Many people wonder: What makes the Dhanushkodi ghost town worth visiting? What is it about Dhanushkodi that makes it an absolutely must-visit destination? The reason behind this is that Dhanushkodi, in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, at the intersection of the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean, is widely believed to be the last land of India.
Dhanushkodi beach history
In 1964, this little village was sealed off from the outside world by a powerful hurricane. It has stayed put ever since, preserving its past for all to see. Dhanushkodi is a popular tourist destination nowadays thanks to its fascinating history, beautiful scenery, beautiful sandy beaches (viewed from any angle), and crumbling ruins. Adventurers can get a sneak peek at a fantastical realm filled with folklore.
Where exactly is the Dhanushkodi beach located?
Dhanushkodi Beach, on the southern edge of Rameswaram Island, is where the Gulf of Mannar Sea and the Bay of Bengal meet. Beautiful vistas of the two seas meet at this beach, which is called Arichal Munai in Tamil. Dhanushkodi is currently a ghost town, despite being a once-thriving city famous for its amazing beach. Nevertheless, its captivating past and breathtaking scenery continue to entice a large number of visitors.
Dhanushkodi Beach isn't complete without the Ram Sethu lookout, or Adam's Bridge. This 15-kilometer beach is perfect for beachcombing and taking in the breathtaking scenery because of its strong tides.
Dhanushkodi- religious and cultural significance
Dhanushkodi beach is home to the Ram Setu, or Adam's Bridge, which was constructed by Lord Rama and his monkey army at Dhanushkodi in Hindu mythology to link Lanka and India and to save Sita from Ravana. Dhanushkodi means "end of the bow" because soon after Sita was saved, Lord Rama named the town for himself after destroying the bridge with arrows from his bow.
The bridge is underwater and can't be seen, so walking on it is impossible. The religious significance of Dhanushkodi stems from its association with Lord Rama.
Things to do in Dhanushkodi
Visit the Church and Station Remains
After a devastating cyclone in 1964 demolished the once-thriving town of Dhanushkodi, just the church and station ruins remain. The ghostly remnants of a cathedral, train station, and other structures provide a chilling window into the town's troubled history and serve as a sad reminder of the destructive power of nature. A hauntingly gorgeous structure, the church stands in ruin. Graffiti adorns its walls, and its roof has long since disappeared. Seeing the old train station and church ruins is like being in another world, and is one of the most important places to visit in Dhanushkodi!
Marvel at the natural wonders of the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park
The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park, the country's first biosphere reserve, was created in 1980 and has a total area of 6.23 square kilometres. The park is also located on the Indian Ocean, the third biggest oceanic division in the world. The twenty-one islands that make up the Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park are all part of the park; hence, there are certain restrictions on tourism and related activities. Only those aboard the glass-bottom boat tours are allowed entry and participation within the park. Regardless, if you want to appreciate nature's bounty and see some of her magnificent works, this is one of the most important places to visit in Dhanushkodi!
Stroll away the evening at Dhanushkodi beach
The picture-perfect white sand and dazzling blue seas of Dhanushkodi Beach have earned it a reputation as one of India's most picturesque beaches. Because many believe it to be a lucky sign, most pilgrims who come here for religious purposes swim in the water. The area is even more blessed by migrating birds like flamingos and gulls, which enhance the beauty of nature even more. Usually, there is hardly a soul on the Dhanushkodi beach. Spending peaceful time strolling along the coast and admiring the grandeur of the ocean is a lovely experience.
Pamban Island
Off the coast of Tamil Nadu in the southeast is the beautiful Pamban Island, another name for Rameswaram Island. One of the longest bridges in India, the world-renowned Pamban Bridge connects it to the mainland. It was the first sea bridge in India. Beautiful beaches, ancient temples, and a lively culture make this island famous. The Hindu pilgrimage site, the Ramanathaswamy Temple, is among the island's most well-known landmarks. Pamban Island is a popular spot for snorkellers and scuba divers due to its abundance of marine life.
Ramar Patham Temple
The Ramar Patham Temple is located around 20 miles from Dhanushkodi. Legend has it that a stone in the temple has the footprints of Lord Ram. It is said that Lord Hanuman informed Lord Ram that he had discovered Goddess Sita in Sri Lanka at this very spot. This is one of the most important religious places to visit in Dhanushkodi!