SOUTHERNMOST JYOTIRLINGA
Understanding Rameshwaram in Shravan
Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple, located on Pamban Island in Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu, is the 11th among the 12 Jyotirlingas and one of the holy **Char Dhams** of India (alongside Badrinath, Dwarka, and Puri).
Visiting Rameshwaram during Shravan (August 13 to September 11, 2026) is considered exceptionally auspicious. Devotees take the holy ocean dip at **Agni Theertham**, undergo the ritual shower across **22 sacred well Tirthams**, and offer prayers at the sand Lingam installed by Lord Rama.
RAMAYANA MYTHOLOGY
Lord Rama's Consecration & Two Lingams
According to Valmiki Ramayana and Skanda Purana, after defeating Ravana in Lanka, Lord Rama wished to perform Shiva worship to absolve the sin of killing Ravana (*Brahmahatya Dosh*, as Ravana was a learned Brahmin). He dispatched Lord Hanuman to Mount Kailash to fetch a Shiva Lingam.
1. Ramalingam (Sand Lingam)
As the auspicious muhurat approached, Mother Sita crafted a Lingam out of sea sand (*Ramalingam*), which was installed as the primary deity.
2. Vishwalingam (Hanuman Lingam)
Hanuman returned with two lingams from Kailash. To honor his devotion, Lord Rama decreed that **Vishwalingam** be worshipped BEFORE Ramalingam.
3. Spatika Lingam (Crystal)
A rare pure crystal (*Spatika*) Lingam kept inside the sanctum receives special daily morning Abhishekam at 5:00 AM.
22 WELL BATHING RITUAL
The 22 Sacred Well Tirthams (*22 Well Snanam*)
| Well # & Name | Location inside Temple | Spiritual Benefit & Water Nature | Bathing Protocol |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0. Agni Theertham | Ocean Beach (300m East) | Primary ocean dip before temple entry; purifies all body sins. | Immerse 3 times in sea water; proceed in wet clothes to temple. |
| 1. Mahalakshmi Theertham | East Entrance Corridor | Grants immense wealth, financial stability, and prosperity. (Sweet water) | Temple priests pour 1 bucket over head at each well. |
| 2. Savitri Theertham | Outer South Corridor | Protects from untimely speech curse and grants eloquence. | Walk in single file queue; tickets verified at entrance. |
| 3. Gayatri Theertham | South Corridor | Grants spiritual knowledge, intellect, and Vedic wisdom. | Priest pours water; move immediately to next well. |
| 4. Saraswati Theertham | South Corridor | Bestows artistic skills, education, and memory power. | Keep shoes in locker outside main temple gate. |
| 5. Ranavimochana Theertham | South Outer Court | Absolves worldly debts (*Rina*) and ancestral liabilities. | Keep mobile phones & cameras inside lockers (Strictly prohibited). |
| 6. Nala Theertham | South Court | Grants health and cures skin ailments. | Water temperature varies naturally across wells. |
| 7. Nila Theertham | South-West Court | Bestows victory over enemies and obstacles. | Follow temple staff queue marshals. |
| 8. Gavaya Theertham | West Court | Grants strength, courage, and physical vitality. | Special fast-track ₹100 Tirtham ticket line available. |
| 9. Gavaksha Theertham | West Court | Removes pride, ego, and arrogance. | Clean dry clothes must be carried in waterproof plastic bag. |
| 10. Gandhamadhana Theertham | West Inner Court | Grants peace of mind and contentment. | Do not use soap or shampoo in any well. |
| 11. Sita Theertham | West Inner Court | Purifies thoughts and strengthens marital harmony. | Highly revered well; water is exceptionally sweet. |
| 12. Shankha Theertham | North-West Court | Removes physical pain and chronic ailments. | Priests chant mantra while pouring bucket. |
| 13. Chakra Theertham | North Court | Grants protection from evil eyes and negative energies. | Maintain silence during the 22-well circuit. |
| 14. Brahmahatya Theertham | North Court | Destroys major karmic sins and severe curses. | Water is poured gently over head. |
| 15. Surya Theertham | North-East Court | Improves eye health and boosts leadership qualities. | Sunny morning times best for completing bath. |
| 16. Chandra Theertham | North-East Court | Balances mental emotions and relieves anxiety. | Cooling refreshing water. |
| 17. Ganga Theertham | North Inner Court | Equivalent to bathing in Holy River Ganges at Kashi. | Extremely sacred well inside inner arcade. |
| 18. Yamuna Theertham | North Inner Court | Grants freedom from fear of death (Yama). | Flowing cool fresh water. |
| 19. Gaya Theertham | North Inner Court | Grants liberation to departed ancestors (*Pitr Mukti*). | Devotees offer mental prayers to ancestors here. |
| 20. Koti Theertham | Inner Sanctum Gate | Equivalent to bathing in 1 crore holy rivers combined. | Lord Rama bathed here after installing Ramalingam. |
| 21. Sadhyamrita Theertham | Sanctum Exit Gate | Grants divine nectar (*Amrit*) and spiritual immortality. | Final 22nd well bath. Change to dry clothes in changing rooms. |
RAMA SETU ORIGIN POINT
Dhanushkodi & Arichal Munai Expedition
Dhanushkodi, located 20 km east of Rameshwaram at the tip of Pamban island, is where Lord Rama broke the bridge (**Rama Setu**) with his bow tip (*Dhanush-Kodi*) after the victory over Lanka. It is a narrow strip of sand where the calm waters of the Bay of Bengal (*Mahodadhi*) meet the roaring waves of the Indian Ocean (*Ratnakara*).
