Rameshwaram is a prominent pilgrimage destination of South India and has an expansive coastal line known for its exotic marine life and coral reefs. Rameshwaram Beach figures high on the must-visit list of tourists looking to spend some time close to the sea and amidst the sand and shells.

Location

Rameshwaram Beach is about 55 kilometers from Ramanathapuram and is at the very tip of the Indian peninsula. It is one of the top pilgrimage sites in India and attracts thousands of visitors every day throughout the year. The place is located off the mainland circumscribed by Palk Strait and the Gulf of Mannar. It is connected with the longest bridge on sea in India. The island town is separated from the mainland by the Pamban Channel.

History

According to local folklore, Rameshwaram was the place from where Lord Rama built a bridge to reach Lanka to rescue his wife Sita from the clutches of the demon king Ravana. A Shiva Lingam was constructed after the mission was accomplished as a sign of thanksgiving to the Lord. This makes the place one of the most sacred sites for both Hindus. The grand bridge also has a pillared corridor made of 3.6 meters high granite pillars, which have rich carvings. Those who visit this place at least once in their lifetime are assured of salvation according to Hindu mythology.

Enjoy the Exotic Marine Life

Rameshwaram Beach is the best place to spend some quality time. It has lots to offer to lovers of nature and also to those with a spiritual bend of mind. Visitors can not only the serene, soothing environment but also enjoy sights of exotic marine life which include dolphins and some rare sea species.

Exotic variety of marine life such as starfishes, crabs, algae, sea cucumber, sponges and the sea cow are found here. Sunbathing and swimming is a favorite pastime of visitors. The shallow waters ensures a risk-free swimming experience unlike other beaches of Tamil Nadu where the water undercurrents are mostly choppy and the sea is generally in an agitated state. Bird watching is another activity that most tourists engage in while at Rameshwaram Beach. The local marine life observatory has a wide variety of marine creatures.

The Dhanushkodi road that runs parallel to the beach offers a pleasant driving experience along the clear sea and backwaters. Vast stretches of practically untouched beach provide a spectacular view of the sunset. There are a few temporary settlements of fishermen which come up during the fishing season which creates a very rural picture of the place.

How to Reach

By Road

Rameshwaram Beach is about 170 kilometers from Madurai. Bus service to the place is fairly frequent. You can also hire cabs.

By Rail

Rameshwaram has its own railway station which is very near to the beach.

By Air

The nearest airport is Madurai at 170 km from the beach.