City of Rameshwaram in India, Varanasi of South India

Rameshwaram the sacred city of South India 

Rameshwaram, situated on the southernmost tip of Indian peninsula. It is one of the most sacred places for hindus and also called the Varanasi of South India. Legend has it that Lord Rama built a bridge across the sea, from Rameshwaram, to rescue his consort Sita, from the clutches of the demon king, Ravana, the King of Lanka (present Sri Lanka). This is also the place where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva to wash away the sin of killing Ravana, a Brahmin by birth. Rameshwaram is known as the Varanasi of south India. It is said that a pilgrimage in Varanasi is incomplete without a pilgrimage to Rameshwaram. According to the Hindu mythology Lord Rama performed thanks giving rituals to Lord Shiva after his triumph over the demon king Ravana. It is mainly because of this reason that Rameshwaram attracts Vaishnavites and Shaivites alike. Sri Lanka is at a distance of 24 kilometers from Rameshwaram. The Rameshwaram Island occupies an area of about 61.8 sq km and is conch shaped. If you makeing your tailor made tour to India and specially to South India, don't foget to include Rameshwaram in your must visit list. 

What to see in Rameshwaram:

1. Ramanathaswamy Temple

The famous Ramnathswamy temple was built in the 17th century and is situated close to the sea on the eastern side of the Rameshwaram Island. The Ramnathswamy temple is famous for its 1200 massive granite columns. The temple has 54 meter tall gopuram (gate-tower) and 1220 meters of magnificent corridors.

2. Agnitheertham

The Agniteertham is located at a few meters from the Ramnathswamy temple. It is believed to be located at the same spot where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva.

3. Dhanushkodi

Dhanushkodi is located at the eastern end of the island. It is named after Lord Ram's bow and is at a distance of 8 km from Rameshwaram. The boulders in the sea between Sri Lanka and Dhanushkodi are known as Adam's bridge. It is believed that Lord Hanuman used them to reach across Sri Lanka.

4. Erwadi

At a distance of 24 km from Rameshwaram, Erwadi is an important place of Muslim pilgrimage. The tomb of Ibrahim Sahid Auliya is located at Erwadi. Muslims from across the globe visit Erwadi, especially during the month of December to participate in the annual festival held to pay tribute to the saint.