🏝️ Arichal Munai Point
The tip of India facing Sri Lanka (just 28 km away across Palk Strait). Features Ashoka Emblem pillar monument.
🏚️ Ghost Town Ruins
Submerged church, railway station, and post office structures submerged during the 1964 super cyclone.
🪨 Floating Stones
Porous volcanic coral stones used by Nala and Nila to build Rama Setu, on display at Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple.
MEGA SHIVA CIRCUIT
Murudeshwar, Gokarna & Tiruvannamalai Circuit
| Pilgrimage Shrine | Location & State | Spiritual Feature & Iconography | Travel Connection |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Murudeshwar Temple | Bhatkal, Karnataka | World's 2nd tallest **123-feet Shiva Statue** overlooking Arabian Sea & 20-story Rajagopuram with elevator. | Direct train from Mangalore / Goa; 470 km from Bangalore. |
| 2. Gokarna Mahabaleshwar | Uttara Kannada, Karnataka | The original sacred **Atmalinga** placed by Ravana; Om Beach and Kudle Beach trekking circuit. | Located 80 km north of Murudeshwar along Konkan coastal railway. |
| 3. Tiruvannamalai Arunachaleshwar | Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu | One of 5 Pancha Bhoota Sthalams representing **Agni (Fire Element)**; 14-km Giri Pradakshina around Annamalai hill. | Located 380 km north of Rameshwaram; direct buses available from Chennai. |
| 4. Chidambaram Nataraja | Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu | Pancha Bhoota Sthalam representing **Akasha (Ether/Space)**; cosmic dance form of Lord Nataraja. | Located 290 km north of Rameshwaram along East Coast Road (ECR). |
SACRED LEAF OFFERING HYMN
Bilvashtakam (Full 8 Verses)
Stanza 1
त्रिदलं त्रिगुणाकारं त्रिनेत्रं च त्रियायुधम्।
त्रिजन्मपापसंहारम् एकबिल्वं शिवार्पणम्॥
त्रिजन्मपापसंहारम् एकबिल्वं शिवार्पणम्॥
Tridalam Trigunakaram Trinetram Cha Triyayudham |
Trijanma-Papa-Samharam Eka-Bilvam Shivarpanam ||
Trijanma-Papa-Samharam Eka-Bilvam Shivarpanam ||
Meaning: Offering a single Bilva leaf with three leaflets — representing the three Gunas, the three eyes of Shiva, and the Trident — destroys sins of three lifetimes. I offer this Bilva leaf to Lord Shiva!
Stanza 2
त्रिशाखैः बिल्वपत्रैश्च ह्यच्छिद्रैः कोमलैः शुभैः।
तव पूजां करिष्यामि एकबिल्वं शिवार्पणम्॥
तव पूजां करिष्यामि एकबिल्वं शिवार्पणम्॥
Trishakhaih Bilvapatraish-Cha Hyachchidraih Komalaih Shubhaih |
Tava Pujam Karishyami Eka-Bilvam Shivarpanam ||
Tava Pujam Karishyami Eka-Bilvam Shivarpanam ||
Meaning: With tender, whole, undamaged Bilva leaves having three branches, I perform Your sacred worship. I offer this single Bilva leaf to Lord Shiva!
Stanza 3
अखण्डबिल्वपत्रेण पूजिते नन्दिकेश्वरे।
शुध्यन्ति सर्वपापेभ्यः एकबिल्वं शिवार्पणम्॥
शुध्यन्ति सर्वपापेभ्यः एकबिल्वं शिवार्पणम्॥
Akhanda-Bilvapatrena Pujite Nandikeshvare |
Shudhyanti Sarvapapebhyah Eka-Bilvam Shivarpanam ||
Shudhyanti Sarvapapebhyah Eka-Bilvam Shivarpanam ||
Meaning: By worshipping Lord Nandikeshwara with an unbroken Bilva leaf, one becomes purified from all sins. I offer this single Bilva leaf to Lord Shiva!
Stanza 4
शालग्रामशिलायामेकां विप्राणां जातवेदिनाम्।
कोटिकन्यकाप्रदानेन एकबिल्वं शिवार्पणम्॥
कोटिकन्यकाप्रदानेन एकबिल्वं शिवार्पणम्॥
Shalagrama-Shilayam-Ekam Vipranam Jatavedinam |
Koti-Kanyakapradanena Eka-Bilvam Shivarpanam ||
Koti-Kanyakapradanena Eka-Bilvam Shivarpanam ||
Meaning: Offering one Bilva leaf to Lord Shiva yields merit equal to donating 1 crore Shaligram stones to learned Vedic Brahmins. I offer this Bilva leaf to Lord Shiva!
