Dhanushkodi Beach Guide
Dhanushkodi Beach: Where the Land Ends and Legends Begin Guide
Dhanushkodi Beach, located on the southeastern tip of Pamban Island in Tamil Nadu, India, is a place of haunting beauty and historical significance. Once a thriving town, it was devastated by a cyclone in 1964 and declared uninhabitable. Today, it stands as a ghost town, offering a unique and poignant experience for visitors. The beach is known for its pristine sands, clear waters, and the remnants of a once-bustling port. Dhanushkodi held strategic importance as a gateway between India and Sri Lanka. Before the cyclone, it was a popular pilgrimage site and a bustling trading hub. The 1964 cyclone completely destroyed the town, claiming thousands of lives and leaving behind only ruins. The government declared the area unfit for habitation, and most of the residents relocated. Visitors can explore the ruins of the old town, including the church, post office, and railway station. The beach itself is stunning, with clear turquoise waters and white sand. You can take a jeep ride to the very tip of the island, known as Arichal Munai, where the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean meet. The drive is an adventure in itself, traversing sandy terrain and offering breathtaking views. Remember to be respectful of the area's history and the lives lost in the cyclone. Rameswaram, near Dhanushkodi, is known for its South Indian cuisine, particularly seafood. Try the local fish curries and prawn dishes.
Transportation
The best way to reach Dhanushkodi is from Rameswaram. You can hire a jeep or a shared van from Rameswaram to Dhanushkodi. The road is partially paved, but the final stretch requires a jeep due to the sandy terrain. Buses are available from Rameswaram to the check post before Dhanushkodi. From there, you need to take a jeep.