Rameshwaram is the home of many prominent theerthams and temples. The word agni refers to fire in Sanskrit language while the word theertham means holy water. Referred in ancient texts and mythological legends, this pilgrimage holds a significant place among Hindu Devotees, who visit here to offer their prayers and atone their sins by bathing in its holy waters.

Agni Tirtham, one of the most important is also the most visited theertham here. It is located on the eastern beach corner of Sri Ramanathaswamy temple. It is the only theertham of the temple, which is located outside the temple complex, which are temple tanks located inside the temple. This theertham has also been mentioned in sacred Hindu texts such as Skanda Purana,Narada Purana and Sethu Purana.