Dhanushkodi Beach

Dhanushkodi Beach, located at the southern tip of Pamban Island in Ramanathapuram district, Tamil Nadu, is a place of striking natural beauty and deep historical and mythological significance. It sits where the Bay of Bengal and the Gulf of Mannar meet, known locally as Arichal Munai.

According to Hindu mythology, this is where Lord Rama, from the epic Ramayana, marked the spot with the tip of his bow (dhanush) to build a bridge—Rama Setu or Adam’s Bridge—across the sea to Lanka to rescue his wife Sita from the demon king Ravana.

Once a bustling town with a railway station, church, and schools, Dhanushkodi was devastated by a catastrophic cyclone in 1964 that destroyed most of the area, leaving it abandoned and often called a ghost town. The ruins of the old town remain visible, offering a haunting reminder of nature’s power and the area’s vibrant past. Today, Dhanushkodi Beach attracts tourists for its serene sandy shores, crystal-clear waters, panoramic views, migratory birds, and its unique position where two seas converge. It is also recognized for eco-tourism and adventure activities like beach trekking and kitesurfing.

The site continues to be an important pilgrimage and tourist destination due to its mythological ties and natural allure, with the best visiting period from October to February when the climate is favorable. There is no entry fee to the beach, though certain activities may have costs.