Stanza 5
दन्तिकोटिसहस्राणि वाजपेयशतानि च।
कोटिसूर्यग्रहे दानेन एकबिल्वं शिवार्पणम्॥
कोटिसूर्यग्रहे दानेन एकबिल्वं शिवार्पणम्॥
Danti-Koti-Sahasrani Vajapeya-Shatani Cha |
Koti-Suryagrahe Danena Eka-Bilvam Shivarpanam ||
Koti-Suryagrahe Danena Eka-Bilvam Shivarpanam ||
Meaning: Offering one Bilva leaf yields spiritual merit equal to giving 1,000 elephants in charity, performing 100 Vajapeya sacrifices, and donating during 1 crore solar eclipses. I offer this Bilva leaf to Shiva!
Stanza 6
काशीक्षेत्रनिवासं च कालभैरवदर्शनम्।
प्रयागे माघमासे च एकबिल्वं शिवार्पणम्॥
प्रयागे माघमासे च एकबिल्वं शिवार्पणम्॥
Kashikshetra-Nivasam Cha Kalabhairava-Darshanam |
Prayage Maghamase Cha Eka-Bilvam Shivarpanam ||
Prayage Maghamase Cha Eka-Bilvam Shivarpanam ||
Meaning: Offering one Bilva leaf grants merit equal to residing in Kashi, viewing Kaal Bhairava, and taking holy bath at Prayag during Magha month. I offer this Bilva leaf to Shiva!
Stanza 7
मूलतो ब्रह्मरूपाय मध्यतो विष्णुरूपिणे।
अग्रतः शिवरूपाय एकबिल्वं शिवार्पणम्॥
अग्रतः शिवरूपाय एकबिल्वं शिवार्पणम्॥
Mulato Brahmarupaya Madhyato Vishnurupine |
Agratah Shivarupaya Eka-Bilvam Shivarpanam ||
Agratah Shivarupaya Eka-Bilvam Shivarpanam ||
Meaning: The root of Bilva leaf represents Lord Brahma, the middle portion represents Lord Vishnu, and the tip represents Lord Shiva. I offer this Bilva leaf to Shiva!
Stanza 8 (Phala Shruti)
बिल्वाष्टकमिदं पुण्यं यः पठेच्छिवसन्निधौ।
सर्वपापविनिर्मुक्तः शिवलोकं स गच्छति॥
सर्वपापविनिर्मुक्तः शिवलोकं स गच्छति॥
Bilvashtakam-Idam Punyam Yah Pathech-Shivasannidhau |
Sarvapapa-Vinirmuktah Shivalokam Sa Gachchhati ||
Sarvapapa-Vinirmuktah Shivalokam Sa Gachchhati ||
Meaning: Whoever recites this holy Bilvashtakam hymn near Lord Shiva becomes completely liberated from all accumulated sins and attains Shivaloka.
LORD RAMA'S RECITATION
Shri Ramanathashtakam (8 Verses)
Ramanathashtakam 1
श्रीरामचन्द्ररचितं सेतुमध्ये प्रतिष्ठितम्।
रामनाथं महालिङ्गं वन्दे मुक्तिप्रदायकम्॥
रामनाथं महालिङ्गं वन्दे मुक्तिप्रदायकम्॥
Shri-Ramachandra-Rachitam Setumadhye Pratishthitam |
Ramanatham Mahalingam Vande Muktipradayakam ||
Ramanatham Mahalingam Vande Muktipradayakam ||
Meaning: Consecrated by Lord Ramachandra Himself amidst the sacred ocean bridge (Setu), I bow to the great Lingam of Lord Ramanatha, bestower of ultimate liberation!
Ramanathashtakam 2
सैकतेन कृतं देव्या सीतया परया मुदा।
रामनाथं भजे नित्यं ब्रह्महत्याविनाशनम्॥
रामनाथं भजे नित्यं ब्रह्महत्याविनाशनम्॥
Saikatena Kritam Devya Sitaya Paraya Muda |
Ramanatham Bhaje Nityam Brahmahatya-Vinashanam ||
Ramanatham Bhaje Nityam Brahmahatya-Vinashanam ||
Meaning: Molded out of sea sand with supreme joy by Goddess Sita, I daily worship Lord Ramanatha, the destroyer of the severe sin of Brahmahatya!
Ramanathashtakam 3
अञ्जनासुतआनीतं विश्वलिङ्गसमानितम्।
पूर्वाभिपूजितं शम्भुं रामनाथं नमाम्यहम्॥
पूर्वाभिपूजितं शम्भुं रामनाथं नमाम्यहम्॥
Anjanasuta-Anitam Vishvalingasamanitam |
Purvabhipujitam Shambhum Ramanatham Namamy-Aham ||
Purvabhipujitam Shambhum Ramanatham Namamy-Aham ||
Meaning: Honored alongside the Vishwalingam brought from Kailash by Hanuman, who is worshipped first as per Rama's command — I bow to Lord Ramanatha!
