Day 3: Exploring Rameshwaram & Dhanushkodi
Day 3: Exploring Rameshwaram & Dhanushkodi – A Journey Through Divine Legends & History.
Today was an action-packed day as we set out to explore Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi in their entirety. With Vidya fully recovered, our spirits were high, and we were eager to make the most of the day.
Waking up before 6 AM, we quickly bathed, had a light breakfast, and by 7 AM, we were on our way to Dhanushkodi in an auto-rickshaw. The morning air was fresh, and the excitement of visiting places deeply intertwined with the Ramayana made the journey even more exhilarating.
Kothandaramar Temple – The Coronation of Vibhishana
Our first stop was the Kothandaramar Temple, a site of immense historical and mythological significance. It is believed that Lord Rama performed the Pattabhisheka (coronation) of Vibhishana here after Ravana’s defeat, marking an important chapter in the Ramayana.
The temple stands amidst stunning coastal landscapes, making it a serene and picturesque spot. The entire Dhanushkodi route was breathtaking, with endless views of the turquoise sea on both sides.
The Floating Stones of Ram Setu
Near the temple, we came across floating stones, which are said to have been used in the construction of Ram Setu, the bridge built by Lord Rama, Hanuman, Jambavan, and the Vanara Sena to reach Lanka. Out of curiosity, I tried lifting one of these stones—it was immensely heavy, nearly 20 kg—making it even more astonishing that such stones could float on water. Though they resembled coral stones, their buoyant nature remains a mystery.
Ram Setu – The Last Point of India
From here, we proceeded toward the Ram Setu Viewpoint, the last accessible point of India before the actual Ram Setu (Adam’s Bridge) extends toward Sri Lanka. The tranquil beach here offered stunning ocean views, and we spent some time capturing the beauty of the place through photographs before heading back to Rameshwaram.
A Sacred Ritual – The 22 Holy Wells
By 9:30 AM, we were back at Rameshwaram Temple, determined to experience it in its traditional manner. After collecting our traditional attire from the hotel, we entered through the Gate, where we could take part in the sacred 22-well bath ritual before darshan.
Each of these 22 holy wells (Tirthas) is believed to possess divine powers, offering spiritual purification across 22 levels. As per legend, Lord Rama himself bathed in these waters to cleanse himself after defeating Ravana.
After completing the ritual bath, we changed into traditional clothing—I wore a dhoti and uparna, while Vidya and Sakhi adorned sarees—and proceeded for darshan of Lord Ramanathaswamy Jyotirlinga. The experience was nothing short of divine, filling us with a profound sense of peace and reverence.
APJ Abdul Kalam’s Residence – A Tribute to a Visionary
After temple darshan, we were famished, so we quickly had lunch and took a short power nap before continuing our exploration.
Our next stop was the residence of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, which has now been converted into a museum by his family. It was inspiring to walk through the humble home of one of India’s greatest visionaries, reflecting on his journey from a simple boy in Rameshwaram to the People's President.
Villoondi Tirtham – A Spring in the Ocean
Next, we traveled 5 km from the Rameshwaram Temple to Villoondi Tirtham, a mesmerizing spot featuring a sweet-water well right next to the ocean. According to legend, when Sita felt thirsty after returning from Lanka, Lord Rama shot an arrow into the ground, creating this freshwater spring. The place had an ethereal beauty, with the calm blue waters surrounding the miraculous well.
Pamban Bridge – An Architectural Marvel
From here, we made our way to the iconic Pamban Bridge, India's first sea bridge. The view from the bridge, overlooking the vast ocean and the adjoining railway line, was breathtaking. Unfortunately the train bridge is under renovation and hence we couldn't watch the trains pass over the sea, seemingly floating on the waters.
Temples of Lakshmana, Sita, and Hanuman
Our spiritual journey continued as we visited several temples, each holding deep mythological significance:
Shri Ramar Temple – The site where Vibhishana was appointed the King of Lanka.
Lakshmana Tirtham – A sacred pond where Lakshmana performed rituals to atone for his sins. It is believed that before offering prayers, he bathed in this pond.
Sita Tirtham – A temple where Sita installed and worshipped a Shiva Lingam for purification.
Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple – This temple, dedicated to the five-faced form of Hanuman, was unfortunately closed by the time we arrived at 6.15 PM.
Feeling physically exhausted but spiritually fulfilled, we decided to visit Agni Teertham, one of the most sacred bathing ghats in Rameshwaram. We sat by the beach, letting the rhythmic sound of the waves crashing against the shore soothe our tired bodies and minds. The gentle sea breeze and the divine aura of this place made for a peaceful and reflective moment—a perfect way to end the day.
A Fulfilling End to an Eventful Day
By the time we wrapped up our exploration, it was 7:30 PM, and exhaustion was finally setting in. We had a delicious dinner and decided to turn in early, as the next day had an exciting adventure planned—one that required us to wake up at 4:30 AM!
What was awaiting us in the early hours of the morning? Stay tuned to find out!
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