tourist places at rameshwaram

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• The 24 Most Elegant Places To Visit In Rameshwaram On Your 2024 Vacay

23 Mar 2023

Rameshwaram is located in the sea region of “Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserves” and is relatively small in terms of area. Standing firmly in the middle of India and Sri Lanka with its clean sea breezes, less crowded temples & sacred ponds, this famous “Island City” has been the center of attraction for travelers across the world. One of the Char Dhams of India and an avid place for Hindu devotees, Rameshwaram is one place you must add to your travel bucket list. Wondering what are the places to cover on your next trip to Rameshwaram? Listed below are some of the best places to visit in Rameshwaram that will definitely quench your thirst for spirituality and peace.

24 Best Places To Visit In Rameshwaram

To enjoy the presence of something so sacred and divine is what a trip to Rameshwaram is a part of. Take a look at these places to visit in Rameshwaram and get set to experience the best of this land.

• Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple : Admire The Vibrant Interiors
• Kothandaramaswamy Temple : Explore The Ruins
• The Five-Faced Hanuman Temple : A Highly Religious Place
• Lakshmana Tirtham : Praise The Architecture
• Villoondi Tirtham : Know About The Buried Bow
• Agni Theertham : Take A Dip In The Bathing Sea
• Ariyaman Beach : For Crystal Clear Beaches
• Dhanuskodi Beach : The Famous Southern Tip
• Adam’s Bridge : Most Popular Ram Setu
• Water Bird Sanctuary : Watch The Birds Flocking Together
• Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge : Pay A Visit
• Kalam National Memorial : To Honour APJ Abdul Kalam
• Sea World Aquarium : Meet The Underwater World
• Kunthu Kal Beach : Perfect Spot To Laze Around
• Nambu Nayagiamman Temple : A 14th Century Temple
• Jada Tirtham : Famous For The Artistry
• Gandhamadhana Parvatham : Seek Blessings
• Jatayu Tirtham : Built To Honour Jatayu 
• Thiruppullani : Dedicated To Lord Vishnu
• Sugreevar Temple : Popular For The Lotus Pond
• Badrakaliamman Temple : Houses An Idol Of Devi Durga
• Dhanushkodi : A Quaint Place To Explore
• Agnitheertham : A Religious Place For Devotees
• Rama Teertham : Explore The Imprints Of Lord Rama

1. Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple

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This is one of the very few temples in the history of India which is built in the Dravidian style architecture and one of the famous temples to visit in Rameshwaram . Your Rameshwaram sightseeing isn’t complete without paying a visit to this temple. Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple is famous for its collection of Lingas, which were made up of sand, salt, stone and other elements. According to stories, there were around 112 ponds here out of which only 12 are left. This popular tourist attraction in Rameshwaram with the second-largest pillared corridor in the world is one of the must-visit tourist places in Rameshwaram. This is the most popular spot in the city and must be included even on the list of most choosy places to visit in Rameshwaram in 1 day .

Location: Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu 623526 Timings: 5 am to 1 pm & 3 pm to 9 pm Tip: The temple gets crowded during the time of Maha Shivratri Speciality: The interior of the temple.

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2. Kothandaramaswamy Temple

Situated in Dhanushkodi, Kothandaramaswamy temple is lined along the shallow beaches, historical ruminants, and vast horizons of the azure sea. And your Rameshwaram sightseeing must include this temple. One of the best tourist spots in Rameshwaram, is a ruin of the temple described in Ramayana . This temple holding the deities of Rama, Lakshman, Sita & Hanuman is believed to be the residing spot of Vibhishana, the younger brother of Ravana.

Location: Temple, Kochi – Madurai – Dhanushkodi Rd, Munichallai, Madurai, Tamil Nadu 625009 Timings: 6:30 am to 10:30 am & 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm Tip: Visit this with your family Speciality: Strong built structure of the temple.

3. The Five-Faced Hanuman Temple

Situated just 2 km from Rameshwaram Temple, this temple is famous for the five manifestations of Lord Hanuman and is listed among the most prestigious places to see in Rameshwaram. This famous idol is carved out of a large Senthooram Stone which was considered very precious in ancient times. The Hanuman Temple is said to house stones used to build the Rama Setu, the bridge built by Hanuman’s army of monkeys in order to rescue Goddess Sita from Lanka.

Location: Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu 623526 Timings: 6 am-1 pm to 4-8 pm Tip: Tuesdays and Saturdays observe huge crowd of devotees Speciality: Panchmukha (five-faced) statue of Lord Hanuman.

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4. Lakshmana Tirtham

This is one of those popular places to visit in Rameshwaram and around that are spiritually and architecturally attractive. If you wish to soak in more bliss while you’re out and about in the serene land of Rameshwaram, this is the place to be. Being famous as a sacred pond near the temple of Lakshmana, this place is situated in close proximity to the glorious Ramanathaswamy Temple. People visiting the Lakshmana temple, often prefer to take a dip in this pond.

Location: Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu 623526 Timings: 6 am-1 pm to 4-8 pm Tip: Take a dip in the holy pond for the atonement of your sins Speciality: Temple has illustrations of Ramayana on its walls Entry fee: No entry fee, just pooja fee of 60/-

5. Villoondi Tirtham

If you are making a list of places to visit in Rameshwaram in 2 days or even less, this place must not be missed. Villoondi Tirtham, or the buried bow, has a significant legend attached to it, which is why the locals and even the pilgrims believe in visiting this place at least once. It is said that Lord Rama dipped a bow in land around this region only, to get water for Sita when she was thirsty. A renowned temple of Ekantha Ramar is also located nearby if you wish to explore further. Make sure you don’t miss out on one of the best of Rameshwaram.

Location: Thangachi madam, Rameswaram – 623526, Tamilnadu, Thangachimadam, Tamil Nadu 623526 Timings: Open 24 hours Tip: It is one of the 64 sacred water bodies around Rameshwaram Speciality: One can witness breathtaking views from the temple.

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6. Agni Theertham

One of the 64 sacred baths in India, Agni Theertham is always on the top of the list when talking about the best sightseeing places in Rameshwaram. It is believed that bathing in this sea will rid one of his/her sins and make them pure. Holistic rituals such as those for the dead ancestors are performed on the shores of this pristine beach. Pilgrims wishing to take a sacred bath are first supposed to take a dip here and then proceed for the bath inside the Rameshwaram Temple.

Location: Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu Timings: 5 am to 6 pm Tip: All days are considered to be auspicious to take bath in the pond Speciality: It is one of the 64 holy baths in Rameshwaram.

7. Ariyaman Beach

The Ariyaman Beach, or the Kushi Beach, has an astounding width and length of about 150 m and 2 km respectively. Characterised by gentle waves and utmost cleanliness, this beach is perfect for a picnic with friends or family, which is why it is listed among the significant places to visit near Rameshwaram. This place surely make it to the list of top 10 places to visit in Rameshwaram.

Location: Madurai-Rameswaram Rd, Sattakkonvalasai, Tamil Nadu 623516 Timings : Anytime Tip: If you are taking a bus, then you should get down at Mandapam and then take a taxi Speciality: Scenic views and tranquil blue water Entry fee: No entry fee, only 60/-pp for 15 mins boat ride.

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8. Dhanuskodi Beach

Dhanuskodi lies in the southern tip of Rameshwaram and is bordered by the Bay of Bengal on one side and the Indian Ocean on the other, merging at the very tip of the beach, such that one can tell apart the high tides of the former from the low tides of the latter. Dhanushkodi is among the top tourist places in Rameswaram. The beach town was heavily populated prior to the devastation caused by the storm of 1964. But now, with a population of merely 500 fishermen and their families, the town has been declared a ‘Ghost Town’ by the government and is among the prominent places to visit in Rameshwaram . 

Location: Tamil Nadu Timings : Anytime Tip: The only way to reach this is by getting a taxi since there is no railway station in Dhanushkodgi. Speciality: It is believed to be the place where Lord Ram built Ram Setu with his army.

9. Adam’s Bridge

You cannot miss this unique place in the Rameswaram tourist places map . The Adam’s Bridge or Rama Setu is a historic bridge connecting the Rameshwaram island of India to the north-western coast of Sri Lanka. The bridge is a network of limestone shoals that start from Dhanuskodi, the tip of India’s Pamban Island, which in turn is connected to the Indian mainland by a 2 km long bridge. Always a topic of hot debate among historians and archaeologists, the bridge is among the most preferred tourist places in Rameshwaram. It is one of the most boosted places by Rameshwaram tourism due to its geographical and religious significance amongst tourists.

Location : Adam’s Bridge, Tamil Nadu Timings : NA Tip: Book your tour ahead of your visit for a hassle-free experience. Speciality: It is located between the islands of Mannar, Sri Lanka and Rameshwaram, India.

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10. Water Bird Sanctuary

If you are a nature lover, this is one of the best places to visit in Rameshwaram in one day . Rameshwaram isn’t solely a religious spot. For all visitors who wish to explore something other than the temples, they can go to the Water Bird Sanctuary that is home to a lot of native as well as migratory water birds. Between October and January, the sanctuary turns into a battalion of migratory birds who flock here to breed and feed their offspring. The sanctuary is located in the Ramanathapuram District and is indeed one of the most popular Rameshwaram tourist places. Witessing a wide range of colorful birds is indeed one of the best things to do in Rameshwaram.

Location: on the road to Dhanushkodi from Rameswaram Timings: 7 am – 6 pm (Best time to visit is from October to January) Tip: October-January is the best time to visit when the migratory birds fly down here. Speciality: Home to a wide variety of migratory birds.

11. Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge

One of the famous places in Rameshwaram , Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge or Pamban Bridge is a cantilever bridge on Palk Strait that boasts of being the first sea bridge of India and connects Rameshwaram Island with the Indian mainland. The bi-lane road next to the bridge allows one to get a clear view of this railway bridge and of its amazing double leaf bascule which raises itself to let ships pass from underneath it. Containing 143 pillars, each of which is 220 feet long and weighs 100 tonnes, the bridge is among the most fascinating places to see in Rameshwaram.

Location: Bhuvaneshwari Nagar, Velachery, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600042 Timings: Open 24 hours Tip: It is the longest bridge in southern India, and also the most dangerous ones so be a little careful. Speciality: Longest bridge in South India.

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12. Kalam National Memorial

Kalam National Memorial was built in honour of India’s great leader and a renowned scientist, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam. This great personality always reflected simplicity, calmness and depth which is excellently showcased in his memorial. It is one of the most important places to visit in Rameshwaram and attracts tourist from all over the world to witness India’s diversity. The memorial has an impressive collection of Mr Kalam’s including replicas of missiles, information about the Pokhran Nuclear Test. and rockets. The place is a beautiful blend of Mughal and Indian architecture.

Location: Pamban- Tharavai Thoppu Rd, Pamban, Tamil Nadu 623529 Timings: 9:00AM – 1:00PM and 2:00PM – 5:00PM Tip:  It’s good for art lovers Speciality: It was built to honour the life and achievements of Dr APJ Abdul Kalam.

13. Sea World Aquarium

Among the most amazing places to see in Rameswaram, Sea World Aquarium is a popular, unmissable attraction located opposite the Rameshwaram bus stand. It has an awesome collection from the sea world and a number of aquatic species that houses in the oceans like the Rabbit Fish, Shark, Lobsters and Octopus. It is one of the most enthralling places for the little ones. The aquarium also sells items made of seashells that tourists can purchase as a souvenir. This place has an amazing collection of sea species, making it the most important place to be included in the Rameshwaram tourist places before planning your next trip.

Location: opposite Rameswaram Bus Stand Timings: 10:00AM – 5:00PM Tip: Visit this place with your kids Speciality: Astounding collection of sea species.

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14. Kunthu Kal Beach

Kunthu Kal Beach, located on Pamban Island in the Indian Ocean is one of the most famous places to visit in Rameshwaram. This beach is regarded as a paradise of Tamil Nadu and the tranquil seashore is a delight for beach lovers. The beautiful location of turquoise waters, serenity and mesmerizing natural flourish attracts tourists every year. The beach is a perfect spot regardless of what you are looking for – watersports, romance, leisure or perfect delight. Moreover, if you are looking for best places to visit in Rameshwaram at night, Kunthu Kal Beach can be on your list.

Location: Kunthukal, Pamban, Tamil Nadu 623526 Timings: 24 hours Tip: The beach has the vegetation of a variety of medicinal plants. Speciality: Remotely located it is famous for its magnificent views and peaceful environment.

15. Nambu Nayagiamman Temple

Located at a distance of 8km from the Ramanathaswamy Temple, Nambu Nayagiamman Temple is a 14th-century temple dedicated to Lord Rama. Many tourists are drawn to the temple because of the peace the place provides and the splendid architecture with beautiful lawns. Nambu nayaki amman is considered the protecting goddess of the south direction. The temple is managed by the locals in the area. Local transportations are easily available from the main city to visit this temple. With its magnificent architecture and calm environment, it has become the most visited spot amongst all the other Rameshwaram tourist places .

Location: Tamil Nadu 623526 Timings: 6:00AM – 7:00PM Tip:  It’s a famous place for all those facing issues in marriage. Speciality: Sumptuous architecture.

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16. Jada Tirtham

Jada Tirtham is a small temple and holds its own mythological importance. Constructed near the trunk of a large peepal tree, the temple hosts two grand events – Maha shivarathiri (once every year) celebration and Maha Makam (Once in 12 Years). The temple is a tremendous work of outstanding artistry and is famous for its beauty and uniqueness. This temple marks one of the most important places to visit in Rameshwaram for a pilgrimage.

Location: Ramanathapuram, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu 623526 Timings: NA Tip: If you are visiting Dhanushkodi, it is suggested you visit this place on your way. Speciality: Intricate work of artmanship.

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17. Gandhamadhana Parvatham

Located in the north-western part of Rameswaram, Gandhamadhana Parvatham is a very popular sunrise and sunset viewpoint. The temple of Gandhamadhana is one of the highly renowned and ancient temples in India . It is worshipped in southern India as well as visited by people from far across. The temple is two-storeyed and you can see Lord Rama’s feet imprinted on the chakra placed in the temple. This place is a must-visit Rameshwaram tourist place in regards to historic importance.

Location: Gandha Madhana Parvatham, Kendhamana paruvatham, Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu 623526 Timings : 7 am – 1 pm, 3 pm – 6 pm Tip : Visit early in the morning or in the evening to witness the sunrise or sunset. Speciality: It is believed that the temple has a wheel with lord Ram’s imprints.

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18. Jatayu Tirtham

Jatayu Tirtham is a sacred temple dedicated to Jatayu . He was the most loyal eagle of Lord Rama and is believed to have helped Lord Rama in several crisis situations. It is said that the eagle lost its life in order to save Lord Rama and hence it is worshipped as a deity. The Jatayu temple has been created at the place of its burial. To have one of a kind experience, one must visit this place to learn more about it.

Location: Tamil Nadu 630314 Timings:  6.00am to 7.00pm Tip: It is a peaceful shrine. So, maintain silence and decorum Speciality: The temple is built on the place of Jatayu’s burial.

19. Thiruppullani

Located at a distance of around 70 km from Rameshwaram, Sri Adi Jagannatha Perumal Temple, popularly known as Thirupullani Temple, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This sacred temple is visited by most of the devotees on their Rameshwaram tour. The temple is famous not only for its sacredness but also for its historical background. Built during the reign of Cholas, the temple is now maintained by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Tamil Nadu Government. This is one of the most popular Rameswaram tourist places .  

Location: Utira – Thiruppulani Road, Thiruppulani, Tamil Nadu 623532 Timings : 7 am – 12:30 pm, 3:30 pm – 8:30 pm Tip : Explore the temple in the evening Speciality: One of the 108 Divya Desam temples of Vishnu.

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20. Sugreevar Temple

Sugreevar Temple or Theertham is located on the way to the Gandhamadana Parvatam. The temple is popular for its famous lotus pond on the way to Ramar Padham, another location close to this temple. The pond is known as Sita Kund and is a beautiful sight to spend some time. This one of the best tourist places in Rameshwaram can be reached by taxi or auto-rickshaw. 

Location: 133, Balepete Main Rd, Balepete, Chickpet, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560053 Timings:  6.00am-11.30am, 3.00 to 8.30pm Tip: Since it is located on a hill, the views from the top are amazing. Speciality: Its lotus pond is also known as “Sita Kund”.

21. Badrakaliamman Temple

Badrakaliamman Temple is solely dedicated to Devi Durga. You can reach this temple while going towards the Gandhamadana Parvatam. It is the largest temple of Goddess Maa Kali in entire South India. The golden statue of Goddess Durga is visited by tourists from across the world. The temple is currently managed by voluntary organisations in the region. Keep this one in your list of  Rameshwaram tourist places  and do not miss the visit.

Location: Thoppur-Mettur Dam-Bhavani-Erode Rd, Mecheri, Tamil Nadu 636453 Timings: 5 am – 8 pm Tip: The place gets crowded in the days of Navratri. So, avoid visiting during the time if you don’t like crowds. Speciality: Famous Maa Durga temple of South India.

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22. Dhanushkodi

A quaint, little beach town sitting on the coast of Tamil Nadu is this sparsely populated Dhanushkodi. It was in the year 1964 that this little town was hit immensely by a storm and since then, the beach town has been getting its makeover in the most unique and unusual ways possible. For those who are seeking to escape the crowded destinations and simply embrace the isolation, Dhanushkodi is the town where one should be because it is one of the most popular tourist places in Tami Nadu . Cut off from the world around, Dhanushkodi appeals to those who are seeking for roads less traveled. This town looks like a living museum, a town that seems to have frozen in the ancient, historic times.

Location: Tamil Nadu Timings: Anytime Tip: You will be transferred into a special jeep at the checkpost before you enter Dhanushkodi Speciality: It is the place where lord Ram built Ram Setu with his army.

23. Agnitheertham

Attracting believers, devotees, and pilgrims, Agnitheertham is one of the most visited Rameshwaram tourist places and most populated baths out of the 64 situated in Rameshwaram. Sitting on the beach side of the famous Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple, Agnitheertham is the single theertham that has earned itself a spot right outside the temple complex. Agniteertham has been mentioned quite a lot of times in the ancient texts and is of utmost significance amidst the mythological legends in the Hindu religion. Devotees get rid of their sins by taking a dip in the holy waters of this theertham.

Location: Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu Timings:  5 am to 6 pm Tip: Everybody has to take a dip into the ocean before visiting the premises, be prepared for that. Speciality: Important religious spot for devotees.

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24. Rama Teertham

Sitting on the famous Gandhamadhana Parvatham, Rama Teertham is one of the most significant places to see in Rameshwaram . Also being tagged as the Gandamadana, Rama Teertham is believed to have been one of the most blessed places in South India and hence attracts hundreds and thousands of pilgrimage. The Ram temple is home to a chakra with imprints of Lord Rama being carved extremely beautifully on it. Nestled amidst the hilly region, Rama Teertham allows travellers to embrace the spirituality and tranquillity that is spread in the atmosphere. Do add this place to your list of Rameshwaram tourist places.

Location: Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu Timings: 6 am to 7 pm Tip: Fish fee for good luck and prosperity. Speciality: It is believed that Lord Rama took bath in this teertham.

Best Time To Visit Rameshwaram

Image Credit: D Kartikeyan for Wikimedia Commons

Though Rameshwaram is a highly popular religious destination and is visited by pilgrims and travelers throughout the year. But the experience gets even better during the best time to visit Rameshwaram :

For The Monsoon Bliss: August | 28°C to 35°C For Pleasant, Windy Winters: October to April | 17°C to 32°C

How To Reach Rameshwaram

By Air: Take a flight to Madurai Airport which is approx. 170 km away from Rameshwaram city and hail a cab from here.

By Train: The Rameshwaram Railway Station is directly connected to all major stations like Madurai, Chennai, Coimbatore, Thanjavur, & Trichy. Various kinds of trains such as superfast, express and mail trains ply from here.

By Road: A road trip to Rameshwaram would be nothing less than exciting and refreshing, given you’d be driving on the smoothest of roads over a long bridge. The city is well connected with major cities like Chennai, Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, & Thanjavur. One can also take a bus from Madurai which is 169 km away by road.

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If you wish to tour the serene city of Rameshwaram, don’t just wait, it’s time to experience it firsthand. Plan your trip to Rameshwaram for a soothing holiday experience like never before! Now that you know of all the beautiful places to visit in Rameshwaram, which one would you be hopping off to first. Let us know in the comments below and don’t forget to share this with your friends.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Rameshwaram

What are the top tourist places Rameshwaram?

Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple, Kothandaramaswamy Temple, The Five-Faced Hanuman Temple, Lakshmana Tirtha, Villoondi Tirtham, Agni Theertham, Ariyaman Beach, Dhanuskodi Beach, Adam’s Bridge, Water Bird Sanctuary, and Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge are amongst the top attractions in Rameshwaram.

Which is the best month to visit Rameshwaram?

The best time to visit Rameshwaram is between October and April. The weather remains pleasant during these winter months with temperature usually ranging between 17° C to 25° C.

What to remember while traveling to Rameshwaram during Covid-19?

You need to follow all the mandatory travel guidelines mentioned by the authorities to ensure a safe travel experience. Complete both doses of vaccination before planning your visit and get an RT PCR test done as you may have to produce it at the entry and exit points. Maintain social distancing and remain masked while stepping out. Avoid visiting crowded places and gatherings. Keep sanitizing your hands regularly after touching surfaces.

Is it compulsory to take a bath in Rameshwaram?

It is not mandatory to take bath in the waters of Rameshwaram. It is entirely your choice whether you wish to take religious dips or not. The place is quite significant for Hindu devotees who usually perform rituals and bath at the Ghats in Rameshwaram.

Is Rameswaram safe at night?

Yes, it is safe to explore Rameshwaram at night, however, make sure that you are traveling with a group of fellow companions. Avoid visiting secluded places alone at night. If you are returning from the temple, then make sure that you are traveling with experienced travel planners.

Is there any dress code in Rameshwaram?

While there isn’t any specific dress code for visiting Rameswaram Temple, one should make sure they dress conservatively to respect the local customs and traditions. The local people usually wear traditional dhotis and sarees inside the temple. People from northern India can simply visit the temple in a normal saree, salwar kameez, or other clothes that cover your head, arms, and legs completely.

What is Rameshwaram famous for?

