Most people ask the question why visit Dhanushkodi? Also, many ask what makes this place such a spectacular place to see at least once in life. One of the key reasons is that it is the last land in Tamil Nadu and India. Yes, it is at the southeastern tip of India. It is the place where the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal meet.
This small town in Tamil Nadu faced a severe cyclone in 1964. Due to this cyclone, the town was cut off from the other parts of Tamil Nadu. From thereon, the town remains as such without any developments. It stands as a proof of history. Even today when you visit this town, you can see its crumbling remains. Its pristine natural beauty and stunning sandy beaches on both sides attract tourists in large numbers. You can gain a lot of information about this place from this post.
Dhanushkodi – An Introduction
Dhanoushkodi is often referred to as a ghost town. It is set on the southeastern tip of Pamban Island in Tamil Nadu. Indeed, it is a tourist attraction. Nevertheless, entry to certain points is restricted to tourists. This is because of safety concerns. The town is popular not only for its geographical location but also for its historical importance.
Dhanushkodi was once a bustling town with a post office, railway station, and other facilities. Nevertheless, a catastrophic cyclone in 1964 destroyed the town. Now, it is regarded as a ghost town. The cyclone happened on 22nd December 1964. Due to the cyclone, the Pamban-Dhanushkodi passenger train drowned, thereby causing many casualties. Following the cyclone, the government declared this town as unfit to live and it was abandoned.
Dhanushkodi Beach – An Introduction
Dhanushkodi Beach is located on the Southern tip of Rameswaram Island. On this beach, you can view an attractive confluence of the Gulf of Mannar Sea and the Bay of Bengal. This beach spot is referred to as Arichal Munai in Tamil. You can see a stunning view of the merging waters here.
One of the key attractions of this beach spot is the Ram Sethy viewpoint. It is otherwise called Adam’s Bridge. The beach is popular for its high tides and it stretches to 15 km, making it an ideal spot for beach lovers.
The region that surrounds Dhanushkodi Beach is home to migratory birds including flamingos and gulls. Further, you can gain easy access to other attractions like a temple dedicated to Lord Rama.
History
I should say that Dhanushkodi has a compelling history. The very name of the town stands as proof of its connection with Ramayana the great epic. Yes, the name of the town is translated as the end of the bow. You might have seen pictures of Lord Rama holding a bow. It is believed that Lord Rama built the Ram Setu from this place to reach Sri Lanka, where his wife Sita was under the clutches of demon king Ravana. This association with Ramayana makes Dhanushkodi an important town for those following the Hindu religion.
Even though Dhanushkodi had a glorious past, its modern history is a tragedy. On the 22nd of December 1964, a destructive cyclone hit the town, thereby clearing out its infrastructure. It also claimed a lot of lives. After this disaster, the town was declared uninhabitable. It is now a ghost town. Nevertheless, it attracts tourists in large numbers because of its natural beauty.
How to Reach Dhanushkodi?
You can reach Dhanushkodi by different modes of transportation. Here are a few options to consider:
By Bus
The Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation operates regular bus services from Rameshwaram to Dhanushkodi. So, if you are travelling from any city, you can look for interstate buses to Rameshwaram. From there, you can either take TNSTC, tourists or minibuses to reach Dhanushkodi. The journey will be both enjoyable and scenic.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Dhanushkodi is Rameswaram Railway Station. This station is located around 20 km and it is connected well to major cities like Coimbatore, Madurai and Chennai. From the station, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Dhanushkodi.
By Flight
The nearest airport to Dhanushkodi is Madurai International Airport. It is about 170 km away. From the airport, you have the option to rent a car or rely on public transportation to reach Rameshwaram.
By Car
For a more flexible and personalized experience, you can drive to Dhanushkodi. You can drive through the coastal roads and get stunning views when approaching the Pamban Bridge.
Key Attractions & Things to Do
Dhanushkodi Beach
One of the key attractions in Dhanushkodi is its beach. It is a highlight of the town undoubtedly. Its tranquil ambience, gentle waves and crystal-clear waters make it the best destination for photography and relaxation. The beach is popular for its sunset and sunrise views. During the sunset and sunrise, you can see the sky painting the most attractive views.
Ram Setu
Otherwise, called Adam’s Bridge, it is a chain of limestone shoals that connect India to Sri Lanka. It was believed to have been built by Lord Rama to reach Sri Lanka to reach his wife Sita, who was kept in captivation by Ravana. It should be stated that this stone bridge is a geographical wonder. It is steeped in science and mythology.
The Ruins of Dhanushkodi
You can explore the remains of railway station, schools and churches. They stand as reminders of the 1964 cyclone. From these remains, you can gain insights into the history of the town. It is the best spot for photography enthusiasts.
Bird Watching
I should say that Dhunushkodi is a paradise for birdwatchers. During migratory periods, you can spot different exotic birds including pelicans and flamingos. You can see the birds in their natural habitat. It is a wonderful sight to behold.
Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park
Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is located around 7 km from the Rameshwaram Railway Station. In this national park, you can spot exotic fish varieties and coral reefs. The special attraction here is glass-bottom boat rides that will give you a different experience.
Pamban Bridge
On your way to Dhanushkodi, you can stop at the iconic Pamban Bridge. This bridge holds the pride of being the first sea bridge in India. It is an engineering marvel. It offers breathtaking views of the ocean. It is a must-visit when you are at Dhanushkodi.