Ramanathashtakam 4
अग्नितीर्थे कृतस्नानैः सर्वपापैः प्रमुच्यते।
कोटितीर्थजलैः सिक्तं रामनाथं भजाम्यहम्॥
कोटितीर्थजलैः सिक्तं रामनाथं भजाम्यहम्॥
Agnitirthe Krita-Snanaih Sarvapapaih Pramuchyate |
Kotitirthajalaih Siktam Ramanatham Bhajamy-Aham ||
Kotitirthajalaih Siktam Ramanatham Bhajamy-Aham ||
Meaning: By taking a holy dip in Agni Theertham sea, pilgrims are freed from all sins. I worship Lord Ramanatha, who is bathed with water from Koti Theertham!
Ramanathashtakam 5
द्वाविंशतितीर्थपूर्णैः कलशैः स्नापितं शिवम्।
भक्ताभीष्टप्रदं देवं रामनाथं नमाम्यहम्॥
भक्ताभीष्टप्रदं देवं रामनाथं नमाम्यहम्॥
Dvavimshati-Tirthapurnaih Kalashaih Snapitam Shivam |
Bhaktabhishtapradam Devam Ramanatham Namamy-Aham ||
Bhaktabhishtapradam Devam Ramanatham Namamy-Aham ||
Meaning: Bathed with holy water pots from all 22 sacred well Tirthams, fulfilling all earnest desires of devotees — I bow to Lord Ramanatha!
Ramanathashtakam 6
धनुष्कोटितटे रम्ये लवणार्णवमण्डि ते।
सेतुबन्धे स्थितं लिङ्गं रामनाथं भजाम्यहम्॥
सेतुबन्धे स्थितं लिङ्गं रामनाथं भजाम्यहम्॥
Dhanushkoti-Tate Ramye Lavanarnava-Mandite |
Setubandhe Sthitam Lingam Ramanatham Bhajamy-Aham ||
Setubandhe Sthitam Lingam Ramanatham Bhajamy-Aham ||
Meaning: Situated on the charming shores of Dhanushkodi where the ocean sparkles, standing at the origin of Rama Setu — I worship Lord Ramanatha!
Ramanathashtakam 7
पार्वतीनयनानन्दं पर्वतराजसुताप्रियम्।
दक्षिणप्रान्तमार्तण्डं रामनाथं भजाम्यहम्॥
दक्षिणप्रान्तमार्तण्डं रामनाथं भजाम्यहम्॥
Parvati-Nayananandam Parvatarajasutapriyam |
Dakshinapranta-Martandam Ramanatham Bhajamy-Aham ||
Dakshinapranta-Martandam Ramanatham Bhajamy-Aham ||
Meaning: Delight of Goddess Parvati's eyes, beloved of the mountain king's daughter, radiant sun of Southern Bharatvarsha — I worship Lord Ramanatha!
Ramanathashtakam 8 (Phala Shruti)
रामनाथामृतस्तोत्रं यः पठेद्भक्तिमान्नरः।
सर्वपापैः विनिर्मुक्तः रामलोके महीयते॥
सर्वपापैः विनिर्मुक्तः रामलोके महीयते॥
Ramanathamrita-Stotram Yah Pathed-Bhaktiman-Narah |
Sarvapapaih Vinirmuktah Ramaloke Mahiyate ||
Sarvapapaih Vinirmuktah Ramaloke Mahiyate ||
Meaning: Whoever recites this nectarous hymn to Lord Ramanatha with devotion becomes free from all sins and attains glory in the eternal abode of Lord Rama and Shiva.
ARCHITECTURAL MARVEL
The 1,212 Pillar Outer Corridor Guide
The World's Longest Temple Corridor
Ramanathaswamy Temple boasts the longest corridor of any Hindu temple in the world. Built over 350 years by Sethupathi Kings of Ramanathapuram:
🏛️ 1,212 Carved Pillars
Outer corridor features 1,212 intricately carved granite pillars, each 30 feet tall with unique Yali (mythical lion-elephant) motifs.
📏 4,000 Feet Perimeter
Total length of outer corridors exceeds 4,000 feet (1.2 km). Third corridor is world-famous for its perfect perspective symmetry.
🗼 53-Meter Gopuram
The majestic East Rajagopuram rises 126 feet (53 meters) with 9 ornate tiers visible miles away from the ocean.