Rameshwaram Temple is renowned for being a part of one of the twelve Jyotirlingas (lingam of light) of Lord Shiva in India. The temple is also famous for the fact that it’s the southernmost ‘jyotirlinga’ of India which makes it one of the top religious places in India. This holy place is said to have been the site where Lord Rama offered his gratitude to Lord Shiva, which makes it the preferred location for pilgrims in India as well as all of Southeast Asia.

What is the best time to visit Rameshwaram?

Rameshwaram can be visited any time of the year. It is one of those places in India which has pleasant weather all round the year and in all the seasons. The peak tourist season in Rameshwaram is from October to April when this place is flooded with travelers and pilgrims from around the world. While people avoid visiting during the monsoon season from July to September because of humidity with rainfall, one must note that the scenic beauty of this place during that time is outstanding.

How can I go to Rameshwaram from Kanyakumari?

The road distance between Rameshwaram and Kanyakumari is 309 km while the rail distance is 407 km and the aerial distance is 236 km. There is only 1 direct train from Kanyakumari to Rameshwaram, and the Rmm Cape Express (22621) can get you to Rameshwaram from Kanyakumari comfortably and in the shortest span of time. You can also choose to drive from Kanyakumari to Rameshwaram and enjoy the scenic beauty you are greeted with on the way.

What can I buy in Rameshwaram?

Some of the best things to buy in the markets and bazaars of Rameshwaram include coffee, Sungudi Sarees or Chinnalapattu, bangles, handicrafts, brass items, and paintings from Cottage Arts Emporium. Handmade souvenirs, local arts and handicrafts, Khadi fabrics, and jewelry are other popular items to buy from Rameshwaram.

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14 best places to visit in rameshwaram, tamil nadu, south india.

Rameshwaram – Delightfully Chaotic and Sublime

Located in Ramanathpuram District of Tamil Nadu Rameshwaram is a town where spirituality pushes through into the material world.  It is the southernmost point of sacred India. Continuous chains of pilgrims converge in this holy town into the dizzying spiritual whirlwind and also get carried away by Rameshwaram’s Kaleidoscope of colours.

A walk through the temples of Rameshwaram takes you to the days of the Ramayana and you would find enough evidences that will only reinforce your belief that there was once a man called Rama who walked on earth.

This town is blessed with the divine Ramanathaswamy Temple, one of the Char Dhams in India.  When the delightfully chaotic vibes of the temple overwhelm, travellers escape into the clean sea beaches, lesser crowded temples and sacred ponds and to the famous destinations of South India like Pondicherry, Munnar, Kanyakumari and Madurai which are known for their picture-perfect landscape and religious significance.

These travel destinations are a must-see during a trip to Rameshwaram. I am sure you are eagerly waiting for me to throw light on the attractions of Rameshwaram. So, without much ado let’s discuss about the best places to visit in and around Rameshwaram in detail.

Also Check out: All Inclusive Tamil Nadu Tour Packages

List of Top Places & Attractions to Visit in Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu

• Ramanathaswamy Temple
• Jada Tirtham
• Dhanushkodi Temple
• Gandhamadhana Parvatham
• Five Faced Hanuman Temple
• Adam’s Bridge
• Nambu Nayagiamman Temple
• Water Bird Sanctuary
• Ariyaman Beach
• Kothandaramaswamy Temple
• Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge
• Lakshmana Tirtham
• Villoondi Tirtham
• Jatayu Tirtham Temple
• Thiruppullani

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Ramanathaswamy Temple- Let’s go to the Divine hub where a God worshipped a God

One of the twelve Jyotirlinga Temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple of Ramanathaswamy is an architectural excellence built in the 17th century. A must visit pilgrimage for both the Vaishnavite as well as the Shaiva sect of Hinduism; the temple constitutes a major part of the popular spiritual tourism destinations in India. The actual temple is believed to have been built by Lord Rama himself and thus it has gained an esteemed position in Indian mythological reference.

Today’s Ramanathaswamy Temple houses the longest temple corridor in the world, which is 197 meters long and 133 meters broad and stands with 1200 massive granite columns.  The main attraction of this temple is the Sand mound, a lingam created by God Rama’s wife.

The temple is said to have 22 Theerthams and pilgrims come from across the world to bathe in its sacred waters before performing Puja. This blissful temple houses many exquisite sculptures on the walls and pillars which depicts rich traditions of Hindu Mythology.

• Pilgrimage Tourism in Tamil Nadu

Jada Thirtham – A refreshing escape to the world Tranquil

Around 3.5km from Ramanathaswamy Temple, on the way to Dhanushkodi Village, Jada Tirtham is known among the Hindu devotees for the sacred pond. It is believed that when Rama was about to worship Shiva Lingam in Rameshwaram after killing Ravana, he washed his Jata (matted hair) in Jada Tirtham.

It is also believed to be a place where a giant Bird Jatayu passed away while trying to save Goddess Sita from Ravana. There is a temple next to the pond of Jada Tirtham. Jada Tirtham is believed to be the only place in India where Lord Kapardisvara is worshipped.

• Heritage Tourist Destinations in Tamil Nadu

Dhanushkodi – Grandeur of Ruins

Dhanushkodi or ‘end of the bow’ is a small town at the south-eastern tip of Pamban Island in Tamil Nadu. Lined with shallow beaches, historical remnants and vast horizons of azure sea, this South India tourist spot is a must-see in Rameshwaram.

Dhanushkodi was once a thriving port washed away in cyclone in 1964 but it still stands among the ruins in pride. Today’s Dhanushkodi Temple is nothing but a ruin of the temple described in different versions of the Ramayana. In case you are curious enough to discover the plot of Ram Sethu, do not forget to explore Dhanushkodi.  You will get to see the beautiful Sunrise and sunsets. It is also a perfect destination for adventurous drive across the silky sand dunes and Tarmac Road.

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Gandhamadhana Parvatam – A Place where death was conquered

Remember the mountain mentioned in the Ramayana from where Hanuman was about to fetch the medicinal herbs to save Laxman. Yes! It is Gandhamadhana Parvatham which was carried by Lord Hanuman on his shoulders. This utterly pious and quaint religious spot is 3 km away from the centre of the town.

A double storied temple of Lord Rama houses the imprints of his feet on a chakra. It is also considered to be the highest point in Rameshwaram, so you can have a birds’ eye view of the whole island from the peak.

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Five Faced Hanuman Temple – Temple of Floating stones

Highly revered by the Hindus, the temple of Five Faced Hanuman is only 2 km from the Ramanathaswamy Temple also known as Panchmukha Anjaneya It is believed that Hanumana revealed his five-faced form for the first time in this place. The statue of Lord Hanuman is smeared with sindoor and worshipped with utmost devotion.

The temple here enshrines the statues of Rama, Laxman and Sita. There is a floating stone in the temple which is believed to have been used during Sethu Bandhanam as mentioned in the Ramayana. It is one of the most sacred places in India.

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Adam’s Bridge – Blissful road to Enchantment

Adam’s Bridge or Rama Setu is a debatable historic bridge that connects Rameshwaram island of India to the north-western coast of Sri Lanka. It is a chain of limestone shoals starts from Dhanushkodi tip of India’s Pamban Island. Pamban Island is connected to mainland India by a 2 km long bridge.

It is believed that Lord Rama along with his monkey companions created a floated bridge to reach Sri Lanka to rescue his wife Sita from Ravana. As a result, Adam’s Bridge is known as Ramasethu Bridge by Indians. It is also known by the name of Nala Setu as it is said that Nala, the son of Lord Vishwakarma was the architect of this Bridge.

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Nambu Nayagiamman Temple – Seek the wealth of Health

A small South Indian shrine associated with many deep-rooted beliefs; Nambu Nayaki Amman Temple is only 8km from Ramanathaswamy Temple. Goddess Dakshina Kali is worshipped here for good health and getting kids.

It is believed that the deity appeared in front of the two sages namely Dakshina Duruvan and Pachima Duruvan in the form of Dakshina Kali. After they were blessed with the sightings of Mother Goddess, they started living at the same place to cure the local people. That is why people of the neighbouring villages visit this temple to get solution to all their problems.

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Water Bird Sanctuary – Let the song of Birds be the meditation to your mind

Rameshwaram is not solely a religious spot. If you are here and want to explore something different other than the temples, do visit this bird sanctuary which is certainly different from the conventional sanctuaries. The best thing is you can see a lot of native as well as migratory water birds in this sanctuary.

It is during the months of October to January when flocks of migratory like Flamingo, Pelican etc fly to this land for breeding and feeding their off springs. The bird sanctuary is located in Ramanathapuram District and indeed one of the most popular tourist places in Rameshwaram.

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Ariyaman Beach – Retreat to the Sun-splashed Beach

An ideal place to spend a relaxing evening with your friends or family, Ariyaman Beach is located in Ramanathapuram District. It is a 150 m wide beach stretching to a length of 2 km. Tourists can enjoy boating in this beach or get involved in different water-based sports like wind surfing or water scooter ride.

The beach has a children’s park, an aquarium and a museum as well. Parasailing is an exciting activity one can enjoy here. If you have a free weekend, plan a picnic party along the beach side where arrays of Casuarinas work for perfect shading.

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Kothandaramaswamy Temple- Temple dipped in Serenity

An approximately 500 year old temple located at the southernmost tip of this island, Kothandaramaswamy Temple is yet another pilgrimage destination in Rameswaram. The temple is very close to the sea and appears as an ideal place to trace the footprints of Rama.

The temple here has the idols of Rama, Sita and Laxman along with Vibhishan. It is believed that Rama did the last rites of Pattabhishekam of Vibhishan in this place. The temple walls are scribled with the paintings depicting the same story.

This temple is near Nandavanam, a place where Lord Rama is believed to have rested in the Ashram of Sage Bhringi for a few days. There is also a temple tank named after Sage Bhringi.

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Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge – 100 years of Magnificence

Claimed to be the first sea bridge in India, Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge or Pamban Bridge is a cantilever bridge on Palk Strait that connects Rameswaram Island with the mainland India. Initially, the name used to refer the rail route only which has a double leaf bascule section midway.

This double leaf bascule functions well till date and it can be raised to let ships go. The bi-lane road passing next to this bridge is another attraction in Pamban and obviously allows you to have a glimpse of the railway bridge if you are driving over the bridge. This 100 years old bridge contains 143 pillars, each of which is 220 feet in length and 100 tonnes in weight.

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Lakshamana Teertham – Drops of Divine bliss

A sacred pond dug near the temple of Laxmana, Lakshamana Tirtham is a divine place close to Ramanathswamy Temple. The temple of Laxmana contains several instances of Ramayana engraved on its walls. People coming to the temple for a visit often go for taking a dip in this pond.

There is a Mandapam in the centre of the pond looks divine. It is said that Lord Lakshamana had placed a Shiva Lingam for the atonement of his sins. Also, Floating car procession during Thaipusam festival adds to the charm of Lakshamana Teertham.

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Villondi Teertham – God’s blissful Resting Place

Literally meaning the buried bow, Villoondi Tirtham is a quaint religious destination where Lord Rama dipped his bow into the seawater to quench his consort Sita’s thirst. It is said that before burying the bow here Lord Rama shot an arrow into earth from where a stream of sweet water emerged to quench Sita’s thirst. There is Ekantha Ramar Temple which is constructed on the same place where Lord Rama took rest before launching attack on Lanka.

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Jatayu Tirtham Temple – Memories of the Royal Past

The very name of the temple is enough to tell you about the significance of this shrine. It is a memorial sort of construction which was built in memory of the great loyal eagle of Ramayana called Jatayu who informed Rama about Ravana’s misdeeds and abduction of Sita. He sacrificed his life while fighting with Ravana to save Sita.

Apart from these major attractions, Rameswaram encloses several lesser known destinations that you can add to your day outing list. Attractions like Saatchi Hanuman Temple, Agnitheertham are not to be missed as they are considered highly pious in Rameshwaram.

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Thiruppullani – Launch your spiritual boat to this divine bliss

Located at a distance of around 12km from Ramanathapuram, Thiruppullani is a small village known for the Adi Jagannatha Temple. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, the temple has a five-tiered rajagopuram that stands facing east. The temple enshrines the idol of Lord Vishnu along with Sri Devi and Bhudevi.

There is a separate shrine close to this temple, where the consort of (Adi Jagannath) Lord Vishnu, Padmasini Devi is worshipped. Another temple enshrined the statue of Lord Dharbasayana Ramar in a reclining posture. This temple is also mentioned in Valmiki Ramayana and Ramayana written by great Tamil Poet Kambar.

How to Reach Rameshwaram?

The city of Rameshwarm is connected with other famous South Indian cities by all means of transport. Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu is around 559km from Rameshwaram. To reach at Rameswaram one needs to either fly to Chennai Airport or has to take train for Chennai Railway Station.

By Air: The nearest airport to Rameshwaram is at Madurai which is well connected to Chennai. Regular flights operate between Chennai and Madurai. From Madurai, you can hire a taxi to reach Rameshwaram.

By Train: To reach Rameshwaram via train one needs to reach Chennai. Four trains run from Chennai to Rameswaram. Chennai Railway Station is a prominent railway station and is connected with almost major Indian cities.

By Road: Rameshwaram is connected to Chennai by road. Regular buses ply from Chennai to Rameshwaram. Volvo buses are available for tourists for a comfortable and relaxing journey. Also, tourists can opt for government run buses which are available at a reasonable price.

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Popular Weekend Getaways from Rameshwaram

Well! I am sure if you are hiring a private vehicle and do not mind travelling for whole day (obviously taking little break), you will be done with all the major sightseeing options of Rameshwaram within 2 to 3 days. So, in case you are left with a weekend or even a day or two, you can plan for an instant tour to the nearby travel destinations of Rameshwaram.

List of Top Weekend Holiday Destinations Nearby Rameshwaram

Kanyakumari.

• Pondicherry
• Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam National Memorial in Rameshwaram is a Must Visit

Madurai is only around 148 km from Rameshwaram. So, in case you feel like planning a short trip, it won’t be a bad idea to go to Madurai. Rightly called the temple city of South, Madurai’s central attraction is undoubtedly the great Meenakshi Devi Temple. Tourists must know that just like Varanasi, Madurai is also among the oldest cities in India.

So, history buffs can get enough food for their taste bud in Madurai. The other sightseeing options of Madurai are Gandhi Memorial Museum, Thirumalai Nayak Palace, Pudhu Mandapam etc.

Also Check out: Complete Mudurai Travel Guide

If you want to bag something more than spirituality from your trip to Rameshwaram, you should head to Thanjavur . Popularly known as Tanjore, this city is around 170 km from Rameshwaram and can be added to the list of weekend getaways from Rameswaram.

A significant number of Great Living Chola Temples are found in Thanjavur that are UNESCO World Heritage Site. So, if you are a lover of history and architecture, do not forget to visit the Brihadeshwara Temple, Maratha Palace and Rajarajachola Mandapam.

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• 2 Nights 3 Days Thanjavur Weekend Tour Package

Thekkady is around 233km from Rameshwaram. And I would love to suggest you to make a trip to Thekkady simply for the fact that one of India’s most popular wildlife reserves Periyar National Park is located in this region of Idukki District. The major attraction of this national park is the huge population of tigers. If you go for a boat ride in this park, you would be certainly blessed with tiger spotting.

Also Check out: Popular Tour Packages for Kerala

Located at a distance of around 294 km from Rameshwaram, Kanyakumari is a temple town in the southernmost tip of the Indian peninsula. The temples found at this South Indian travel destination are historically enriched and let you take a bath in spirituality. The significant attractions of this town are Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, and Devi Kumari Amman Temple.

Also Check out: Complete Kanyakumari Travel Guide

If you have heard of Munnar since childhood as an ideal nature retreat, plan for a weekend trip to this exotic travel destination. It is only around 262 km from Rameshwaram. All that you can will in Munnar is dark green hilly terrains and tea gardens set on the slopes of the mountains. Salubrious weather, easy to climb mountains and the friendly locals make Munnar a nature lover’s paradise.

• 3 Nights 4 Days Munnar Hill Station Tour Package

An ancient French colony, dotted with magnificent heritage buildings, Tree-lined avenues and Mediterranean style houses, Puducherry brings out the old world charm alive. Delectable cuisines, clean roads and above all the popular ashramas make Pondicherry a pick of the travellers of all taste. To the sightseeing options of Puducherry, you can add Promenade Beach, Sri Aurobindo Ashram or Arikamedu. Do not forget to visit the ‘Matrimandir’. Pondicherry is around 300km from Rameshwaram.

• 2 Nights 3 Days Puducherry Tour Package
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Frequently Asked Questions

Q. what are the best places of shopping in rameshwaram.

Rameshwaram is not only the most popular pilgrimage town of India but also one of the best destinations for shopaholics. Some of the best places of shopping in Rameshwaram are – House of Kalam, Kurinji Textiles, Temple shops, Sea shell. Also there are many markets around the temple to purchase magnificent gift items and souvenirs.

Q. What are the most popular adventure activities in Rameshwaram?

Popular adventure tourism activities in Rameshwaram are:

• Wind Surfing and Kite surfing
• Scuba Diving
• Kayaking and canoeing
• Paddle boarding
• Banana Boat Rides

Q. How many days are needed to completely enjoy in Rameshwaram?

Maximum 3-4 days are needed to completely feel the bliss of this holy pilgrimage town – Rameshwaram. Rameshwaram offers spiritual bliss as well as many interesting adventure activities to the tourists. Also, it is a great place to indulge oneself in local shopping. Regional delicacies are really worth to have.

Published: 02 Mar, 2021

About the author

Nidhi Singh

From the Lake District, Nainital, Nidhi Singh is a travel writer whose love for mountains can be seen in her write ups. Talk about solo travelling, indulging in adventure activities, binging on good food, planning budget trips or the Aurora Borealis and you will get all her attention. It is the wanderlust that keeps her going and if at all she could get one wish granted she would love to live a life less ordinary. Follow her on Twitter , Facebook & Instagram .

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The 8 Best Things to Do in Rameshwaram

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The seaside town of Rameshwaram, in Tamil Nadu, is noteworthy for being the place in India that's closest to neighboring Sri Lanka . It sits on Pamban Island in the Gulf of Munnar, just off the Indian mainland at the tip of the Indian Peninsula. Rameshwaram is also a popular pilgrimage destination. The town has special significance to Hindus as one of the holy Char Dham —the four sacred abodes associated with incarnations of Lord Vishnu. According to mythology, Lord Ram (the seventh incarnation of Vishnu) built a bridge from Rameshwaram to Sri Lanka to rescue his wife, Sita, from the evil clutches of demon king Ravan. Hindus believe visiting all the Char Dham will help them achieve moksha (liberation from rebirth). Read on to discover the top things to do in Rameshwaram.

Visit Ramanathaswamy Temple

Rameshwaram is unusual because although the town is predominantly associated with Lord Ram, its main temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Why? Lord Ram is said to have worshiped Lord Shiva, the destroyer, there to be cleared of sin for killing Ravan. Ramanathaswamy Temple is also remarkable because it has two lingams (symbols of Lord Shiva). One was brought from the Himalayas by Lord Hanuman upon Ram's request, and the other was created out of the sand by Sita when the arrival of that lingam was delayed. The temple was built by various rulers from the 12th century onward. Those who aren't Hindu will be most interested in its magnificent hall of more than 1,200 carved sandstone pillars, which forms the outer corridor. The ceiling is covered in colorful kamalam lotus art. Unfortunately, photography is no longer allowed due to increased security. All electronic devices, including cell phones and cameras, must be left at the storage counter before entering the temple. The temple is open from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Ideally, Hindus on a pilgrimage should get an early start. The Spatika lingam darshan (cost: 50 rupees) from 5 a.m. to 6 a.m. is particularly auspicious. Mahashivratri, in February or March, is one of the temple's biggest festivals.

Wash Away Your Sins at Agnitheertham

Taking a dip in the 23 theerthams (holy water bodies) in and around Ramanathaswamy Temple is integral to washing away sins. All are inside the temple premises except for Agnitheertham, located at the sea a few hundred meters before the temple's east gate. It's customary to bathe in all the theerthams (25 rupees and bookable online) before worshiping the deity, although this is not compulsory. Bathing must be done in a set order, as directed by signs, starting at Agnitheertham first. It's believed that Sita bathed in the sea at that spot and offered prayers to Lord Shiva. Lord Agni (the fire god) also appeared there to convince Ram that Sita had been faithful to him while held captive by Ravan. Do note that you'll be required to change out of your wet clothes after bathing in the  theerthams at the temple to enter the inner sanctum where the deity is. Facilities are provided.

Gawk at the Eerie Ghost Town of Dhanushkodi

In 1964, a cyclone hit the flourishing trade town of Dhanushkodi , near Rameshwaram, at about 170 miles per hour, wiping most of it and a passenger train out. It's estimated that nearly 2,000 people were killed in the storm. The town, which sat on a thin strip of land that juts towards Sri Lanka, was submerged under meters of seawater. The government declared it a ghost town, unfit for habitation. All left is the fragmented windswept remains of a few buildings, such as the church, post office, and railway station. There are also railway tracks under the sand. The railway line used to end at a pier at Dhanushkodi, from where Sri Lanka was connected by ferry. Until mid-2017, driving across the sand was the only way to reach Dhanushkodi. However, a new scenic road goes through Dhanushkodi to the land's end at Arichal Munai (Erosion Point), where the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal meet. Travel time is about 30 minutes from Rameshwaram.

Stand at the Edge of India

Arichal Munai, just beyond Dhanushkodi, is technically the border between India and Sri Lanka. Since the distance between the two countries is only 18 nautical miles, it doesn't fulfill international laws for a feasible boundary line. Hence, the governments decided on an imaginary one. A chain of limestone shoals, known as Adam's Bridge, extends to the coast of Sri Lanka. Hindus call it Ram Setu and regard it as remnants of the bridge that Lord Ram built. Some even say it was possible to walk on the bridge until a cyclone destroyed it in 1480.

Take the Train Over Pamban Bridge

Pamban Island is joined to the Indian mainland by two noteworthy bridges. One is Pamban Rail Bridge, the oldest sea bridge in India. It was completed in 1914. The other is Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge, which opened in 1988 and runs parallel to the rail bridge. Spanning 1.46 miles, it's the second longest sea bridge in India (the Bandra-Worli Sealink in Mumbai is the longest). A train ride over the rail bridge is particularly exhilarating as it sits pretty close to the sea—so low that the central part of the bridge opens to allow boats to pass.

