Rameswaram - For The Adventurous Soul

My first vacation in 2022 had to be something special. At the same time, I wanted to visit a location that was off the beaten path.

As this was going to be my first solo trip in more than a year, I knew I needed to plan ahead and I'm pleased I did! Traveling solo gives you the freedom to organize your trip as you want, but it's also necessary to have a general idea of where you want to go and what you want to see in order to get the most out of your trip.

It’s then that I decided on Rameswaram. When we think of a place like Rameswaram, we think of a holy town with largely pilgrims visiting. What we don't see is that it's a haven of tranquility steeped in history, geopolitical events from the recent past, endowed with breathtaking scenery, and a laid-back feel. For a region that has seen so much throughout the course of history, I felt compelled to pay it a visit.

Located at the southeastern tip of our country, right at the end of the Indian peninsula on a small island between India and Sri Lanka with crystal blue water of the Indian Ocean and Bay of Bengal on either side, this is one such place that can cast a soothing spell on you.

Another factor that drew me to Rameswaram and the surrounding areas was the fact that it was an ideal location for water sports (both underwater and wind based), as the region has some of the strongest and most consistent winds which makes it ideal for sports like windsurfing and kite surfing.

While I wouldn’t say this was a budget trip I tried to cut costs wherever I could.

How I Reached Rameswaram?

There are plenty of ways to reach Rameswaram from the city you are coming from. I was traveling from Bangalore hence took a direct flight to Madurai and then a private taxi from Madurai to Rameswaram.

Other Ways Include –

1. An overnight bus from your city (if it's available, eg: Bangalore, Chennai etc)

2. A train from your city and get off at Rameswaram railway station.

3. Drive down directly to Rameswaram from your city (Eg: Bangalore/Chennai and others).

Where Did I Stay?

I knew I wanted to stay right by the beach and in a less crowded/frequented area from the beginning. That's when I opted against staying in Rameswaram's town area and instead chose to stay in one of the adjoining beach villages. It was then that I came across Pirappanvalsai, a village about 30 kilometers from Rameswaram. Google Maps is to be praised for such discoveries!

In Pirappanvalsai, I discovered Kathadi North, a beautiful homestay managed by Quest Adventure Sports Academy. The beach is only five minutes away from this tiny property, which has four eco-friendly cottages and a dormitory. It's the ideal place to unwind, far from the crowds, where you can enjoy a clean, quiet beach as well as water based activities.

Even if you don't plan on visiting Rameswaram, you could come here and stay for a few days. The cottages, as well as the surrounding property, have been tastefully decorated to give off an earthy vibe. What makes it all the more convenient is that you get all meals served here.

Activities Offered at Quest Academy (Kathadi North)

1. Kayaking

2. Wind Surfing

3. Kite Surfing

4. Stand Up Paddle Boarding

5. Scuba Diving

6. Snorkeling

For any of these water-based activities, you may either sign up for discover courses or beginner/advanced courses. Quest Academy's staff is well trained and certified to assist you at every step of the process, ensuring that you have a fantastic and memorable experience. The founders of Quest, Jehan and Upasna, are extremely helpful and will walk you through every step of the process.

What My Days Looked Like Here

I spent the most of my time in the ocean learning these water sports during my three nights here and the rest of my time was spent seeing the surrounding villages and towns.

My day would begin at 7 a.m. with a morning kayaking or SUP boarding session. The rising sun and cool water made for a truly magnificent morning. Following that, I'd pack in a scrumptious breakfast and unwind at the home stay for a while. On days when I didn't have anything planned during the day, I’d cycle around the Pirappanvalsai hamlet. It was fascinating to observe modest country life in such gorgeous surroundings. The team at Kathadi North will show you a couple of bicycle routes that you must take. On the other days, I'd leave just after breakfast, return in time for lunch, and then participate in a late afternoon session of the watersport I'd signed up for.

Evenings were spent relaxing in the common area, catching up with the other guests, feasting on the delectable dinner and retiring early.

Where You Can Eat

Since most of my meals were at Kathadi North I didn’t eat out much. However I do have a few recommendations that you can consider.

