshan (worship). It is advisable to check the temple's official website or local sources to confirm the exact opening and closing timings before your visit.

Darshan and Pooja: The temple experiences heavy footfall, especially during auspicious days and festivals. It is recommended to plan your visit accordingly and be prepared for long waiting times for darshan (viewing the deity). Special poojas (rituals) and arati (devotional ceremonies) take place at specific times, and you may consider attending them to witness the vibrant religious rituals.

Photography and Mobile Phones: Photography is generally not allowed inside the inner sanctum of the temple. It is advisable to inquire about the temple's photography policy and adhere to the guidelines to respect the sanctity of the place. The use of mobile phones may also be restricted in certain areas of the temple, so it is best to inquire beforehand or follow the instructions of the temple authorities.

Prasadam (Offerings): The temple offers prasadam, which is considered a blessed food offering. You may receive prasadam after the darshan or purchase it from designated counters within the temple complex. It is customary to consume prasadam as a token of divine blessings.

Temple Etiquette: Maintain decorum and silence within the temple premises. Follow the instructions of the temple authorities and be respectful of the religious sentiments of other devotees. Avoid touching or causing any damage to the sculptures, carvings, or other artifacts within the temple.

Surrounding Attractions: Rameshwaram has several other attractions worth visiting, such as the Agni Theertham beach, the Ram Setu (Adam's Bridge), Dhanushkodi, and various other temples and shrines. Plan your itinerary accordingly to explore the other noteworthy sites in the region.

It is always advisable to gather the most recent and accurate information from reliable sources before your visit to ensure a smooth and fulfilling experience at the Ramanathaswamy Temple.

Nearby Tourist destination 

Rameshwaram, the location of the Ramanathaswamy Temple, offers several nearby tourist attractions that you can explore during your visit. Here are some noteworthy places to visit:

Agni Theertham: Located right outside the temple, Agni Theertham is a sacred beach where devotees take a holy dip before entering the temple. It is believed to have purifying powers and offers a serene atmosphere for relaxation and spiritual contemplation.

Dhanushkodi: Situated around 20 kilometers from Rameshwaram, Dhanushkodi is a ghost town that holds significant historical and mythological importance. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama built the bridge (Ram Setu) to reach Lanka. The ruins of the town and the beach offer a unique and mystical experience.

Adam's Bridge (Ram Setu): This natural bridge of limestone shoals, also known as Adam's Bridge, is believed to be the remnants of the bridge constructed by Lord Rama. It stretches from Rameshwaram to Talaimannar in Sri Lanka. You can take a boat ride or enjoy a scenic view of the bridge from Dhanushkodi.

Pamban Bridge: The Pamban Bridge is an iconic railway bridge that connects Rameshwaram Island to the mainland. It is the second-longest sea bridge in India and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding ocean and landscapes. You can witness the opening of the bridge for ships to pass, which is an impressive sight.

Gandhamadhana Parvatham: Located around 3 kilometers from the Ramanathaswamy Temple, this hillock is believed to be the highest point in Rameshwaram. It offers panoramic views of the island and is home to a small shrine dedicated to Lord Hanuman.

Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge: Also known as the Pamban Road Bridge, it runs parallel to the Pamban Railway Bridge and connects Rameshwaram to the mainland. The bridge offers scenic views and is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.

Kothandaramaswamy Temple: Situated on the southern tip of Rameshwaram Island, this temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and showcases beautiful paintings and sculptures depicting scenes from the Ramayana. It is believed to be the place where Lord Rama performed the Pattabhishekam (coronation) after his victorious return from Lanka.

These are just a few of the many attractions in and around Rameshwaram. The region is rich in natural beauty, historical significance, and religious landmarks, making it a delightful destination for both spiritual seekers and explorers of cultural heritage.

How to reach Ramanathaswamy temple

Ramanathaswamy Temple is located in the town of Rameshwaram on Rameshwaram Island in Tamil Nadu, India. Here are the different modes of transportation you can use to reach the temple:

By Air: The nearest airport to Rameshwaram is Madurai Airport, located approximately 170 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Rameshwaram. Several domestic flights connect Madurai with major cities in India.

By Train: Rameshwaram has its own railway station called Rameswaram Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in South India. Trains from Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Trichy, and other cities regularly operate to Rameshwaram. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or take a local bus to reach the temple.

By Road: Rameshwaram is well-connected by roadways to various cities in Tamil Nadu and neighboring states. State-owned buses and private buses operate regular services to Rameshwaram from cities like Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, and Trichy. You can also hire a taxi or drive by car to reach the temple. The distance from Madurai to Rameshwaram is approximately 170 kilometers, and it takes around 3-4 hours by road.

By Sea: Rameshwaram can also be reached by ferry services from the mainland. The town of Rameshwaram is connected to the mainland at Mandapam by the Pamban Bridge. From Mandapam, you can take a ferry or a boat ride to reach Rameshwaram Island. Ferry services are available at regular intervals, and the journey offers scenic views of the ocean and the Pamban Bridge.

Once you reach Rameshwaram, the Ramanathaswamy Temple is located in the heart of the town and can be easily accessed by walking or taking a short auto-rickshaw ride from the bus stand, railway station, or ferry point.

It is always advisable to check the latest transportation options and schedules, especially if you are traveling during peak seasons or festivals, to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey to the Ramanathaswamy Temple.