Learn How to Kite Surf

It may be a surprise that Rameshwaram, prominently known for temple tourism, is one of the best kite surfing destinations in India! Quest Expeditions has a kite surfing school and two boutique places to stay—Kathadi North and Kathadi South—on Pamban Island. Kathadi North is more upmarket, with cottages that have open-air bathrooms and gardens. Kathadi South is more rustic, with beach huts and tents. Packages, including accommodations and lessons, are offered. The kite-surfing season follows the wind flow of the monsoon. The summer season runs from April to September at Kathadi South, while the winter season is from December to March at Kathadi North. If you're not interested in kite-surfing, you can still enjoy other water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding.

Spot Flamingos and other Migratory Birds

Nature-lovers will be delighted to find several bird sanctuaries that can be visited on day trips from Rameshwaram. Arichamunai Bird Sanctuary, near Dhanushkodi, is closest to Rameshwaram. Go from December to March, and you may be lucky enough to see flamingos that have flown from Australia. They stand together in the sea, looking for food. Chitrangudi and Kanjirankulam sanctuaries are also worth visiting on the mainland. They're both situated near Mudukulathur in the Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu, a couple of hours from Rameshwaram. Another option is the relatively new Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary, only an hour from Rameshwaram on the mainland. Most of the birds are there between October and March. They include plentiful painted storks, pelicans, egrets, and ibis.

See Where Former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Grew Up

The childhood home of India's 11th president, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, is in Rameshwaram and has been converted into a museum that his elder brother maintains. As well as being a popular president who served from 2002 to 2007, Kalam was a respected scientist specializing in aerospace engineering. The museum's exhibits narrate the story of his life and achievements. It's located on Mosque Street and is open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

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20 Best Places to Visit in Rameshwaram in 2024 with Location

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Places to Visit > 20 Best Places to Visit in Rameshwaram in 2024 with Location

A spiritual sanctuary brimming with natural beauty, Rameshwaram is a mesmerizing jewel in the crown of Tamil Nadu. This sacred town is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, ancient temples, and pristine beaches. Perfect for those seeking solace or a dose of adventure, the myriad of places to visit in Rameshwaram will leave you spellbound.

Here’s our comprehensive guide to the top 20 places to visit in Rameshwaram, including nearby attractions with locations, when to go, and how to reach to know for a truly unforgettable experience.

1. Ramanathaswamy Temple

Embodying the essence of Rameshwaram, this magnificent temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Boasting intricate architecture and the longest corridor among Indian temples, it’s a must-visit for spiritual seekers and history buffs alike.

• Location: Rameshwaram Island
• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 5:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Distance from Rameshwaram Railway Station: 7 km

2. Agni Theertham

One of the 64 sacred baths in Rameshwaram, Agni Theertham is renowned for its healing powers. Nestled by the shores of the Bay of Bengal, it offers a serene spot for both pilgrims and tourists to cleanse themselves.

• Location: Near Ramanathaswamy Temple
• Timings: Open 24 hours
• Distance from Rameshwaram Railway Station: 8 km

3. Dhanushkodi Beach

This enchanting beach, located at the confluence of the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean, is an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers. The abandoned ghost town of Dhanushkodi adds a touch of mystery to this picturesque destination.

• Location: Dhanushkodi
• Distance from Rameshwaram Railway Station: 2 km

YOU CAN ALSO VISIT: Ram Mandir Ayodhya

4. pamban bridge.

An engineering marvel, Pamban Bridge is India’s first sea bridge, connecting Rameshwaram Island to the mainland. Witness breathtaking panoramic views of the azure waters below and marvel at this extraordinary feat of human ingenuity.

• Location: Pamban, Rameshwaram
• Distance from Rameshwaram Railway Station: 12 km

5. Gandamadana Parvatham

This sacred hillock offers a stunning 360-degree view of Rameshwaram and houses a shrine with Lord Rama’s footprints. A must-visit for both religious and nature enthusiasts.

• Timings: 7:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Distance from Rameshwaram Railway Station: 4 km

6. Five-faced Hanuman Temple

This unique temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, features a rare idol with five faces depicting various avatars of the deity. The temple also houses stones believed to be from the floating bridge Rama Setu, built by Lord Rama’s army.

• Timings: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM

7. Jada Theertham

A serene pond surrounded by lush greenery, Jada Theertham holds immense religious significance. It is believed that Lord Rama cleansed himself here after killing Ravana. A dip in this holy pond is said to wash away sins.

• Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Distance from Rameshwaram Railway Station: 5 km

8. Kothandaramaswamy Temple

This ancient temple, nestled amidst pristine surroundings, is dedicated to Lord Rama. It is believed to be the location where Vibhishana, Ravana’s brother, surrendered to Lord Rama during the epic battle in Ramayana.

• Timings: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Distance from Rameshwaram Railway Station: 6 km

9. Villoondi Theertham

Villoondi Theertham is a quaint beach known for its fresh water spring emerging from the sea. It is an ideal spot to enjoy the sunset and the refreshing sea breeze.

• Distance from Rameshwaram Railway Station: 3 km

10. Ariyaman Beach

This pristine beach boasts of golden sands and clear waters, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and sunbathing. Engage in watersports or simply unwind amidst the tranquil setting.

• Location: Palk Bay, Rameshwaram
• Distance from Rameshwaram Railway Station: 27 km

11. Nambu Nayaki Amman Temple

Dedicated to the goddess Nambu Nayaki, this temple is known for its exquisite architecture and peaceful ambiance. The deity is believed to have the power to bestow good fortune and prosperity upon her devotees.

12. Lakshmana Theertham

This sacred pond is believed to be the spot where Lord Rama’s brother, Lakshmana, atoned for his sins. Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers a tranquil atmosphere for meditation and reflection.

13. Satchi Hanuman Temple

Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, this temple is believed to be the site where the deity revealed the news of Sita’s whereabouts to Lord Rama. The temple houses a statue of Hanuman carrying a mountain, symbolizing his devotion to Lord Rama.

14. Adam’s Bridge (Rama Setu)

This chain of limestone shoals, also known as Rama Setu, connects the Indian mainland to Sri Lanka. According to the Ramayana, it was built by Lord Rama’s army of monkeys to rescue Sita from Ravana. The remnants of the bridge can be seen during low tide and can be visited via a boat ride from Dhanushkodi.

• Location: Palk Strait
• Entry Fee: Varies based on boat ride charges
• Timings: Best visited during low tide
• Distance from Rameshwaram Railway Station: 5 km (to Dhanushkodi)

15. Rameshwaram Lighthouse

Offering an incredible view of the surrounding landscape, the Rameshwaram Lighthouse is a must-visit for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Climb to the top and soak in the panoramic vistas of the azure sea, pristine beaches, and the Pamban Bridge.

• Entry Fee: INR 10 per person
• Timings: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM

16. Thiruppullani Temple

This ancient temple, also known as Dharbasayanam, is dedicated to Lord Rama. It is believed to be the site where Lord Rama worshipped Lord Shiva before embarking on his journey to Lanka. The temple’s serene surroundings make it a perfect spot for meditation and reflection.

• Location: Thiruppullani, Ramanathapuram District

17. Ramalinga Vilasam Palace

This magnificent palace, built by the Sethupathi Kings, showcases stunning architecture and intricate frescoes. The palace also houses a museum displaying antiques, weapons, and artifacts from the Sethupathi dynasty.

• Location: Ramanathapuram
• Entry Fee: INR 30 per person
• Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

18. Water Bird Sanctuary

Located in the Ramanathapuram District, this sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The area is home to several migratory birds like flamingos, herons, and sandpipers, making it an ideal destination for photography enthusiasts.

• Location: Chitrangudi and Kanjirankulam, Ramanathapuram District
• Distance from Rameshwaram Railway Station: 7 km (to Chitrangudi)

19. Devipattinam Navagraha Temple

Also known as the Navabashanam Temple, this shrine is dedicated to the nine celestial bodies (Navagrahas) of Hinduism. The temple is situated on the seashore, and devotees can perform rituals and prayers to seek blessings from the Navagrahas.

• Location: Devipattinam, Ramanathapuram District

20. Uthirakosamangai Temple

This ancient Shiva temple is known for its exquisite architecture and the presiding deity, Mangalanathar, carved out of emerald. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a peaceful ambiance for visitors.

• Location: Uthirakosamangai, Ramanathapuram District

In conclusion, Rameshwaram is a magical blend of spiritual, historical, and natural wonders that will captivate the hearts of travelers. Whether you are seeking a spiritual journey, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Rameshwaram has something to offer everyone. Explore this sacred town and its enchanting surroundings to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. What are the top 10 places to visit in Rameshwaram?

A. Some of the top 10 places to visit in Rameshwaram are Ramanathaswamy Temple, Agni Theertham, Dhanushkodi Beach, Pamban Bridge, Gandamadana Parvatham, Five-faced Hanuman Temple, Jada Theertham, Kothandaramaswamy Temple, Villoondi Theertham, and Ariyaman Beach.

Q. Can I cover the best places to visit in Rameshwaram in one day?

A. Yes, you can cover many of the best places to visit in Rameshwaram in one day. However, to fully explore and enjoy the town and its nearby attractions, a 2-day trip is recommended.

Q. What are the must-visit places to visit in Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi?

A. Must-visit places in Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi include Ramanathaswamy Temple, Dhanushkodi Beach, and Kothandaramaswamy Temple.

Q. Are there any nearby places to visit in Rameshwaram for a short trip?

A. Yes, nearby places to visit in Rameshwaram for a short trip include Madurai, Kanyakumari, and Pamban Island.

Q. What are some of the famous places to visit in Rameshwaram at night?

A. Some of the famous places to visit in Rameshwaram at night include Agni Theertham, Pamban Bridge, and Ariyaman Beach. However, it is important to note that the temples close in the evening, so plan your visit accordingly.

Q. Can you recommend places to visit in Rameshwaram and Kanyakumari for a memorable experience?

A. For a memorable experience, you should visit the following places in Rameshwaram: Ramanathaswamy Temple, Dhanushkodi Beach, Pamban Bridge, and Gandamadana Parvatham. In Kanyakumari, don’t miss out on visiting the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Thiruvalluvar Statue, and the beautiful beaches.

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12 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Rameshwaram

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Ramanatha Swamy Temple

#1 of 12 Places to Visit in Rameshwaram

At a distance of 2 km from Rameshwaram Railway Station, the magnificent Ramanathaswamy Temple is a Hindu temple situated in the sacred town of Rameshwaram, Tamilnadu. Popularly called as Rameshwaram Temple, it is one of the popular places of pilgrimage in Tamilnadu , and among the must include places in Rameshwaram tour packages . Rameshwaram Temple is dedicated to Lord Siva and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas situated in different parts of India. It is among the prime places to visit in Rameshwaram . The temple is one of the holiest Hindu Char Dham sites comprising Badrinath, Puri, Dwarka, and Rameshwaram. The construction was led by several rulers over the centuries. The temple was expanded during the 12th century by the Pandya dynasty, and its principal shrine was renovated by Jeyaveera .....

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Agniteertham

#2 of 12 Places to Visit in Rameshwaram

At a distance of 2 km from Rameshwaram Railway Station (just 100 meters away from east entrance of Rameshwaram Temple), Agnitheertham is said to be the place where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva to wash off his sins of killing Ravana. It is one of the prime place to visit on a Rameshwaram trip . It is a sacred place and piligrims believe that taking a bath in Bay of Bengal at Agniteertham will washout one's sins of life time. It is visited by the followers of Lord Shiva as well as Vishnu, whose incarnation was lord Rama. The sea here is very calm and ideal for bathing.

Annai Indira Gandhi / Pamban Bridge

#3 of 12 Places to Visit in Rameshwaram

At a distance of 12 km from Rameshwaram, Pamban Bridge is a railway bridge located near Rameshwaram. It is India's first sea bridge, and among the popular Rameshwaram tourist places . Annai Indira Gandhi Bridge or Pamban Bridge connects the town of Mandapam in mainland India with Pamban Island, and Rameswaram. Opened for traffic in 1914, it is the longest sea bridge in India (2.2 km) until the opening of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link in 2010. The construction of this bridge has left many engineers wondering as it stands tall and strong even today. The ships too can pass under the bridge and hence it is most convenient means of commutation. It is one of the most visited places as part of Rameshwaram packages . In 1988, a road bridge was also constructed parallel to the rail bridge. This road bridge is also known as Indira Gandhi Road Bridge. The .....

Devipattinam (Navabashanam)

#4 of 12 Places to Visit in Rameshwaram

At a distance of 15 km from Ramanathapuram, and 65 km from Rameshwaram, Devipattinam is a beautiful coastal village situated in the Ramanathapuram district of Tamilnadu. It is one of the popular Rameshwaram places to visit . Devipatnam, along with Rameshwaram and Thiruppullani are associated with the Hindu sacred epic Ramayana. Also known as Navapashanam, this holy town is famous for the Navagraha Temple. According to the legend, Lord Rama when going to war to kill Ravana had worshipped navagrahas by installing nine different stones, each symbolizing the nine celestial bodies to calmed the sea. It is said that since then, 9 navagraha stones are located in the sea, at a distance of about 100 meters from the seashore. These can be seen in the morning when the level of seawater is low; however in the evenings when the tides are high, most of the navagraha stones are submerged in the water. This small .....

Five-Faced Hanuman Temple

#5 of 12 Places to Visit in Rameshwaram

At a distance of 3 Kms from Rameshwaram Railway Station (around two kilometer from Ramanathaswamy Temple / Rameshwaram Temple), Five faced Hanuman Temple has mythological evidence where Hanuman showed his profile with five faces. The idols of Lord Ram, Sita and Hanuman, which are brought from Dhanushkodi during the cyclone of 1964, are kept here. The 'floating stones', which were used to build the Sethu Bandhanam (bridge) in Ramayana, are also kept in the temple. There is floating stone outside the temple which was used to create the bridge on the sea as prescribed by our Indian mythology.

Gandhamathana Parvatham

#6 of 12 Places to Visit in Rameshwaram

At a distance of 3 km from Rameshwaram Railway Station, Gandhamathana Parvatham is the highest point in the island. There is a two storeyed Mandapam, where Rama's feet (padam) is found as an imprint on a chakra. Pilgrims visit in thousands to worship Gandhamathana Parvatham. Sukreevar Temple and Theertham are situated on the way to Gandhamadana Parvatham.

Dhanushkodi

#7 of 12 Places to Visit in Rameshwaram

At a distance of 18 km from Rameshwaram, Dhanushkodi is an abandoned coastal town at the south-eastern tip of Pamban Island in Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of must include places in South India tour , and among the most famous Rameshwaram tourist places . Dhanushkodi is on the tip of Pamban island, separated from the mainland by the Palk Strait. The town is named after Rama's bow. The boulders around the sea between Srilanka and this place known as Adam's bridge, are believed to be used by Hanuman to reach across Srilanka. It is one of the must-visit places as part of Rameshwaram tour . Flanked by the Indian Ocean on one side and the Bay of Bengal on the other, Dhanushkodi was once a bustling and flourishing town, and one of the richest fishing belts in the country. Also, it was the only .....

Kurusadai Island

#8 of 12 Places to Visit in Rameshwaram

At a distance of 20 km from Rameshwaram (about 4 km from Mandapam), Kurusadai Island is an uninhabited Island lies to the west of the Pamban Bridge between the mainland and Pamban Island. About 10,500 sq. kms of the sea around here constitute a Marine Biosphere, a paradise for Marine Biologists and nature lovers. There are plenty of coral-reefs and fishes. You can also see dolphins and sea-cows (Dugong). A special permission from the Director of Fisheries, Chennai is required to visit this Island.

Ramanathapuram

#9 of 12 Places to Visit in Rameshwaram

At a distance of 55 km from Rameshwaram & 498 km from Chennai, Ramanathapuram is an ancient town and now the head quarters of the district. Prior to independence, the district was called as Ramnad but it was renamed as Ramanathapuram in 1910. This is largely a gateway to the pilgrimage centres of Rameshwaram and Devipattinam. The main tourist attraction in Ramanathapuram is the Raja Palace. This Palace was built by the Sethupatys and continues to be inhabited by the descendants of the royal family, although they are no longer in power. The royal family has set up schools and hospitals in the area as part of their community service. The Ramalinga Vilasam Palace with a good collection of paintings, and the tomb of Thayumana Swamigal, a philosopher-saint, are worth visiting. Ramanathapuram finds a mention in Hindu mythology as well. It is believed that Lord Rama after defeating Ravana, returned to nearby Rameswaram . He .....

Thirupullani

#10 of 12 Places to Visit in Rameshwaram

At a distance of 15 km from Ramanathapuram, and 66 km from Rameshwaram, Thirupullani is a temple town situated near Rameshwaram. It is one of the prominent places of pilgrimage in Tamilnadu, and among the must-visit places during your Rameshwaram Trip . The town is known for Aadi Jagannatha Perumal Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Popularly known as Thirupullani Temple, it is one of the 108 Divya Desam temples of Lord Vishnu. It is also known as Dharbasayanam as Rama took rest on a couch of grass at this place. Other names of this place are Thiruvadanai, Pularanyam, Adhisethu and Ratnaharam. This ancient temple not only attracts visitors because of its sacredness but also for its historical background and architectural excellence. Built during the reign of Cholas, various contributions were made to this temple during Pandyan rule and the rule of Sethupathy Kings. It is now maintained by the Hindu Religious and Endowment .....

Uthirakosamangai

#11 of 12 Places to Visit in Rameshwaram

At a distance of 70 km from Rameshwaram and 15 km from Ramanathapuram. Uthirakosamangai is famous for an ancient Siva temple considered to be 3000 years old. This is the place where Siva transferred the secrets of Vedas to Parvati. Uthiram means (updesham) kosam (secrets) Parvati (Mangai) hence this place is known as Uthira Kosa Mangai. The main deity here is Mangalanathar (Siva) and his consort is Mangleshwari. The main attraction of this temple is a statue of Natarajar made of emerlad which is about 51/2 feet tall. This idol is known as Margatha Natarajar and the deity is always covered with sandal paste. Only in the Tamil month of Margazhi on Tiruvathira nakshtram the sandal paste gets removed and there is abhishekam for the idol and this special darshan is known as Arudhra darishanam.There is a Nandi just outside the sanctum and a bigger Nandi in the outer prakaram known here as Pradosha Nandi. Special poojas are conducted .....

#12 of 12 Places to Visit in Rameshwaram

At a distance of 87 km from Rameshwaram and 31 km from Ramanathapuram, Erwadi is located on the sea shore in between keelakarai and Valinokkam. The town is famous for the shrine of Hazrat Sultan Syed Ibrahim Shaheed Badusha Radiyallah Ta'ala Anhu. It is 800-year-old tomb of Sultan Ibrahim Syed Aulia who came from Arabia via Cannanore. Hazrat Sulthan Syed Ibrahim is a 18th generation hereditary grandson of Prophet Muhammad. He was the king of Madinah while he started towards India in early 12th century to spread Islam according to the Prophet's wish. Erwadi durgah is a symbol of religious harmony in Tamil Nadu. People with satanic illness visit this durgah in large number and get cured. Pilgrims from different states and countries visit this place. The 'sandanakoodu' festival is in honour of this Muslim saint and takes place in December every year.

Most Asked Questions on Rameshwaram

July to August & November to March is the best time to visit Rameshwaram . December is also the busiest season and hotels are usually very expensive in this season. This is also the best time for exploring the beaches, temple visits and water sports in these months.

Rameshwaram usually requires 1-2 days to visit the most important attractions. Several tourists usually prefer visiting Rameshwaram along with Madurai which requires an additional day. There are several wonderful places near Rameshwaram like Kanchipuram, Madurai, Thanjavur & Trichy that can be visited with additional day for each place.

Budget of Rameshwaram trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Rameshwaram tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 5500 per person for a 2D/1N trip and from INR 8750 per person for 3D/2N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Rameshwaram like Ramanatha Swamy Temple, Agniteertham, Annai Indira Gandhi / Pamban Bridge, Devipattinam, Dhanushkodi and Kurusadai Island. Madurai which is around 170 km from Rameshwaram and can be visited along with Rameshwaram.

Dhanushkodi is a deserted area. One can take a bus or taxi or can get auto easily to reach Dhanushkodi from Rameshwaram. It is advisable to go during day time to the village and return to Rameshwaram before sunset as the entire 15 km stretch is said to be dangerous.

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"The Bridge on the Indian Ocean"

Rameshwaram tourism.

Rameshwaram is located on a beautiful island in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is separated by a small Pamban channel from Sri Lanka. According to Hindu mythology, this is the place where Lord Rama created a bridge across the sea to Sri Lanka.

Rameshwaram has the first sea bridge connecting the town of  Mandapam with Pamban Island, and Rameswaram. Abdandoned town of Dhanushkodi is also located on Pamban Island which was a bustling town until  it got destroyed in 1964 by cyclone. Renowned for its magnificent prakaras with massive sculptured pillars on either side, The Ramanathaswamy Temple houses the longest corridor in the world. Agniteertham is famous for its sacred waters and Pilgrims perform poojas in honour of their ancestors at this seashore. The five-faced Hanuman Temple holds the floating stone which was used to build the bridge between India and Sri Lanka.

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13 Best Places to Visit in Rameshwaram

• Updated on July 4, 2022

Rameshwaram is a must-visit Hindu pilgrimage site. It is located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu , and Rameshwaram is reckoned as the Home Of Gods. And it is situated in the southernmost end of India. This destination is called Temple Town, linked to the Great Ramayana.

This beautiful and quiet town is part of the beautiful Pamban Island. Here the main attraction is the Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple. Besides, there are many other tourist destinations here. This town is a must-visit among the Char Dham Yatra or the holy pilgrimage of Hindus. Here in this post, we will discuss the ten best places to visit in Rameshwaram.

In This Article:

List of the Top 13 Places to Visit in Rameshwaram:

1. kothandaramaswamy temple.

This temple is situated in Dhanushkodi. It is lined with historical ruminants, shallow beaches, and the enormous horizons of the azure sea. When you come to Rameshwaram , you must visit this temple, and it is one of the best places to visit here.

The ruin of this temple is mentioned in Ramayana. Here you can see the deities of Rama, Sita, Lakshman, and Hanuman. Here you can see the excellent strong built structure of the temple.

2. The Five-Faced Hanuman Temple

This temple is situated only 2 kilometers from the Rameshwaram Temple. This temple is reckoned as the five manifestations of Lord Hanuman, and also, it is one of the most prestigious places to visit in Rameshwaram.

This idol of the five-faced Hanuman is carved out of a huge Senthooram Stone that was considered very valuable in the ancient ages. It is said that this temple stored the stones that were used to build the Rama Setu to rescue Goddess Sita from Lanka.

