Ramanathaswamy Temple is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to the god Shiva. It is located on Pamban Island, also known as Rameswaram, in the state of Tamil Nadu, India. The temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlinga temples and is a famous pilgrimage site for Shaivites, Vaishnavites, and Smarthas.
According to Hindu mythology, Ramanathaswamy Temple marks the spot where Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Lord Vishnu, prayed to Shiva to absolve the sin of killing the demon king Ravana. Rama wanted to have a Shiva lingam for the worship and directed Hanuman, his devotee, to bring one from Himalayas. Since it took longer for Hanuman to return with the lingam, Rama's wife Sita created a lingam out of the sand, which is believed to be the lingam in the sanctum of the temple.
The temple is renowned for its magnificent architecture, long ornate corridors, and intricately carved pillars. The temple has the longest corridor among all Hindu temples in India. The Ramanathaswamy Temple also boasts 22 theerthams (holy water bodies) within its complex, where pilgrims perform ablutions for spiritual purification.
Ramanathaswamy Temple is open from 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM and then from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM. However, these timings can vary during special occasions and festivals, so it is recommended to check the temple's official website or contact local authorities for the latest schedule before planning a visit.
The best time to visit Ramanathaswamy Temple is between October and April when the weather is more pleasant. The monsoon season, from July to September, is typically avoided by tourists due to the heavy rainfall and potential for storms.
Yes, the temple celebrates the Maha Shivaratri festival with great fervour. Other festivals celebrated here include the Ramalinga Pratishta (the consecration of Rameswaram Shiva lingam) and the Thirukalyanam Festival (the celestial wedding). Pilgrims flock to the temple during these times for special rituals and celebrations.
Rameswaram is well-connected by road and rail. The Rameswaram Railway Station is the nearest railhead. The nearest airports are at Madurai and Tuticorin, from where one can take a taxi or bus to reach Rameswaram. By road, Rameswaram can be reached via the Pamban Bridge from the mainland.
There is no general entry fee to enter Ramanathaswamy Temple. However, there may be separate fees for special poojas, darshans, or offerings inside the temple. Additionally, devotees may have to pay for services like locker facilities or guided temple tours if they opt for such services.
Rameswaram offers a range of accommodations for tourists and pilgrims, from budget lodges to mid-range hotels. There are also several ashrams and guest houses run by the temple trust that provide basic facilities at nominal charges. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak pilgrimage seasons and religious festivals.
Yes, Ramanathaswamy Temple maintains a traditional dress code, which visitors are expected to adhere to. Men are usually required to wear dhotis or trousers with shirts and must remove their shirts before entering the sanctum sanctorum. Women should dress modestly, preferably in sarees or salwar kameez. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and other revealing attire are generally not considered appropriate.
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