Discover the edge of peninsular India by experiencing the ghost town of Dhanushkodi. The town that’s just about 31 km away from Sri Lanka, and as far as mystical lands go, Dhanushkodi has it all. Traces of Indian Mythology and marvels of nature haunt this town. Once a prosperous town, Dhanushkodi was eventually deemed unfit to be inhabited by the Government. The ruins of different structures are equally fascinating and eerie.
The reasons to visit and go exploring Dhanushkodi are countless. It is believed that this abandoned place lives up to its name of being a “Ghost Town”, to the point that nobody is allowed to visit or stay there beyond 6 pm. This is due to the paranormal activities that are believed to have taken place post-sundown. But beyond the legends and history, the sheer beauty of the pristine coastline is mind-blowing. The term ‘naked beaches’ gets a new meaning here.
If you want a taste of untamed nature, you have to visit this place in Tamil Nadu. You will be driving past soft, white sandy beaches on both sides of the road, and there’s nothing but clear blue sea, as far as your eyes can reach. Apart from a few huts and tiny stalls in intervals, there is nothing along the stretch but nature’s beauty. So here are a few things to know before exploring Dhanushkodi and witnessing this unforgettable land of magic and mystery.
History Of Dhanushkodi
It might not seem like much today, but back when the British were in power, Dhanushkodi was a prosperous port town that traders and pilgrims would frequently visit. It had good infrastructure and all the essentials like a hospital, a railway station, hotels, houses and a post office, among others.
Things were going well until one day, in December 1964. A massive cyclone hit the town, with tides reaching up to 20 feet. Nothing but ruins survived.
If you go further back in time, there are some interesting legends involving Lord Rama. It is believed that Rama used his bow to label the area. Dhanush means ‘bow’, and that’s how the town gets its name. This is also the spot where he and Hanuman’s army started building a bridge to reach Lanka to save Rama’s wife, Sita, from Ravana. Some satellite images from NASA confirm the existence of a land formation that resembles a bridge.
Although there are still studies being conducted, the Ram Setu bridge (Also known as Adam’s bridge) was seemingly man-made in nature. But regardless of whether that’s a legend or a fact, the distant sight of the remnants of some bridge can bring you goosebumps.
How To Reach Dhanushkodi?
Getting To Dhanushkodi By Air
There’s no airport in Dhanushkodi, so you’ll have to get a flight to Madurai, which has the nearest airport. It’s around 198 km away. From the airport, there are options for buses and cabs which head to Dhanushkodi. You could even book your bus in advance, as there are many Volvo and AC buses which travel to Dhanushkodi.
Getting To Dhanushkodi By Rail
You can get a train to Rameshwaram, which has the nearest railway station. It’s just about 20 km away, and the road from there to Dhanushkodi is pretty scenic! The train ride to Rameshwaram is just as amazing as it goes through the Pamban Bridge to reach the island of Rameshwaram.
Getting To Dhanushkodi By Road
The island of Rameshwaram (Pamban island) is connected to the mainland by the Pamban Road Bridge. The bridge is also known as the Indira Gandhi Road Bridge, which is connected via National Highway 49. If you have your vehicle, a road trip to Dhanushkodi is one of the best you can experience in India.
Best Time To Visit Dhanushkodi?
This is pretty much standard. In general, the winter months are considered the best time as it’s peak travel season and the weather is also good. So, November to March is the best time. But we prefer the months of October because relatively fewer people visit during that month. April and May are also good months if you have a decent tolerance for humidity. It always depends on your personal preferences, so the best time can vary.
If you ask us, though, we think late October and early November is a great time to visit. This is when the weather is favorable and the tourists haven’t started flocking in full swing. Dhanushkodi still gets a lot of visitors daily, so don’t be surprised. Also, the monsoon season might not be a great time to visit. The region sometimes experiences mild storms.
What Makes Dhanushkodi Special?
The beauty of Dhanushkodi cannot be overstated. Even the ruins of the old town’s police station, church and other structures are such interesting sights. The journey to get to Rameshwaram via the Pamban bridge is an exquisite experience. It might seem a bit scary, seeing how you’re on a single track with nothing but the vast blue sea on both sides. But it’s a great view nonetheless, and one of the best train rides in India.
Even taking the road bridge is just as fun. Then there’s the journey from Rameshwaram to Dhanushkodi, which offers a view of the pristine coast on both sides of the road. Whether you’re on a bus, a car or a bike, the entire stretch makes for an amazing journey. Also, you don’t have to go all the way to the tip of Dhanushkodi. If you have your vehicle, you can stop a little before and find a spot just for yourself.
Besides, if you want an exotic beach experience, Pamban beach is arguably one of the best in India, especially considering it’s so close to the mainland. At Pamban Beach, you will know the feeling of sharing a beach with barely any people. Even the seashells here are pretty fascinating and different to the ones you find in most Indian beaches.
FAQs
What Is Special In Dhanushkodi?
Dhanushkodi is a town of ruins, but it is this ruinous atmosphere that makes it worth visiting. Apart from seeing the ruins of old churches, temples and structures, you’ll also have Pamban beach to yourself. It is also a pilgrimage site since it is said to be the place where Ram struck an arrow. And of course, discover for yourself whether it is a ghost town or not.
Is It Safe To Visit Dhanushkodi?
Yes, it is quite safe to visit Dhanuskhodi. But keep in mind that you must leave post 6 pm as stated in the local rules, since supernatural activities have allegedly taken place here post this time.
Can We See Sri Lanka From Dhanushkodi?
No, it isn’t possible to see Sri Lanka from Dhanushkodi.
Can We Walk On Ram Setu?
No, Ram Setu or Adam’s Bridge is submerged in water, and it isn’t possible to walk on it.
Is Dhanushkodi A Ghost Town?
Yes, Dhanushkodi is a ghost town. However, this nomenclature could be due to the mere fact that it is abandoned and not necessarily due to the presence of paranormal activity. Nonetheless, we recommend visiting to see for yourself!
Why Is Dhanushkodi A Ghost Town?
The coastal town of Dhanushkodi was left in shambles after a massive cyclone crashed into it in 1964. Over 800 people died, the town was too destroyed for it to ever be inhabited again, and it has stayed abandoned ever since. There needn’t be any paranormal activity here to declare this a true ghost town!
Is Dhanushkodi Open Today?
Yes, you can visit Dhanushkodi, but no tourists are allowed to enter post 6 pm.
How Many Km Is Dhanushkodi To Sri Lanka?
The distance between Dhanushkodi and Sri Lanka is 31 kms.
How Do I Get To Dhanushkodi?
Fly to Madurai and then cross over the Rameshwaram bridge by either rail or train to get to Dhanushkodi.
Which Is The Best Time To Visit Dhanushkodi?
Late October to early November is when there are fewer tourists in Dhanushkodi and the weather is just right. This is the best time to visit Dhanushkodi.
