Ariyaman Beach, alternatively named Kushi Beach, is an unspoiled stretch of white sandy shoreline nestled alongside the Palk Bay in the Ramanathapuram District of Tamil Nadu. Spanning 2 kilometers in length and approximately 150 meters in width, this pristine beach lies at a distance of 27 kilometers from the city of Rameswaram.
Scenic Beauty:
Ariyaman Beach is renowned for its natural beauty and tranquility. The beach offers a picturesque coastal landscape with clean sands and serene surroundings, making it a perfect place for relaxation and enjoying the beauty of the Bay of Bengal.
Sunset Views:
The beach is famous for its breathtaking sunset views over the sea. Many visitors come to Ariyaman Beach specifically to witness the stunning sunset scenes, making it an ideal place for evening leisure.
Swimming:
The gentle waves and shallow waters make Ariyaman Beach suitable for swimming, and it is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to take a dip in the sea. Nonetheless, it is essential to exercise caution and follow safety protocols.
Fishing:
Fishing is a common activity in the area, and you can often see local fishermen engaged in their daily routines along the coastline. They use various fishing techniques such as net fishing, casting nets, and traditional fishing boats. They may be seen in action along the shoreline, particularly during the early morning or late afternoon.
Birdwatching:
The beach is also a good place for birdwatching, especially during migratory bird seasons. You may spot various species of birds along the shore and in the nearby wetlands.
Water Sports:
While Ariyaman Beach is not as developed for water sports as some other beaches, you may find options for activities like jet skiing and boat rides. Availability can vary, so it’s a good idea to check with local operators if you’re interested in these activities.
Lighthouse:
Ariyaman Beach, also known as Kushi Beach, features a lighthouse that offers visitors a panoramic view of the surrounding coastline and the Bay of Bengal. The lighthouse is a prominent attraction in the area and provides an excellent vantage point to enjoy the scenic beauty of the beach and the sea.
Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse to witness stunning views and capture memorable photographs of the beach, the sea, and the picturesque landscape. It’s a popular spot for those who want to get a bird’s-eye view of Ariyaman Beach and its tranquil surroundings.
Peace and Serenity:
One of the main attractions of Ariyaman Beach is its peaceful and relatively uncrowded atmosphere. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a quieter and less touristy beach experience.
How to reach Ariyaman Beach:
By Air: The nearest airport to Ariyaman Beach is Madurai Airport, which is approximately 180 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use public transportation to reach the beach.
By Train: The closest major railway station is Rameswaram Railway Station, which is around 28 kilometers from Ariyaman Beach. You can take a train to Rameswaram from various cities and then continue your journey by road to the beach.
By Road: Ariyaman Beach is well-connected by road, and you can reach it via the following routes:
- From Rameswaram: If you’re coming from Rameswaram, take NH87 southward towards Kushi Nagar. Follow the road for approximately 28 kilometers, and you will reach Ariyaman Beach. The drive is straightforward and well-marked.
- From Madurai: If you’re traveling from Madurai, you can take NH87 or NH87B to reach Ramanathapuram, and from there, continue to Ariyaman Beach.
- From Other Cities: You can reach Ramanathapuram and then take the road to Ariyaman Beach, following the signs and directions provided. The beach is well-known locally, and you can ask for directions from the town.
- Local Transportation: Once you arrive in the vicinity of Ariyaman Beach, you can use local transportation options like auto-rickshaws, taxis, or rented vehicles to reach the beach. The beach is well-known in the area, and locals can guide you to the destination.
Ramanathapuram district is a renowned eco-tourism destination. This lush forest is teeming with diverse mangrove species and aquatic flora, offering a perfect haven for enthusiasts of the natural world. Within this enchanting ecosystem, visitors have the opportunity to partake in kayaking, snorkeling, and boating services, immersing themselves in the captivating beauty of the mangrove forests.
Image Attribution : furious.feet
Karangadu Mangrove Forest:
Mangrove forests, with their unique blend of land and water, are vital coastal ecosystems. These forests serve as nurseries for various marine species and provide a natural barrier against coastal erosion and storm surges. Karangadu, in particular, stands out for its lush greenery and vibrant wildlife.
