Home › Routes › Rameshwaram to Dhanushkodi

Rameshwaram to Dhanushkodi

Travel from Rameshwaram to Dhanushkodi by jeep or taxi. Distance: 18-20 km, Duration: 30-45 minutes. Journey to India's southern tip where the Bay of Bengal meets the Indian Ocean at the ghost town ruins.

19 kmDistance
0.5-0.75 hrsDuration

Tentative Fare Estimate

Car / Taxi
Swift Dzire₹5,855
Ertiga₹7,430
Innova₹7,745
Innova Crysta₹9,570
Tempo Traveller (12)₹13,100

Round trip · incl. driver allowance & GST

View route plan
Bus
Non-AC Seater₹20
AC Seater₹30
Non-AC Sleeper₹30
AC Sleeper₹40
Volvo / Multi-Axle₹100
View route plan
Train
Sleeper₹40
Economy₹50
Third AC₹60
Second AC₹70
First AC₹80
View route plan

Tentative estimate only, based on typical Indian public-transport tariffs (state transport bus fares, IRCTC sleeper/AC class rates, standard outstation taxi per-km rates) — not a live quote from any operator.

Overview

The Rameshwaram to Dhanushkodi route is a short but unforgettable journey to one of India's most haunting and beautiful destinations. Spanning just 18-20 km, this route takes travelers from the sacred town of Rameshwaram to the ghost town of Dhanushkodi, which was devastated by the 1964 cyclone. The journey crosses the Pamban Bridge and follows a narrow, sandy road to the southernmost tip of India where the Bay of Bengal meets the Indian Ocean. The skeletal remains of the railway station, church, post office, and other buildings stand as silent witnesses to nature's power, while the pristine beach offers one of the most spectacular coastal views in India. This route is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, photographers, and spiritual seekers.

Route Map

By Car: Rameshwaram to Dhanushkodi

19 km · ~23m · About 0h of driving, plus stops.

  1. Start from Rameshwaram

    An early start keeps you ahead of city and highway traffic.

  2. 19 km · 23m drive from previous stop

    Arrive in Dhanushkodi

    Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu

Stops are typical for this road, not a fixed itinerary. Timings assume about 50 km/h on average — traffic, tolls and road conditions vary.

By Bus: Rameshwaram to Dhanushkodi

19 km · ~25m · Buses on this route are usually available as direct services. Operators and departure times vary — check live availability.

  1. Board at Rameshwaram

    Go to the main bus stand / ISBT in Rameshwaram. Overnight buses usually leave in the evening; book a seat in advance for sleeper and Volvo services.

  2. Rameshwaram → Dhanushkodi

    Non-AC or AC Seater · ~19 km

    ~25m|Tentative fare ₹20–₹100

  3. Arrive in Dhanushkodi

    Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu

Halts and change points are typical for this route, not a specific operator’s schedule — check live availability and timings when booking.

By Train: Rameshwaram to Dhanushkodi

Nearest railway stations: Rameswaram for Rameshwaram, Rameswaram for Dhanushkodi.

Direct trains

Rameswaram Madurai Passenger#56722 · Passenger
12:05 AMRameswaram
10m1 stops
12:15 AMPamban Jn
Madurai Rameswaram Passenger#56721 · Passenger
02:37 AMMandapam Camp
3m1 stops
02:40 AMMandapam
Setu Express#16713 · Express
03:28 AMMandapam Camp
1m1 stops
03:29 AMMandapam
Kanyakumari Rameswaram SF Express#12790 · Superfast
04:58 AMMandapam
9m1 stops
05:07 AMPamban Jn
Chennai Egmore-Rameshwaram Express#16701 · Express
10:12 AMMandapam Camp
2m1 stops
10:14 AMMandapam

Train details come from a 2015 railway timetable snapshot — newer trains, changed timings and running days are not included, so confirm on IRCTC before you plan around a train.

Stops & Places Along the Route

Good places to break the journey from Rameshwaram to Dhanushkodi.

