The Kothandaramaswamy Temple at Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu is a shrine dedicated to the Hindu deity Rama. Located at a distance of 13 kilometres from Rameswaram, it forms the southernmost tip of the island.The temple is the only historical structure to survive the 1964 cyclone that washed away Dhanushkodi. The temple has the deities of Rama, Lakshmana, Sita, Hanuman and Vibhishana. The temple is surrounded by sea and remains a tourist attraction. It is easily accessible from Rameswaram.
Shrine’s History
The temple is estimated to have been constructed about 500-1000 years ago.Rama, the main idol, is depicted as having a bow, and hence the name Kothandaramaswamy for the idol. The temple is believed to be the place where Vibhishana, the younger brother of Ravana, asked Rama and his vanara army for refuge.According to this tradition, after the abduction of Sita, Vibhishana advised Ravana to return her to Rama.However, Ravana did not listen to the advice, which led to Vibhishana fleeing from Lanka and joining Rama’s army. When Vibhishana surrendered to Rama, the vanara army urged Rama not to accept Vibhishana believing him to be a spy. However, Rama accepted Vibhishana under the insistence of Hanuman stating that it is his duty to protect the ones surrendered to him.It is also said that after the slaying of Ravana, Rama performed the “Pattabhishekam” for Vibhishana at this place.The story is depicted in painting across the walls inside the shrine
Shrine’s Map Location and How to Go There
By Road
While travelling on road, getting to Dhanushkodi is quite simple. Regular buses are available from Rameshwaram and other major areas. Rameshwaram has an extensive bus network, so even if no direct bus is available, you can always come to Rameshwaram and hop onto a Dhanushkodi bound bus.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is Rameshwaram. Being a major town, Rameshwaram sees trains coming in from nearly every corner of Tamil Nadu and even far off places. The station is about 18 km away and getting a ride is very easy.
By Air
The nearest airport is Madurai, which is about 198 km away from Dhanushkodi
Events Celebrated at This Shrine
Ramanavami