The mangrove ecosystem provides a habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species. Towering mangrove trees with their characteristic stilt-like roots line the waterways. These intricate root systems not only stabilize the shoreline but also provide habitat and refuge for numerous bird species, crabs, and small fish.
Karangadu Boating Experience:
The highlight of a visit to Karangadu Mangrove Forest is the boating experience. Visitors can embark on a peaceful journey through the forest’s labyrinthine waterways. These boat rides offer an up-close encounter with the unique ecosystem of the mangroves, allowing for an immersive experience with nature.
As you glide through the narrow water channels, you’ll witness a breathtaking panorama of serene beauty. The calm waters mirror the dense canopy of mangrove trees, creating a tranquil, reflective ambiance. The symphony of bird calls fills the air, and if you’re lucky, you may spot various avian species, including herons, egrets, and kingfishers, gracefully perched on the tree branches or wading through the shallow waters.
The boatmen who guide these excursions are often locals who possess a deep understanding of the mangroves. They can provide valuable insights into the ecosystem, the wildlife, and the conservation efforts in place to protect this invaluable environment. The boating admission fee is set at ₹200, with the provision of life jackets to ensure the safety of all tourists.
Preserving Karangadu’s Natural Beauty:
Preservation efforts are essential to protect the Karangadu Mangrove Forest. Conservation initiatives have been established to maintain the delicate balance of this ecosystem. These include rules and regulations to minimize the ecological impact, such as no littering, no disturbance to the wildlife, and the prohibition of motorized boats.
Visitors are strongly urged to show respect for the environment and faithfully follow these guidelines, thereby safeguarding the opportunity for future generations to continue savoring the beauty of Karangadu.
Transportation Facilities:
Karangadu Mangrove Forest is accessible through a variety of transportation options, and here are the directions to reach this natural wonder:
- The closest airport is situated in Madurai, approximately 170 kilometers from the forest. From Madurai, you can opt for a taxi or use public transportation to make your way to Karangadu.
- When traveling by train, you’ll want to head to the closest railway station situated in Ramanathapuram, approximately 40 kilometers from Karangadu Mangrove Forest. Once you arrive at the station, you can easily secure a taxi or make use of local transportation options to complete your journey to the forest.
- Traveling by road to Karangadu is a breeze, thanks to its excellent road network. Whether you prefer private taxis, rental cars, or local buses, you have multiple options for reaching the forest from nearby towns and cities like Ramanathapuram or Madurai. The forest is easily accessible through a well-maintained road system.
Erwadi Village in Kilakkarai Taluk of Ramanathapuram District is the location of the grave and shrine of Qutb Sultan Syed Ibrahim Shaheed Badusha, the then ruler of Madinah Al Munawwara.
The Journey of Shaheed Badusha
Sultan Syed Ibrahim Shaheed is an 18th generation descendant of the Islamic prophet Mohammad. He was the king of Madinah when he began his journey to India in the early 12th century to spread Islam according to Muhammad’s wish. He had many followers from all over the Islamic community.
With an ultimare aim to spread Islam following the orders of his hereditary grandfather Muhammad, Shaheed Badusha started from Madina with his entire family. After encountering many difficulties while travelling by sea and through the forests on his way to India, Shaheed Badusha entered Kannanur in Kerala. Travelling via Kayalpattinam and Vaippar, he finally reached Bouthiramanickapattinam, now called Erwadi.
Shaheed Badshah, in his attempt to spread Islamic teachings, waged war against the Pandya ruler Thiru Pandian in Madurai and Vikrama Pandyan in Bouthiramanickapattinam. He won the battles, ruled the province for twelve years and spread Islam all over south Tamil Nadu.
The Erwadi Dargah
The main shrine in Ervadi is the holiest place in Tamil Nadu because it is mixed with the soil of Madinah. The graves of Emperor Sulthan Ibrahim Shaheed Badusha along with his kith and kin are found in the main Dargah campus. The Dargah premises also houses the holy graves of other important Shahudaas and in-laws of Badusha Sulthan Syed Ibrahim Shaheed. The main Dargah campus has a big mosque that can accommodate 10,000 pilgrims for every prayer-service.
The big hall of the shrine of Sulthan Syed IbrahimShaheed was constructed by Eiatibar Khan. The flag throne situated south of the main entrance of the Dargah is built surrounding the grave of Begum, wife of Eiatbar Khan. The main Dargah has three entrances.
