Rameswaram
The Agni Theertham is a sacred point on the eastern coast of Rameswaram where the waves of the Bay of Bengal crash onto the beach and thousands of pilgrims gather before dawn for the traditional ritual sea bath that marks the beginning of the Rameswaram pilgrimage. The moment when the sun rises over the water while thousands of white-clad pilgrims stand in the surf chanting is one of the most visually and emotionally powerful scenes in Tamil Nadu.
Arrive by 5:30 AM to secure a good position before the sunrise crowds peak. Leave valuables at your hotel and wear clothes you do not mind getting wet — the waves can be unexpectedly strong.