Rameshwaram, a divine city visited by Lord Ram and blessed by the perpetual presence of Lord Shiva is a foremost pilgrim destination of India and one of the most revered 12 Jyotirlingams highly venerated by every Hindu. The culture of Rameshwaram is a fine amalgamation of mythology, religion and architecture. Considered to be one of the Char Dhams and exalted as an extremely sacred abode of Lord Rameshwaraswamy, this holy city is visited by thousands of devotees as well as tourists every year. Apart from its religious significance Rameshwaram is also popular across the country for its enchanting sea shores, lofty Pamban Bridge, historical Adam’s Bridge, adventure activities like Scuba Diving and many other enthralling sightseeing places. The city is thriving with the tourists all round the year who pay homage at the feet of Lord Rameshwaraswamy and also perform religious rituals in the honor of their departed ancestors.

Rameshwaram is also famous for its sea shell markets where you can buy souvenirs and decorative items such as Showpieces, Wall-Hangings, Mirrors, Curtains, Ornaments and Handicrafts Made from Seashells, Beads, Palm Leafs, Conches, Corals, Bead Jewellery, Statues, and so on. And not to forget the textile of Rameshwaram. This city of Tamil Nadu is particularly renowned for its Rameshwaram Silk & Kanjiveeraum Saris and Khadi Clothes. The gourmet feasts offered at Rameshwaram for the foodies include Rice, Sambar, Rasam, Dry Curry, Kootu, Thayir (Curd), Moru (Buttermilk), Pongal, Idli, Dosai, Uthappams, Vadai, Bajjis, Chapati, Sea Food, Besan Laddoos at Gujarat Bhavan, etc. One cannot call it a trip without tasting these delectable south Indian items as you will never get the same taste anywhere else.

The main part of Rameshwaram culture comprises of its festivals celebrated with unequaled zest and fervor. All the festivals of Rameshwaram are mostly religion based. Apart from the common Indian festivals, those celebrated with exceptional ardor as well as devotion at Rameshwaram include Maha Shivratri, Masi Shivratri, Vasntotsavam, Mahalaya Amavasai, Thai Amavasay and Thirukalyanam.

Maha Shivratri or the great night of Lord Shiva is celebrated every year on the 14th day of the Phalguna month of Hindu calendar. Taking the Darshana and offering homage at the feet of Lord Shiva is believed to be extremely auspicious amongst the Shaivaits. On this day Lord Shiva is offered Sahasrakalasabishekam, Shivratri Nrutyam, Rudrabhishekam and many other Poojas.

Masi Shivratri is celebrated once in a month when devotees observe fast just like Maha Shivratri and offer various Poojas at the Rameshwaram Temple.

Mahalaya Amavasai is the no moon day of the month of ‘Pitrupaksha’ when Tharpanam is offered to the departed ancestors so that their soul resides in peace..

Thai Amavasay is the new moon day of the Tamil month ‘Thai’ which falls in the month of January or February. On this day people pay homage to their ancestors at Rameshwaram.