Rameswaram is famous for the Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Rama who, it is believed, had descended on its shores and built a bridge across the Palk Strait to reach Lanka in his quest to rescue Sita from Ravana.
Together, with Kashi it is considered one of the holiest places in India for the Hindus. Hence, it is a bustling pilgrim centre. Fishing is the main activity here. The current president of India, Abdul Kalam, hails from a fishing hamlet called Dhanushkodi situated in the island.