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3. Lakshmana Theertham

It is one of the most popular places to visit in Rameshwaram . Lakshmana Tirtha is architecturally and spiritually attractive. In the serene land of Rameshwaram, you must see the Lakshmana Tirtha if you want to feel more blissed.

This temple is famous for a sacred pond near the temple, and dipping in the pond is considered very holy. Besides, on the wall of this temple, you can see illustrations of the Ramayana.

4. Agni Theertham

Regarding the best places to visit in Rameshwaram, Agni Theertham, one of India’s 64 sacred baths, is always at the top of the list. Bathing in this sea is said to cleanse and purify one of their sins.

Pilgrims who wish to take a sacred bath should take a dip here before proceeding to the Rameshwaram Temple. On the shores of this pristine beach, holistic rituals such as those for the dead ancestors are performed.

5. Dhanuskodi Beach

Dhanushkodi is one of Rameswaram’s most popular tourist attractions. This beach is located at the southernmost point of Rameshwaram. It’s bordered on one side by the Bay of Bengal and the other Indian Ocean, which merges the very tip of the beach.

Therefore, it seems complicated to distinguish between the high and low tides of the former. Before the devastation caused by the storm of 1964, the beach town was densely populated. With a population of only 500 fishermen and their families, the town has been designated as a ”Ghost Town” by the government. It is now one of Rameshwaram’sRameshwaram’s most popular tourist destinations.

6. Adam’s Bridge

This one-of-a-kind location can’t be missed on the Rameswaram tourist map. The Adam’s Bridge, also known as Rama Setu, is a historic bridge that connects India’s Rameswaram island to Lanka’s northwestern coast. The bridge comprises a network of limestone shoals that begin at Dhanuskodi, India’s Pamban Island’s tip, and end at a 2 km long bridge that connects it to the Indian mainland.

The bridge, which has long been a source of contention among historians and archaeologists, is one of Rameshwaram’s most popular tourist attractions . Due to its geographical and religious significance, it is one of Rameshwaram tourism’s most popular destinations.

7. Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge

The Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge is also known as the Pamban Bridge. It is a cantilever bridge on Palk Strait. It is known as the first sea bridge of India that connects Rameshwaram Island with the Indian mainland.

This bridge contains 143 pillars, and each of them is 220 feet long and weighs 100 tonnes. This bridge is considered a fascinating place to visit in Rameshwaram for its excellent construction.

8. Sea World Aquarium

It is another excellent destination to visit in Rameshwaram. It is located opposite the Rameshwaram bus stand. Here you can explore the excellent collection from the sea world and a number of aquatic species like octopus, lobsters, rabbitfish, etc.

It is considered one of the most enthralling places in Rameshwaram for the aquatic species. Here you can buy seashells as a souvenir. Also, here you can see an excellent collection of sea species.

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9. Jada Tirtham

It is a small temple that holds its mythological importance. This temple is situated near the trunk of a vast peepal tree. Jada Temple hosts two grand events that include Maha Shivarathiri and Maha Makam.

This temple is an excellent work of brilliant artistry, and it is famous for its beauty and uniqueness. Therefore, it is one of the best places to visit in Rameshwaram.

10. Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple

It is one of the few temples built in the Dravidian style of architecture in India’s history. Therefore it is one of the most famous temples to visit in Rameshwaram. A visit to this temple is required as part of your Rameshwaram sightseeing itinerary .

The Lingas, which were made of sand, salt, stone, and other materials, are well-known at Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple. According to legend, there were approximately 112 ponds here, of which only 12 remain. One of Rameshwaram’s must-see tourist attractions is the world’s second-largest pillared corridor.

11. Gandhamadhana Parvatham

Do you remember the mountain in the Ramayana from which Hanuman stood to get the herbs that could heal Laxman? Yes! It’s Gandhamadhana Parvatham that was carried by Lord Hanuman on his shoulders. The incredibly holy and charming sacred spot is situated 3 km away from the heart of the city.

A temple with two stories of Lord Rama holds the imprints that his footprints leave on the chakra. It is also believed as the top point of Rameshwaram, which means that you get a panoramic perspective of the entire island from the top.

12. Nambu Nayagiamman Temple

A tiny South Indian shrine associated with various deep-rooted religions, Nambu Nayaki Amman Temple, is only 8km away from Ramanathaswamy Temple. The goddess Dakshina Kali is revered here to promote good health and to bring children into the world.

The belief is that the goddess appeared before the two sages Dakshina Duruvan and then Pachima Duruvan, in the shape of Dakshina Kali. After being blessed with the visions of Mother Goddess, They began living in the same area to heal the people of the area. This is the reason why residents of nearby villages go to the temple to seek solutions for all their problems.

13. Water Bird Sanctuary

Rameshwaram isn’t just an area of worship. If you’re here and are looking to do something other than temples, you should visit this sanctuary for birds that is definitely different from typical nature reserves. The most appealing thing is that there are a variety of natives and migrants within this sanctuary.

It is from October to January that large numbers of migratory birds, such as Flamingo, Pelican, etc., fly into this region to breed and to feed their springs. The sanctuary for birds is situated in the Ramanathapuram District and, indeed, one of the most sought-after tourist spots in Rameshwaram.

These are the 10 best places to visit in Rameshwaram. Rameshwaram itself is a beautiful place. And these mentioned destinations are so popular where you must see. So without delaying further, pack your bags and head to Rameshwaram.

More Information on Tamil Nadu:

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Tusk Travel Team

Tusk Travel is dedicated to delivering precise, genuine, and reliable travel guides through a dynamic team of writers, editors, and destination experts. We aim to provide comprehensive information in its simplest form, sharing insights to influence perspectives nationwide.

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• Dhanushkodi Beach Point
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Tourist Places to Visit in Rameswaram

Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple, Jada Tirtham, Agniteertham, Five-Faced Hanuman Temple, Gandhamadhana Parvatham, Dhanushkodi, Kothandaramaswamy Temple and many more. Rameshwaram, a land that stands as the testimony of the Hindu religion, is one of the most visited cities in India by tourists from all over the world. There are many exciting places to visit in Rameshwaram with its authentic and raw history of Hindu Mythologies. From temples that inhabit ancient artifacts of Lord Rama to historical landmarks mentioned in religious books such as Ramayana and Mahabharat! Rameshwaram hosts a number of temples all situated in dynamic locations such as, exhilarating beaches to quaint hill tops in lush forests, making it an extremely ideal location to travel and explore the rawness of the town . There are many tourists places to visit in Rameshwaram  that are known for their unique stories such as the “Gandhamadhana Parvatham” Known for its unique architecture and positioning, “Dhanushkodi” another refreshing place to visit in Rameshwaram as it is literally the shoreline of this great Island city.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Rameswaram:

Arulmigu ramanathaswamy temple.

This Temple is a sanctuary that is situated in Rameshwaram Island in an inlet of Bengal it is an old and vast sanctuary built by Lord Rama. It is this temple which was given birth by Devi Sita and is known to be a highly sacred place which makes it  one of the most incredible places to visit in Rameshwaram. The Temple stands tall and grand with golden embellishments which shines bright in the magnificent sun of the South.  Arulmigu Ramanathaswamy Temple has one of the most unique architecture in its exterior as well the interiors, with intricately carved stone pillars every step of the way and finely sculptured symbols of deities, it is full of wonders which can take an entire day to  observe, which makes it a perfect place to visit in Rameshwaram in 1 day. Location:  Ramanathapuram, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Timing: 4:30 AM to 1:00AM/ 3:00PM to 8:30 PM (Monday to Sunday). Pricing: No Entry Fee. Best time to visit: October - April.

Jada Tirtham

The heavenly land of Rameshwaram is inhabited around 64 Tirtham, which is found in and around the island. These tirthams have been said in ancient manuscripts written in “Devnagri” which are religious Hindu sacred writings. Most of them are related to the heavenly content of Ramayana. Tourists in Rameshwaram visit and bathe in this divine water to give penance for their past sins. Jada Theertham is one interesting theertham in Rameswaram. Jada Tirtham is found on the way to Dhanuskodi, which is another popular place to see in Rameshwaram. Location:  Ramanathapuram, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Timing: 6:00 AM to 11:00AM/ 4:00PM to 8:00OPM (Monday to Sunday). Best time to visit: Early mornings on Weekdays to avoid the rush.

Agniteertham

At a distance of 2 km from Rameshwaram Railroad Station, Agnitheertham is said to be put where Rama revered Ruler Shiva to wash off his sins by defeating Ravana. It is one of the critical places to visit in Rameshwaram. This theertham is situated right on the shoreline with huge gate-like structures which invite the worshippers and tourists to dip themselves in the water to  wash away one's sins. Agniteertham has one of the most beautiful views of the skyline and the horizon blending away far in the ocean, while hearing chants, sacred prayers  and the fragrance of incense sticks, which makes it one of the most visited tourist places in Rameshwaram. Location:  Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. Timing: 5:00 AM to 6:00PM (Monday to Sunday). Pricing:  No Entry Fee only 60 rupees Puja fee. Best time to visit:  Early mornings on Weekdays to avoid the rush.

Five Faced Hanuman Temple

Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple AKA five-faced Hanuman temple is situated at a distance of 2 km from Sri Ramanathaswamy Sanctuary in Rameshwaram and is known to be devoted to Lord Hanuman. The temple stands tall in its off white color which makes it stand out in the hustle of the streets in Rameshwaram. It is believed that Lord Hanuman uncovered his 5 faces here which makes this site extremely sacred and one of the most visited important places in Rameshwaram. The temple has a huge statue of Hanuman with his five faces which is worshipped and adorned with flowers by many visitors, the tirtham also inhabits the floating stones that were apparently used to build the bridge by Ram and his army of monkeys.  This temple has a lot of intriguing stories that are fun to listen to while sitting under the many trees in the vicinity. Location:  Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. Timing: 6:00 AM to 7:00PM (Monday to Sunday). Best time to visit: Early mornings on Weekdays to avoid the rush.

Gandhamadhana Parvatham

From Ramanathaswamy Sanctuary if one heads 3 km towards the north, they will find what lies in the Island's most noteworthy point named "Gandhamadhana Parvatham’’. The Gandhamadana is one of the most famous worship centers for the individuals of Southern India. Sightseers can see a Chakram (Wheel) which has the engraves of Rama's foot and other fascinating things in this two storey structure. This theertham is a not-to-miss location in Rameswaram as numerous individuals all over India visit this temple in Rameswaram which has incredible authenticity and devout importance. Location:  Rameswaram , Tamil Nadu, India. Timing: 6:00 AM to 6:00PM (Monday to Sunday). Best time to visit: Early mornings on Weekdays to avoid the rush.

Kothandaramaswamy Temple

The sanctuary is situated 14 km from the centre of Rameswaram, agreeing to a prevalent belief, it is at this place where Vibhhishanan [brother of Ravanan] waved the white flag to surrender before Rama. In this Temple Rama bestowed his followers with Sita, Lakshman, Hanuman, and Vibhishanan and is encompassed by ocean water on all of its sides. A narrow  street leads us to the Kodandarama Swamy temple, hence making this outlandish temple an interesting spot to day explore the area in Rameshwaram. Location: Temple, Kochi - Madurai - Dhanushkodi Rd, Munichallai, Madurai, Tamil Nadu. Timing: 7:00 AM to 5:00PM (Monday to Sunday). Best time to visit: October- April.

Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge Pamban Bridge

Annai Indira Gandhi Street Bridge is one of the longest bridges in southern India. Built over the sea this gigantic structure provides a network for town dwellers from the Rameswaram island to the terrain. It is 7 km from the Rameswaram town and is additionally called the Pamban bridge since it is found close to Pamban. This tourist attraction in  Rameswaram, called “The Pamban Street Bridge” interfaces the National Thruway (NH 49) with the Rameswaram island. It stands on the Palk strait and between the shores of Mandapam and Pamban. It stands parallel to the Pamban Rail Bridge. Location: Pamban Bridge, Pamban, Tamil Nadu. Timing: Open 24/7. Best time to visit: October- April.

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Villoondi Tirtham

Villoondi tirtham is a peaceful place and quite famous 1 day tourist attraction in Rameshwaram. It's calm shoreline additionally one of the 64 sacrosanct water bodies in Rameswaram, brings calmness to one's mind and body. It is 6 Km far from Rameswaram's fundamental transport stand and is effectively accessible to guests. Villoondi Theertham shoreline is a tranquil place with quiet tides and a delicate breeze. There's a great water spring arranged in the interiors of the ocean and makes for an incredible natural spring water source! Now and then the ocean water blends with spring water making it a bit salty. Location: Thangachi madam, Rameswaram. Timing: Open 24/7. Best time to visit: October- April.

Adam's Bridge

For centuries mankind has had no strong proof of the fantastic stories that take place in our Indian Mythology, but there's one such extraordinary place in India that may be a significant proof of the genuine Gods and impeccable view and that is Adams’s Bridge in Rameshwaram. One of the most fond tourist places is found within the Palk Strait off the Southeastern edge of India, The bridge is a narrow pathway that stretches wide, crossing the large water body. It is an unique place to visit in Rameshwaram as it offers to see one of the world's oldest structures and the many fascinating stories that come with it. This pathway is underwater and has been commonly known as the “Ram Setu”  or “Adams bridge “ AKA the bridge Ram made to Sri Lanka. Location:   Between Pamban Island and MannarIsland, Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu. Timing: 12:00 AM -11:59 PM(Monday to Sunday). Best time to visit: Throughout the day.

Water Bird Sanctuary

The water bird sanctuary is one the most interesting places to visit in Rameshwaram , it inhabits a host of migratory birds from pelicans to flamingos and it is a wild site to see! Rameswaram is not only home to many divinities, but also an impeccable diversity in the flora and fauna of the place. Its lushness and its key visitors makes this place a heavenly place for all bird lovers and photographers and  is definitely going to make them swoon, a true paradise for the Bird watchers. If  one is lucky they might even get to witness a full show of birds uniformly flying in the blue skies, a treat to the eyes this sanctuary fulfills the inner nature lover while also being close to the heavenly bodies in Rameshwaram. Location: Dhanushkodi, Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. Timing: 7:00 AM -6:00 PM(Monday to Sunday). Best time to visit: March- April.

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Ariyaman Beach

Ariyaman Beach is a shallow beach located 21 km away from Rameswaram, it is best known for its calm and blue waters which makes it an ideal location for day trips with family and friends and is sought to be one of the most visited places in Rameshwaram for a relaxing time. The natural beauty of the beach eliminates all negative thoughts and allows one to unwind and  enjoy the vast water body which is surrounded with lush palm trees. As the beach is slightly isolated it has become a top spot for tourists to chill without the hustling crowds,  picnics are the top activity for families and friends in a clean and beautiful environment of Ariyaman Beach. The beach also has fun activities such as water sports including boating, paragliding etc giving visitors an engaging way to spend their time. An observation tower is also situated here overlooking a mesmerizing view of the endless sea and the encompassing areas. Location: Madurai-Rameswaram Rd, Satta King Valasai, Tamil Nadu. Timing: 24/7. Best time to visit: Whenever you want.

Lakshmana Theertham

As we know by now Rameswaram is an ancient place with many incredible stories and artifacts, its sacred borders hold within themselves a place called Lakshmana Theertham, and is one of the sacred theerthams here. This sanctuary is committed to Ruler Lakshmana and it's his mighty stories and legends that depict his vigor and God like status. It has been built within the Dravidian fashion of engineering which has an appealing structure with carved columns portraying statues of divinities and occasions from Ramayana. There are many marble statues of Master Lakshmana that have been intently carved in the  interior of the sanctuary which speaks volumes of the dedication put into the building of this temple. Location: Near Ramar Tirtham, 1 km from Rameswaram Temple. Timing: 6:00 AM -7:00 PM(Monday to Sunday). Best time to visit: March - May.

Nambu Nayaki Amman Temple

Nambu Nayaki Amman Temple is known to be the goddess who protects  the South. It is a sacred place for people to pray and make wishes, for them and their families well being. A storm hit in 1964 which shifted the Nambu nayaki amman sanctuary in Dhanushkodi. Since the entire Dhanushkodi city sank into the ocean, it was declared by Indian government as a phantom town. Nambu Nayaki's ambal statue was removed from the ruined town and was  kept safe within the temple, in the same position it is presented today. The tirtham is also famous for having an orchid of Screw pine tree or umbrella tree which is well known for its ayurvedic properties. Location: Near “Pudhu Road” village, Tamil Nadu. Timing: 6:00 AM - 11:00 AM / 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM(Monday to Sunday). Best time to visit: Early mornings from 6:30 AM to 10:00 AM.

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Jatayu Tirtham Temple

The temple is dedicated to one of the most powerful birds in our Indian Mythology and that is “Jatayu” known as the king of birds this temple resonates with the mighty and ardent follower of Lord Rama.  It is in this place Jatayu crashed due to a slashed wing and where Lord Rama buried him, making it one of the most important and historically famous places. This temple makes an interesting story and is an enriching place to visit in Rameswaram, the tirtham is surrounded by a vast structure that is full of natural water and gives an extremely peaceful energy to anyone who visits this temple. In the months between October - April the temple is calm and has less rush which makes it even more endearing to its visitors. It projects a spiritual surrounding and one must feel unburdened by their usual schedule making this a good place for tourists to visit in Rameshwaram. Location: Kandadevi, Tamil Nadu, Rameshwaram, India. Timing: 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Monday to Sunday). Best time to visit: October - April.

Kunthu Kal Beach

If one wants to slip away for a day from Rameswaram mainland, then head right over to Kunthukul Beach, it is  located 12 km away from Rameswaram and makes for the perfect road trip with friends and family to enjoy the view of the Pamban Bridge and other islands surrounding Rameswaram. Kunthukal shoreline is often called as a getaway heaven of Tamilnadu. This small fishing village has Impressive turquoise blue narrows, marvelous characteristic prosper, quietness with verdant coconut palms and includes a wide variety of flora around.  Whether you’re looking for recreation, watersports, or just simple relaxation, Kundthukal is one of the chillest places to visit in Rameswaram. A commemorating memorial is also situated on the beach, it is dedicated to Swami Vivekanand for when he returned from his participation in the “ World Parliament of Religions” held in Chicago, USA. Location: Behind Vivekananda Memorial, 20 mins away from Rameswaram. Timing: 5:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Monday to Sunday). Best time to visit: Early Morning or Throughout the Day.

Sea World Aquarium

One of the best places to visit in Rameswaram to explore more than what's on the surface is Sea World Aquarium! Since it is an Island, Rameswaram is rich in its diversity of underwater creatures making  this aquarium truly one of a kind. It has become a popular place for tourists to visit in Rameswaram who make a day trip with family or friends and discover the creatures living in their own natural habitat. The aquarium boasts modern technology with its  underground tunnels which allow tourists to see the natural habitat of our underwater friends without disturbing them! Some rare fish are found in this aquarium such as Lionfish, Cowfish,Parrotfish, Beach Tamet, Sea horse, Clownfish and many more.  This exquisite aquarium gets the children excited and wide-eyed, even the adults are amazed. Location: Central Rameswaram, next to the main Bus stop. Timing: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Monday to Sunday). Best time to visit: Early Morning Throughout the Day.

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Kalam National Memorial

One of the most visited places in Rameswaram, Kalam National Memorial was built to commemorate APJ Abdul Kalam. The memorial showcases the history of APJ Abdul Kalam, his belongings and personal items used by him  or of him such as portraits, sketches, statues and poems. The memorials architecture is a blend between Mughal and Indian architectural styles which celebrates the late President's ethnicity.  Entrance is designed in the way India Gate was built and is accompanied by a chettinad Door which is mimicking the entrance of Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur, whereas the central structure is a direct replica of the Rashtrapati Bhavan. All these nuances make the memorial an exceptional place to visit and learn more about the history of our country. Location: Pamban- Tharavai Thoppu Rd, Pamban, Tamil Nadu. Timing: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM. Best time to visit: Throughout the Day.

Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple

Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple is situated in  Rameshwaram in the state of Tamil Nadu, it gets its name from Lord Rama who came here to worship Lord shiva. Known for its intricate architecture and grand structure, the temple has always attracted many tourists from all over India. Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple has often caught the attention of architects from all over the world as it is one of most well executed temples and is restored to its absolute glory. Not only does the temple allow for a moment of self rejuvenation but also, lets one wander in the lush gardens around the temple. Many souvenir shops are surrounding the temple where one can buy trinkets for friends and loved ones and spread the blessings of the temple. Location:  Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu 623526. Timing: 5:00 AM to 1:00 PM (Morning) 3:00PM - 9:00 PM ( Evening). Best time to visit: October- April.

Agni Theertham

Agni Tirtham is one of the 64 Tirthas of Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu, India, it is known as the “Varanasi” of the south as it is in this place people believe to dip into the sacred waters and wash away their penance in life. It's a place that propagates mental peace, meditation and the practice of selflessness. The word Agni alludes to fire in Sanskrit dialect whereas the word Tirtham implies sacred water. This symbolic meaning is what makes this Tirtham one of the most visited places in Rameswaram for a heavenly shower, hence a critical spot for Hindu devotees. This Temple sees a mass of people flocking on the beach in the evening to practice their  daily prayers and many come to witness the holiness of the entire community of people in Rameshwaram. Location: Sannadhi St, Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu, 623526, India. Timing: 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Monday to Sunday). Best time to visit: Early morning or late Afternoon, temperatures become very hot in the middle of the day.

Best of Tirupati

Dhanuskodi Beach

Dhanuskodi Beach is a perfect one day gate-away in Rameswaram to relax and enjoy the abundance of scenic beauty which stretches on the coastline of Rameshwaram. Dhanuskodi beach stretches wide and blue with water with no end in sight, a truly exceptional place to visit in Rameshwaram and makes for a sublime place to chill with family and friends.

The Shoreline of Dhanuskodi runs right at the south-eastern tip of Pamban Island of the Tamil Nadu state and is known for the color of its light blue sea, clear skies and a peaceful ambience. You'll ponder how the place looked like in the past by looking at its interesting ruins and statues around the beach, whilst unwinding your intellect by looking at its evergreen beauty.