SACRED RECITATIONS
Shiva Ashtottara Shatanamavali (108 Divine Names)
Reciting the 108 names of Lord Shiva while offering 22 Tirtham water at Rameshwaram sanctum:
1. ॐ रामनाथाय नमः
Om Ramanathaya Namah
Lord of Ramachandra
2. ॐ रामेश्वरमूर्तये नमः
Om Rameshvaramurtaye Namah
Form of Rameshwaram Shrine
3. ॐ सेतुबन्धनाथाय नमः
Om Setubandhanathaya Namah
Lord of Rama Setu Bridge
4. ॐ विश्वलिङ्गप्रियाय नमः
Om Vishvalingapriyaya Namah
Lover of Hanuman's Vishwalingam
5. ॐ सीतासैकतप्रतिष्ठिताय नमः
Om Sitasaikatapratishthitaya Namah
Consecrated by Sita's Sea Sand
6. ॐ अग्नितीर्थस्वामिने नमः
Om Agnitirthasvamine Namah
Lord of Agni Theertham Ocean
7. ॐ शिवाय नमः
Om Shivaya Namah
The Pure & Auspicious One
8. ॐ महेश्वराय नमः
Om Maheshvaraya Namah
The Great Supreme Lord
9. ॐ शम्भवे नमः
Om Shambhave Namah
Bestower of Happiness
10. ॐ पिनाकिने नमः
Om Pinakine Namah
Holder of Bow Pinaka
11. ॐ शशिशेखराय नमः
Om Shashishekharaya Namah
Adorned with Crescent Moon
12. ॐ वामदेवाय नमः
Om Vamadevaya Namah
Noble Graceful Form
13. ॐ विरूपाक्षाय नमः
Om Virupakshaya Namah
Formless Eyes Lord
14. ॐ कपर्दिने नमः
Om Kapardine Namah
Lord of Matted Locks
15. ॐ नीलोलोहिताय नमः
Om Nilalohitaya Namah
Blue & Red Radiant Lord
16. ॐ शंकर नमः
Om Shankaraya Namah
Giver of Peace & Joy
17. ॐ शूलपाणये नमः
Om Shulapanaye Namah
Wielder of Trident
18. ॐ खट्वांगिने नमः
Om Khatvangine Namah
Bearer of Skull-Staff
19. ॐ विष्णुवल्लभाय नमः
Om Vishnuvallabhaya Namah
Beloved of Lord Vishnu
20. ॐ शिपिविष्टाय नमः
Om Shipivishtaya Namah
Pervaded by Divine Rays
21. ॐ अम्बिकानाथाय नमः
Om Ambikanathaya Namah
Consort of Goddess Ambika
22. ॐ श्रीकण्ठाय नमः
Om Shrikanthaya Namah
Glorious Blue Throat
23. ॐ भक्तवत्सलाय नमः
Om Bhaktavatsalaya Namah
Affectionate to Devotees
24. ॐ शर्वाय नमः
Om Sharvaya Namah
Remover of Sufferings
25. ॐ त्रिलोकेशाय नमः
Om Trilokeshaya Namah
Ruler of Three Worlds
26. ॐ शितिकण्ठाय नमः
Om Shitikanthaya Namah
Dark Throated Lord
27. ॐ शिवाप्रियाय नमः
Om Shivapriyaya Namah
Beloved of Goddess Parvati
28. ॐ उग्राय नमः
Om Ugraya Namah
Fierce Cosmic Form
29. ॐ कपालिने नमः
Om Kapaline Namah
Bearer of Sacred Skull
30. ॐ कामारये नमः
Om Kamaraye Namah
Conqueror of Desire
31. ॐ अन्धकासुरसूदनाय नमः
Om Andhakasurasudanaya Namah
Slayer of Demon Andhaka
32. ॐ गंगाधराय नमः
Om Gangadharaya Namah
Holder of Holy Ganges
33. ॐ ललाटाक्षाय नमः
Om Lalatakshaya Namah
Third Eye on Forehead
34. ॐ कालकालाय नमः
Om Kalakalaya Namah
Master of Time & Death
35. ॐ कृपानिधये नमः
Om Kripanidhaye Namah
Ocean of Compassion
36. ॐ भीमाय नमः
Om Bhimaya Namah
Tremendous Divine Strength
37. ॐ परशुहस्ताय नमः
Om Parashuhastaya Namah
Holding Battle Axe
38. ॐ मृगपाणये नमः
Om Mrigapanaye Namah
Holding Gentle Deer
39. ॐ जटाधराय नमः
Om Jatadharaya Namah
Adorned with Matted Hair
40. ॐ कैलाशवासिने नमः
Om Kailashavasine Namah
Dweller of Kailash Peak
41. ॐ कवचिने नमः
Om Kavachine Namah
Protected by Armor
42. ॐ कठोराय नमः
Om Kathoraya Namah
Unshakable Firmness
43. ॐ त्रिपुरान्तकाय नमः
Om Tripurantakaya Namah
Destroyer of Tripura Forts
44. ॐ वृषांकाय नमः
Om Vrishankaya Namah
Symbolized by Bull
45. ॐ वृषभारूढाय नमः
Om Vrishabharudhaya Namah
Rider of Nandi Bull
46. ॐ भस्मोद्धूलितविग्रहाय नमः
Om Bhasmoddhulitavigrahaya Namah
Anointed with Sacred Ash
47. ॐ सामप्रियाय नमः
Om Samapriyaya Namah
Lover of Sama Veda Chants
48. ॐ स्वरमयाय नमः
Om Svaramayaya Namah
Embodiment of Musical Notes
49. ॐ त्रयीमूर्तये नमः
Om Trayimurtaye Namah
Form of Three Vedas
50. ॐ अनीश्वराय नमः