  1. Pamban Bridge5 km from Rameshwaram

    Iconic railway and road bridge connecting Rameshwaram island to mainland. Spectacular views of the ocean and railway line.

  2. Ghost Town Ruins15 km from Rameshwaram

    Skeletal remains of the 1964 cyclone-devastated town including railway station, church, and post office. Haunting and photogenic.

  3. Dhanushkodi Beach18-20 km from Rameshwaram

    Pristine beach where Bay of Bengal meets Indian Ocean. Spectacular views, peaceful atmosphere, and spiritual significance.

Hotels in Dhanushkodi

Comfortable 3-star stays in Dhanushkodi. Tell us your dates and we'll get you a rate.

3 Star Hotel

Dhanushkodi

Travel Tips

The road is extremely bumpy and dusty - wear comfortable clothes and carry sunglasses/scarf.
Hire a private taxi instead of shared jeeps, especially for elderly travelers and families.
Ask your driver to go slow and stop frequently for rest breaks and photo opportunities.
Carry sufficient water and snacks as there are no facilities at Dhanushkodi.
Best time to visit: Early morning (6-8 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) to avoid harsh sun.
Avoid monsoon season (November-December) as the area can be inaccessible due to rough seas.
There are no restrooms or food facilities at Dhanushkodi - plan accordingly.
The area has religious significance - dress modestly and respect local customs.
Photography is excellent but be respectful of the ghost town's solemn atmosphere.
Combine with a visit to Rameshwaram temples for a complete spiritual experience.

Budget Estimate

budget

Economy travel

midRange

Comfortable travel

luxury

Premium travel

Extend Your Trip

Add a nearby place to your Dhanushkodi trip and see the full Rameshwaram → Dhanushkodi → next stop route.

Dhanushkodi → Tiruchendur

About 180 km by road

Dhanushkodi → Madurai

About 190 km by road

Dhanushkodi → Tirunelveli

About 215 km by road

Dhanushkodi → Thanjavur

About 235 km by road

Plan My Trip: Rameshwaram to Dhanushkodi

Pick how you want to travel and we'll send a complete plan with transport, hotel and sightseeing — on WhatsApp and a call back.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How far is Dhanushkodi from Rameshwaram?

Dhanushkodi is approximately 18-20 km from Rameshwaram town, taking about 30-45 minutes by road depending on road conditions.

2. Is the road to Dhanushkodi safe?

The road is generally safe but extremely bumpy and dusty. It's a narrow sandy road that requires careful driving. Private taxis with experienced local drivers are recommended.

3. What is the best way to reach Dhanushkodi?

Hiring a private taxi for the full day is the best option, especially for families and elderly travelers. Shared jeeps are available but can be uncomfortable and rushed.

4. Are there any facilities at Dhanushkodi?

No, there are no restrooms, food facilities, or shops at Dhanushkodi. Carry everything you need from Rameshwaram including water, snacks, and any medications.

5. What can I see at Dhanushkodi?

You can see the ghost town ruins including the railway station, church, post office, and other buildings destroyed in the 1964 cyclone. The beach where the Bay of Bengal meets the Indian Ocean is the main attraction.

6. Is Dhanushkodi worth visiting?

Absolutely! Dhanushkodi offers a unique combination of history, natural beauty, and spiritual significance. The ghost town ruins and the confluence of two oceans make it a must-visit destination.

Other Routes

Explore More of Rameshwaram

Destination Hub

Rameshwaram Overview

Places to Explore

Ramanathaswamy Temple

Discover attraction

Agni Theertham

Discover attraction

Dhanushkodi Beach and Ghost Town

Discover attraction

Pamban Bridge

Discover attraction

Kothandaramaswamy Temple

Discover attraction

Ariyaman Beach

Discover attraction

APJ Abdul Kalam Memorial

Discover attraction

Gandhamadhana Parvatham

Discover attraction

House of Kalam (APJ Abdul Kalam House/Museum)