Ramjharoka Temple

Take a spiritual trip to the holy town of Rameswaram and visit the renowned Ramjharoka Temple. This old temple has a lot of meaning in Hindu lore because it is dedicated to Lord Ram. It was built in the traditional Dravidian style and has beautiful paintings and sculptures that show scenes from the epic Ramayana. Millions of pilgrims come here to find peace and blessings, soaking up the divine aura and tranquillity it gives. People come from all over the world to experience the holiness and spirituality of Ramjharoka Temple, which is a symbol of faith and dedication. Experience the sacred site's long history and beautiful architecture. Take part in the rituals and customs that have been kept alive for hundreds of years. As you and your loved ones visit the Ramjharoka Temple, you can enjoy the peaceful and holy atmosphere.

Dhanushkodi Ruins

Dhanushkodi Ruins, nestled in the southern tip of Rameswaram, India, tell a haunting tale of resilience amidst tragedy. Once a bustling town, it was ravaged by a cyclone in 1964, leaving it in eerie desolation.

People Also Ask About Rameswaram

Which are the best places to visit in rameswaram in 2 days, what are the best things to do in rameswaram, what is the best time to visit rameshwaram, how many days are required to visit rameshwaram.

3 nights and 4 days are required to visit this beautiful & vibrant place. In this time you can visit the iconic temples, spend time at the beautiful beaches, and enjoy seeing the wildlife. In this time you can also try a range of delicious Tamilian food and shop.

Is Sri Lanka visible from Rameshwaram?

How far is sri lanka from rameshwaram, why is dhanushkodi famous.

People visit Dhanushkodi since it is believed to be the place where Lord Rama had asked Lord Hanuman to build a bridge all the way to Sri Lanka. This is the land where Sri Lanka and India connect through this still-existing bridge known as Adam’s Bridge. What adds more to the intrigue are its stunning beaches, its reputation of being a ‘ghost town’, and the confluence where the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal meet. 

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16 Stellar Places to Visit in Rameshwaram

by middha on August 13, 2018

Located in the Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu, Rameshwaram is one of the four important pilgrimage centres know as Char Dham and attracts thousands of visitors in a year. Pamban channel separates it from the mainland, and the waters surrounding it make it extremely attractive to visitors who are not particularly interested in its connection to the days of the Ramayana.

The beaches here are clean and the landscape offers a great subject or backdrop for any picture you may want to take. Let’s talk about the beautiful places to visit in Rameshwaram, including some temples and ponds.

Places To Visit In Rameshwaram

1. ramanathaswamy temple.

The Largest Hallway in India at the Ramanathaswamy Temple

This temple dedicated to Lord Shiva houses one of the 12 Jyotirlingas located in different parts of India. Said to have originally been built by Rama himself, the temple contains a very famous 197-metre-long hallway flanked by beautiful and ornately carved pillars.  

With a 54-metre tall gopuram, the temple is considered a prime example of Dravidian architecture. The temple’s construction was started in the 12 th century and the different parts are credited to many different rulers.

2. Jada Tirtham

Pilgrims worship at the Jada Theertham (source)

This is a sacred pond where Rama is supposed to have washed his matted hair or jada, after killing Ravana and before worshipping Lord Shiva.

Located on the way to Dhanushkodi, this pond is held highly sacred by Hindu pilgrims who come in huge numbers to visit the pond and to worship at the only temple to Lord Shiva at Kapardiswara, which is located here.

3. Dhanushkodi

Two Seas meeting at Dhanushkodi

Dhanushkodi meaning ‘end of the bow’ is a small town located at the south-east end of Pamban island in Tamil Nadu. The temple here is described in the Ramayana but currently has nothing but ruins which have been left behind due to the ravages of the sea and time.

The town itself lies abandoned and uninhabited since the 1964 cyclone which destroyed the town and took many lives.

4. Pamban Bridge

A Train crossing the Pamban

This sea bridge was opened in 1914, connecting the town of Rameshwaram on Pamban island to Mandapam on the mainland. This 100 years old bridge contains 143 pillars, each of which is 220 feet in length and 100 tonnes in weight.

The bridge is conventional for the most part but has a double-leaf bascule section which can be raised to let ships and barges pass through. The bridge spans a distance of 2.345 km and took 14 years to be completed.

5. Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge

The Impressive Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge

The Annai Indira Gandhi Road bridge was built right next to the Pamban Bridge, connecting Rameshwaram to NH 49 on the mainland. This bi-lane bridge allows you to glimpse the trains crossing the railway bridge as you drive over the bridge.

6. Gandhamadhana Parvatham

Hanuman fetching the Sanjeevani in a painting by Raja Ravi Varma

This is the name of a mountain, which legend has it was ferried on his back by Hanuman to bring the life-saving Sanjeevani herb for Rama’s brother Lakshman, who swooned in battle.

The place is very quaint, offering a beautiful view of the whole island from its peak. There is also a two-storeyed temple to Rama, which has the imprint of his feet on a chakra.

7. Panchamukhi Hanuman Temple

Idol of the Panchmukhi Hanuman at Rameshwaram

The idol of Lord Hanuman or Anjaneya here has four other heads, of Lords Narasimha, Adivaraha, Garuda and Hayagriva. The statue is smeared with Sindoor and worshipped by Hindus with complete devotion along with the idols of Rama, Lakshmana and Sita who also have shrines here.

The ‘floating stones’ on display here are considered to prove the legend of the Rama Setu across the sea to Lanka.

8. Adam’s Bridge

NASA image of Adam’s Bridge

Adam’s Bridge or Rama Setu is the legendary bridge described in Ramayana as having been built by the Vanara Sena of Rama, to cross over from the Indian subcontinent to Sri Lanka. These are a chain of limestone shoals which connect Dhanushkodi at the tip of India’s Pamban Island to Sri Lanka.

9. Nambu Nayaki Amman Temple

Nambu Nayaki Amman

Situated 8 kms away from the Ramanathaswamy temple, the temple to Nambu Nayaki Amman is a highly popular goddess, worshipped in this region.

The goddess is believed to offer good health and progeny to the worshippers. Anyone facing problems in the region trust the goddess to help them come out of their problems.

10. Water Bird Sanctuary

Birds at the Water Bird Sanctuary at Rameshwaram

Between October and January, one gets to see a lot of migratory birds along with the local birds which make this one of the most interesting spots in Rameshwaram, which have no connection with any religion. The sanctuary attracts a lot of visitors.

11. Ariyaman Beach

The Serene Ariyaman Beach at Rameshwaram

The beach at Ariyaman stretches a length of 2 kilometres and a width of 150 metres. Adventurous souls can indulge in some water sports like parasailing, water scooter rides and windsurfing.

The beach also offers a children’s park, an aquarium and a museum as well. The casuarina groves offer a wonderful beachside venue for picnickers to the place.

12. Kothandaramaswamy Temple

Front View of the Kothandaramaswamy Temple

Located very close to the sea, this temple to Kothandaramaswamy is approximately 500 years old. This temple has the idols of Rama, Sita and Lakshmana along with that of Vibhishana, the brother of Ravana who sided with Rama during the war.

Many believe that Rama crowned Vibhishana in this place. The temple’s walls have paintings which tell us this story.

13. Lakshmana Tirtham

Lakshmana Teertham at Rameshwaram

Between a temple dedicated to Lakshmana and a Ramanathswamy Temple, is a sacred pond. The Lakshmana Temple is engraved with images from the mythological story of Ramayana.

The Ramayana is a part of the ancient literature of India, and it is a joy to see these stories set in stone for those who are familiar with them.  It is custom for visitors of the temple to take a dip in the pond that sits near this temple, but it is not mandatory.

14. Villoondi Tirtham

The Well with Sweet Water in the Middle of the Sea

The sacred stories of the Ramayana, generally considered mythological, have many physical locations and remnants spread across the Indian subcontinent, and this is one more.

The Villoondi Tirtham, which translates to “the buried bow,” is part of the Ramayana. Rama was said to have shot an arrow into the river to form a shower of water for Sita, his wife, to drink. There is a temple there, called the Ekantha Ramar, also part of the Ramayana.

15. Jatayu Tirtham Temple

Jatayu’s Death at the Hands of Ravana, a Painting by Raja Ravi Varma

Jatayu was an eagle that acted as Rama’s friend, informing him that Ravana had abducted his wife. In the story, Jatayu died in battle trying to free Sita from Ravana.

The Jatayu Tirtham Temple is a shrine for the eagle. which is supposedly buried here by Rama and held in great reverence by the pious Hindus of India.

16. House of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam

External View of the House of Kalam at Rameshwaram

Rameshwaram’s claim to fame has always been irrefutable but the locals found a reason to rejoice in the appointment of their beloved neighbour as the President of India.

His name is Dr. Abdul Kalam and his claim to fame lies in his knowledge of science, his interest in space exploration and his love for writing.

A trip to Rameshwaram is considered very important and a must-attempt pilgrimage at least once in a lifetime by Hindus.

Even if they held no such belief, the religious and secular attractions of Rameshwaram have many people vying with each other to get here and see every single one of the beautiful places which are listed here.

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7 places to visit in Rameshwaram for a memorable trip

How often do you hear water sports, ghost towns and mythology in the same line?

Not so often, right?

Well, these are exactly what comes to my mind when I think about Rameshwaram.

A famous temple town located in Tamil Nadu, Rameshwaram is an important pilgrimage centre for the Hindu religion, much like Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh and attracts thousands of pilgrims every year.

However, Rameshwaram is anything but a temple town.

From white beaches to turquoise-blue waters to ruined buildings, Rameshwaram is perfect for anyone who leaves beaches and history. This place has got a very laid-back vibe and is ideal for a weekend getaway .

I went on a road trip with my friends from Trivandrum to Rameshwaram. In this article, I share with you some of the best places to visit in Rameshwaram and some history behind them that will make Rameshwaram worth your time.

Water sports at Quest Academy

Kushi beach resort, ahaan restaurant (daiwik hotel), can we see rama setu, where is rameshwaram.

Rameshwaram, also known as Pamban Island, is located on the south-eastern tip of Tamil Nadu. It is separated from mainland India by the Pamban bridge. Dhanushkodi is another famous town that lies on this island.

At a distance of 174 km, Madurai is the nearest major town to Rameshwaram.

Rameshwaram is close to the border of Sri Lanka and is a distance of 40 km from Mannar Island, which is the north-western tip of Sri Lanka.

7 best places to visit in Rameshwaram

Ramanathaswamy temple.

Popularly known as the Rameshwaram temple, the Ramanathaswamy temple is one of the most sacred temples in the country. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located just 2 km from the Rameshwaram railway station.

The vast complex has four main entrances and 22 wells. Every devotee is supposed to bathe in these 22 wells. This practice is done to atone them for their past sins before entering the sanctum sanctorum.

Even if you are not religious, you should still visit this temple due to its impressive architecture. This place is an architectural marvel with its majestic gopurams, vast corridors flanked by pillars with intricate work and beautifully painted ceilings. This temple has the largest corridor among all the temples in India.

The timings for the temple are from 5:00 am to 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Bags, cameras and phones are not allowed and can be kept in a cloakroom near the temple.

Pamban bridge/Annai Indira Gandhi road bridge

Pamban bridge, also known as the Rameshwaram bridge, is another historical architectural wonder that should be on your list. It was inaugurated in 1914 as India’s first sea bridge and is the second-longest sea bridge in India at present. 

It connects Pamban Island that consists of towns like Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi, to mainland India. Built at a length of more than 2 km, the centre of the railway bridge opens up vertically to allow ships to pass through it.

The history behind this bridge is quite fascinating.

The Pamban bridge used to connect mainland India to Dhanushkodi until 1964. However, on 23rd December 1964, a powerful cyclone swept away the town of Dhanushkodi, overturning the Pamban-Dhanuskodi passenger train and destroying the bridge. 

Henceforth, as the cyclone ravaged the town of Dhanushkodi, the Pamban bridge had to be reconstructed but only till Rameshwaram.

The road bridge that we see today running parallel to this sea bridge was constructed and opened only in 1988.

The best time to visit this bridge would be during sunrise or sunset when you can see the reflection of the sunlight falling on the turquoise blue sea alongside the bridge. If you are coming by your transport, there is no place to park your vehicle on the road bridge. However, you can briefly stop your vehicle on the side and take some pictures (as we did).

Kalam National Memorial

Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam was one of the few personalities of India who was revered not only in his motherland but also around the world for his contributions to society. He started his career as a scientist before joining politics to become the 11th President of India.

But what not many people know is the fact that he was a native of Rameshwaram. Born in 1931, he was raised in a Tamil Muslim family with four brothers and one sister. His house (known as ‘House of Kalam’) currently exists as a small museum in Rameshwaram.

After he died in 2015, the Kalam National Memorial was inaugurated in 2017 in Rameshwaram and opened to the public. This memorial pays homage to the life of Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and his achievements and is probably one of the best memorials you will visit in India.

The entire journey in the museum takes you through his life as a child to how he became one of the most eminent personalities of his generation. You will find his personal belongings, replicas, awards, medals and photos in the gallery. The museum records every aspect of his life in great detail, and as a whole, it is well-maintained.

The Kalam National Memorial is easily one of the most underrated places to visit in Rameshwaram; so make sure you take some time out for it. The museum is open from 9-6 pm. You need to remove your footwear and switch off your phones before entering the museum.

The Ghost town of Dhanushkodi

A trip to Rameshwaram is incomplete without exploring Dhanushkodi. Dhanushkodi is a ‘ghost town’ at a distance of 18 km from Rameshwaram, and it takes close to half an hour to travel from Rameshwaram to Dhanushkodi.

It was once a thriving fishing town in Pamban Island located on the south-easternmost tip of India, and it shares the water borders between India and Sri Lanka. It was an important trade centre between both the countries as it used to run ferry services from India to Sri Lanka and vice versa.

However, what you see today are the ruins of a town that got destroyed in a natural calamity.

In December 1964, a powerful cyclone struck Pamban Island and Ceylon (presently Sri Lanka), killing over 1800 people in Dhanushkodi alone. The Pamban bridge (which connected Dhanushkodi to mainland India), Dhanushkodi railway station and the entire town of Dhanushkodi, including a school, hospital, post office, church and a port, got washed away.

Dhanushkodi was declared unfit for habitation by the Government of Madras henceforth and has remained a ghost town ever since, much like Hampi in Karnataka. Apart from a few fishermen and their families who reside here, you will hardly see anyone after sunset.

Today, Dhanushkodi is a popular tourist destination thanks to its unique landscape.

Before 2017, you had to hire a jeep/tempo to visit Dhanushkodi as there was no concrete road. But in 2017, a newly constructed road was built, making it convenient to drive your vehicle to Dhanushkodi.

The drive to Dhanushkodi on this road is a dream for people who like road trips as you see the Indian Ocean on one side and the Bay of Bengal on the other. Vast stretches of white sands neighbouring the road flanked by blue skies greet you on both sides, and you feel as if you are nearing the end of the world!

Once you reach Dhanushkodi, you have transported back in time to a different place altogether. Nature has taken over this town and what remains today are the ruins of a railway station, a church and a post office. Several other ruins are present across the white beaches of Dhanushkodi, but the ones mentioned above stand out the most.

You will find some roadside stalls where you can buy refreshments, but there are no places to stay here. So make sure you reach your Dhanushkodi well before sunset to spend some time here.

Dhanushkodi Point/Dhanushkodi Beach Point

Dhanushkodi means ‘end of the bow’. And the end of Dhanushkodi looks exactly like the shape of a bow.

The distance from Dhanushkodi to Sri Lanka from this point is close to 30 km . Not only that, you see the confluence of the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal from this point. The waters are calm on one side and constantly flowing on the other side.

This point has both mythological and historical importance in terms of the Rama Sethu bridge that connected Dhanushkodi to Sri Lanka.

According to mythology, Lord Rama built this bridge to Sri Lanka to rescue his wife Sita from the demon Ravana.

And according to history, this bridge, also known as Adam’s bridge, was formed naturally by limestone shoals over some time. It is said that this particular bridge was above sea level and walkable till the 15th century.

In any case, the bridge is no longer visible as it is submerged under the sea.

Ariyaman Beach

Ariyaman beach is a white sandy beach that stretches for more than 2 km. It is located on Mandapam, which is 21 km before Rameshwaram. You can stop by this beach while on the way to Rameshwaram or while coming back from Rameshwaram.

As this place is less touristy, you can have a peaceful time here and even go swimming as the depth of the water is shallow and the tides are generally low. The beach is clean, and the water is crystal clear.

A forest cover provides ample shade and also a place for parking your vehicle. The best time to visit this beach is in the morning or evening as it generally gets hot otherwise.

Beware of the jellyfishes that can be seen sometimes on the shores!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Quest Academy (@questacademyasia)

Another lesser-known fact about this part of India is that the southeast coast is one of the best locations in the country to indulge in water sports.

Quest Adventure Sports Academy (QASA), located close to the Ariyaman beach, is an academy that teaches water sports like kayaking, kitesurfing, windsurfing, sailing and scuba diving, to name a few. A few passionate and professional folks from Mumbai provide industry-recognised certifications ranging from a beginner level to an expert level in various water sports.

People from different parts of the country and even foreigners come here to indulge in water sports. You can try out their ‘Discover’ packages if you have no experience but would like to try out a watersport for the first time.

The academy provides various accommodation options and locally sourced food. Their property, known as Kathadi North, is built on a beautiful beach with white sands and covered with palm trees. 

You can visit their website for more details. I am pretty sure that even if you don’t plan to indulge in water sports, your mind will change once you visit their property.

How to reach Rameshwaram

Madurai is the nearest airport to Rameshwaram, located at a distance of 70 km. Many flights operate from cities like Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore and Mumbai to Madurai.

To continue with your journey, you can get buses and even trains from Madurai to Rameshwaram.

Travelling by train to Rameshwaram is one of the best ways to experience your journey on the Pamban Bridge. Rameshwaram is a significant railhead connected to major cities like Chennai, Hyderabad and Kochi. There are no direct trains from Bangalore to Rameshwaram, unfortunately. 

If you are coming from within Tamil Nadu, there are buses run by Tamil Nadu Road Transport Corporation (TNSRTC) that regularly ply from different cities of Tamil Nadu like Kanyakumari, Chennai and Madurai to Rameshwaram. There are also overnight buses from Bangalore to Rameshwaram. However, there are no direct buses from Kochi.

How to travel in Rameshwaram

An ideal way to travel around Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi is by driving your vehicle because the roads are excellent and the landscape you see as you go along is beautiful.

If you don’t have any vehicle, you can still hire a taxi and roam around these places. While you are at it, make sure that you take breaks between your journey instead of just getting down to the final destination because you will find many opportunities for photography.

Where to stay in Rameshwaram

Kathadi north.

Kathadi North is the homestay property of Quest Academy.

It is one of the best places to stay at Rameshwaram to enjoy the calm and peaceful vibe of staying on a beach. The stay is inside a remote village away from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

The hosts are amicable and welcoming and will make sure that you have a good time here. Make the most of your stay by indulging in some water sports. 

The accommodation options involve cottages, dorms and tents with complimentary breakfasts. They serve wholesome, healthy and fresh food.

Please note that as the weather is generally hot during the day, it becomes difficult to stay in tents for a long time (as we experienced). Unless you are prepared to face the heat, a better option would be to go for dorms or cottages.

Some other places to stay in Rameshwaram:

Bhoomi Kumudu

Bhoomi Kumudu is a beautifully built homestay surrounded by pine trees close to the Quest Academy. They have an attached pool and an outdoor shower as well. The beach is a short walk away from this property, and you can swim there as well.

Kushi Beach Resort is located on Ariyaman beach. Despite being a resort, it provides dorms as well at very reasonable rates. You can indulge in seafood at their property. They have their swimming pool as well.

Note: The properties listed above are close to Mandapam, which lies before Rameshwaram. Although you can find many hotels and homestays in Rameshwaram, it is preferable to stay before Rameshwaram to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful ambience.

Best restaurants in Rameshwaram

There are a lot of restaurants in Rameshwaram, especially around Ramanathaswamy temple. Following are a couple of places you can visit:

Sri Murugan Mess

It is a budget-friendly, vegetarian restaurant close to 100 metres from the Ramanathaswamy temple. They provide traditional South Indian cuisine on a banana leaf. The prices are very reasonable considering the quality that you get.

Ahaan Restaurant is a multi-cuisine restaurant close to the railway station. If you want to have North Indian food with some ambience, you should consider Ahaan Restaurant. They are a multicuisine restaurant with a buffet and a la carte options available. 

Travel tips for Rameshwaram

• Wear a hat and hydrate yourself regularly as it becomes hot during the daytime.
• Carry a towel and swimwear if you plan to get drenched.
• If you can’t bear the summer heat, try to cover as many destinations as you can during sunrise or sunset.
• Apart from a few roadside stalls, there are no restaurants or places to stay in Dhanushkodi. Also, you can’t stay in Dhanushkodi beyond sunset.
• Stay in Rameshwaram town only if you want to save some time. Else it’s always better to stay on the outskirts of Rameshwaram for a better ambience and experience.
• The majority of the cuisine in Rameshwaram is South-Indian. Seafood is also an option here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is rameshwaram famous for.

Rameshwaram temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of India and the southernmost out of all. Lord Rama is believed to have offered his prayers to Lord Shiva here before he started his journey to Sri Lanka to rescue his wife Sita from Ravana.

What is the best time to visit Rameshwaram?

Being a tropical place, the weather in Rameshwaram is generally hot and humid. Especially during the daytime, it becomes difficult to stay outdoors for a long time with the harsh sunlight. Therefore the months from October to March are generally a better time to visit Rameshwaram when the temperature becomes better.

Is Sri Lanka visible from Rameshwaram?

Although Sri Lanka is close to 30 km away from the tip of Dhanushkodi, you cannot see Sri Lanka from there.

According to geology experts, Rama Setu was a chain of limestone shoals that used to connect Dhanushkodi to Mannar Island in Sri Lanka up until the 15th century. Subsequent storms have however deepened the path and it is no longer visible.

Rameshwaram has always been famous as a destination for religious tourism. But as I figured out, this place has so much to offer in historical and water tourism as well. The fact that it is not very commercialised right now is only a good thing for us.

The only drawback of this place is its location. As it is situated on the south-eastern tip of Tamil Nadu, it is not close to any of the major cities in South India. However, the journey you undertake will be worth it once you experience Rameshwaram.

Have you visited Rameshwaram? Do you have any experience to share or any suggestions/recommendations? Do let me know in the comments below, and I will be happy to have a look.

Jerry quit his 9-5 job to become a digital nomad and travel the world. Through Framedventures, he helps people have experiential and immersive travel adventures across India. He has travelled to 15+ states/UTs in India so far. Besides travelling, he's also passionate about landscape photography. Connect with him on his social media channels to get his latest travel updates!

