Dhanushkodi: Witnessing The Charms Of A Coastal Ghost Town
Dhanushkodi, once used to be a thriving port city, now stands alone as a forgotten town with haunting tales, offering visitors and tourists a glimpse of the alluring history and enchanting landscapes. This is a small town located in the district of Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu.
This used to be a major trading center and a popular pilgrimage site until the catastrophic cyclone wrecked the whole town leaving behind ruins. Even after everything the town has gone through, it will not fail to amaze you with its captivating beauty.
And to add to the historical significance and mesmerizing landscapes, this town is known as a “ghost town,” which is enough to tempt tourists. Dhanushkodi also marks the crossroad of the Indian Ocean and the Bay Of Bengal. It is also close to Sri Lanka, and Rameshwaram Dhanushkodi to Sri Lanka distance is just 30 km, and Rameswaram to Dhanushkodi is just about 20 km. The Palk Strait acts as a natural border.
Legend Of Dhanushkodi
The name Dhanushkodi literally means “the end of a bow.” Dhanush means bow, and Kodi means the end. Together they give the meaning to this name. Legend has it that when Ravana took Sita and captivated her, Lord Rama and his monkey army were prepared to cross the Ocean to get there.
But Lord Rama decided to build a bridge to get to her in Lanka, what we know as the Ram Setu or Adam’s Bridge. It is believed that he passed through Dhaanushkodi with his army, and Lord Rama marked the land with the end of his bow.
The Devastating Calamity
It was December 22, 1964, when the little town was hit by the super cyclone. The town was wiped away within a few hours. Hundreds of lives were lost that day, and the remains of the town were abandoned.
Back then, there was no internet connection, and the only way to connect to the town other than through the water route was the Pmban bridge. The wind hit Dhabushkoodi at a velocity of 270 km/hr, and the waves were said to be as high as 20 feet.
The Pamban Dhanushkodi passenger train left the station with 115 passengers and 5 other staff members, which was hit by high tidal waves and took down the whole train. The bridge that connected Panban Island or Rameshwaram Island to India got destroyed in the calamity and left 3000 people on the island stranded.
Almost 1800 people lost their lives in that calamity that day, and 800 people were from Dhanushkodi itself.
Attractions Of Dhanushkodi
Dhanushkodi has a lot to offer. With its reminiscent ruins, enthralling history, and bizarre landscapes, it invites fearless travelers to a world that has been frozen in time. It has a mystery in its remoteness, a rustic charm that calls out to the tourists. The saddening beauty and the whispers create a whole ambiance. Let’s check out the places inDhanushkodi that are worth paying a visit to.
Ruins Of Dhanushkodi
Walking through the ruins of the town can be a thrilling experience. The broken walls, the decrepit building, and the last remains of the railway station stand as a scary reminder of the tragic event that ruined the place decades ago. The broken structures and the crumbling walls tell the untold story of the dead.
Dhanushkodi Beach
This untouched and immaculate beach is a major attraction for tourists. The serene ambiance, with crystal clear water along with the golden sand, makes this beach an ideal spot for solitude and relaxation. It is absolutely the best for taking long walks along the shore, watching pretty sunsets, and enjoying the gentle sea breeze.
Ram Setu Point
This is the point where people believe that once the Ram Setu Stood. This is a pilgrimage site for Hindus and also a great site to visit for people who are interested in mythology. This adds to the old-world charm of the place. People come here to seek blessings and pay their respects.
Adventurous Activities
This is not just a pilgrimage site but also a great place for thrill-seekers or adventure-loving tourists.
Off-Road Jeep Safari
Explore the jagged terrains and the sandy stretches of the town by going on an off-road journey. If you want to feel the adrenaline rush and the excitement of exploring these abandoned places, this is a must-try. You get to see the raw, untamed side of mother nature.
Scuba Diving And Snorkeling
Dive into the unknown, the blue waters of the Bay Of Bengal, and explore the vibrant and colorful marine life by engaging in scuba diving and snorkeling. The underwater world here is brimming with exotic species of fish and colorful corals.
How To Reach Dhanushkodi?
The nearest airport is located in Tuticorin and Madurai. The ghost town Dhanushkodi is located 20 kilometers away from Rameshwaram. Rameshwaram is well connected by road and rail. From there, they can take a local taxi or get on a share jeep to reach their destination. The journey is beautiful as well. The scenic beauty of the trail along the coastline offers an enchanting experience.
This place carries a lot of history, along with a tragic backstory, and to add to it, Dhanushkodi has the scenic beauty that makes it a whole package. When to walk through the walls, you would be able to hear the echoes from the past, the stories they are trying to tell. All things combine; this is an amazing place to visit once in a lifetime.
Where To Stay
This is a bit of a drawback of the place. The accommodation options are a bit limited in Dhanushkodi. Most tourists prefer to stay at Rameshwaram, where there is a range of guesthouses, resorts, and hotels to fit your budget and preference. There are many government-approved stays as well.
Where To Eat
It is better to carry packaged food and ample water while exploring Dhanushkodi, as the food and beverage facilities of the town are limited. But there are a lot of eateries in Rameshwaram that will offer you a variety of cuisines. One of the favorites of the locals is “Ahaan-The Restaurant” in Daiwil Hotels. While you are on the highway, you can try Mr. Fish if you have a taste for seafood.
Where To Shop
Again the best place to go shopping is Rameshwaram. The town of Dhanuhkori is filled with empty infrastructures, and there is not much to buy there. But in Rameshwaram, you will get a lot of Silk sarees, textiles, and handicrafts to take as souvenirs and trinkets.
Looking Back At Dhanushkodi
This is absolutely a must-visit location for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers. This place ticks all the boxes, the mythological connection, with the scenic beauty and the adventure opportunities, makes the list of must-visit places. Experience the mystical and enticing beauty of this town, where you can witness the past meeting the present in a fascinating way.
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