The minaret of the mosque, around 250 feet, is a mammoth structure that adds to the impressive appearance of the Dargah. It also acts as a virtual lighthouse to the fisherman in Ervadi and the adjacent villages.
Urus Festival or Erwadi Santhanakoodu Festival
The Grand Urus Festival (Santhanakoodu Festival) of Erwadi Dargah is held every year in the Islamic month of Dhu al-Qi’Dah commemorating the shahadat anniversary of Qutb Sultan Syed Ibrahim Shaheed Badusha. The festival starts on 1st of Zul Qaida and ends on the 30th of Zul Qaida of every Hijri year.
This festival is celebrated by Hindus and Muslims as a mark of the religious harmony in Tamil Nadu. Millions of devotees throng the Dargah during the festival. It is also believed that people with satanic illness get cured after visiting the Ervadi Dargah.
How to reach Erwadi Dargah
Erwadi is well connected through road with all parts of Tamil Nadu. Frequent buses ply from Ramanathapuram to Erwadi. Ramanathapuram railway station (around 27 kilometres away) is the nearest station to Ervadi. Thoothukudi Airport (around 123 kilometres away) is the nearest airport from Ervadi Dargah.
Overview
Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary is a part of Chitrangudi village in Ramanathapuram District. It is a 4763 sq km protected declared as a sanctuary in the year 1989.
This sanctuary is adjacent to Kanjirankulam Bird Sanctuary and is also known by the name ‘Chitrangudi Kanmoli’. The sanctuary lies within the community tank embankment and its immediate water holding channel, measuring approximately 15 metres from the bottom of the embarkment.
Image Attribution :rajesh.udhayan
Fauna of Chitrangudi Sanctuary
This beautiful crescent shaped sanctuary attracts a host of migratory birds in winter. The place offers notable diversity in nestling and feeding behaviours and hence is a preferred nestling site for colonial birds and heronry species. Between October and February is the perfect time to spot the colourful winged creatures that flock the sanctuary from distant lands. The fauna population consists of Spot Billed Pelican, Open Billed Stork, Little and Large Egret and Purple heron.
Flora of Chitrangudi Sanctuary
The sanctuary is also rich in fauna with its distinctive feature being the prominent spread of Babul trees. Chitrangudi landscape is a predominantly dry deciduous forest with grassy trees. Some of the other trees such as that of Tamarind, Silk, Fig, Neem, Palmyra and drumsticks and medicinal plants can also be found in the area.
Epilogue
Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary is open year-round and is a perfect weekend getaway to immerse oneself in the beauty of nature. Bird watching and refreshing nature walks are the best way to enjoy one’s time at the sanctuary.
Accommodation facilities are available at PWD Guest House at Mudukalathur (around 10 kilometres away), the Forest Rest House at Sayalgudi and Paramakudi
How to reach Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary
Chitrangudi Bird Sanctuary can be reached by road from Mudukalathur (4 kilometres), Sayalgudi (12 kilometres), Ramanathapuram (45 kilometres) and Madurai (120 kilometres). The nearest railway station to the sanctuary is at Paramakudi (around 34 kilometres away) and nearest airport is at Madurai (around 96 kilometres away).
Kunthukal Beach, Vivekananda Memorial Hall, Pamban, Rameswaram
Kunthukal beach is located in a small fishing village named Kunthukal, which is nearly about 12 km from the Rameswaram. The crystal clear blue sea water with moderate tides makes this beach awesome.
Vivekananda Memorial Hall is located on the shores of Kunthukal Beach near Pamban. The Memorial was built to commemorate the return of Swami Vivekananda (to India on January 26, 1897 after his participation in ‘The Parliament of World Religions’ held in Chicago. Swami Vivekananda or Swamiji was the Indian Hindu monk who was the disciple of Indian mystic Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa.
More about the Vivekanda Memorial Hall
- The Memorial was inaugurated on January 26, 2010. Before the memorial was built, the place had a pillar in remembrance of Swami Vivekananda.
- The memorial houses a 6-foot statue of Swami Vivekananda with Ramanathapuram King Baskara Sethupathi who had sponsored his visit to Chicago.
- The Memorial also has a spiritual library and meditation hall.
