Dhanushkodi Beach

Dhanushkodi Beach is located at the southeastern tip of Pamban Island in Ramanathapuram District, Tamil Nadu, near Rameswaram. Situated where the Bay of Bengal meets the Indian Ocean at Arichal Munai, it is known for its long stretch of white sand, clear turquoise waters and views of the abandoned ghost town destroyed in the 1964 cyclone. The beach is noted for its natural scenery, religious association with Ram Setu and tranquil, largely undeveloped coastline.

Visitors can expect a long, open sandy shoreline with shallow, clear waters on one side (Bay of Bengal) and rougher waters on the other (Indian Ocean) near Arichal Munai. The area is largely undeveloped with no permanent structures on the beach itself, offering expansive sea views, views of the ruins of the old Dhanushkodi town including the church and railway station, and the Ram Setu viewpoint. The environment is windy and exposed with soft sand, limited shade and basic facilities near the entry point.

Dhanushkodi was once a thriving town with a railway station, port and settlement. It was largely destroyed by a severe cyclonic storm in December 1964, which washed away the railway line and town. The settlement was subsequently declared unfit for habitation and abandoned, leaving ruins of the church, railway station and other structures that remain as remnants of the former town.

The beach and surrounding area are associated with the Ramayana tradition, where Dhanushkodi is believed to be the place where Lord Rama built Ram Setu to reach Lanka. The area is considered sacred by pilgrims visiting Rameswaram and is visited for religious sightseeing along with the nearby Kothandaramaswamy Temple.