Dhanushkodi, Rameshwaram - Timings, Water Sports, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 18 km from Rameswaram, Dhanushkodi, Dhanushkodi is an abandoned town at the south-eastern tip of Pamban Island in Tamil Nadu. It is one of the must-include places in Rameswaram heritage packages.

Dhanushkodi is located at the southern tip of Pamban Island, separated from the mainland by the Palk Strait, approximately 24 kilometers west of Talaimannar in Sri Lanka. The town was entirely devastated by the Rameswaram cyclone in 1964 and has remained uninhabited since that disaster. The only remnant of the cyclone is the Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple. Following the storm, the Government declared the town as Ghost town and unfit for living. Although devoid of inhabitants, Dhanushkodi continues to attract tourists due to its significant historical and mythological associations.

The name Dhanushkodi translates to "Tip of the Bow." The location known as 'Arichal Munai' marks the convergence of the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal, which can be observed from Dhanushkodi. According to the Hindu epic Ramayana, it is said that Lord Rama pointed to the end of his bow, instructing his troops to construct a rock bridge, referred to as Ram Setu, to Sri Lanka in order to rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana. A floating rock, believed to have been used in the construction of Ram Setu, is housed in a small temple in Dhanushkodi.

The primary attraction of the area is Dhanushkodi Beach, which extends approximately 15 kilometers in length. This unspoiled beach is bordered by the Gulf of Mannar on one side and the Bay of Bengal on the other. While the beach is serene and clean, it is important to note that the waves can be quite strong. A new lighthouse has been established in Dhanushkodi to meet the long-standing needs of local fishermen. Standing at an elevation of 53 meters, the lighthouse provides a panoramic view of the area from a visitor gallery. The region is also home to various migratory birds, including gulls and flamingos, enhancing the natural beauty of the locale.

To access Dhanushkodi Beach, tourists must travel by jeep or TSRTC buses from Rameswaram. It is recommended to visit the village during daylight hours and return to Rameshwaram before sunset, as the entire 15-kilometer stretch is considered dangerous.

Entry: Free

Timings: 6 AM - 6 PM