Being the longest bridge in South India, Pamban Road Bridge (also known as Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge) connects the mainland Highway (NH 49) with the town of Rameswaram on Pamban Island, in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Thanks to the turquoise water stretching from both sides of the bridge, the ride along this engineering marvel is recognized as one the most scenic in India. The 2,345-meter (7694-foot) long bridge was built in highly corrosive water. Its construction lasted for 14 years.
The bridge was opened by Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on October 2, 1988. However, the bridge's predecessor, a railway bridge linking Rameswaram to mainland opened earlier, on February 24, 1914. In 2018, after the bascule of the railway bridge was damaged, it was closed, leaving only the road bridge in service.
The best time to travel over the Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge is the dry period from October through April. Rameshwaram that has tropical climate is too humid and rainy during the monsoon period. Upon arrival to the city, it's worth to visit the Ramanathaswamy Temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. This temple is a holy pilgrimage site for Shaivas and Vaishnavas. It is also the closest Indian city to travel to Sri Lanka. There is actually some geological evidence that the island might have been connected to Sri Lanka in the distant past. According to one legend, god Rama built a bridge from Rameshwaram to Lanka to save his beloved Sita from evil Ravana.
Practical info
What is the significance of Pamban Road Bridge in India's transportation system?
India's first sea bridge, second longest in the country, is Pamban Road Bridge. Connecting mainland Highway (NH 49) with Rameswaram in Tamil Nadu, the 2,345-meter (7694-foot) bridge is a vital link in India's transportation system that helps facilitate the smooth movement of people and goods. Show more
When was Pamban Road Bridge constructed and how long did it take to build it?
Pamban Road Bridge, opened for public use on 2nd October 1988, began construction in 1964 and ended after 14 years due to the highly corrosive seawater. The bridge provided growth opportunities for trade and commerce, leading to the transformation of Rameshwaram, a coastal city, into an active economic hub. Show more
What are the unique features of the Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameshwaram and why is it significant?
Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameshwaram is a holy pilgrimage site for Shaivas and Vaishnavas, and an important landmark showcasing the typical Dravidian architecture with elaborate carvings and intricate murals. The temple features 22 holy wells and the world's longest temple corridor, measuring 1,220 meters. With an expectation that it helps in warding off sins and ensuring salvation, devotees prefer to take a bath in the holy wells. Show more
Where else can visitors go in Rameshwaram apart from Pamban Road Bridge and Ramanathaswamy Temple?
Kothandaramaswamy Temple, one of the oldest temples in Rameshwaram, provides stunning views of the bay and the city, while the small township of Dhanushkodi, located at the southern end of Rameshwaram island, is another must-visit destination in the city, known for religious importance to Hindus and natural beauty that offer tourist attractions beyond the Pamban Road Bridge and the Ramanathaswamy Temple. Show more
What is the legend associated with Rameshwaram and Sri Lanka, and how is it connected to the construction of the bridge?
Rameshwaram is associated with the legend of Lord Rama, who built a bridge known as Rama Setu from Rameshwaram to Sri Lanka to rescue his wife Sita from demon king Ravana. According to the legend, the bridge was created by Lord Rama with the help of an army of monkeys who placed floating stones on top of the water. The location where the Rama Setu was built is where the construction of the Pamban Road Bridge took place, making it a modern tribute to the ancient legend. Show more