- The Memorial is located close to Kunthukal sea beach, around 15 kilometres from Rameswaram bus stop.
How to reach Kunthukal beach
Kunthukal is located at a distance of 12 kilomeTres from Rameswaram. Rameswaram is well connected by road and rail with Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Trichy and other important cities. The nearest airport is at Madurai, 163 kilometres from Rameswaram.
Tourist Attractions near Kunthukal Beach:
- Pamban Bridge
- APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial – Rameswaram
- Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram
- Agni Theertham Beach
- Dhanushkodi
Uthirakosamangai Mangalanatha Swamy Temple in Ramanathapuram is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is believed to be around 3000 years old. The temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu.
More about Uthirakosamangai Mangalanatha Swamy Temple
- The temple has been revered in the hymns of 9th century saint Manickavasagar and by the 15th century Tamil poet Arunagirinathar.
- Lord Shiva shrine in the temple in Lingam form is a Swayambumurthi i.e it is self-manifested.
- The temple is believed to have been built by the Pandya Kings Achutappa Nayak, Muthuveerappar and other kings of Ramanathapuram at various times.
- The name Uthirakosamangai is derived from the Tamil terms, Uthiram meaning ‘secrets’, Kosam meaning ‘to say’ and Mangai meaning ‘Parvati’. It is believed that this is the place where Lord Shiva transferred the secrets of Vedas to Parvati.
- The shrines in the temple include that of Mangalanathar (Lord Shiva), Mangalambigai (Goddess Parvati) and Natarajar (Emerald statue). The idol of Natarajar is 6 feet tall and is made of Maragatha (a rare emerald).
- The deity is worshipped using Thazhambu or Screw pine flower.
Uthirakosamangai Mangalanatha Swamy Temple Timings
The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
How to reach Uthirakosamangai Mangalanatha Swamy Temple
Uthirakosamangalam Temple is at a distance of 17 kilometres from Ramanathapuram. The nearest railway station is at Ramanathapuram. Madurai Airport, at a distance of 110 kilometres from the temple, is the nearest airport.
Other Popular Tourist Attractions in Ramanathapuram
- Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram
- Agni Theertham, Rameswaram
- Pamban Bridge, Rameswaram
- Dhanushkode, Rameswaram
- Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial, Rameswaram
- Devipattinam, Navashabashanam
- Aadhi Jaganatha Perumal Temple – Thiruppullani (about 10 kilometres from Ramanathapuram)
- Erwadi Dargah, Kilakkarai
Sri Adi Jagannatha Perumal Temple located in Thiruppullani is one of the 108 Divyadesams dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple is maintained and administered by the Ramanathapuram Samasthan Devasthanam and the accounts are audited by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu.
The chief deity of the temple is Lord Vishnu worshipped as Adi Jagannatha in a reclining posture and his consort Lakshmi as Padmasini.
Legend and History of the Temple
According to the Indian epic Ramayana, Lord Rama (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu) while lying in Dharba grass, is believed to have prayed to the God of Ocean (Samudraraja), to help in seeking a way to reach Lanka. Thus the place got the name Dharbasayanam.
Yet another legend of the temple connected with the epic Ramayana states that King Dasaratha had apparently come here with his queens to worship the deity. This is where he was given Payasam (sweet pudding) and was asked to give it to his wives to beget a progeny.
The initiation of the temple structure is believed to have taken place during the Chola period. Later contributions to the development of the temple were made by the Pandya Kings and also by their friends and rulers of Ramanathapuram, the Jaffna Kings. The temple has also received contributions from the Vijayanagar period.
Architecture of Sri Adi Jagannatha Perumal Temple
Sri Adi Jagannatha Perumal Temple captivates the visitors by its architectural beauty and historical significance. The temple located in the village of Thiruppullani has been constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture. The temple has a five-tiered Rajagopuram facing east. The
temple houses the shrines of Adi Jagannatha, Bhudevi and Sri Devi in sitting posture. Padmasini, the consort of Adi Jagannatha is worshipped as a separate shrine. One can also find in the temple, the shrine of Dharbasayana Ramar in reclining posture and a metal image of Lord Krishna belonging to the 13th century Pandya period.
