Parvatham, Rameswaram

Visitor Information

• Famous For: Tourism, History, Hindu Pilgrimage and Photography.
• Entrance Fee: No entrance fee.
• Visiting Time: 7:00 am to 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm
• Visit Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour, approximately. Visitor’s duration depends on how long he/she wishes to stay at the temple, within the visitor timings.

Rameswaram is one of the holiest places to Hindus and is one of the Char Dham. Situated right down south of India, the Pamban channel separates Rameswaram from mainland India. Rameswaram is a highly popular tourist attraction, majorly famous for its temples. The Gandamadana Parvatham is the tallest peak in Rameswaram and on it, is present the Gandamadana Parvatham temple, also known as the Ramarokha temple or the Ramar Paadham temple. This two-storey temple is a historic place and is the crux of many legends, according to which Rama, Hanuman and Ravana’s brother are said to have met here. The feet of Lord Rama is engraved at a chakra in the Gandamadana Parvatham temple and attracts several devotees every day. However, the temple is never overly crowded and is filled with bliss and calmness. Standing on the Gandamadana Parvatham peak, one’s eyes can cover almost the entire region of Rameswaram.

Traveller Tips

• Devote special time to visit the temple and do not be in hurry, because this is the place where you can unwind your troubles and breathe in lots of peace and positivity.
• This place is myriad feet above the ground and if you have a fear of heights or get dizzy, carry your medications along.
• Don’t forget to bring your binoculars so that you can clearly see every tiny detail of the entire Rameswaram, keeping your feet at the same place.
• Carry your shawl, because the place might get too cool for you.
• Keep your dress modest and simple, since this is a temple.
• Take your best camera to capture some amazing shots of the breath-taking aerial view of Rameswaram.
• Do not create chaos, noises or any other distractions, in the temple.

Things to Do

• To forget the complexities of life and lose oneself to the divinity of the land, take time to capture the tranquility the Gandamadana Parvatham peak offers.
• This peak top is hundreds of feet above the ground and provides spell-binding panoramic views that delight the eyes. Looking down at the entire region of Rameswaram, and enjoying the fantastic view from this point, is the best thing to do.
• The temple has a rich history. Therefore, try learning as much as possible about this historically important site, from guides and officials around.
• The Gandamana Parvatham is the ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers. Photo fanatics can make the most out of this site.

Availability of Guides

Tourist guide services are available here and the charges are reasonable. Though one can very well manage sightseeing, to know more about the history of the place, travel guides are essential.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit this serene temple is from the months of January to April or October to December. The temple seems ultra-glorious during the evenings with the cool caressing breeze and the descent of twilight. Therefore 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. is the best time of the day, to be spent at the Gandamadana Parvatham temple.

How to Reach

Rameswaram is connected by rail to prominent cities in the country. If you’re taking a flight, Tuticorin and Madurai airports are the closest to reach Rameswaram. To reach the Gandamadana Parvatham temple, one can take an auto or a taxi. State transport buses are also available.

Interesting Facts and Trivia About Parvatham

• The Gandamadana Parvatham has an image of Lord Rama’s footprints.
• This place is mentioned in the Ramayana.
• Gandamadana Parvatham is the tallest peak in Rameswaram.
• Since this point is several meters high in altitude and basks in picturesque views of the entire town.
• It is believed that Lord Rama took recourse to this place after being exhausted by his search for Sita.
• Some legends say that Lord Rama met Ravana’s brother, Vibhishana, at this point.
• The Gandamadana Parvatham is also said to be the meeting point of Lord Hanuman and Lord Rama.

Nearby Attractions

• Dhanushkodi Beach
• Panchmukhi Hanuman Temple
• Uthirakosamangai
• Dhanushkodi Ruined Church
• Agnitheertham
• Former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s House
• Brahma Kumari Meditation Centre
• Ramanathaswamy Temple
• Sea World Aquarium
• Pamban Bridge
• Villoondi Thirtham
• Vivekanandha Memorial

Nearby Restaurants

• Chola Restaurant
• Hotel Saravana Bhavan
• Murugan Mess
• Ambika Marvadi Bhojanalaya
• Ganesh Mess
• Gujarat Bhavan
• Ahaan- The Restaurant
• Hotel Tamil Nadu

Rameswaram is a tourist and pilgrim frequented place that is free of hassles and is a display of peace. Many attractions dot this beautiful region and Parvatham is one among them. To get drenched in spirituality and board the abode of nature, visit the Parvatham with your family and friends, when you make your trip to Rameswaram.