The enigmatic charm of Dhanushkodi
In Dhanushkodi, every step is a journey into the past & a reminder that true travel is about discovering the stories that time left behind
During our recent trip to South India, we visited the island of Rameswaram, which is mythologically associated with Lord Rama and Lord Hanuman and their efforts to rescue Sita from Lanka (present-day Sri Lanka).
We boarded a local city bus near the Ramanathapuram Temple and travelled to Dhanushkodi, the extreme point closest to Sri Lanka. According to locals, this location is about 15 km from Lanka, where Lord Hanuman constructed the Ram Setu, the bridge used to reach Sita in Lanka.
Dhanushkodi, whose name signifies ‘bow end’, is surrounded by water on three sides. In the distance from Dhanushkodi, one can see an archival point on the Indian side. Tourists flock to this area, which offers minimal facilities aside from the long, arrow-like road.
On the way, visitors can observe the remnants of an old railway station, the ruins of an ancient church and other abandoned structures from the past in the old Dhanushkodi area.
The town spans approximately 10 km and what remains today are only the remnants of the devastation caused by the cyclone in 1964, which left it a ghost town. The ruins of a once-bustling railway station serve as haunting reminders of its vibrant history. Once connected by rail, Dhanushkodi lost its rail service after the cyclone destroyed much of the town, leaving behind a poignant testament to its past.
Dhanushkodi marks the meeting point of the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean. The area is characterised by numerous sandbanks, reefs and shoals. It holds profound sacred significance, attracting pilgrims from across the country. However, the devastating cyclone in 1964 ravaged the region, causing catastrophic destruction and claiming countless lives. The town was reduced to ruins, and the government declared it uninhabitable, transforming it into a ghost town overnight. Since that tragic event, nature has gradually reclaimed the desolate landscape.
This meeting point of the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean offers a captivating experience for nature enthusiasts, with its strong, swirling currents. Situated near Sri Lanka, the Palk Strait serves as a natural border, and on clear days, the distant coast of Sri Lanka is visible.
What is on offer?
Dhanushkodi, with its rich history, haunting ruins and surreal landscapes, invites adventurous travellers to step into a world where time stands still. Its true charm lies in its remoteness, rustic beauty and profound historical significance. Here, simplicity reigns supreme, offering unique experiences that linger long after the journey ends.
The town’s poignant beauty, intertwined with the whispers of its past, leaves an unforgettable impression on all who visit. As you stroll through its abandoned streets and feel the salty sea breeze, Dhanushkodi becomes more than a destination—it becomes a soulful exploration of forgotten treasures and untold stories.
Wander among the remnants of the old town where crumbling churches, dilapidated buildings and rusting railway tracks stir a sense of awe and quiet melancholy. Marvel at nature’s slow reclamation, as sweeping sand dunes engulf empty doorways and streets. Lose yourself in the ethereal beauty of Dhanushkodi Beach, where the Bay of Bengal meets the Indian Ocean in a mesmerizing dance of converging waters. The pristine sands, framed by graceful casuarina trees, offer a tranquil retreat, perfect for contemplation and relaxation, especially during the serene winter months.
Don’t miss the Ram Setu viewpoint, where a breathtaking panorama unfolds—vast stretches of sea, endless horizons, and the remnants of the fabled bridge that once linked India and Sri Lanka. In Dhanushkodi, every step is a journey into the past, a moment of quiet reflection and a reminder that true travel is about discovering the stories that time left behind.