Reference to Literature
The temple is revered in the Tamil epic Kamba Ramayanam and in 20 verses of Thirumangai Azhwar in his Periya Thirumozhi in Nalayira Divya Prabandham
Temple Timings – Sri Adi Jagannatha Perumal Temple
The temple remains open from 7:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 3:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
The temple rituals performed during the day are:
| Pooja Name | Timings |
|---|---|
| Usha kalam | 7:00 AM |
| Kalasanthi | 8:00 AM |
| Uchikalam | 12:00 Noon |
| Sayaratchai | 6:00 PM |
| Irandan Kalam | 7:00 PM |
| Arthajamam | 10:00 PM |
The temple also performs weekly, monthly and fortnightly rituals.
Thiruppullani Sri Adi Jagannatha Perumal Temple Festivals
The major festivals celebrated in the temple are the Panguni Brahmotsavam in the Tamil month of Panguni (March-April) and Rama Navami Utsavam during the Tamil month of Chittirai (April-May). Other major festivals include Vaikunta Ekadasi, Krishna Jayanti, Pongal and Diwali.
How to reach Sri Adi Jagannatha Perumal Temple
The temple is located at a distance of 66 kilometres from Rameshwaram and 15 kilometres from Ramanathapuram. Nearest railway station to the temple is located at Ramanathapuram. Madurai Airport is the nearest terminal, around 125 kilometres from the temple.
Navabashanam (Nava meaning nine and Bashanam meaning stones) is a Hindu temple located in Devipattinam. Devipattinam is an ancient coastal town and port located in Ramanathapuram district.
The temple is dedicated to the nine planetary deities known as Navagrahas followed in Hinduism. The temple was originally maintained and administered by the Sivaganga Devasthanam till 2012, until it was taken up by the Hindu Religious and Endowment Board of the Government of Tamil Nadu.
Navagraha Temple Location
Navagraha Temple is a Hindu pilgrimage centre located in the Bay of Bengal. The image of the Navagrahas is located in a matrix arrangement in the waters. There is an entrance arch in the shores and a pathway of around 100 yards (91 metres) leading to the sanctum. A pathway and four stepways lead to the waters in four cardinal directions. The nine stones representing the nine planetary deities can be viewed depending on the water levels.
The place also has a temple dedicated to Devi, who is said to have killed the demon Mahishasura at this place.
Legend & History of Navagraha Temple
According to the legend associated with the temple, it is believed that Lord Rama (an incarnation of Maha Vishnu) performed the Hindu ritual of worshipping Navagrahas at Navabashanam, before taking a march to Lanka to rescue Sita from the demon King Ravana. Lord Rama is said to have made the Navagrahas out of clay and installed it at Navabashanam.
Timings & Festivals of Navagraha Temple
The temple is open on all days from 4:30 AM to 6:30 PM. The major festivals observed in the temple are Aadi Amavasai (July-August), Pournami day in the month of Aadi (July-August) and Thai Amavasai (January-February). Devotees throng the temple during these days.
This place is commonly visited by devotees who perform religious rites for their ancestors. It is also a practice to offer different types of grains specific to each of the nine planets. The temple allows the devotees to offer and do their own worship on the images of Navagrahas.
How to reach Devipattinam Navabashanam
Navabashanam is a popular sacred destination in Devipattinam which is located 66 kilometres on the East Coast Road and at a distance of 14 kilometres from the district head quarter Ramanathapuram.
Ramanathapuram is well connected by road and rail to all major cities of the state. Madurai Airport is the nearest terminal, around 120 kilometres from Ramanathapuram. Tuticorin Airport is located around 125 kilometres from Ramanathapuram.
Nearby Attractions to Navabashanam Temple
Devipattinam, a serene coastal town, is a popular pilgrimage destination with the Navabashanam Temple as its centerpiece. Beyond the temple, visitors can explore nearby attractions like the sacred Ramanathaswamy Temple in Rameswaram, the historic Dhanushkodi, and the scenic Pamban Bridge. Other notable sites include the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial and the holy Agniteertham. These attractions offer a unique blend of spirituality, history, and natural beauty, making Devipattinam a worthwhile destination for travelers seeking a meaningful experience.
Overview of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial
One of the most popular tourist attractions in the temple city of Rameswaram is the memorial of India’s renowned scientist, great leader and former President, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.
Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam National Memorial was inaugurated by Prime Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi on 27th July, 2017.
The APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial Memorial is spread over 2.11 acres of land and has been constructed on the gravesite of Dr. Kalam where his mortal remains were laid to rest on July 27th, 2015. With an investment of Rs. 20 crore, the construction of the Memorial was completed in just 9 months.
More about the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial
- An Initiative of DRDO: The initiative to construct a memorial for Dr. Kalam was taken by The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), with which Dr. Kalam was associated for several years of his life.
- Symbol of National Integration: The Memorial is a symbol of India’s diversity and national integration, something that Dr. Kalam had always admired. The entrance to the monument depicts the India Gate with its door resembling the entrance door of the Brihadeeswara Temple in Thanjavur. The main dome of the building depicts the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The monument is a fine blend of Mughal and Indian architecture. The construction materials, plants and flowers for the garden etc were sourced from different parts of the country.
- The Memorial’s Inside: The Memorial reflects the teachings and beliefs of Dr. Kalam. The interior of the Memorial encompasses four halls that reflect the various facets of Dr. Kalam’s life. Information about Pokhran nuclear test, replicas of rockets and missiles have been displayed to celebrate the priceless contribution of the late ace scientist to space science.
- Statue of the Missile Man of India: Another primal attraction of the Memorial is the life-size statue of Dr. Kalam that was inaugurated in 2016. This statue of Dr. Kalam playing the musical instrument Veena is placed in the center of the memorial. There are two other silicon statues of Dr. Kalam, in the presidential suit, in sitting and standing postures.
- The Garden: The garden around the Memorial has a resemblance of the Mughal gardens. Plants for the garden were bought from different states and flowers were handpicked keeping in mind the likes of Dr. Kalam. A model of the Agni missile has been placed in the garden, at the backyard of the Memorial.
Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial Opening Timings:
The Memorial is open in the morning from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
How to reach Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial
The memorial is less than 3.5-kilometers distance from Rameswaram Bus stand. Rameswaram is well connected by road and rail with Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Trichy and other important cities. The nearest airport is at Madurai, 163 kilometres from Rameswaram.
Tourist Attractions near Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial:
- Pamban Bridge
- Kunthukal Beach – Rameswaram
- Ramanathaswamy Temple, Rameswaram
- Agni Theertham Beach
- Dhanushkodi
Overview
Dhanushkodi lying in the southern tip of Rameswaram is bordered by Bay of Bengal on one side and Indian Ocean on the other. The word Dhanushkode literally means “tip of the bow”.
The Devastating Cyclone of 1964
Dhanushkodi was a crowded and busy town until it was entirely washed out by a cyclonic storm on 22nd December, 1964.
The Church, Railway Station and Passport Office are some of the shattered remnants that could be found in Dhanushkodi. The place is now occupied with a population of around 500 with a few fishermen and their families residing here.
Popular Attractions in Dhanushkodi
Dhanushkodi Beach
The Dhanushkodi beach extends upto 15 kilometres long. The shore in the beach witnesses high tides and hence is said to be unsafe for those who cannot swim.
A stroll and bike ride along the beach is a truly ecstatic experience to cherish.
Rama Sethu or Arichal Munai View Point
The point at which the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal merge is named “Arichal Munai” which can be viewed at Dhanushkodi.
It is believed that this is the place where Lord Rama pointed to the end of his bow and ordered his troops to build a bridge across the sea to reach the Land of Ravana (Sri Lanka) for rescuing his wife Goddess Sita.
The end of Rameswaram and merging of two seas (Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean) is marked by Arichal Munai or Rama Sethu.
How to reach Dhanushkodi
Public transport was started by Government of India, facilitating tourists to reach Dhanushkodi by using Government buses, auto rickshaws or by private vehicles such as bikes, car or van.
Dhanushkodi is located nearly 26 kilometres from Rameswaram bus stand and 24 kilometres from the railway station. Regular buses are available from Rameshwaram which is connected to all major cities through road and rail. The nearest airport from Dhanushkodi is at Madurai (about 198 kilometres away).
Epilogue
The spectacular view of the alluring beach, roaring tides, clear blue sea and shattered remnants of the once prominent city of Dhanushkodi fills the visitors with a feeling of wonder.
