Overview
Located on Rameswaram island, it is a crucial pilgrimage site for both Shaivites and Vaishnavites. It forms part of the Char Dham pilgrimage.
History
According to the Ramayana, Lord Rama prayed to Shiva here to absolve himself of the sin of killing Ravana. The present structure was expanded during the Pandya and Nayak periods.
Architecture
Famous for its magnificent corridors with massive sculpted pillars. The outer set of corridors is reputed to be the longest in the world, measuring about 6.9 meters in height and featuring over 1200 pillars.
Spiritual Significance
It is one of the Char Dham sites and one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Taking a dip in the 22 holy wells (teerthams) within the temple is considered highly purifying.