Dhanushkodi

Dhanushkodi is a deserted town at the south-eastern end of Pamban Island of the state of Tamil Nadu in India. It is situated to the South-East of Pamban and is about 18 miles (29 km) west of Talaimannar in Sri Lanka. The town was demolished during the 1964 Rameswaram cyclone and remains uninhabited in the fallout.

Dhanushkodi is located on the end of Pamban Island distinct by landmass by Palk Strait. It shares the only land border between India and Sri Lanka, which is one of the smallest in the world at 45 meters (148 ft.) in length on a shoal in Palk Strait.

THE DHANUSHKODI BEACH

The Dhanushkodi Beach is one of the prime attractions this attractive town has to offer. The white sand beach is mostly deserted. So you can relish a silent walk on the beach, without having concerns about disturbances from a large crowd of beach goers.

HISTORICAL ANCIENT ADAM’S BRIDGE

Adam’s Bridge, a natural bridge that connects India with its neighboring country Sri Lanka, is set among a good-looking setting of raw nature that can leave anyone amazed by its beauty.Adam’s Bridge, also known as Rama’s Bridge or Rama Setu, is considered as an epic bridge which is mainly a chain of coral reefs and sandbanks that almost connects India and Sri Lanka. It begins from India’s Dhanushkodi, Pamban Island and extends till Mannar Island in Sri Lanka. Pamban Island is connected to India via a Pamban Bridge while Mannar Island is linked to Sri Lanka through a causeway. This geographical development steeped in myths and legends is a perfect way to enjoy one’s vacation while exploring the nature at its best.

• BEST TIME TO VISIT ADAM’S BRIDGE: The weather in the area is stable throughout the year. However, one can best enjoy the flawless view between November and March by avoiding the excess heat and hot winds.
• WAYS TO REACH ADAM’S BRIDGE: The best way to reach Adam’s bridge is by a taxi. There is jeep serving the tourists these jeeps will take you right to the heart of it and the local temples where you can observe the floating stones that were used in the bridge. Otherwise, the best option to visit the area is on foot at least till the sea and the bridge is walked able.

CHURCH AND STATION RUINS

Before the cyclone strike Dhanushkodi, back in 1964, there was a railway station and church close to the sea shore. They got demolished in the cyclone, but their remains survive and are simply captivating.

RAMAR PATHAM TEMPLE

About 20 km away from Dhanushkodi is the Ramar Patham Temple. The temple is trusted to have foot prints of Lord Ram Himself, on a stone. It is believed that it is at this place; Lord Hanuman told Lord Ram that he had found Goddess Sita in Sri Lanka.

PAMBAN ISLAND

This island is also known as Rameswaram Island. The main town on the island is the pilgrimage center of Rameswaram. The island is a famous spot for tourists to visit all around from the country. Coconut and palm trees are found in great number apart from fig and eucalyptus plants. It is a perfect place to spend a summer holiday in peace.

• WAYS TO REACH PAMBAN ISLAND: You can rent a car from Madurai. You can also take a train from Madurai to Rameswaram on Southern Railway and alight at Pamban Railway Station. The distance is about 150 Kms and can be covered in 4 hrs approximately.

GULF OF MANNAR MARINE NATIONAL PARK

The Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park is one of the few Marine National Parks in the country. The park comprises of 21 islands along with estuaries, mudflats, beaches and forests.

The government decided the Pamban to Tuticorin Barrier Reef as the protected area in 1986. The marine Park has various varieties of fish, sea horses, dolphins and aquatic plants to offer. The place also has turtles, some of which are as old as over 200 years.