Kothandaramaswamy Temple, Rameswaram
Kothanda Ramar Temple – A Testament to Devotion and History
Set along the peaceful shores of Rameswaram, the Kothanda Ramar Temple shines as a symbol of devotion and strength.
This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, is not just a sacred place for worship but also a powerful reminder of faith that stood strong even after the devastating 1964 cyclone that destroyed nearby Dhanushkodi.
Surrounded by the calm waters of the Bay of Bengal and the Gulf of Mannar, the temple offers a beautiful blend of spiritual peace and natural beauty to all who visit.
According to the Ramayana, Kothanda Ramar Temple marks the sacred spot where Vibhishana, the brother of the demon king Ravana, came to surrender to Lord Rama.
After failing to convince Ravana to return Goddess Sita, Vibhishana left him and sought Lord Rama’s protection.
Even though some were doubtful, Rama welcomed Vibhishana with open arms, showing compassion and righteousness.
Inside the temple, beautiful paintings bring this important moment from the epic to life, filling the space with a deep sense of history and devotion.
Address: Kothandaramaswamy Temple, Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu 623526
Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
How to Reach:
The temple is easy to reach by road. Visitors can hire auto-rickshaws or taxis from anywhere in Rameswaram, including from Hotel SS Palace, for a smooth and comfortable trip.Nearby Attractions:
✅ Dhanushkodi: A historic abandoned town about 5 km from the temple, known for its fascinating past and scenic beauty.
✅ Jatayu Theertham: A sacred place honoring the noble bird Jatayu, located around 8 km away.
✅ Ramanathaswamy Temple: One of India’s most important Shiva temples, situated about 13 km from Kothandaramaswamy Temple.
✅ Design:
The temple features beautiful traditional South Indian architecture, with a modest yet graceful style that reflects peace and devotion.
✅ Deities:
Inside the sanctum, you will find idols of Lord Rama holding his bow (Kothandam), along with Sita, Lakshmana, Hanuman, and Vibhishana, symbolizing unity, faith, and loyalty.
✅ Murals:
The inner walls are decorated with colorful frescoes that tell the powerful stories of the Ramayana, offering visitors a visual journey through the epic.
✅ Surroundings:
Surrounded by the sea on all sides, the temple’s peaceful setting creates the perfect atmosphere for meditation, quiet prayer, and soulful reflection.
Stay at Hotel SS Palace: Comfort Close to the Sacred
After exploring the spiritual and historic sites of Rameswaram, relax and recharge at Hotel SS Palace.
Located just a short drive from Kothanda Ramar Temple, the hotel offers:
✅ Proximity: Conveniently located near major attractions like Kothanda Ramar Temple, Dhanushkodi, and Ramanathaswamy Temple, making travel easy.
✅ Amenities: Comfortable, spacious rooms and an in-house pure vegetarian restaurant serving fresh, wholesome meals — perfect for a peaceful stay.
✅ Hospitality: A warm blend of traditional care and modern comforts, ensuring you have a memorable and relaxing experience in Rameswaram.
Final Thoughts
The Kothandaramaswamy Temple is more than just a place of worship — it stands as a living symbol of deep devotion, compassion, and strength.
Whether you are a pilgrim walking the sacred path of the Ramayana or a traveler looking for peace, this temple offers a truly meaningful and enriching experience.
✅ Survivor of the 1964 Cyclone:
The temple stood strong even after the powerful cyclone that destroyed much of Dhanushkodi, becoming a symbol of resilience and faith.
✅ Swami Vivekananda’s Visit:
It is believed that the great saint Swami Vivekananda visited this temple before setting off on his historic journey to Chicago.
✅ Annual Festival:
Every year, the temple joyfully celebrates the coronation of Vibhishana, drawing devotees from near and far to take part in the vibrant festivities.