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Old 26th March 2018, 23:11   #1
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Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai

2017 had been a busy year. After trip to GJ in January and a 4 day trip to Cochin soon after, it was very much city drives for most of the year.


The year was so bad, that there was a period of around 6 months when the farthest I drove from home was to Bangalore airport, a distance of 44 KM's

By the time we were able to break the jinx it was end of year, November to be precise when we were able to plan for a trip. Since the road to Dhanushkodi was finally open for traffic, decided to plan a 4 day trip covering Kanyakumari, Rameshwaram & Madurai.

So on 4th Nov we start from Bangalore at 04:11 AM.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1941.jpg

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Old 26th March 2018, 23:34   #2
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Day 1

04-Nov-2017

Traffic was thin and having Fastag was an added advantage

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_0923.jpg

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_0930.jpg


Thanks to early morning start, we crossed Salem by 06:30 AM and stopped at BP COCO after Salem for bio-break. We start after topping up fuel at 06:50 AM


At 07:48 AM we stopped at Valluvar restaurant for breakfast. This is our preferred stop for breakfast on this route. Though this place is located on the other side of the road while driving south from Bangalore, we prefer this against nearby places due to clean restrooms and fast service.

Pictures of the place later in the travelogue from our return journey.

After a 50 minute stop, we start again. It started raining while we were crossing Dindigul. Hills around Kodai region were looking beautiful.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_0938.jpg


By 09:45 AM we were crossing the dusty bye-pass of Madurai.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_0955.jpg



Traffic again thins out past Madurai, though some sections of road was bumpy.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_0963.jpg

Thankfully all toll booths enroute was accepting Fastag. There was a period of more than a year, when few toll booths enroute were citing trivial reasons and asking to pay in cash.

Dedicated Fastag lanes however are too much to ask for

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_0964.jpg


Nearing Tirunelveli, surrounding becomes scenic.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_0970.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1001.jpg


Though NH 7 / 44 is said to end / start at Kanyakumari, it ends abruptly few KM's before the town. Final section of road is work in progress since past many years.

We take turn to two lane road to town

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1013.jpg


We reach Kanyakumari town

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1017.jpg


Our stay was booked at Hotel Tamilnadu . The hotel is the located next to sea and also has ample parking space.

Do note that many of the hotels in Kanyakumari has limited parking space, hence if you are a person who is concerned about leaving your car out in open, next to road, do cross check with your hotel before booking.

There is a restaurant in the campus which serves average food.

Rooms are spacious but bit run down, however for couple of days of stay, there is no complaint.


Hotel entrance

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1018.jpg


Room

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1020.jpg


Welcome dance by resident peacock

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1051.jpg


View from room

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1053.jpg

It was 12.35 PM when we checked into hotel. We proceed to have lunch at the restaurant inside the hotel soon after checkin.

After that, we take rest for couple of hours and then head off towards Vivekananda rock.

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Old 27th March 2018, 22:13   #3
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Day1 Ctd

Around Kanyakumari

We walk towards Vivekananda rock around 03:00 PM, thanks to sun there are very less people on road.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1060.jpg


Enroute we saw this interesting sign

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1061.jpg


Vivekananda rock as seen from main land

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1062.jpg


We head directly to boat jetty, thankfully there is no crowd here too.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1070.jpg


Ticket counter - Check out the strange ticket rates, don't know why they didn't round off the same.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1072.jpg

Waiting area for ferry

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1073.jpg


We had to wait for around 15 minutes, by this time crowd had swelled up. Soon boat arrives.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1074.jpg

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1075.jpg

After a brief boat ride, we reach at the rock. Boat waiting area at the rock-

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1077.jpg


Vivekananda memorial

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1080.jpg




Kudankulam atomic power plant is visible at a distance from the rock

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1081.jpg


Memorial entrance

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1089.jpg


Memorial contains a prayer room and a statue of Swami Vivekananda. Photography is not allowed inside the building.