Om Anishvaraya Namah
Having No Ruler Above
51. ॐ सर्वज्ञाय नमः
Om Sarvajnaya Namah
All-Knowing Omniscient Lord
52. ॐ परमात्मने नमः
Om Paramatmane Namah
The Supreme Soul
53. ॐ सोमसूर्याग्निलोचनाय नमः
Om Somasuryagnilochanaya Namah
Eyes of Sun, Moon & Fire
54. ॐ हविषे नमः
Om Havishe Namah
Sacred Oblation
55. ॐ यज्ञमयाय नमः
Om Yajnamayaya Namah
Embodiment of Sacrifice
56. ॐ सोमनाथाय नमः
Om Somanathaya Namah
Lord of Somnath Shrine
57. ॐ मल्लिकार्जुनाय नमः
Om Mallikarjunaya Namah
Lord of Srisailam Shrine
58. ॐ महाकालेश्वराय नमः
Om Mahakaleshvaraya Namah
Lord of Ujjain Shrine
59. ॐ ओंकारेश्वराय नमः
Om Omkareshvaraya Namah
Lord of Omkareshwar Shrine
60. ॐ भीमाशंकराय नमः
Om Bhimashankaraya Namah
Lord of Bhimashankar Shrine
61. ॐ विश्वनाथाय नमः
Om Vishvanathaya Namah
Lord of Kashi Shrine
62. ॐ त्र्यम्बकेश्वराय नमः
Om Tryambakeshvaraya Namah
Lord of Trimbakeshwar Shrine
63. ॐ वैद्यनाथाय नमः
Om Vaidyanathaya Namah
Lord of Deoghar Shrine
64. ॐ नागेश्वराय नमः
Om Nageshvaraya Namah
Lord of Nageshwar Shrine
65. ॐ रामेश्वराय नमः
Om Ramesharaya Namah
Lord of Rameshwaram Shrine
66. ॐ घृष्णेश्वराय नमः
Om Ghrishneshvaraya Namah
Lord of Ghrishneshwar Shrine
67. ॐ नीलकण्ठाय नमः
Om Nilakanthaya Namah
Blue-Throated Lord
68. ॐ मृत्युंजयाय नमः
Om Mrityunjayaya Namah
Conqueror of Death
69. ॐ त्रिनेत्राय नमः
Om Trinetraya Namah
Lord with Three Eyes
70. ॐ रुद्राय नमः
Om Rudraya Namah
Fierce Roaring Lord
71. ॐ पशुपतये नमः
Om Pashupataye Namah
Protector of All Beings
72. ॐ ईशानाय नमः
Om Ishanaya Namah
Northeast Supreme Lord
73. ॐ दिगम्बराय नमः
Om Digambaraya Namah
Clad in Space Directions
74. ॐ महादेवाय नमः
Om Mahadevaya Namah
Greatest Divine Being
75. ॐ सदाशिवाय नमः
Om Sadashivaya Namah
Eternally Auspicious Lord
76. ॐ अनन्ताय नमः
Om Anantaya Namah
Boundless Infinite Lord
77. ॐ सूक्ष्ममूर्तये नमः
Om Sukshmamurtaye Namah
Subtle Cosmic Presence
78. ॐ सर्वेश्वराय नमः
Om Sarveshvaraya Namah
Sovereign Lord of All
79. ॐ जगद्गुरवे नमः
Om Jagadgurave Namah
Guru of the Universe
80. ॐ व्योमकेशाय नमः
Om Vyomakeshaya Namah
Hair Made of Sky Space
81. ॐ भस्मप्रियाय नमः
Om Bhasmapriyaya Namah
Lover of Holy Ashes
82. ॐ त्रिकालज्ञाय नमः
Om Trikalajnaya Namah
Knower of Past, Present, Future
83. ॐ सर्वदुःखहराय नमः
Om Sarvaduhkhaharaya Namah
Destroyer of All Misery
84. ॐ अमृतेश्वराय नमः
Om Amriteshvaraya Namah
Lord of Nectar Immortality
85. ॐ उग्रतेजसे नमः
Om Ugratejase Namah
Fierce Splendor Light
86. ॐ महातेजसे नमः
Om Mahatejase Namah
Great Cosmic Luminosity
87. ॐ ज्ञानमयाय नमः
Om Jnanamayaya Namah
Embodiment of Wisdom
88. ॐ मुक्तिदाय नमः
Om Muktidayaya Namah
Giver of Supreme Liberation
89. ॐ भक्तपालकाय नमः
Om Bhaktapalakaya Namah
Protector of True Devotees
90. ॐ कामदहनाय नमः
Om Kamadahanaya Namah
Burner of Desire
91. ॐ विश्वरूपाय नमः
Om Vishvarupaya Namah
Universal Form Lord
92. ॐ विश्वेश्वराय नमः
Om Vishveshvaraya Namah
Lord of Entire Universe
93. ॐ कल्याणात्मने नमः
Om Kalyanatmane Namah
Auspicious Soul of All
94. ॐ शिवतराय नमः
Om Shivataraya Namah
Most Auspicious Being
95. ॐ परमेश्वराय नमः
Om Parameshvaraya Namah
Supreme Divinity Lord
96. ॐ निरंजनाय नमः
Om Niranjanaya Namah
Pure Spotless Truth
97. ॐ निराभासाय नमः
Om Nirabhasaya Namah
Illusionless Being
98. ॐ नित्यसुन्दर्याय नमः
Om Nityasundaraya Namah
Eternally Beautiful Lord
99. ॐ सत्यव्रताय नमः
Om Satyavrataya Namah
Embodiment of Vow of Truth
100. ॐ सत्यस्वरूपाय नमः
Om Satyasvarupaya Namah
Truth Incarnate
101. ॐ अनन्तदृष्टये नमः
Om Anantadrishtaye Namah
Infinite Vision Lord