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Home » Lifestyle » Travel » 13 interesting places to visit in Rameshwaram

13 interesting places to visit in Rameshwaram

Rameshwaram is an island city in the beautiful South-Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Also famously known as ‘the Bridge on the Indian Ocean’, the city has a lot to offer its guests. With amazing ocean views and world-class hospitality, Rameshwaram prides itself on being one of the most welcoming tourist destinations in the country. Here is a list of places to visit in Rameshwaram for your next trip. 

Table of Contents

Here is how you can reach Rameshwaram:

By air: Madurai airport is the nearest airport to Rameshwaram, located about 149 Km from the main city. The airport is well connected with major national and international airports. You can reach Rameshwaram from Madurai by bus, cabs or rented taxis.

By rail: Rameshwaram is connected via rail to the mainland via the rail link. It is well connected to South-Indian cities like Chennai, Madurai and Thiruvananthapuram. It is the most economical way to reach Rameshwaram. 

By road: Rameshwaram is connected via road to major cities of South India via roadways that can be covered by bus or cab. The roads are well maintained between Rameshwaram and Chennai (650 Km), Madurai (169 Km), Tiruchirappalli (271 Km) and Thanjavur (231 Km).

When to visit Rameshwaram?

The summers in Rameshwaram are hot and humid. Subsequently, the monsoon season also faces heavy rainfall in the city. Therefore, the best season for visiting places in Rameshwaram is the winter. The best months to visit Rameshwaram are from November to February.  

13 Rameshwaram tourist places and things to do

Rameshwaram temple.

The city’s biggest tourist attraction is the Rameshwaram temple. Most tourists flock to Rameshwaram temple above all other Rameshwaram tourist places. The temple is an intricately carved piece of architecture devoted to Lord Shiva. Devotees from across the world travel to Rameshwaram to offer their prayers to the 12 Jyotirlingas in the temple.

Source: Pinterest

Agnitheertham 

The city is full of “sacred baths” considered holy by devotees. Agnitheertham is the biggest such bath located outside the traditional vicinity of the temple. Tourists visit Agnitheertham to bathe in the holy water as a cultural practice. 

You can visit Agnitheertham between 5 A.M. and 6 P.M. any day of the week. 

Dhanushkodi Temple

What was one of the most well-preserved ancient pieces of architecture and a place of worship for many, the Dhanushkodi temple suffered greatly during a cyclone that hit Rameshwaram in 1964. The temple today stands as only ruins instead of its former glory but is still one of the holiest and most popular Rameshwaram tourist places. 

You can take a rickshaw or hire a taxi to Dhanushkodi from Rameshwaram to cover the 16 km distance by road. 

The timings to reach Dhanushkodi temple are between 6:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M.

Jatayu Tirtham

One of the only temples of its kind, the Jatayu Tirtham temple is devoted to Lord Jatyau, a mythological figure in the epic of Ramayan. According to the legends, Jatayu was killed by the Demon-King Ravana while he tried to stop him from abducting Goddess Sita. The temple is dedicated to his bravery and his devotion to Lord Ram. 

Jatayu Tirtham is 6 km away from the main city, which can be covered via local transport.

Ariyaman Beach 

Another spot you must add to your list of Rameshwaram places to visit is Ariyaman Beach. The gorgeous white sand beach stretches across the shores of the Indian Ocean. You can spend your time at the beach enjoying the various water-sport activities or go boating to enjoy the stunning views of the ocean. 

Located at a distance of 21 km from Ramesharwam city, you can visit the beach between 6:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M. 

You can also enjoy a boat ride for a fee of Rs 60.

Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple

One of the most renowned temples in the city, the Panchmukhi, translated to “ Five-faced”, Hanuman temple is a tourist favourite destination in Rameshwaram. Devotees travel to the temple and offer their prayers to the shrine of Lord Hanuman in his five-faced form. The temple is two km from Sri Ramanathaswamy temple. 

You can visit the temple between 6:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. any day of the week. 

Lakshmana Tirtham

Lakshmana Tirtham is a temple dedicated solely to the worship of Lord Lakshaman, the brother of Lord Ram. devotees consider the temple extremely sacred and it is renowned as a symbol of brotherly love among the two gods. 

You can visit Lakshmana Tirtham between 6:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M. any day of the week for free.

Villoondi Tirtham

A place that is both religiously sacred and naturally beautiful, Villoondi Tirtham is a holy body of water in the city of Rameshwaram. It is believed that the spring in the land was made when Lord Rama shot an arrow into the ground to provide drinkable water for the townspeople. 

You can visit Villoondi Tirtham between 6:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M. any day of the week free of cost.

Silk Shopping

A famous speciality of Rameshwaram is its silk. In the city’s centre, you can find many shops that sell both stitched garments and unstitched fabrics in unique silk. You can shop for this item in the markets of Rameshwaram.  

Sea World Aquarium 

A world-class aquarium found in Rameshwaram is the Sea World Aquarium. The aquarium is a local recommendation to visit, especially if you are travelling with kids. The aquarium is an experience where you are surrounded by the many types of living aquatic life. 

You can visit Sea World Aquarium between 10:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. any day of the week for free.

Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge

The seven km stretch of a bridge that connects Rameshwaram island to mainland India is the Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge. It is the longest bridge in south India that allows rail and motor transport across the sea. You can reach the bridge by road on local transport at any time as it remains open to entry throughout the day.

Abdul Kalam House

The birthplace of the former President, celebrated scientist and national hero, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, is a place of exploration in the city of Rameshwaram.  Many tourists travel to his old house to account for his humble beginnings and pay their respects in his memory.  

The building is open to visitors between 8:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M. on weekdays and remains closed on weekends. 

You will have to pay an entry fee of Rs 5 per head to visit the Kalam house.

Kothandaramaswamy Temple

Surrounded by the Indian Ocean, the Kothandaramaswamy temple is situated on the southernmost tip of Rameshwaram island. The temple is dedicated to the difficult pilgrimage taken by Lord Ram towards the kingdom of the Demon-king Ravana to save his wife, Goddess Sita. 

You can visit Kothandaramaswamy temple between 6:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M.. any day of the week at no entry fee required.

Why is Rameshwaram a popular tourist destination?

Rameshwaram has a lot to offer in terms of tourism. Graced by nature with bountiful scenic views and a rich history ripe to explore, Rameshwaram is a traveller’s paradise.

What are some good places to eat in Rameshwaram?

The Curry and Ahaan restaurants are some of the most popular family restaurants in the city.

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Things to do in Moscow: how to visit Moscow | Unmissable, cool & unusual

• September 2, 2023

What are the best things to do in Moscow? What to do in Moscow? First, I will list the main places to visit by theme, passing by the must-sees, but also more unusual places in Moscow. Then, I will describe what to see in Moscow in one day and how to visit Moscow in 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 days. Let’s go!

Good to know. For more information, click on the places to open the dedicated blog posts.

Main places to visit in Moscow & best things to do in Moscow

I worked in Moscow and I loved this city for its dynamism and energy. We find there from time to time to see friends, remember good memories and enjoy this giant city! Then the time has come for us to share with you our practical guide.

TOP 5 must-see places in Moscow

• Moscow Red Square
• St. Basil’s Cathedral
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Bolshoi Theatre

Places of cultural, historical and religious interest in Moscow

• Novodevichy Convent and cemetery
• Tretyakov Gallery
• Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts
• Kremlin Izmaïlovo (pseudo-historic place, recently built in the image of the old, one of the best things to do in Moscow for your Instagram account 😉 )
• Park and ancient village of Kolomenskoye

Visit Moscow of the Soviet era

• Moscow State University and Sparrows Hill
• VDNKh and the Museum of Astronautics, one of the key landmarks of the Soviet era in Moscow
• GULAG Museum
• Metro stations
• The Stalinist skyscrapers, scattered all over the city

Less touristy places in Moscow

• Gorky Park and the GARAGE museum
• The old Krasny Oktyabr factory
• Zaryadye Park
• Center for Contemporary Art, WINZAVOD
• Business center, Moscow City

Main districts of Moscow to visit

• Patriarch Ponds
• Tchistye Prudy
• Kuznetsky most
• Arbat Street

However, regardless of the length of your stay, whether you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days or in 2, you need a visa. The article Obtaining a tourist visa for Russia could then be useful in any case.

What to do and see in Moscow in one day?

List of things to see and do in Moscow in one day:

• Go to Red Square
• Visit St. Basil’s Cathedral
• See Kremlin walls (but not to visit)
• Visit Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Discover Kuznetsky most districts and see Bolshoi Theatre building
• And if you have time at the end of the day: go to the Sparrows Hill or to the Moscow City for a beautiful view

Things to do in Moscow in 2 days

If you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, there are 2 purposes: do not miss the essential places of Moscow and optimize travel.

• First day: Red Square , Saint Basil’s Cathedral , Zariadye Park, Bolshoi Theatre , Kremlin
• Day 2: Cathedral of Christ the Savior, the former Krasny Oktyabr factory on Balchug Island, Gorky Park, Moscow State University (one of the Seven Sisters buildings ) and Sparrow Hill

As 2 days os really short, be sure to choose an accommodation in the best districts where to stay in Moscow .

Walking on Red Square in Moscow: one of the unmissable things to do in Moscow

Iconic place and one of the must-see places in Moscow and even in Russia! Besides, if there was only one place to visit in Moscow in 2 days, this place would then be Red Square, without hesitation. Therefore, starting the city tour with Red Square is ideal . Several buildings are on the square, but not all of them have to be visited. Check out my blog post about Moscow’s Red Square in detail to learn more and not miss anything.

Visiting Saint-Basil’s Cathedral inside

Even more emblematic than Moscow’s Red Square! Built in the middle of the 16th century under the orders of Tsar Ivan Le Terrible, this cathedral is one of the most beautiful monuments of Orthodox art, and definitely one of the unmissable places in Moscow. Visiting Saint-Basil’s Cathedral inside is one of the most beautiful things to do in Moscow!

• Visit estimate time : 1h30
• Entry ticket : 700 RUB. Tickets can be purchased on the cathedral’s official website 45 days before the tour.
• Audio guide (recommended): 500 RUB
• Opening hours : June to August 10 am-6pm; from November to April: 11 am-5pm; May, September, October 11 am-5pm. Cathedral closed on Wednesdays. Entrance is closed 45 minutes before closing.
• Find out more in the dedicated article: Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow

Take a walk in Zariadye park: one of the coolest things to do in Moscow after visiting Red Square

Zaryadie Park is just a 10-minute walk from St. Basil’s Cathedral, so it’s easy to include in your itinerary if you’re going to visit Moscow in 2 days. From its heights, you can see the red walls of the Kremlin. But, the most impressive point of view is the platform which overlooks the Moskva river. A must see! And clearly one of the coolest things to do in Moscow!

• Open 24 hours a day
• Good to know! Park Zaryadye is also a place to visit in Moscow in winter. Find out more here: What to do in Moscow in winter?

See the Bolshoi Theatre and discover the Kuznetsky Most district

The Bolshoi Theatre is the most famous Russian theater in the world. The most economical way to see a presentation at the Bolshoi Theater is to take the tickets on the theater’s official website in advance, so here is our tutorial to help you: How to buy entrance tickets to the Bolshoi? In addition, several pedestrian or one-way streets

The Bolshoi Theater is the most famous Russian theater in the world. The most economical way to see a presentation at the Bolshoi Theater is to take the tickets on the theater’s official website in advance, so here is our tutorial to help you: How to buy tickets to the Bolshoi? In addition, several pedestrian or one-way streets are located north of the theater. It is therefore very pleasant to find them to leave the main axes of the megalopolis.

Visit the Moscow Kremlin

Visit Kremlin is on top of things to do in Moscow. A place of power for centuries, the Kremlin then shows us a whole different image when viewed from the inside. If you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, the Kremlin is certainly one of the must-see places in Moscow.

• Opening hours : Daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thursday.
• See our blog post about visiting the Moscow Kremlin

Visit the Cathedral of Christ the Savior

This impressive Moscow Cathedral is the seat of the Russian Orthodox Church. It is a must see if you visit Moscow in 2 days and clearly one of the things to do in Moscow. The Cathedral of Christ the Savior was first built in 1883 in memory of Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s Grand Army. Then in 1931 Stalin ordered its destruction. It was then rebuilt again (identically) only in 2000.

• Where? Ulitsa Volkhonka 15. At the foot of the Kropotkinskaya metro station.
• Opening hours . Daily: 10: 00-17: 00, except Monday: 13: 00-17: 00
• Free entry (some closing restrictions, for example a short)

Good to know! In orthodox religious places, one must avoid excessively uncovered clothing. Women should cover their heads. After visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, you can explore Bolotny Island and Gorky Park. This is one of the routes our guide to Moscow.

The old Krasny Oktyabr factory: one of the coolest things to do in Moscow

If you cross the Moskva River by a pedestrian bridge which is located just in front of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, you will enjoy a beautiful view of the city and at the same time you can discover Balchug Island. Furthermore, if you want to visit Moscow in 2 days, you can include this island in your itinerary between the cathedral and Gorky park. Here is the old confectionery factory Krasny Oktyabr, which has gradually turned into a fashionable micro-district. There are then some elements of street art, cafes and restaurants and some Moscow bohemian side. At the end of the island you can see a gigantic 98-meter-high monument dedicated to the Russian reforming tsar Pierre The Great.

Good to know! You can find on this island are the trendiest nightclubs in Moscow. On weekends, there are taxi caps after midnight so there are so many people. On the other hand, if you go there in winter and during the day, the island is quite empty and less interesting to see.

Gorky Park is one of the TOP places to visit in Moscow, because it allows you to better understand the life of the locals and their rhythm. In fact, it’s a huge entertainment park. For example, in winter there is a giant ice rink and in summer – free dance or yoga lessons, sandy beaches for playing volleyball, an outdoor cinema. So, like the locals, have a Stakantchik (ice cream or cooked corn), and enjoy the atmosphere of the place: that’s one of the interesting things to do in Moscow to discover the city.

• Where? Krymsky Val 9. 20 minutes’ walk from Krasny Oktyabr, along the quays.

Sparrow Hill and Moscow State University

The Sparrow Hill, Vorobiovy Gori in Russian, is the highest point in Moscow. It is rather known to Russians, but less to travelers. A nice view on Moscow opens from the hill, and in particular on the Luzhniki Stadium. In addition, on the hill itself is the Moscow State University: an impressive skyscraper from the Soviet era.

• How to get there? By bus T7 (35 min) from Oktyaborskaya station, near Gorki Park. By metro (Vorobiovy Gorki station) + climb the hill on foot. On foot along the Moskva along the Gorky Park (1h30) + climb in funiculars.

Good to know! It is possible to cross the Moskva river by funicular. We actually tested it and it was pretty cool! That is one of our favorite things to do in Moscow!

What to do in Moscow in 3 days?

If you are going to visit Moscow in 3 days, it would be interesting to dive into the Soviet era which strongly marked the country and the city. After the Bolshevik Revolution, the capital was transferred from Saint Petersburg to Moscow, in order to mark the change of power. Moscow then became the world showcase for communist ideology. Here are the best things to do in Moscow for 3-day-trip!

VDNKh, visit Moscow of the Soviet era

VDNKh is a large exhibition center in the north of Moscow, where there are still several striking witnesses of the USSR. The most interesting are the Museum of Cosmonauts and the Statue of the Worker and the Kolkhozian , which will certainly impress you with its size!

GULAG History Museum

The explanations of the museum are very well done. We really have the feeling of going back in time. If you are going to visit Moscow in 3 days and you are interested in history and this subject in particular, I recommend this museum. Visit the GULAG History Museum is one of the most interesting things to do in Moscow.

Discover the Patriarche Pounds district

It’s a nice neighborhood in Moscow where you can come across rather affluent locals, but not necessarily very bling-bling. Take a walk in this area is really a cool thing to do in Moscow! In addition, the Ponds of Patriarch is one of the places of Bulgakov’s novel “Master and Margarita”. As this is an interesting area to see, we have included it in a walking tour of Moscow. The route ends at the Moscow Kremlin, which is very convenient, because you will be able to visit Moscow in 3 days by optimizing your trips.

What to visit in Moscow in 4 days: TOP things to do in Moscow in 4 days

If you want to visit Moscow in 3 days, you will already see a lot of things. On the other hand, if you stay one more day, you have plenty to do! The Novodevichy Convent, the Tchistie Proudy district and the Izmaylovo Kremlin are very good candidates for you, if you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days.

Visiting Novodevichy Convent in Moscow

The Novodevichy Convent is one of the most brilliant examples of Russian architecture, according to UNESCO. This beautiful complex was built in 1524 and today consists of the convent, but also of a cemetery whose status could be compared to that of Père-Lachaise in Paris. Visiting Novodevichy Convent is one of the great things to do in Moscow, if you want to go a little bit outside of the center!

Discovering Tchistye Proudy district

It’s one of the most popular areas of Moscow, with many cafes, restaurants and bars nearby. It is therefore a place to discover if you want to visit Moscow in 4 days. It is just as pleasant for a stroll as for the discovery of local life. For example, in winter the pond turns into an ice rink.

Visiting the Izmaylovo Kremlin, one of the coolest things to do in Moscow!

The Izmaylovo Kremlin is more of a tourist than a historic place. On the other hand, it is a pretty impressive place to discover, especially on weekends. Inside the Kremlin, there is a flea market where you can find a little bit of everything, but mostly good souvenirs to bring from Moscow. For example, chapka, traditional Russian scarves or matryoshka (Russian dolls). Add the Kremlin and the Izmaïlovo market to your itinerary if you are going to visit Moscow in 4 days, because it is a nice and very colorful place! Visiting the Izmailovo Kremlin is one of the things to do in Moscow, if you want to put colors in your Instagram account! 😉

In 4 days, we will have the opportunity to see several Moscow: Classic Moscow, Moscow of old Russia, Soviet Moscow and a little bit of the new Moscow. So what to visit in Moscow on the 5th day of travel?

What to visit in Moscow in 5 days?

Art lovers will be delighted to discover the Tretyakov Gallery and the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts, while others will prefer to stroll along Arbat Street, see the buildings of Moskva-City or visit Bunker 42.

Admiring Russian art at Tretyakov Gallery

Founded in 1856 by an industrialist and great lover of art, the gallery has grown over the decades, and then bequeathed to the state. Today the collection includes more than 140,000 pieces, 15,000 of which are paintings. Visiting the Tretyakov Gallery is one of the things to do in Moscow if you want to discover Russian art!

• Where? Pereoulok Lavrouchinski 10. A 5-minute walk from Tretiakovskaya station
• Opening hours. Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Closed on Mondays.
• Entry tickets. 500 RUB.

Visiting the Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts

The Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts presents the treasures of ancient Egypt, the paintings of Rembrandt and Cézanne, a fine collection of Impressionism.

• Where? Ulitsa Volkhonka 12
• Opening hours. Daily: 10: 00-20: 00, except Thursday: 11: 00-21: 00. Closed on Mondays. The boxes close an hour before closing.
• Entry tickets. The prices vary according to the collections from 300 to 750 RUB.

Walking on Arbat Street

All Russians know Rue Arbat. So, walking on Arbat street is one of the things to do in Moscow. However, after the years, little by little it became very touristy. This is a pedestrian street only. There are souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes there, but it is no longer the most authentic neighborhood in the city.

Seeing the buildings of Moskva-City (Moscow City)

Moskva-City is Moscow’s business center, much like Paris’s Defense district. The skyscrapers of Moskva-City are among the tallest in Europe: 373 meters high! Very nice place to see at dusk.

Good to know! You can admire a nice view of Moscow City from the docks of Tarasa Shevchenko. It’s especially beautiful in the evening with all the lights on.

Bunker 42, one of the most unusual things to do in Moscow

Bunker 42 is a secret military complex which was to be used by the Soviets in the event of a nuclear attack: a space of 7000 m² 65 meters underground!

• Where? 5 Kotelnitcheski Lane, 11.
• Prices. 2200 RUB per person
• Opening hours. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Restaurant inside. Original, but rather a tourist trap.

What to visit in Moscow in 6 days or more?

There are still so many places to see, because Moscow is a big megalopolis and there is always something exciting to do there. For example: the ancient Kolomenskoye village or the WINZAVOD contemporary art center .

If you are interested in history and want to see Russian cities on a rather “human scale”, it would certainly be interesting for you to discover the cities of the Golden Ring . For example, it is very easy to get to Sergey Posad from Moscow (less than 2 hours in train). Visiting the Golden Ring is one of the best things to do in Moscow if you are staying more than a 5-6 days.

There are still plenty of places to see in Moscow, however I did my best to list here the best things to do in Moscow, what to see in Moscow in one day, but also in 2, 3, 4 or 5 days in Moscow!

Moscow travel tips:

• Airport transfer: how to go to Moscow?
• Where to stay in Moscow (hotels, districts)?
• Tourist voucher for Russian visa
• Christmas and New Year in Moscow
• What is the best time to visit Moscow?

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Moscow

Written by Diana Bocco Updated Dec 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Moscow is one of Europe's most enigmatic destinations, home to a fascinating history and colorful, awe-inspiring architecture you won't find anywhere else in the world. Moscow might be one of the most populous cities in the world with over 11 million inhabitants, but this hasn't changed its strong cultural and social traditions.

Walk the cobblestone streets of the Red Square or the banks of the Moskva River early in the morning, and it's hard to tell what century you're in.

Tsarist architecture, must-see churches, and glamorous shopping opportunities blend together for a visual experience you won't forget. For ideas on what to see and do while visiting Russia, here's our list of top tourist attractions in Moscow.

1. Marvel at the Size of the Kremlin

2. catch a performance at the bolshoi theatre, 3. shop at the luxurious gum, 4. make your way into lenin's mausoleum, 5. spend an hour (or three) at red square, 6. discover history at the museum of cosmonautics, 7. ride the stunning moscow metro, 8. explore the moscow state integrated museum-reserve, 9. spend a rainy day at the tretyakov gallery, 10. walk up and down arbat street, 11. stop by the vdnkh all-russian exhibition centre, 12. wander around gorky park, where to stay in moscow for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in moscow.

Moscow's most recognizable structure is without a doubt the Kremlin, a 15th-century fortified complex that covers an area of 275,000 square meters surrounded by walls built in the 1400s.

The Grand Kremlin Palace -which has over 700 rooms- was once home to the Tsar family and is now the official residence of the president of the Russian Federation, although most heads of state choose to reside elsewhere.

