Rameshwaram is one of the most significant pilgrimage centers in South India. Hindus tend to be followers of either Vishnu or Shiva. The Ramalingeshwara Temple is where the god Rama is worshipped and therefore it brings both branches of followers together. It was here that Rama (an incarnation of Vishnu and hero of the Ramayan) offered thanks to Shiva. At the towns core the Ramanathaswamy Temple and it is one of the most important temples in India. Here you will see a representation of India in miniature, with pilgrims including everyone from urbane sophisticates to colorfully clad Rajasthan tribe’s people. It can be visited as a day excursion from Madurai 4 hours each way.