102. ॐ आनन्दमयाय नमः
Om Anandamayaya Namah
Embodiment of Bliss
103. ॐ चिन्मयाय नमः
Om Chinmayaya Namah
Embodiment of Pure Consciousness
104. ॐ सच्चिदानन्दाय नमः
Om Satchidanandaya Namah
Existence, Consciousness & Bliss
105. ॐ कैलासाधिपतये नमः
Om Kailasadhipataye Namah
Ruler of Kailash Peak
106. ॐ हिमवत्प्रियाय नमः
Om Himavatpriyaya Namah
Beloved Son-in-Law of Himavat
107. ॐ पार्वतीपतये नमः
Om Parvatipataye Namah
Consort of Parvati
108. ॐ रामनाथेश्वर नमः
Om Ramanatheshvaraya Namah
Supreme Lord of Rameshwaram
OFFICIAL TRUST PLAYBOOK
VIP Darshan & Spatika Lingam Booking Guide
Official Booking Rules on HR&CE Tamil Nadu Portal
All Special Darshan tickets (₹50 & ₹200), Spatika Lingam Darshan passes (5:00 AM to 6:00 AM), and 22 Tirtham bath tickets (₹25) can be booked through the official HR&CE Tamil Nadu portal (rameshwaramramanathaswamy.tn.gov.in).
🎫 Spatika Lingam (5:00 AM)
The crystal Lingam receives morning milk abhishekam. ₹50 Special entry queue opens at 4:30 AM.
🎫 22 Tirtham Bath Pass (₹25)
Pass available at East Gopuram gate counter. Includes bucket pouring by temple staff across all 22 wells.
👔 Strict Temple Dress Code
Men MUST wear Dhoti/Veshti with shirt or Angavastram. Women MUST wear Saree or Half-Saree. Jeans, t-shirts, shorts strictly barred.
HELP DESK & SAFETY
Emergency Contact Directory
Ramanathaswamy Temple Desk
📞 04573-221223 / rameshwaramramanathaswamy.tn.gov.in
Rameshwaram Police Station
📞 Dial 112 / 04573-221224
Government Hospital Rameshwaram
📞 04573-221233
Rameshwaram Railway Station
📞 Dial 139 / 04573-221226
Dhanushkodi Coast Guard Post
📞 04573-221300
Tamil Nadu Tourism (TTDC)
📞 1800-425-31111
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Rameshwaram Shravan Yatra FAQs
Q: What are the exact dates for Shravan month in Rameshwaram in 2026?
In South India (Amanta Calendar), Shravan month begins on August 13, 2026, and concludes on September 11, 2026. Special Monday Pujas are held on August 17, August 24, August 31, and September 7, 2026.
Q: Why are there 22 Tirthams inside Rameshwaram Temple?
The 22 Tirthams represent the 22 arrows in Lord Rama's quiver. Lord Rama discharged arrows into the ground to create these sacred sweet water wells inside the temple complex.
Q: What is the sequence of bathing at Rameshwaram?
Pilgrims FIRST take an ocean dip at Agni Theertham beach in wet clothes, then enter the temple East Gate to take the 22 Well Tirtham bath, change into dry clothes, and proceed for Ramalingam Darshan.
Q: What is the Hanuman Vishwalingam tradition?
Lord Rama decreed that the Vishwalingam brought by Lord Hanuman from Kailash must be worshipped BEFORE worshipping the sand Ramalingam made by Sita. This tradition is strictly followed to this day.
Q: How to reach Dhanushkodi from Rameshwaram?
Dhanushkodi is located 20 km east of Rameshwaram. Government buses, private taxis, and auto-rickshaws operate continuously along the scenic sea highway to Arichal Munai.
Q: What is the Spatika Lingam Darshan timing?
The holy Spatika (Crystal) Lingam Abhishekam takes place daily between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM. ₹50 Special Darshan ticket line opens at 4:30 AM at the West Gopuram.
Q: What is the dress code for men and women at Rameshwaram?
Men MUST wear a traditional Dhoti (*Veshti*) with shirt or bare chest with Angavastram. Women MUST wear a traditional Saree or Half-Saree. Jeans, shorts, and skirts are strictly barred.