The massive complex also includes many other buildings, some of which are open to the public and can be visited regularly. Aside from three cathedrals (including one where the Tsars were once crowned) and a number of towers, the Kremlin is also home to the Armory building, a museum holding everything from the royal crown and imperial carriages to the ivory throne of Ivan the Terrible and Fabergé eggs.

The Bolshoi Theater is home to the largest and one of the oldest ballet and opera companies in the world . While the theater has undergone several major renovations over the past century-including a recent one in 2011 to restore some of the imperial architectural details-it still retains all of its Neoclassical grandeur.

The Bolshoi Theater you see today opened in 1824, after several older versions burned down. Inside, red velvet, a three-tiered crystal chandelier, and gilt moldings give the place a Byzantine-Renassaince grandiose feel like no other.

Catching a show from the resident ballet and opera troupes is a treat, as the theater often presents a number of classic performances, such as Tchaikovsky's Mazeppa and Rachmaninoff's Francesca da Rimini, both of which originally premiered here.

Moscow's oldest and most upscale shopping center is an architectural marvel. GUM (short for Glávnyj Universálnyj Magazín or "Main Universal Store") was built in the late 1800s in neo-Russian style to showcase a beautiful mix of a steel skeleton and 20,000 panels of glass forming an arched roof.

This was a unique construction at the time, since the glass had to be strong enough to support the snow-heavy Russian winters. The building is just as impressive outside, with all three levels covered in marble and granite.

While GUM is no longer the largest shopping center in Moscow, it's still by far the most beautiful. Home to brands like Gucci and Manolo Blahnik, this might not be the ideal destination for most budget-conscious visitors, but the beauty of the building itself is worth a visit.

On the third floor, there are also great dining options, including a Soviet-style canteen that serves traditional Russian food, and a stand selling ice cream made by hand using an original 1954 recipe originally approved by the Soviet government.

Lenin's Mausoleum, the final resting place of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin, occupies a central spot in Red Square. His body has been in the mausoleum since his death in 1924-and although the original plan was for him to be buried after a short period of public display for mourning, the plan quickly changed.

After over 100,000 visited the tomb over a period of six weeks, it was decided that a new sarcophagus and a more permanent display space could actually preserve Lenin's body for much longer than expected-and Lenin's Mausoleum was built.

Over the years, the mausoleum and its marble stairs also became the main spot from where Soviet leaders would watch parades and events happening in Red Square.

Lenin's embalmed body can still be seen today, lying down in a bulletproof glass sarcophagus as if he's sleeping. While a visit to the mausoleum is certainly unusual, it has become a must-do for history buffs looking to understand how Lenin's legacy truly changed the nation. Come ready to wait, though -there are usually lines to get in.

All of Moscow's main streets start at Red Square, so it's easy to see why this is considered the heart of the city. A massive space of 330 meters by 70 meters, the square is flanked by the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, two cathedrals, and the State Historical Museum.

In 1945, a massive Victory Parade was held here to celebrate the defeat of Nazi Germany by the Soviet Armed Forces.

St. Basil's Cathedral , one of the most recognizable buildings on the square, was built in 1555. The unique cathedral has architectural details inspired by Byzantine and Asian design, as well as details that resemble those found in famous mosques. There are nine individual chapels inside the church, all decorated with colorful mural art.

Both the square itself and the Kremlin are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . On weekends, there are sometimes stalls selling souvenirs and traditional items here, such as matryoshka (Russian nesting dolls), at the entrance of the square.

At one point, Russia and the US were toe-to-toe when it came to space exploration. While that might no longer be the case, the museum's amazing collection-which includes over 85,000 items-is still awe-inspiring.

Main exhibits include the space capsule used by Yuri Gagarin , the first human to travel into outer space; a USSR flag with moon fragments; a Soviet spacesuit; and a rocket propulsion unit from the 1960s. A special two-story hall showcases sections of the Mir space station interior, and there are also models of the first sputniks and a replica miniature spaceship.

English-language tours are available, and there's also a Cinema Hall showing subtitled short films about the history of space exploration programs and the first manned space flight.

The museum is located inside the base of the monument to the Conquerors of Space, which was built almost 20 years before the museum opened.

Riding the Moscow metro is an experience all in itself, but even just heading underground to walk through the stations is something no visitor should miss. With 223 stations and 12 metro lines crosscutting through Moscow, however, this can be tricky, so visiting at least a few of the most impressive ones is a good start.

Arbatskaya station was designed by a skyscraper architect, so it's no surprise that it features multicolored granite slabs and impressive bronze chandeliers.

Park Kultury station , located next to Gorky Park, is covered in marble and features reliefs of people involved in sports, while Teatralnaya station is decorated with porcelain figures dancing and wearing traditional Russian costumes.

The metro is open between 5:30am and 1:00am but it's very crowded in the early morning and after 4pm, so it's better to visit in the late morning or early afternoon to really appreciate the architecture without the crowds.

The Moscow State Integrated Art and Historical Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve is a cultural open-air museum complex comprised of four different historical sites.

The most important site, the Kolomenskoye Estate, was once the summer residence of Tsars as far back as the 14 th century. The complex, which covers almost 300 hectares, is home to fairy-tale wooden palaces; a tent-roof stone church built in the 1500s; a water tower; fort towers and structures; and the 24-room Museum of Wooden Architecture , which includes the restored dining room of Tsar Alexei I.

Beautiful manicured gardens , riverside picnic areas, and a massive collection of both artifacts and structures make this a great destination to help you see what medieval Russia looked like. English-language tours are available, but you're also free to wander the grounds on your own.

The largest collection of Russian art in the world sits here, with over 180,000 paintings, sculptures, and religious art dating back to over a millennia ago. The gallery, built using beautiful red and white colors from classical Russian architecture, is located near the Kremlin and it was built in the early 20 th century.

Significant art pieces include the Vladimir Mother of God; a Byzantine icon of the Virgin and child dating back to the 1100s; Andrei Rublev's The Trinity icon from the 15 th century; and several works by Ilya Repin, the most famous realist painter in Russia.

On the grounds of the museum, there is also an 86-meter-tall statue of Peter the Great, as well as a number of Socialist Realism sculptures.

Moscow's one-kilometer-long pedestrian street has been around since the 15 th century. Originally a trade route in the outskirts of the city, Arbat Street is now very centrally located, home to posh buildings and lots of places to eat and shop.

Beautiful street lamps and two significant statues-one of Princess Turandot (from Puccini's last opera) and one of Soviet-era poet Bulat Okudzhava-adorn the street, which fills up with both locals and tourists on evenings and weekends.

A great place to pick up souvenirs or sit down at an outdoor café, Arbat Street also offers a chance to visit the former home of poet Alexander Pushkin and the café both Anton Chekhov and Leo Tolstoy used to visit.

Although it was originally designed as a general-purpose trade show venue, this park complex now houses amusement rides , ice rinks , and a number of galleries and other attractions for all ages.

The park's most famous landmarks are the Moskvarium, a marine biology center home to over 8000 species of marine animals, the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art, and a shopping center selling traditional products from former Soviet countries.

There's even a film museum showing Soviet cartoons or even a full-length film (for an extra fee) and an education center offering masterclasses on everything from becoming a barista to video montage (call or write in advance to find out which ones are English-friendly).

Soviet-era pavilions, sculptures, and fountains abound here as well, including the famous Friendship of the Peoples Fountain, which features statues of women dressed in costumes from different former Soviet countries.

Named after the famous Russian writer Maxim Gorky (who was nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature five times but never won it) and sitting right across the Moskva River, Gorky Park covers 120 hectares of beautiful ponds and green spaces.

Popular with both locals and tourists, the park offers a variety of things to enjoy-from sunbeds, hammocks, and drinking fountains to free yoga classes and children's playgrounds. There's free Wi-Fi and sockets for charging your phone, as well as many food stands and plenty of wild animals, including deer, rabbits, and pheasants.

Visitors can rent paddle boats and bicycles to explore the park-and from May to October, there is also an open-air movie theater, as well as scheduled presentations by street performers, musicians, and artists. Gorky Park attracts the young and old, so don't be surprised to see a mix of people exercising, playing chess, and sunbathing.

Luxury Hotels :

• Lotte Hotel Moscow is one of the top 5-star properties in Moscow offering the largest Royal Suite in Russia. The trendy rooms and suites here all have contemporary style and great city views. On-site amenities are plentiful. There are two restaurants: one serving contemporary Italian fare, and the other Japanese. There is an impressively lit indoor swimming pool, a well-known spa, and a state-of-the-art gym.
• Another excellent luxury hotel is the Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow . The residential-style property is in the heart of Moscow just next to the Bolshoi Theatre and within walking distance of the Kremlin and Red Square. The rooms and suites have been opulently designed by Tony Chi. The on-site restaurant serves a mix of European and Armenian specialities. There is also a Japanese sushi bar and a rooftop lounge with fabulous city views.
• The St. Regis Moscow Nikolskaya also has a central location just a few minutes from the Kremlin and Red Square. The 5-star property has a mix of elegant rooms and suites, including interconnecting room options for families with kids. There are multiple restaurants on-site including an Italian bistro. Other amenities include the fabulous Iridium Spa, which does a full range of treatments and has an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and steam room.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• Palmira Business Club is a top mid-range choice. The contemporary lifestyle hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, including options for families. Suites are quite spacious and have kitchenettes. Amenities here include a complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant, a hot tub, sauna, and spa. There is also a fitness center.
• The trendy Mercure Moscow Baumanskaya offers a mix of rooms and suites with contemporary decor. The mid-range hotel can arrange airport transportation and offers baggage storage. Other amenities include a restaurant and room service. The front desk is open 24 hours.
• Boutique Hotel Brighton is about 10 minutes from the city center in a leafy park area. It offers excellent value for money and has charming rooms and suites with sound-proof windows and doors, as well as blackout curtains. A complimentary breakfast is served, and there is also an indoor swimming pool.

Budget Hotels :

• Hotel Ibis Budget Moscow Panfilovskaya is about a 15-minute drive from Moscow's downtown, and it's within walking distance from a metro station that will take you there. The soundproof rooms at this budget property are clean, comfortable, and can sleep up to three people. The hotel is pet friendly, has paid parking available on-site, and also has a salon.
• If you just need a budget hotel near the airport then check out Aviator Hotel Sheremetyevo . Located right at the airport, it has soundproof rooms, including options for families. Amenities include an indoor play area for kids, a sauna and swimming pool, and a free breakfast.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring Russia: Whether you are interested in history, nature, or architecture, there's much to see in Russia. For a good introduction to some of the most fascinating spots in the country, take a look at our article on the Best Places to Visit in Russia . For more on Russia's second-largest city and all it has to offer, check out our piece on the Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. Petersburg .

The Top Things to Do in Moscow

As a vibrant capital and Europe’s largest city, Moscow is a powerful mix of history and edginess, full of world-famous sites. Russia ’s capital was just a small town when it was first recorded 800 years ago, but there is enough here today to keep you busy for months. Here’s the ultimate first-timer’s list of things to do in Moscow, from exploring the Kremlin and St Basil’s Cathedral to getting a cable car from Sparrow Hills or skating in Gorky Park.

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The heart of Russia’s capital, Red Square is surrounded by striking sites including the Kremlin, St Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s Mausoleum, and is where so much of the country’s history has unfolded. What was once a humble market square has become known as the place where rebels have been executed, protests staged and military strength put on show throughout Russia’s tumultuous history.

However long you’re visiting Moscow for, you must set aside some time to soak up the archetypal image of Russia’s capital with the glistening rainbow roofs of St Basil’s Cathedral. The onion-shaped domes were designed to make the building look like flames on a bonfire. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it so beautiful he ordered that the architect be blinded so they would never surpass this creation.

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Lenin’s Mausoleum

The love-it-or-hate-it of Russia attractions, Lenin’s Mausoleum houses a glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of the legendary Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. First opened to the public in August 1924, the Mausoleum attracts around 2.5m visitors a year, who presumably don’t mind queueing and going through a thorough search to enter Lenin’s presence.

Moscow Kremlin

The biggest active fortress in Europe , Moscow’s Kremlin offers a week’s worth of attractions on its own. Once you get behind the 2,235m (7,332ft) of walls, there are five squares to wander around, various buildings to explore, 20 towers to learn the names of, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see.

State Historical Museum

An attraction in its own right, the State Historical Museum, founded in 1872 by Ivan Zabelin and Aleksey Uvarov, was once the principal medicine store, also containing antiquaries owned by the royal family. It now houses an impressive collection, which includes relics of prehistoric tribes that once inhabited the territory of present-day Russia, the country’s largest coin collection, as well as 6th-century manuscripts and artworks collected by the Romanov dynasty, among other treasures.

Russia’s main department store, GUM’s stunning interior houses a variety of high-end boutiques. Built between 1890 and 1893 and known as the Upper Trading Rows until the 1920s, the legendary store is now home to over 100 boutiques selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your list of what to do in Moscow, the GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries.

Arbat Street

An elegant, pedestrianised street right in the historic city centre, Arbat is one of Moscow’s most touristy spots. With lots of cafes and restaurants , live music performers and caricaturists, as well as souvenir shops and tattoo parlours, monuments and a theatre, Arbat draws crowds of visitors every day.

Tretyakov Gallery

Built between 1900 and 1905, Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. Designed by Viktor Vasnetsov, the gallery is home to one of the largest collections of Russian art in the world. Here you can see icons including Rublev’s Trinity, and pre-revolutionary masterpieces such as Girl With Peaches by Valentin Serov, Demon by Mikhail Vrubel and The Rooks Have Come Back by Alexei Savrasov.

Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts

The largest foreign art museum in Moscow comprises three branches housing a collection of incredible works by masters of ancient civilisations, the Italian Renaissance and the Dutch Golden Age. The main building contains masterpieces by Botticelli, Tiepolo, Veronese and Rembrandt, some of which had never been displayed before. The Gallery of European and American Art, located next door, stores an incredible collection of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings.

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park offers entertainment for every taste: outdoor dancing sessions, yoga and fitness classes all summer, as well as beach volleyball and ping-pong, rollerblading, skateboarding and cycling opportunities, along with Segway and boat rentals. In winter, half the park turns into one of the city’s biggest ice skating rinks. The park is also home to an open-air movie theatre and one of the less obvious places to visit in Moscow for art lovers, the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art.

Sparrow Hills

If you take a walk from Gorky Park along the Moscow river embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbour, here you can take a closer look at the tallest of the seven Stalinist skyscrapers (the Moscow State University), admire the view from the observation deck or get a cable car ride.

Bolshoi Theatre

Opened in 1856, the legendary Bolshoi Theatre is one of the pest places in Moscow for an evening of entertainment. It’s the home of Bolshoi Ballet and the Bolshoi Opera – among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world. Alongside the classics, the theatre also stages contemporary works by young international composers and choreographers. The theatre’s imperial decor was restored in a six-year refurbishment that finished in 2011.

VDNKh All-Russian Exhibition Centre

The enormous VDNKh contains about 400 buildings and is said to cover an area bigger than Monaco. The centre started out as the all-Soviet agricultural exhibition in 1935, and now serves as an open-air museum of Soviet architecture. With the iconic fountain at its entrance, the park complex is home to a number of museums, shopping pavilions, multiple eateries , a massive oceanarium, a zip-line, a horse-riding rink and a Russian space shuttle. In winter a skating rink opens – the largest in Europe.

Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

The former summer residence of Empress Catherine the Great was commissioned in 1775, and succumbed to deterioration during the Soviet era. The whole of Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve has been fundamentally renovated since the 1980s to look even brighter than the original. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything: from handmade items to Soviet antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces, where you can hide from the city buzz.

Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time. Now it’s still the best observation deck with a glass floor and 360 degree views. So be sure to book one of the hourly tours; the speedy elevators will take you 337m (1,105ft) in no time.

Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city centre will take you to Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Medieval Moscow looked like. Here you’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow and a favourite estate of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

Novodevichy Convent

Founded in 1524, the Novodevichy Convent is a place steeped in history. Behind the walls that once served as a fortress, there are four cathedrals with a fascinating icon collection and a venerable cemetery. Back in the day it was common for women from noble families to retire in monasteries, and the Novodevichy Convent had some notable residents such as Princess Sophia and Eudoxia Lopukhina, both related to Peter the Great (and imprisoned by him). The former was his half-sister who claimed the throne; the latter was his first wife, who stood in the way of his marriage to Catherine I.

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

One of Russia’s most visited cathedrals, Christ the Saviour is a truly remarkable site. The grandiose cathedral was built in the 1990s where a 19th-century church of the same name stood before it was demolished in 1931 by the Soviet authorities. Designed to look like its predecessor, the modern building also contains the icon Christ Not Painted by Hand by Sorokin, which survived the demolition of the original cathedral. The cathedral was the site of feminist punk collective Pussy Riot’s 2012 protest that led to the imprisonment of several members.

Moscow City

Home to Europe’s tallest office building, Moscow City, also referred to as Moscow International Business Centre, is one Russia’s most ambitious engineering projects of recent years. With its various high-rises, the business district is where you should come for great crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

Izmailovsky Market

For those on a budget, ditch window shopping at the exclusive GUM and take a foray into the bustling world of Izmailovsky, Russia’s best flea market. Delve into the bargains, rifle through the artisan crafts, admire the local handiwork and be tempted by the silky smooth traditional fur hats. Expect walls of matryoshka dolls, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and glittering hand-crafted jewellery. Head up to one of Izmailovsky market’s cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

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19 Unique And Fabulous Experiences In Moscow

• Destinations

Thinking of visiting Russia? When visiting such a famous city, one must, of course, visit the iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists. Once you’ve seen the sights that are on most travelers’ lists, it’s time to branch out and visit some of the lesser-known sites, and there are some fascinating places to see and things to do.

I know this list is long, but I just couldn’t help myself. You probably won’t have the time to see them all. But that’s okay. Just scroll through the list and choose what sounds the most interesting to you. Where possible, make sure to book in advance, as things can get crowded, especially during high season.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin, And Surroundings

Red Square (Krasnya Ploshad) is the heart and soul of Russia, and where much of the country’s history has unfolded. This is the most famous landmark in Moscow and indeed the whole country, it’s an absolute must-do! The square is always full of people and has a rather festive atmosphere!

Saint Basil’s Cathedral

This is the famous church with the rainbow-colored, onion-domed roof. The cathedral was commissioned in the 1500s by Ivan the Terrible and according to legend, the Tsar thought it was so beautiful, that he ordered that the architect’s eyes be cut out afterward, so he could never build anything more beautiful! He wasn’t called Ivan the Terrible for no reason!

Lenin’s Mausoleum

The “love-it-or-hate-it” of tourist attractions in Russia. A glass sarcophagus containing the embalmed body of Russian revolutionary, Vladimir Lenin. It may seem a bit bizarre to display the mummy of a person, but it has been there for almost half a century and the 2.5 million visitors who come each year, clearly feel the queuing and thorough body search are worth it, to be in Lenin’s presence.

Pro Tip: no photos and no loud talking are allowed inside the Mausoleum.

Eternal Flame

There is an Eternal Flame in honor of an unknown soldier on the left side of Red Square. The hourly changing of the guards is worth seeing.

The Kremlin is the official residence of the Russian president. You can see it from the outside, or you can take an excursion to one of the museums located inside. This is the biggest active fortress in Europe, and holds a week’s worth of attractions! Once behind the 7,332-feet of walls, there are five squares, four cathedrals, 20 towers, various museums, and the world’s largest bell and cannon to see. Worth a special mention is the Armory Chamber that houses a collection of the famous Faberge Eggs.

Pro Tip: You can only go inside the Kremlin if you are part of a tourist group.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

Bolshoi Theatre translates to “The Big Theatre” in Russian, and the building is home to both the Bolshoi Ballet and Bolshoi Opera — among the oldest and most famous ballet and opera companies in the world.

Pro Tip: It’s hard to get an inexpensive ticket, so if you’re reading well in advance of going to Moscow then try buying tickets on the official website . Last-minute tickets cost around $250 per person. If this is out of your budget, about an hour before a performance, you can try buying a ticket at the entrance from a reseller. Most can speak enough English to negotiate the price.

Tour the Bolshoi Theatre: You can take a group guided tour of the Bolshoi Theatre which focuses on the history and architecture of the theatre and behind the scenes. There’s an English language tour that lasts 2 hours and costs around $300 for a group of up to six.

3. Luxury Shopping At GUM And TSUM

Russia’s main department store, GUM, has a stunning interior that is home to over 100 high-end boutiques, selling a variety of brands: from luxurious Dior to the more affordable Zara. Even if shopping is not on your Moscow to-do list GUM is still worth a visit; the glass-roofed arcade faces Red Square and offers a variety of classy eateries. TSUM, one of the biggest luxury malls in town, is right behind the Bolshoi and GUM. It’s an imposing building with lots of history, and worth a visit just for its design and its glass roof.

4. Christ The Savior Cathedral

This is one of Russia’s most visited cathedrals and is a newer addition to the gorgeous array of Muscovite cathedrals, but don’t let its young age fool you. After perestroika, in the early 90s, the revived Russian Orthodox Church was given permission to build a cathedral on this site. It did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church. The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes, gold, gorgeous paintings, and decor!

The cathedral is located just a few hundred feet away from the Kremlin and was the site of the infamous Pussy Riot protest against Putin back in 2012.

Pro Tip: Bring a shawl to cover your hair as is the local custom.

5. Gorky Park

Moscow’s premier green space, Gorky Park (Park Gor’kogo) is the city’s biggest and most famous park. There is entertainment on offer here for every taste, from outdoor dancing sessions to yoga classes, volleyball, ping-pong, rollerblading, and bike and boat rental in summer. In winter, half the park turns into a huge ice skating rink. Gorky Park is also home to an open-air movie theater and the Garage Museum of Contemporary Art. There is also Muzeon Art Park, a dynamic contemporary space with a unique collection of 700 sculptures. It is located right in front of Gorky Park.

6. Sparrow Hills Park

If you take a walk from Gorky Park, along the Moscow River embankment, you’ll end up in the city’s other legendary park, Sparrow Hills. Although the park doesn’t offer as many activities as its hip neighbor, it has a great panoramic view of the city

Pro Tip: You can take a free walking tour to all of the above attractions with an English-speaking guide.

7. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow, and see all the famous landmarks, but from a different angle, is from the Moscow River. Take a river cruise. Avoid the tourist crowds. There are little nameless old boats that do the cruise, but if you are looking for a more luxurious experience take the Radisson Blu cruise and enjoy the sights with some good food and a glass of wine.

