Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu

Rameswaram is a charming town situated on a picturesque island in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is separated from Sri Lanka by the tranquil Pamban channel. According to Hindu mythology, Rameswaram is where Lord Rama constructed a bridge across the sea to reach Sri Lanka. The town features the first sea bridge connecting Mandapam with Pamban Island and Rameswaram. Additionally, the abandoned town of Dhanushkodi, located on Pamban Island, was a thriving settlement until it was devastated by a cyclone in 1964. Rameswaram is renowned for the awe-inspiring Ramanathaswamy Temple, which boasts magnificent prakaras adorned with colossal sculpted pillars. This temple also houses the longest corridor in the world. Pilgrims flock to Agniteertham to partake in sacred rituals and immerse themselves in the revered waters. Another significant site is the five-faced Hanuman Temple, home to the floating stone believed to have been used in the construction of the historic bridge between India and Sri Lanka. Alongside Varanasi, Rameswaram holds great significance for Hindus and is considered one of the holiest places in India as part of the Char Dham pilgrimage.