Q: Are mobile phones allowed inside Rameshwaram Temple?
NO. Mobile phones, electronic gadgets, and cameras are strictly BANNED inside the temple. Free electronic lockers are provided outside the East and West Gopurams.
Q: What is the distance between Madurai Airport (IXM) and Rameshwaram?
Madurai Airport is the nearest airport, located 175 km west of Rameshwaram (approx 3 hours via Madurai-Rameshwaram NH-87 4-lane highway).
Q: How long is the Pamban Sea Bridge?
The iconic Pamban Railway Sea Bridge and Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge span 2.3 km across the Palk Strait, connecting mainland India (Mandapam) to Rameshwaram Island.
Q: What is Murudeshwar Shiva Statue height and location?
Murudeshwar houses the world's 2nd tallest **123-feet Shiva statue** located in Bhatkal, Uttara Kannada district, Karnataka, surrounded by the Arabian Sea on three sides.
Q: What is the significance of Gokarna Atmalinga?
Gokarna (Karnataka) houses the original **Atmalinga** given by Lord Shiva to Ravana, which Lord Ganesha tricked Ravana into placing on the ground.
Q: What is the Giri Pradakshina at Tiruvannamalai?
Giri Pradakshina is a 14-km barefoot holy circumambulation around the sacred Annamalai hill in Tiruvannamalai (Agni Lingam), especially powerful on full moon days.
Q: Where can I see floating stones of Rama Setu?
Porous floating coral stones used by Nala and Nila to build Rama Setu are displayed inside a water tank at Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple, 2 km from Rameshwaram station.
Q: Are changing rooms available after taking the 22 Tirtham bath?
Yes. Separate clean changing rooms for men and women are located immediately after the 22nd well (*Sadhyamrita Theertham*) exit before entering the main Darshan queue.
Q: Can pilgrims perform personal Jalabhishek on Ramalingam?
No direct touching of Ramalingam is permitted. Temple priests perform all Abhishekams on behalf of pilgrims using sacred Ganga or Tirtham water.
Q: What food options are available in Rameshwaram during Shravan?
Pure South Indian vegetarian dining options serve Idli, Dosa, Sambar Rice, Rasam Rice, and curd rice across temple street mathas and TTDC hotels.
Q: What is Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial in Rameshwaram?
The grand memorial dedicated to India's People's President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam is located at Pei Karumbu, 4 km from Rameshwaram temple (Free entry).
Q: What is the significance of Kothandaramaswamy Temple?
Kothandaramaswamy Temple (12 km towards Dhanushkodi) is the sacred site where Vibhishana (Ravana's brother) surrendered to Lord Rama and was crowned King of Lanka.
Q: How far is Kanyakumari from Rameshwaram?
Kanyakumari is located 310 km southwest of Rameshwaram (approx 5.5 hours drive via East Coast Road).
Q: What are the timings for general Darshan at Rameshwaram?
Ramanathaswamy Temple is open for general Darshan from 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM daily.
Q: Is wheelchair access available inside Rameshwaram Temple?
Yes. Free wheelchairs and wooden ramps are provided at the East Gopuram entrance for elderly and differently-abled pilgrims.
Q: What is the ticket price for 22 Tirtham bath?
Standard general line ticket is ₹25 per person. Fast-track queue ticket is ₹100 per person.
Q: What is the best weather month to visit Rameshwaram?
Shravan months (August and September) offer pleasant sea breezes, moderate temperatures (26°C to 32°C), and sacred pilgrimage atmosphere.
Q: Can I carry 22 Tirtham water back home in bottles?
Yes. Sealed bottles containing holy Koti Theertham water are sold at official temple trust counters inside the complex.
Q: How to visit Gandhamadhana Parvatham?
Gandhamadhana Parvatham (2 km hillock north of temple) houses Lord Rama's feet impressions (*Ramarpadam*) on a chakra wheel, offering full view of Rameshwaram island.
Q: What is the medical emergency helpline in Rameshwaram?
Government Hospital Rameshwaram: 04573-221233, Police Emergency: 112, TTDC Tourism Helpline: 1800-425-31111.
Q: What is the significance of Pamban Bridge view point?
Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge offers a breathtaking 360° view of the Pamban rail bridge opening for ocean ships across the deep turquoise Palk Strait.
Q: How to visit Nambu Nayagiamman Temple near Rameshwaram?
Nambu Nayagiamman Temple (8 km towards Dhanushkodi) is a 14th-century shrine dedicated to Goddess Kali, revered by local fishermen for sea protection.
Q: Where can I taste authentic Chettinad and South Indian Tiffin in Rameshwaram?
Sannadhi Street and West Car Street feature authentic traditional South Indian tiffin centers serving hot Ghee Roast Dosa, Idli-Vada, Filter Coffee, and Kuzhi Paniyaram.
Q: Where can I buy authentic Rameshwaram Sea Shells & Handicrafts?
Sannadhi Street and East Gopuram market feature authentic sea shell handicrafts, shankhas, and palm-leaf artifacts.