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Rameshwaram
is a sacred island positioned off the mainland cicumscribed
by Palk Strait and the Gulf of Mannar anchored with the
longest ever constructed bridge on sea in India. It is a
major Hindu pilgrimage site. The maximum temperature varies
between 28-31 degree Celsius, while minimum temperature is
around 25 degree. Between January and March is the best time
to visit Rameshwaram. The population size of Rameshwaram is
32,700. The serene beach and shallow water here are ideal
for swimming and sunbathing.
Rameshwaram is where Lord Rama rested and prayed after his
victory over the demon king Ravana. A sacred site for both
Vaishnavites and Shaivities. The
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island of
Rameshwaram is one of the most revered temple towns of India
without a visit to which, the pilgrimage of a devout Hindu
is not considered accomplished.
The Marine Fauna
The benovolent sea inhabits the rare sea species and
coral reefs. Exotic variety of marine life-algae, starfish,
sea cucumber, crabs, sponges and the sea cow are found here.
The clean beach and shallow water here are an ideal
destination for swimming and sunbathing. This is the only
place in the region where one could swim in the sea day and
night. An enjoyable sight is frolic of dolphins in the
water.
A leisurely drive along the Dhanushkodi road is a pleasant
experience. The clear sea, backwater edged with waving
bulrushes, surrounds the road. Stretches of virtually
untouched beach sparkle in the fading light and it is from
here that you get a spectacular view of the sunset. Towards
the end of the road a few transient settlements of fishermen
can be seen in the fishing season.
The main attraction
The main attraction of the island, the Ramanathswamy temple
is spread over 151 acres and is a magnificent example of
Dravidian art. This temple took about 350 years to take its
present form various release having contributed to its
construction at different times from the 12th century
onwards. Parakrama Bahu, the ruler of Ceylon guilt the
sanctum sanctorum. The corridors and other vast structures
of the temple and the Gopurams were built by the Sethupathis,
rulers of Ramanathapuram since 12th century. The temple has
two Gopurams at the eastern and western entrances, 130 feet
and 80 feet high, respectively. The sanctum sanctorum is
built of polished granite stone.
The presiding deity at the temple is Lord Ramanathaswamy and
his emblem, the Ramalinga, is said to have been installed
and consecrated by Lord Rama and Sita.
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