Rameshwaram, a significant pilgrimage destination in Tamil Nadu, is well-connected by air, train, and road, making it accessible from various parts of India. Here’s a comprehensive guide to reaching Rameswaram from different starting points:
Nearest Airports
While Rameswaram does not have its own airport, several nearby airports provide convenient access to the town. The nearest airports are as follows. From the airports, you can either hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Rameswaram.
| Airport | Distance to Rameshwaram |
|---|---|
| Madurai Airport | Madurai Airport is the closest airport and is located approximately 175 km from Rameswaram. It is well-connected with major Indian cities like Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai. |
| Tuticorin Airport | Limited flights available from Bangalore and Chennai. It is located approximately 200 km from Rameswaram. |
| Trichy Airport | Trichy Airport, also known as Tiruchirappalli International Airport, is about 230 km from Rameswaram. |
| Trivandrum Airport | Situated around 360 km away, Trivandrum Airport serves both domestic and international flights. |
By Road
Rameswaram is well-connected by a network of national and state highways. Here are some common routes:
- From Chennai:
- Route: Chennai – Trichy – Pudukottai – Karaikudi – Ramanathapuram – Rameswaram
- Distance: Approximately 560 km
- Travel Time: Around 10-12 hours
- From Bangalore:
- Route: Bangalore – Hosur – Krishnagiri – Salem – Namakkal – Karur – Dindigul – Madurai – Manamadurai – Paramakudi – Ramanathapuram – Rameswaram
- Distance: Approximately 600 km
- Travel Time: Around 11-12 hours
- From Kerala:
- Route 1: Palakkad – Pollachi – Palani – Madurai – Manamadurai – Paramakudi – Ramanathapuram – Rameswaram
- Route 2: Kochi, Alappuzha, Kottayam, Kollam – Thenkasi – Tirunelveli – Thoothukudi – Ramanathapuram – Rameswaram
- Route 3: Trivandrum – Nagercoil – Tirunelveli – Thoothukudi – Ramanathapuram – Rameswaram
- Distances and travel times vary, but typically range from 350 to 450 km and 8 to 10 hours depending on the starting point.
Train Frequency to Rameshwaram
| Starting Point | Destination | Train no | Frequency |
| Banaras | Mandapam | 22536 | Every Sunday |
| Firozpur Cant. | Mandapam | 20498 | Every Saturday |
| Okha | Mandapam | 16734 | Every Tuesday |
| Okha | Madurai | 19568 | Every Friday (Vivek Express) |
| Dadar | Madurai | 11021 | Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday |
| Tirupati | Mandapam | 16779 | Monday, Friday and Saturday |
| Bengaluru | Madurai | 17235 | Daily |
| Bengaluru | Madurai | 16236 | Daily |
| Chennai | Mandapam | 22661 | Daily |
| Chennai | Mandapam | 16751 | Daily |
| Coimbatore | Ramanathapuram | 16618 | Every Tuesday |
As the old Pamban bridge is too weak, trains are not allowed to run on it to Rameswaram. A new Pamban bridge is currently under construction, which is expected to be completed by before the end of 2024. During this period, all trains are halted at Manadapam station. Passengers can avail themselves of cabs and frequent buses from Mandapam railway station to Rameswaram temple, which is approximately 19 kilometers away.
Cab Charges in Tamil Nadu
If you prefer traveling by cab, the charges in Tamil Nadu typically range between ₹13 to ₹24 per kilometer, depending on the cab model, seating capacity, and condition. Additional charges may include a minimum base fare and a driver allowance (locally known as driver Bata).
Conclusion
Whether you choose to fly, drive, or take the train, reaching Rameswaram is convenient and offers multiple options to suit your preferences and budget. Plan your journey according to your starting point and enjoy the spiritual and scenic beauty of this renowned pilgrimage destination.