Discover attraction

Rama Theertham

Discover attraction

Lakshmana Theertham

Discover attraction

Rameswaram Fishing Harbour and Boat Jetty

Discover attraction

Arulmigu Nambunayakiyamman Temple

Discover attraction

Jada Theertham Sivan Temple

Discover attraction

Sarvaroga Nivaran Teertham

Discover attraction

Olakudda Beach

Discover attraction

Rameswaram Lighthouse

Discover attraction

St. Arulanandar Church

Discover attraction

Runa Vimochana Theertham

Discover attraction

Sree Ekantha Ramasamy Temple

Discover attraction

Villoondi Theertham

Discover attraction

Pamban Island

Discover attraction

Mangala Theertham

Discover attraction

St. Joseph's Church

Discover attraction

Shingle

Discover attraction

Vivekananda Memorial Hall

Discover attraction

Kurusadai

Discover attraction

Pullivasal

Discover attraction

Poomarichan

Discover attraction

Chapel (abandoned)

Discover attraction

Danushkodi Lighthouse

Discover attraction

Manoliputti

Discover attraction

Danushkodi panorama

Discover attraction

Arichal Munai

Discover attraction

Manoli

Discover attraction

Kachchatheevu

Discover attraction

St. Antony's Shrine

Discover attraction

Hare

Discover attraction

Nochiyurani Beach

Discover attraction

Uchipuli Beach

Discover attraction

Attangarai Beach

Discover attraction

Alagankulam Beach

Discover attraction

Mulli

Discover attraction

Panaikulam Beach

Discover attraction

Puduvalasai Beach

Discover attraction

Valai

Discover attraction

Kadalkuli Beach

Discover attraction

Kasim Beach

Discover attraction

Athiyuthu Beach Area

Discover attraction

Thalayari

Discover attraction

Palanivalasai Beach

Discover attraction

Muthuregunathapuram Beach

Discover attraction

Muthuregunathapuram Harbour

Discover attraction

Sri Kantariamman Temple

Discover attraction

Muthuregunathapuram Sri Seven Flower King Muneeswarar Temple

Discover attraction

Amma Poonga

Discover attraction

Hanuman Temple

Discover attraction

Sethu Kkarai Beach

Discover attraction

Muthumari Amman Kovil

Discover attraction

Sri Krishna Statue

Discover attraction

Vinayagar Kovil

Discover attraction

Om Sakthi Mariyamnan Temple

Discover attraction

Arokya Annai Church, Sambai

Discover attraction

Karuppan Temple

Discover attraction

Sri Vazhividu Murugn Kovil

Discover attraction

Sri Vinayagar Hut Temple

Discover attraction

Sri Adhi Jagannatha Perumal Temple

Discover attraction

Roman Church

Discover attraction

Sri Pama Rukumani Samaetha Krishnar Temple

Discover attraction

Ramalinga Vilasam

Discover attraction

Sri Chinnammal Siva Kali

Discover attraction

Morpannai Beach

Discover attraction

Sri Kaaliamman Temple

Discover attraction

Kaanjirankudi Jumma Mosque

Discover attraction

Karankkadu Beach

Discover attraction

Kannan Temple

Discover attraction

Appa

Discover attraction

Palkulam Shri Selvamuthu Mariyamma Kovil

Discover attraction

Sri Sakthi Mariyamman Temple

Discover attraction

Mullimunai Beach

Discover attraction

Karudaiya Ayyanar Kovil Kadalur

Discover attraction

Madha Kebi Puthu Oranankudi

Discover attraction

Pattinam Beach

Discover attraction

St. Michael's Church

Discover attraction

MV Pattinam Pier

Discover attraction

St. Sebastian's Church, Sambai

Discover attraction

Bala Murugan Temple

Discover attraction

Annai Indira Gandhi Road Bridge

Discover attraction

Pamban Railway Station

Discover attraction

Gulf of Mannar Marine National Park

Discover attraction

Thangachimadam

Discover attraction

Rameshwaram Floating Stone Exhibit

Discover attraction