A gateway to Rameswaram, the quaint little town of Mandapam is where you will come across the famous Pamban bridge that connects Rameswaram to mainland India. Built by the British in 1914, the bridge is India's oldest sea bridge. The scenic Pamban Island is a major attraction here. Mandapam is blessed with the quiet and peaceful Mandapam Beach, characterised by a natural coral reef. Visit the Mandapam Beach Park for its seashore fountains, artificial starfishes, man-made coral reefs, verdant hillocks and a soothing boat ride. The beach park also has slides, swings and see-saws for children. One of the best experiences tourists can have is hiring a glass-bottom boat run by the Forest Department. The boat ride allows tourists to look at the natural coral reefs that are clearly visible in the water.