Ramanathaswamy Temple

Ramanathaswamy Temple, lies on the eastern side of the island, having different types of corridors and sculptured pillars on both the sides. This corridor is quite long and measures around 197 metres from east to west. It is also 133 m wide, measuring south to north.

This temple is considered as one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The temple complex extends up to 15 acres, with 1200 metres long hallway, which is lined on either side by 4000 or more pillars. There is also a 12 foot long and 9 foot tall Nandi sculpture inside the temple.

This temple consists of 38.4 metres tall Gopuram, which was built by various rulers at different reigns, starting from 12th century. Every day, early morning, a special pooja is performed for an hour of the Spadikalingam, which was gifted by Shankaracharya.

Pilgrims take bath in the 22 theertha kundams before entering the temple. It is believed that the water in these kundams has medicinal properties that can cure tourists of many ailments. This temple finds mention in the Hindu mythological epic, Ramayana and it is believed that the deity in the temple was installed by Lord Rama. After defeating Ravana, Lord Rama installed a Shiva Lingam in this temple for offering his prayers to Lord Shiva.

Visitors can travel through the Pamban Bridge to reach this holy place.

Timing:  5 am – 11 am and 3 pm – 8 pm