It is believed that a visit to Varanasi is incomplete without a visit to Rameshwaram. Visit to this holy pilgrim centre will lead to Moksha / Salvation.
Rameshwaram is located approximately 180 kms from Madurai and 3 hours drive. The temple is surrounded by roads on all four sides. The roads are called North car street and south car street and no vehicles are allowed on these car streets. Dharmashalas/Chatrams are available near the temple at very nominal rates.
The temple is very majestic and it is an architectural marvel. The presiding deity is Linga of Ramanath. According to legend, Lord Rama after killing Ravana, to expiate the dosha worshipped Shiva.
There are 22 sacred tirtha wells surrounding the temple. It is customary to have Spatika Linga Darshana first. Darshana timing is morning 5 to 6 am.
The snana ghat in front of the temple is known as Agni Tirtha.
After bath in Agni Tirtha with the same wet cloths we have to come to the temple and buy a Bath Ticket of Rs.25 and enter the temple to take bath in the 22 sacred tirtha wells, which are serially numbered. One can engage the services of guide/agent who will charge additional amount for pouring more water on our head from these sacred wells. At the end of 22 wells change the clothes and donate the wet clothes. Nobody will be allowed in wet clothes inside the temple for Darshana. In the night at 8.30 shayana arati worth watching.
The temple timing is 5 am to 1 pm and again 3.00pm to 9.00pm.
Priests are available outside the temple for performing Tila Homa / Tarpana /Shraddha or other rituals. Tila homan costs ranging from Rs.10,000 to Rs.20,000 depending on the priest. Shraddha may be costing between Rs.500 Rs.1000. Jai Rameshwar !
Experience Rameshwar Temple in Motion
Videos courtesy of YouTube. Explore more of Kashi through our curated visual guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the darshan timings for this temple?
Most temples in Varanasi open early in the morning around 4:00 AM and close by 10:00 PM. It is best to visit during the morning aarti or evening aarti.
Is there an entry fee?
No, entry to most temples in Varanasi is free. However, special pooja or expedited darshan lines at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple may have a fee.
What is the dress code?
Devotees are requested to wear modest clothing. Shoulders and knees should be covered. In some ancient temples, traditional dhotis for men and sarees for women are preferred.
Are cameras allowed inside?
Photography is generally restricted inside the inner sanctum of major temples. Please check with security at the entrance. In the Kashi Vishwanath corridor, mobile phones are strictly prohibited.
Can foreigners enter the temples?
Yes, most temples in Varanasi are open to all regardless of nationality. However, the inner sanctum of some private family temples might have restrictions.