Ruins of Dhanushkodi Guide
Dhanushkodi: Where History Whispers on the Shores Guide
Step back in time and witness the haunting beauty of Dhanushkodi, a ghost town at the southeastern tip of Pamban Island in India. Once a thriving port and a popular pilgrimage site, Dhanushkodi was tragically devastated by a cyclone in 1964, leaving behind skeletal remains of buildings and a poignant reminder of nature's power. Today, it's a unique destination that offers a glimpse into a lost world, a place where the sea meets the sky and history echoes in the wind. Dhanushkodi's history is intertwined with its strategic location. Before the cyclone, it was a bustling town with a railway station, post office, schools, and even a church. It served as a crucial point for trade and pilgrimage, with ferries connecting it to Talaimannar in Sri Lanka. The 1964 cyclone, however, changed everything. A massive tidal wave swept away the entire town, claiming thousands of lives and rendering Dhanushkodi uninhabitable. The government declared it a ghost town, and it has remained so ever since. Visiting Dhanushkodi is an experience unlike any other. You can explore the ruins of the old town, walk along the pristine beaches, and witness the confluence of the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean. Jeep safaris are a popular way to navigate the sandy terrain and reach the very tip of the island, known as Arichal Munai, where you can almost feel the presence of Sri Lanka just a few kilometers away. While there aren't established restaurants in the immediate ruins, vendors often sell fresh seafood and snacks. The local cuisine in nearby Rameswaram features a variety of South Indian dishes, with a focus on seafood and vegetarian options. Don't miss the opportunity to try the local fish curry or a traditional South Indian thali.
Transportation
The most common way to reach Dhanushkodi is by taking a shared jeep or a private taxi from Rameswaram. The journey takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Public buses are available from Rameswaram to the check post before Dhanushkodi. From the check post, you will need to hire a jeep as private vehicles are not allowed beyond this point due to the sandy terrain. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi directly from Rameswaram that includes the jeep ride beyond the check post.