Dhanushkodi & Arichal Munai Beach
Dhanushkodi – Where Land Meets the Sea
At the southeastern tip of India lies a place where stories of mythology blend with the raw beauty of nature. Dhanushkodi and Arichal Munai are not just destinations; they are experiences that take you to the very edge of the Indian subcontinent.
Once a bustling town with a railway station and port connecting India to Sri Lanka, Dhanushkodi was devastated by a massive cyclone in 1964. The storm, with winds reaching up to 280 km/h, destroyed the town, leading to its abandonment. Today, the remnants of churches, railway tracks, and homes stand as silent witnesses to the town’s tragic past.
Even though the town was officially declared unfit for living, Dhanushkodi still attracts many curious visitors. Walking through its broken buildings and empty streets feels like stepping into a time capsule. The ruins tell stories without words—of families who once lived there, of a lively railway line that connected to Sri Lanka, and of a town that was once full of life. Despite its silence, Dhanushkodi leaves a deep impression on everyone who visits.
A short drive from Dhanushkodi takes you to Arichal Munai, meaning “Land’s End” in Tamil. This is where the Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean meet, creating a beautiful mix of waters. It’s also believed to be the starting point of Ram Setu, the bridge built by Lord Rama’s army to reach Lanka.
🕊️ It’s a quiet, peaceful spot with no shops or noise.
📸 A great place for sunrise or sunset photos.
🌊 You’ll feel like you’re standing at the very edge of India, with sea all around you.
It’s a must-visit place if you love nature, stories, and calm surroundings.
The drive to Dhanushkodi and Arichal Munai is an adventure in itself. A narrow road flanked by the sea on both sides leads you to these destinations. The 9.5 km stretch from Mukundarayar Chathiram to Dhanushkodi was completed in 2016, making the journey more accessible.
Photography: Capture the haunting beauty of Dhanushkodi’s ruins and the serene landscapes of Arichal Munai.
Nature Walks: Stroll along the beaches, feeling the unique sensation of standing between two vast bodies of water.
Spiritual Reflection: Meditate or simply sit in silence, absorbing the profound tranquility of the surroundings.
From Hotel Sri Ashvik, hire a taxi or drive to Dhanushkodi via the NH87. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Ensure your vehicle has enough fuel, as there are limited facilities en route
Stay at Hotel Sri Ashvik: Comfort Close to the Coast
After a day of exploration, retreat to the comfort of Hotel Sri Ashvik in Rameswaram. Located just a 3-minute walk from the Ramanathaswamy Temple, our hotel offers:
Convenient Location: Easy access to major attractions, including Dhanushkodi and Arichal Munai.
Comfortable Accommodations: Spacious rooms with modern amenities to relax and rejuvenate.
Rooftop Restaurant: Enjoy delicious vegetarian cuisine with a panoramic view of the sea.
Final Thoughts
Dhanushkodi and Arichal Munai offer more than just scenic beauty; they provide a connection to India’s rich history, mythology, and the raw power of nature. Whether you’re seeking spiritual solace, photographic inspiration, or simply a unique travel experience, these destinations promise memories that will last a lifetime.