8. Metro Hopping

Inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow Metro system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world. Started in Stalinist times, each station is a work of art in its own right. I’d recommend touring the stations between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. This way, you’ll be able to properly see it without the crowds. Ideally, I’d recommend taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide with GuruWalk, who will tell you stories of forgotten stations and how the history of the country is interconnected with the metro development. If going by yourself, then I definitely recommend checking out: Mayakovskaya, Ploschad Revolutsii, Kievskaya, Kropotkinskaya, Kurskaya, and Novoslobodskaya stations.

Visit the free Moscow Metro Museum: For real train enthusiasts, located in the southern vestibule of Sportivnaya station is a small free museum. Here you can take a peek into the driver’s cabin, see a collection of metro tokens from different cities, and see different models of a turnstile, traffic lights, escalator, and more.

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings and the one with the best view is the main building of the Moscow State University. Although this is a little outside the city center, the view is more than worth it.

10. Izmailovsky Market

Mostly known for the city’s largest flea market, the district of Izmaylovo is home to a maze of shops where you can get just about anything, from artisan crafts to traditional fur hats, handcrafted jewelry, fascinating Soviet memorabilia, and antiquities. It’s also one of Moscow’s largest green spaces. There are often no price tags, so be prepared to haggle a bit. Head to one of the market cafes for a warming mulled wine before continuing your shopping spree.

The History of Vodka Museum is found here, and the museum’s restaurant is the perfect place to sample various brands of the national drink.

Once you’ve covered the more touristy spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer, and the places below will also be full of locals! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend the spots below!

11. Moscow City

With a completely different vibe, Moscow City (also referred to as Moscow International Business Center) is like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressive tall glass buildings. Here is where you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, like Ruski Restaurant, the highest restaurant both in Moscow City and in Europe. Moscow City is great for crowd-free shopping and the best panoramic views of the city.

12. Tretyakov Gallery

Tretyakov Gallery started as the private collection of the Tretyakov brothers, who were 19th-century philanthropists. They gave their private collection to the government after their deaths. If there is just one museum you visit in Moscow, I recommend this one!

13. Tsaritsyno Museum-Reserve

Tsaritsyno was a residence of Catherine the Great more than two centuries ago. It became derelict during the Soviet era but has now been fully renovated. With its opulently decorated buildings, gardens, meadows, and forests, Tsaritsyno Park is the perfect place for a green respite in Moscow.

14. Kolomenskoye

A 10-minute metro ride from the city center is Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve, where you can get an idea of what Russia looked like 200 years ago. You’ll find ancient churches (one dating back to the 16th century), the oldest garden in Moscow, and the wonderful fairytale wooden palace of Tsar Alexey Mikhailovich, father of Peter the Great.

15. Ostankino TV Tower

Built in 1967, Ostankino TV Tower was the tallest free-standing construction in the world at the time, it’s still the 8th tallest building in the world and the highest in Europe. It’s also the best observation deck, with a glass floor and 360-degree views. The speedy elevators take you 1,105 feet in next to no time.

Pro Tip: You need to book in advance; entrance is based on specific ticket times and the capacity is limited and only a certain number of tourists are allowed per day. Don’t forget your passport, you’ll need it to get through security.

16. Zaryadye Park

Zaryadye is a newly opened, landscaped urban park so new you won’t find it in a lot of tour guides. The park is near Red Square and is divided into four climatic zones: forest, steppe, tundra, and floodplains, depicting the variety of climatic zones in Russia.

These last three suggestions are a little quirky, but all are really worth checking out.

17. Museum Of Soviet Arcade Games

Release your inner child playing on 66 arcade machines from the Soviet era! What a great way to spend a couple of hours when tired of visiting museums and palaces. The staff speaks excellent English and are happy to explain how the games work.

18. Moscow Rooftop Tour

Take a 1-hour private Moscow rooftop tour with an experienced roofer. I can just about guarantee none of your friends will be able to say they’ve done it! For your comfort, I recommend wearing comfortable shoes. Take your camera, there are some amazing photo opportunities out there!

19. Sanduny Banya

This classical Russian bathhouse opened its doors in 1808 and is famous for combining traditional Russian banya services with luxurious interiors and service. If you enjoy spas and saunas, then you should experience a Russian bathhouse at least once in your life! Go with an open mind and hire a specialist to steam you as it’s meant to be done — by being beaten repeatedly with a besom (a leafy branch)! This is said to improve circulation, but is best done by a professional!

So there you have my list of things to do in Moscow. I could have gone on and on and on, but I didn’t want to try your patience! There are so many things to do in this vibrant city that you’ll definitely need to allocate several days for exploring.

Here are some other reasons to visit Moscow and Russia:

• 7 Reasons To Put Moscow On Your Travel Bucket List
• Russia 30 Years (And 30 Pounds) Ago
• Massive Mysterious Craters Appearing Again In Siberia

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, before moving to Africa at the age of 21, Sarah Kingdom is a mountain climber and guide, traveler, yoga teacher, trail runner, and mother of two. When she is not climbing or traveling she lives on a cattle ranch in central Zambia. She guides and runs trips regularly in India, Nepal, Tibet, Russia, and Ethiopia, taking climbers up Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro numerous times a year.

Moscow concert attack: More than 60 reported dead; ISIS claims responsibility

This live blog has ended. For the most recent updates, please click here .

What we know about the Moscow concert attack

• Men in camouflage broke into a Moscow concert hall and opened fire, shooting an unknown number of people, Russia’s prosecutor general said.
• The terror group ISIS has claimed responsibility but did not provide proof of the claim, which was made on ISIS-affiliated news agency Amaq on Telegram.
• Russia's Investigative Committee said that more than 60 people are dead after the attack at Crocus City Hall. Officials have said more than 100 others were injured.
• A fire also started inside Crocus City Hall, a large concert venue northwest of central Moscow. Firefighters have evacuated about 100 people from the basement of the building and efforts are underway to rescue people from the roof, Russian emergency officials said.
• Russia officials said they were investigating the attack as a terrorist act.
• A popular rock band was scheduled to play what appeared to be a sold-out show at the venue, which has a maximum capacity of more than 9,000 people.

Three children among those killed, state media reports

Chantal Da Silva

Three children were among the more than 60 people killed in yesterday's attack at Crocus City Hall, Russian news agency RIA Novosti reported, citing the Russian Ministry of Health.

Officials have warned that the death toll connected to the deadly incident may increase as the investigation continues.

Xi sends condolences to Putin

Chinese President Xi Jinping sent condolences to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday after a deadly shooting at a concert hall near Moscow, saying China opposes all forms of terrorism and strongly condemns terrorist attacks.

China firmly supports the Russian government’s efforts to maintain national security and stability, Xi said, according to CCTV state television. 

Moscow bloodshed comes two decades after some of worst attacks in Russia

Phil Helsel

The shooting attacks in Moscow are the latest in a series of deadly terror attacks in the country since the 2000s.

In 2004, militants from Chechnya and elsewhere took hostages at a school in Beslan in southern Russia.

The militants demanded a withdrawal from Chechnya. Hostages were kept in a gymnasium, and 334 died — half of them children — when gunfire and explosions erupted when it was stormed. Hostages’ families were critical of the rescue operation. Russian prosecutors later cleared authorities .

Two years prior, in 2002, Chechen separatists attacked the Dubrovka Theater in Moscow and took more than 700 people hostage. Russian forces used gas, and 129 hostages died. The attackers were killed.

More recently, in 2017 a suicide bomber from Kyrgyzstan killed 15 people as well as himself in an attack on a St. Petersburg subway. In 2013, two bombers killed a combined 34 people in attacks on a railway station and a trolleybus in Volgograd.

The group Islamic State, also known as ISIS, claimed responsibility for the attacks Friday at the Crocus City Hall venue.

Putin wishes victims well, deputy prime minister says

President Vladimir Putin is thinking of those injured in today’s attack and thanked doctors, a Russian government official said according to state media.

State media TASS reported that “Putin wished all those injured in the emergency at Crocus City Hall to recover and conveyed his gratitude to the doctors, Golikova said,” referring to Tatiana Golikova deputy prime minister for social policy, labor, health and pension provision.

More than 60 dead, and death toll could grow, Russian agency says

Russia’s Investigative Committee said Saturday that more than 60 people have died in the attack, and warned the number may increase.

“The bodies of the dead are being examined. It has been previously established that more than 60 people died as a result of the terrorist attack. Unfortunately, the number of victims may increase,” according to the Investigative Committee, which is a federal state agency.

Russia's Ministry of Internal Affairs and the security agency FSB are continuing to investigate, the committee said in a statement, and weapons and ammunition have been found.

U.S. warned Russia about planned terrorist attack in Moscow, NSC says

Monica Alba

The United States shared information about a potential terrorist attack in Moscow with Russia’s government earlier this month, a spokesperson for the National Security Council said.

The U.S. Embassy in Russia on March 7 warned U.S. citizens to avoid crowds and said it was monitoring reports that extremists might attack large gatherings in Moscow.

“Earlier this month, the U.S. Government had information about a planned terrorist attack in Moscow — potentially targeting large gatherings, to include concerts — which prompted the State Department to issue a public advisory to Americans in Russia,” NSC spokesperson Adrienne Watson said.

“The U.S. Government also shared this information with Russian authorities in accordance with its longstanding ‘duty to warn’ policy,” Watson said.

Putin recently dismissed ‘provocative’ warning about potential attacks

In remarks that aired three days ago, Russian President Vladimir Putin accused the West of “provocative statements” about potential terror attacks in Russia, and dismissed them.

“I’ll remind you of recent, let’s say directly, provocative statements of certain official Western structures about potential terror attacks in Russia,” Putin said.

“All of this looks like obvious blackmail and an attempt to intimidate, destabilize our country,” he said before the state security agency FSB.

Putin in those remarks did not specify a country or warning. The U.S. embassy in Russia on March 7 warned U.S. citizens to avoid crowds .

“The Embassy is monitoring reports that extremists have imminent plans to target large gatherings in Moscow, to include concerts, and U.S. citizens should be advised to avoid large gatherings over the next 48 hours,” the U.S. embassy warned.

Guards at concert hall didn't have guns, state news says

The Associated Press

Guards at the concert hall didn’t have guns, and some could have been killed at the start of the attack, Russian media reported.

Some Russian news outlets suggested the assailants fled before special forces and riot police arrived.

Reports said police patrols were looking for several vehicles the attackers could have used to escape.

U.S. had been gathering intelligence that ISIS could attack Russia

Ken Dilanian

The U.S. had been gathering intelligence for months that ISIS could mount a mass casualty attack in Russia, two U.S. officials confirmed to NBC News.

That information led to a March 7 warning issued by the U.S. embassy in Russia about possible extremist attacks, including at concerts, urging people to stay away from large gatherings, one of the officials said.

That official said the claim of responsibility today by ISIS appears to be genuine, though no final assessment had been made about who was responsible.

Some Moscow concertgoers filmed events as they unfolded Friday night, when gunmen opened fire inside a theater and people ran to take cover in fear for their lives.

Witness says gunfire was first thought to be construction noise

A witness to today’s armed attack on Moscow’s Crocus City Hall told a state news agency that they first mistook the gunfire for sounds of an installation being dismantled.

“First, we started hearing typical loud pops, but it was impossible to understand that they were gunshots. We thought that something was falling, as exhibitions were being dismantled at that moment, and someone seemed to be dropping something large,” Mikhail Semyonov told TASS .

“Then, the bangs were getting more and more frequent. Suddenly, there was a scream, and the bangs started to be heard as bursts. Then it became clear that it was shooting,” he said.

ISIS claims responsibility for attack but does not provide proof

The terror group Islamic State has claimed responsibility for the attack in Moscow.

The group, also known as ISIS, did not provide any proof of its claim, which came from ISIS-affiliated news agency Amaq on Telegram.

The group’s members have carried out a number of terror attacks, including the 2015 attacks in Paris that killed 130 people.

Children among the victims, Russia's children commissioner says

Yuliya Talmazan

Russia’s commissioner for children’s rights, Maria Lvova-Belova, said children were among the victims of tonight's attack.

"Information about their condition is regularly updated," Lvova-Belova said on Telegram. "Any additional assistance will be provided immediately."

She later told Russia 24 TV channel that at least two children had been injured, including one boy with a gunshot wound.

Earlier, Russian officials released a preliminary casualty toll of at least 40 people dead and more than 100 injured.

France, U.K., Germany condemn attack

Officials from France, the U.K. and Germany were among those who expressed their condolences to the victims of the attack at the Crocus concert hall.

"The images of the terrible attack on innocent people in Crocus City Hall near #Moscow are horrific," Germany's Foreign Office said on X . "The background must be investigated quickly. Our deepest condolences with the families of the victims."

"We condemn the terrorist attack in the Crocus City Hall near Moscow," the U.K.'s embassy in Russia said . "This is a terrible tragedy."

Meanwhile, France's foreign ministry called for "full light" to be shed on "these heinous acts."

Public events across Russia called off after attack

Several regional leaders across Russia, including in the annexed Kherson region of Ukraine, have canceled public events this weekend over security considerations after the deadly concert attack in Moscow.

Shortly after the attack, Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin canceled all sports, cultural and other public events in Moscow this weekend. State news agency TASS also quoted Russia's cultural ministry as saying that mass and entertainment events in federal cultural institutions have been canceled in the coming days.

Zelenskyy adviser speaks out about attack

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s adviser denied that Ukraine was involved in the deadly Crocus concert hall attack.

“Ukraine certainly has nothing to do with the shooting/explosions in the Crocus City Hall (Moscow Region, Russia),” Mykhailo Podolyak wrote on X. “It makes no sense whatsoever.”

No evidence has emerged to suggest Ukraine may have been involved, but Ukrainian officials may be trying to pre-empt accusations, as some Kremlin hawks have already started pointing at Kyiv. 

Asked whether the shooting was at all tied to the war in Ukraine, U.S. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby said: “There is no indication at this time that Ukraine, or Ukrainians, were involved in the shooting, but again, this just broke. We’re taking a look at it, but I would disabuse you at this early hour have any connection to Ukraine.”

Videos posted to social media appear to show chaos inside Moscow's Crocus City Hall during and after a terrorist attack.

Some videos include what sound like gunshots and show men with rifles, as concertgoers frantically try to exit the venue.

State Department issues warning to Americans in Moscow

Jason Abbruzzese

The State Department said that the U.S. Embassy in Moscow is aware of the terrorist attack on Crocus City Hall and that U.S. citizens should avoid the area and follow the instructions of local authorities.

"The U.S. government’s ability to provide routine or emergency services to U.S. citizens in Russia is severely limited, particularly in areas far from the U.S. embassy in Moscow, due to Russian government limitations on travel for U.S. embassy personnel and staffing, and the ongoing suspension of operations, including consular services, at U.S. consulates in Russia," the State Department said in a message posted to its website .

'What a nightmare in Crocus,' Widow of opposition leader Alexei Navalny condolences about concert attack

Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny who died in prison last month, expressed her condolences about the attack Friday.

"What a nightmare in Crocus," Navalnaya wrote on X. "Condolences to the families of the victims and quick recovery to the injured. Everyone involved in this crime must be found and held accountable."

320 firefighters, 3 helicopters working to put out fire

Russia's Ministry of Emergency Situations said the number of rescue crews responding to the attack is growing and now includes more than 320 firefighters, 130 emergency vehicles and three helicopters dumping water on the burning concert venue.

Moscow regional governor says 40 dead, more than 100 injured

Moscow Regional Governor Andrei Vorobyov said on Telegram that at least 40 people are dead and more than 100 injured in the terrorist attack, confirming figures previously reported by Russian state news.

Putin informed about concert venue attack 'in the first minutes,' Kremlin spokesperson says

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said President Vladimir Putin was informed about the shooting at the Crocus concert hall "in the first minutes" of the attack, Russian state news agency RIA reported.

The president is receiving information about what is happening and the measures being taken through all relevant services and is giving necessary instructions, Peskov said according to RIA.

Russian journalist was inside concert venue when gunmen entered

Russian news agency RIA Novosti said on Telegram that one of its reporters was inside the venue when gunmen entered and began shooting concertgoers.

The journalist said that at least three unmasked gunmen in camouflage entered the hall a few minutes before 8 p.m. Moscow time. They shot people point-blank and threw incendiary bombs, according to the journalist.

Roof of concert hall partially collapsing, TASS reports

The roof of the concert hall is partially collapsing, Russian state news agency Tass reported.

A TASS correspondent reporting from the scene in Moscow said the fire on the roof is still raging but that the structure is beginning to collapse in some places. The glass facade of the building is also reported to be crumbling.

It's unclear if there are still people inside the building.

Russia's foreign ministry spokesperson calls incident 'bloody terrorist attack'

Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for Russia's foreign ministry, called the Friday night incident at the Crocus City Hall in Moscow a "bloody terrorist attack" as she called for "strong condemnation" from the international community.

"Now, as the Russian authorities have stated, all efforts are being devoted to saving people," Zakharova said. "The entire world community is obliged to condemn this monstrous crime!"

U.S. national security spokesperson says embassy has told Americans to avoid large gatherings in Moscow

Kyla Guilfoil

National Security Council Spokesman John Kirby addressed the attack in Moscow at a White House press briefing Friday afternoon, calling it a “terrible, terrible shooting attack.”

“The images are just horrible and just hard to watch and our thoughts obviously are going to be with the the victims,” Kirby said.

Kirby added that the U.S. embassy has notified all Americans in Moscow to avoid large gatherings, concerts, shopping malls, etc., and “stay put where they are” for their safety.

Russian media says 40 dead, more than 100 injured at concert attack

TASS, Russia's state-owned news agency, and RIA Novosti are reporting that Russia's FSB security agency has put the preliminary casualty count at 40 dead and more than 100 injured by a terrorist attack on a Moscow-area concert venue.

NBC News has not confirmed those casualty numbers.

Roof of concert venue at risk of collapse, Russian media says

Russian news agency RIA Novosti said on Telegram that the roof of the building near the concert venue's stage has begun to collapse.

Video posted to Telegram by RIA Novosti showed fire continue to blaze inside the venue.

Moscow area governor says more than 70 ambluances at scene of attack

Andrei Vorobyov, Moscow's regional governor, said on Telegram that more than 70 ambulances have been dispatched to the scene of concert venue attack.

“Everything is being done at the scene to save people," he wrote in the Telegram message. "The Special Rapid Response Unit (SOBR) has been deployed. There are over 70 ambulance carriages near Crocus, doctors provide the necessary assistance to all victims."

Russian media says fire is growing, efforts to extinguish it include helicopters

Russian news agency RIA Novosti said on Telegram that the fire at the concert venue is getting stronger. Russia’s emergency officials are using two helicopters to dump water on it.

Nigel Chiwaya

Russia’s prosecutor general office says number of victims still being determined

Russia's prosecutor general said on Telegram that officials are working to determine how many people have been killed or hurt in the concert attack.

“On behalf of Igor Krasnov, the prosecutor of the Moscow region has gone to the scene of the incident at Crocus City Hall to coordinate the actions of law enforcement agencies," the prosecutor general's Telegram account posted. "Tonight, before the start of the event in the concert hall in Krasnogorsk, unknown men in camouflage clothes broke into the building and started shooting."

"The number of victims is being determined, a fire started in the entertainment center building, and citizens are being evacuated."

Moscow's mayor cancels weekend events

Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said on Telegram that he was canceling all public events in Moscow this weekend.

"I have taken the decision to cancel all sports, cultural and other public events in Moscow this weekend," he said. "I ask of you to treat this measure with understanding."

Popular rock band was to play sold-out venue that can hold 9,500

Tim Stelloh

A popular rock band was scheduled to play what appeared to be a sold-out show at the Moscow concert hall where there were reports of gunmen in combat fatigues opening fire.

Picnic, formed in 1978, was to play at Crocus City Hall, west of central Moscow.

The multilevel facility in Krasnogorsk has a maximum capacity of 9,527 people. Booking sites show the event was sold out.

Russian media says victims have been admitted to hospitals

Russian news agency TASS reported that the country's ministry of health has said that multiple people have been admitted to hospitals after the attack on a Moscow-area music venue.

Russia's aviation agency says additional security added to Moscow airports

The Russian aviation agency Rosaviatsiya said that additional security measures are being introduced in Moscow airports

"Due to increased security measures, we ask passengers to arrive at Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, Vnukovo and Zhukovsky airports in advance," the agency said on the Telegram messaging app.

Moscow's emergency ministry says it is working to extinguish fire

Moscow’s emegency ministry said it was working to extinguish a fire that began at the music venue.

The ministry said about 100 people were evacuated from the building, and it was working to rescue people from the roof.

Russian media says state security taking action

Russia's news outlet RIA Novosti said that the country's security agency, the FSB, is taking measures to respond to the shooting at a concert hall near Moscow.

Videos posted by Russian media show men with rifles moving through area

Extended rounds of gunfire could be heard on multiple videos posted by Russian media and Telegram channels. One showed two men with rifles moving through a concert hall. Another one showed a man inside the auditorium, saying the assailants set it on fire, with incessant gunshots ringing out in the background.

Andrei Vorobyov, the governor of the Moscow region, said he was heading to the area and set up a task force to deal with the damage. He didn’t immediately offer any further details.

Russian media reports said that riot police units were being sent to the area as people were being evacuated.

Russian news outlets report gunman opened fire at Moscow concert hall

Several gunmen in combat fatigues burst into a big concert hall in Moscow on Friday and fired automatic weapons at the crowd, injuring an unspecified number of people, Russian media said.

Russian news reports said that the assailants also used explosives, causing a massive blaze at the Crocus City Hall on the western edge of Moscow. Video posted on social media showed huge plumes of black smoke rising over the building.

Russia’s state RIA Novosti news agency reported that at least three people in combat fatigues fired weapons. The state Tass news agency also reported the shooting.

U.S. warned of imminent Moscow attack by ‘extremists,’ urges citizens to avoid crowds

Patrick Smith

U.S. citizens in  Moscow  had been warned to avoid large gatherings earlier this month because of heightened fears of a terrorist attack.

The U.S. Embassy in the Russian capital said it was “monitoring reports that extremists have imminent plans to target large gatherings in Moscow, to include concerts, and U.S. citizens should be advised to avoid large gatherings over the next 48 hours.”

U.S. citizens should avoid crowds, monitor local media for updates and “be aware of your surroundings,” it said in a brief  online update .

Read the full story here.