Ram Patham Temple
Near Arichal Munai, you can go to the Ram Patham Temple. This temple spot is believed to be the place where Lord Rama placed his feet or patham before he started building a bridge to Lanka. You will have to climb a few steps to reach the temple. Once you are at the temple top, you will get a lot of sea breeze. You can worship a small idol of Lord Rama in this temple.
Dhanushkodi Lighthouse
This is a new addition to the list of places to visit in Dhanushkodi is the Dhanushkodi Lighthouse. The new lighthouse has been established to fulfil the long-lasting demand of the local fishermen. From this lighthouse, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the town.
The lighthouse stands at an elevation of 53 metres above sea level. On the top of the lighthouse, a three-metre diameter lantern has been installed. The lantern with a 250 mm revolving optic. The illumination range is 15 nautical miles. It has a lift facility and there is a telescope/binocular facility.
Rameswaram Temple
To visit Dhanushkodi, you will have to stay only at Rameswaram. The reason is that there is no accommodation facility at Dhanushkodi. Otherwise, you will have to stay in Ramanathapuram. During this stay, you can visit the Rameswaram Ramanathaswamy Temple as well. This temple is dedicated to lord Shiva. This is an ancient huge temple with sanctum sanctorum dedicated to many lords of Hindu Religion.
Agni Theertham Beach
During your visit to the Ramanathaswamy Temple, you can visit Agni Theertham Beach. In Hindu religion, it is believed that a dip in this beach will remove all your sins. Even, some devotees perform rituals for their deceased parents at this beach. Devotees consider a dip into the sea very auspicious during the new moon and full moon days. So, you should expect a lot of crowds when you visit on these days. The beach is located outside the temple complex.
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Memorial
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, the former president of India belongs to Ramanathapuram district. So, as an honour to this legendary educationist, after his demise, a memorial has been developed in Ramanathapuram. You can visit this place to get detailed knowledge about the life history of Dr. Kalam. This memorial is located after crossing the Pamban Bridge immediately on entering Ramaeswaram from Ramanathapuram district.
Duration To See
If you wish to go only to Dhanushkodi and Arichal Munal, a one-day trip is sufficient if you are in Ramaeswaram. If you are travelling from other places and exploring places around Rameswaram and Ramanathapuram, you can consider staying in Ramanathapuram for 2 to 3 days. When you do this, you will have a lot of time to visit other places like Rameswaram Temple, Agni Theertham, Abdul Kalam Memorial and Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park.
Best Restaurants & Cafes Around
You will have to travel for at least 7 km away from Dhanushkodi to find a restaurant. Here are the names of a few restaurants along with their distance from the ruined temples of Dhanushkodi:
- Hari Bhavan Hare Krishna Family Veg Restaurant
- Mapilai Gounder Restaurant
- Pamban Seafoods
- Gdf Plaza
- Temple City Family Restaurant
- Sree Ram Restaurant
- Aps Seafood
- Chotilal
- Guru Hotel
- Vitamin R (Sea view)
Entry Fee & Ticket Prices
You need not have to pay any entry fee to visit Dhanushkodi or Dhanushkodi Beach. However, if you are planning to visit the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, the entry fee will be Rs.50 per person. Similarly, the glass boat rides might cost you somewhere between Rs.200 and Rs.500 based on the duration of the ride.
FAQ
Is Dhanushkodi Safe for Travellers?
Yes, Dhanushkodi is a safe attraction for tourists. Nevertheless, as it is a remote location, you should carry essentials like snacks and water. Make sure not to stay after dusk.
Is Swimming Allowed in Dhanushkodi Beach?
No, swimming is not permitted in Dhanushkodi Beach. The reason is that the water is known for its strong currents and also deep waters.
Can I Access Dhanushkodi By Road?
Yes, you can access Dhanushkodi is accessible by road. The road that leads to this town is maintained well. This road connects the town with Rameswaram. The final stretch is referred to as Ghost Road. This last stretch ride will be the most unforgettable experience with the beach approaching on both sides.
Can I Stay in Dhanushkodi?
No, you cannot stay in Dhanushkodi as there are no accommodation options. Most tourists choose to stay in Rameswaram, where you can find guesthouses and hotels in different price ranges.
What is Unique About Dhanushkodi?
Dhanushkodi is a unique combination of natural beauty, mythology and history. I should say that the town has a haunting charm with its ruins, the town stays unique from other destinations.
Conclusion
Dhanushkodi is not just a destination. I should say that it is an experience that everyone should get in their life. It connects you to the rich history of India with its natural beauty. Whether you are a beach enthusiast or a history buff interested in exploring the remains of the town, you will love Dhanushkodi for sure. It will provide you with memories that will last for a lifetime. Ensure that you add the town to your travel list. You will feel excited to step into the enchanting beauty of Dhanushkodi. You will experience a sense of patriotism as well when you see the final point of India with the Ashoka Statue standing as India’s pride at Arichal Munai.
Also, read my other posts on Tamil Nadu
6 Beaches Near Chennai – A Coastal Paradise For Every Traveller
Did You Know About the Ultimate Mystery Of Guna Caves In India?
10-day Tamil Nadu Itinerary to Unveil the Splendours of Tamil Nadu
How to Reach Ooty by Train, Flight, Bus or Car? Know the 4 Modes of Travelling
50 Places to Visit Near Chennai for a Much Deserved Break
Best 5-Day Masinagudi Itinerary To Explore the Beauty of Nature