1. Thinnai in Madurai – If you are traveling to Rameswaram from Madurai Airport by road this is the best place to stop and grab a quick bite. They serve snacks, south Indian food and ice cream.

2. Junior Kuppana in Ramanathapuram – A simple family restaurant serving authentic Tamil meals. I had a meal here and relished everything I ordered. (What to order – Vegetarian meal, Vanjiram Fish Fry and Kothu Parotta)

3. Thai Chettinad in Mandapam – Another budget eatery. Do try their Mutton Biryani

4. Mr. Fish in Dhanushkodi – A simple shack by the beach enroute Arichal Munai, you cannot miss having a meal here. They serve only seafood and do a fine job at it.

5. Sri Murugan Mess in Rameswaram – This place is situated in the town of Rameswaram, a super convenient spot to grab lunch once you are done visiting places in the town or otherwise.

Places You Must Visit/Things To Do

1. Train ride over the Pamban Bridge – This is an experience you should not miss. Whether you stay in Rameswaram or in the nearby towns, take the train from Rameswaram to Mandapam or vice versa. It’s a short but breathtaking train journey over the Pamban Bridge. The ticket will cost you about INR 30.

2. Ramanathanswamy Temple – This is without a doubt the most important factor for Rameswaram’s fame. It surely is worth a visit. The temple has historical significance in the Ramayana and is a fascinating experience to be walking through what once was a legend.

3. Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam’s House – His house has been now converted into a museum and gallery which houses photographs from the president’s childhood and his transformation from a small town boy to one of the most valued scientists in the country.

4. Visit Dhanushkodi – This place is easily one the most fascinating parts of our country as it is where the Indian landmass ends. A half-day trip is enough to explore Dhanushkodi. Don't miss Dhanushkodi Beach, Abandoned Church, and Railway Station while you're here.

5. Arichal Munai – This place, just beyond Dhanushkodi, is technically the border between India and Sri Lanka. Also, the Indian Ocean meets the Bay of Bengal here, which is a sight to behold. Interestingly, the location of this place shifts every day, depending on the tide. At high tide, a large portion of land is submerged, bringing Arichal Munai much closer to the Indian landmass. When the tide is low, one may walk at least a few kilometers closer to the Sri Lankan town of Talaimannar on Mannar Island.

6. Villondi Theertham – This was created when Lord Ram shot an arrow to get fresh water from the sea to quench Sita’s thirst. It is located about 7 km from the Ramanathanswamy Temple and offers some spectacular and dramatic sea views.

7. Explore A Secluded Beach – The shore from Uchipuli to Pamban, is lined with beaches that don't attract a lot of visitors. Open Google Maps, look for a beach in your area, ask the locals about it, and go explore. Almost all of them are clean and largely untouched by tourists, making them ideal for relaxing and swimming.

8. Visit Water Bird Sanctuary – This is a birder’s and nature lover’s dream come true. If you visit this place between December to March and you may be lucky enough to see flamingos that have flown all the way from Australia. Some of the sanctuaries that are located nearby are Kanjirankulam and Chitrangudi Sanctuaries, which is located in Ramanathapuram and Arichal Munai Bird Sanctuary, which is located at Dhanushkodi.

Best Time To Visit

According to what I've heard and observed, the best time to visit Rameswaram is from October to March. However, since the area has a tropical climate, it is not uncomfortable to visit during the other months because the temperatures are not as extreme. The monsoon months (July to September) are humid with average rainfall, although the magnificent views of the coastline region are beautiful during this time.

Places to Stay

Finding a place to stay in and around Rameswaram can be a task initially. You should decide on weather you want to stay in the town or in one of the adjacent towns close to the ocean. Here are some options, which you can consider.

1. Mid Range -

Kathadi North, Kushi Beach Resort, Cabana Coral Reef

2. Budget -

Hotel Royal Residency, Hotel Rameswaram Grand, Hotel SR Residency

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog. I hope you found this information useful. My goal in writing this in-depth post was to show you how an offbeat location like Rameswaram has so much more to offer than just being a holy site. Please let me know what you think in the comments section, and I'll gladly respond. Also, if I've missed anything please share it in the comments below and let's make anyone's trip to Rameswaram a memorable one.