How to Reach Rameshwaram from Delhi: Rameshwaram is an island town in Tamil Nadu. It is steeped in religious significance and mythological lore. It is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage places, making it a critical destination for Hindus. According to the Ramayana, Lord Rama built a bridge, known as Rama’s Bridge or Ram Setu, from here to Sri Lanka to rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana.
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The Ramanathaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is a central attraction and features one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. The temple is known for its marvelous architecture, long corridors, and sacred water tanks, called theerthams. Rameshwaram is not just a pilgrimage place but also proof to India’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
How to Reach Rameshwaram from Delhi?
1. By Air:
- Delhi to Madurai: The nearest airport to Rameshwaram is Madurai Airport which is located about 170 kilometers away. Direct flights from Delhi to Madurai are available, with a flight duration of approximately 3 hours. Airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet operate on this route.
- Madurai to Rameshwaram: From Madurai, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Rameshwaram. The drive takes around 3-4 hours through NH87, offering a scenic route with views of the rural landscape.
2. By Train:
- Delhi to Rameshwaram: Several trains connect Delhi to Rameshwaram. The Rameshwaram Express (Train No. 16734) is a popular choice. The journey is long and takes approximately 50-55 hours, covering a distance of around 2,760 kilometers. Despite the duration, train travel offers a cost-effective and culturally immersive experience.
3. By Road:
- Delhi to Rameshwaram: Traveling by road from Delhi to Rameshwaram is a significant journey, covering around 2,500 kilometers. The route passes through multiple states including Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. This journey could take around 40-45 hours of continuous driving. It’s advisable to break the journey into parts, stopping at cities like Agra, Gwalior, Nagpur, Hyderabad, and Chennai.
Documents Needed
- Valid Photo ID: A government-issued photo ID such as an Aadhaar card, passport, or voter ID.
- Train/Air Tickets: Confirmed tickets for your travel to ensure a hassle-free journey.
- Hotel Booking Confirmation: Booking confirmation of your accommodation.
- Health Certificates: Any necessary health certificates, especially in the context of health advisories or pandemic-related requirements.
Distance by Road
- Delhi to Rameshwaram: Approximately 2,500 kilometers.
- Madurai to Rameshwaram: About 170 kilometers.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
- October to April: This period is believed the best time to visit Rameshwaram due to the pleasant weather. The temperatures vary from 17°C to 32°C, making it comfortable for temple visits and sightseeing. The monsoon (July to September) brings mild to heavy rainfall, which might hinder outdoor activities but also brings a unique charm to the island.
Things to Remember While Visiting
- Temple Etiquette: Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and follow the temple rules. Men are usually required to remove their shirts before entering the inner sanctum.
- Local Customs: Respect local customs and traditions. It is common to offer prayers and conduct rituals in the temples.
- Weather: Rameshwaram can be hot and humid, especially during summer. Carry light cotton clothes, sunscreen, and hats, and stay hydrated.
- Footwear: You will need to remove your footwear before entering temples. Wearing comfortable slip-on shoes can make this easier.
- Health Precautions: Carry necessary medications, and a basic first-aid kit, and be mindful of food and water hygiene.
Places to Visit Around
- Ramanathaswamy Temple: The main attraction, well-known for its grand corridors and 22 theerthams (sacred water tanks).
- Agni Theertham: It is a sacred beach near the temple where pilgrims take a holy dip before visiting the temple.
- Dhanushkodi: A ghost town at the southeastern tip of Pamban Island, known for its scenic beauty, historical ruins, and the mythological Adam’s Bridge (Ram Setu) site.
- Pamban Bridge: Also known as the Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge. It connects Rameshwaram to the mainland and offers stunning sea views. It’s an engineering marvel and the first sea bridge in India.
- Gandhamadhana Parvatham: A hillock with a temple dedicated to Lord Rama’s footprints, delivering a panoramic view of the island.
- Jada Tirtham: A small temple and sacred pond where Lord Rama is believed to have washed his hair (Jada) before installing the Shiva Lingam at the Ramanathaswamy Temple.
- Villoondi Theertham: A peaceful beach with a mythological sense where Lord Rama supposedly quenched Sita’s thirst by piercing the ground with his arrow.
- Kothandaramaswamy Temple: This temple is located on the way to Dhanushkodi, this temple is connected with the legend of Vibhishana, the brother of Ravana, surrendering to Lord Rama.