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There is one glass boat at the government boating centre on the other end of the bridge. That boat too is not in order, as water has entered between the two layers of glass through which you are supposed to see the corals. The boatman will tell you that the glass is not in order only when you reach the point where you are supposed to see the corals. The water is shallow there, but you won't be able to see the corals with the glass in that condition. As such, it is an utter waste of money till the government officials fix the boat. Before boarding that single boat, check the glass and ask the boatman if it is in proper condition. (April 2012) One can enjoy the wonderful glass boat ride near Pamban Bridge to see coral reefs in the Sea. The boat has a glass bottom which enables you to see corals through it. To reach this place, you need to catch a local bus from Rameswaram bus stand to Pamban bridge. From there you have to take an auto to the boat centre (₹40-50) (minimum ₹400 per boat of 8 persons), it is almost halfway on the bridge. The boat is run by Government officials and you don't have to bargain. They provide good service and don't even expect a tip from tourists. If you want to have a good view, be there between noon - 1PM on a good sunny day. Always carry an umbrella with you and watch the coral reef in umbrella shade, otherwise, you'll see your own reflection on the glass instead of corals (imp: try to go for a glass boat ride with a group because some days there might be no tourists there and you might end up paying more as there is no one to share glass boat ride with you). It might not be even proper coral to see in the areas, some say the corals are all damaged around here!
Renowned for its magnificent prakaras or corridors with massive sculptured pillars on either side. The longest corridor in the world is here, 197 m (646 ft) long and 133 m (436 ft) wide. The temple has a gopuram 38.4 m (126 ft) tall. Different rulers built the temple as it stands today, at different periods from the 12th century CE. There are many guides who will attack as soon as you enter the temple premises; negotiate the deal of how much to pay them if you need their services. The history of the temple is linked with the Ramayana and it is believed that the deity was installed by Lord Rama after the war with Ravana at the instance of the great saints to get rid of the "Brahma Dosham".
The house of former President Dr A. P. J. Abdul Kalam is an interesting place to visit. His residence has been converted into a museum that stocks his childhood memoirs. The place is ideal to get a glimpse into the extraordinary life of this simple man, right from childhood to his research days. Several pictures and awards of Dr Kalam are kept on display in this two-storey building, which is maintained by his elder brother. Moreover, a section of the house has been turned into a store that sells a variety of merchandise.
A very beautiful and grand building. It was inaugurated on the second death anniversary of Dr Kalam. A symbol of national integration, the memorial is an amalgamation of Mughal and Indian architectures. A must-visit.