The Rameswaram temple is regarded by Shaivites, Vaishnavites, and Smarthas as a sacred pilgrimage site. According to mythological traditions, Rama built and worshipped the presiding god, the Lingam of Ramanathaswamy (Shiva), before he crossed his bridge to the present-day island of Sri Lanka. The town’s central attraction is a temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva that has a tight connection to both Shiva and Rama.
