Introduction

About 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from main Rameshwaram town, is the legendary Kothandaraswamy temple, one of the few structures to have miraculously survived the great cyclone of 1964. Dedicated to Lord Rama, his wife Sita, brother Lakshman, Hanuman (the monkey god), and Vibhishan (brother of demon king Ravana), the shrine receives droves of pilgrims mostly from South India. Legend has it that Vibhishan, Ravana’s brother, shifted his loyalty at this site, and urged Lord Rama to let him be a part of his army. Many years later a temple was built here to commemorate this historical episode in Ramayana. To this day, ardent believers of Lord Rama make a beeline for this shrine during Ram Navami and Deepavali to offer their prayers, and participate in the festivities.

Look out for the massive wall paintings that depict scenes from the great Indian epic, Ramayana. After exploring the Ramanatha Swamy temple among other places of sightsee, make a brief visit to this shrine, slightly on the outskirts of the island town, and soak in its forlorn air.

Special Attributes

The shrine commemorates an important episode from Ramayana.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress modestly. Avoid wearing short or revealing clothes since it is a religious site.

Connectivity

Hire a taxi or take a tourist coach from Madurai

Enjoyed by

Those who are religiously inclined

Exposure

You will mostly be indoors.

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

An early morning visit is preferable, before the pilgrims begin to trickle in. Besides, morning the weather remains pleasant to explore the surrounding area on foot.

Type of site

Hindu shrine/ temple site