On the next rock, there is a huge statue of Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar. However, there was some restoration work ongoing on the statue and hence we were not able to visit the same. Else, its part of a triangular boat ride covering main land - Vivekananda rock & Thiruvalluvar statue.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1094.jpg


There was forecast for heavy rains in TN due to a depression in Bay of Bengal. However, we were lucky till now. We notice thunderstorm in sea, worried that it may head to mainland soon, we decided to return from rock.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1100.jpg


By now crowd had started building up, hence the boat did two back to back trips from mainland without wasting time for those at rock to board. This means there was a huge queue of people waiting to return.


It was getting dark by the time we reached back at main land


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1111.jpg



Mahatma Gandhi Mandapam

Location

We wanted to visit the mandapam, however the place was heavily crowded due to a big group of school kids. Hence we decided to skip the same and go wait for sunset.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1112.jpg



We walk back towards hotel and wait at its ground

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1113.jpg



However, thanks to clouds we are not able to get a clear view of sunset

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1114.jpg


Once done, we decide to walk around town a little and then proceed for dinner. The nearest place which had good reviews was Hotel Saravana (Not to be confused with Saravana bhavan chain of restaurants)

Location


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-img_20171104_202413991_hdr.jpg

Food was good, however its a veg only place. For good non veg options, you will have to go further east in the town.


Dinner done, we roam around in shopping area next to temple and then head off to hotel.

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Old 27th March 2018, 22:58   #4
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Day 2

Kanyakumari - Vattakottai - Kudankulam - INS Kattabomman- Tiruchendur - Rameshwaram

We wake up early and head towards Kanyakumari temple to catch glimpse of sunrise.

There was huge crowd by the time we reach there. However to our disappointment, clouds play spoilsport again.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1117.jpg

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1118.jpg

Rock in early morning light


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1119.jpg


We walk back to hotel and decided to take rest for a while. After breakfast, we checkout and start from hotel at 09.20 AM. It does not make sense to start before breakfast in the route we are travelling today since it does not have any decent food or toilet stops.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1128.jpg




Vattakotai

This beachside fort is located around 7 KM's from Kanyakumari town. Constructed by king of Travancore in 18th century, it's a less crowded but beautiful location near to Kanyakumari.

From the road towards NH from Kanyakumari, we need to take a right turn for the fort. The turn is not properly marked apart from a rusted and faded signboard.


Location


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1133.jpg

We reach fort parking by 09:31 AM

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1135.jpg



Entrance of fort

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1136.jpg


Signboard with details

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1137.jpg


The place was devoid of any visitors apart from us, later handful of tourists arrived. However, it's a welcome change from the crowded Kanyakumari.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1143.jpg


The place offers great view, overcast sky makes roaming around the place pleasant.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1140.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1173.jpg



After spending around 45 mins we start towards Kudankulam at 10:15 AM.

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Old 30th March 2018, 12:53   #5
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Day 2 Ctd

Though our destination for today is Rameshwaram via Tiruchendur, we decided NOT to take the fastest and suggested route via Tirunelvelli.

Instead, enroute to Tiruchendur we wanted to visit INS Kattabomman. This route has an added advantage of passing through Kudankulam too.

So once we hit NH 7, after few KM's we take a right turn and head to Kudankulam.

NH 7 around here is beautiful

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1191.jpg


Road becomes patchy once we get off NH, however it is manageable with only moderate to very less traffic.

Route followed is Chettikulam, Perumanal, Kudankulam


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1198.jpg



Soon we reach Kudankulam

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1203.jpg



Main gate of nuclear power plant is visible from road. We decide to drive till the gate

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1206.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1207.jpg


Once done, we proceed towards Uvari. Roads still remains manageable, there is road work ongoing at some sections. So hope, in few months roads will be much better.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1208.jpg


Light drizzle accompanies us enroute

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1209.jpg


On reaching Uvari, we take left deviation towards Thisayanvilai. There is an incomplete bye-pass here, we take that and proceed couple of KM's to reach a dead end. Hence trace back our path and go through the town. A section of the road is narrow inside the town, however we are able to cross the town without much delay.

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Old 30th March 2018, 13:18   #6
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Day 2 Ctd

INS Kattabomman

INS Kattabomman's is a naval communication station. Role of which is to support communication with naval ships with help of VLF antennas located here.


There are total of 13 masts, the tallest of them is the tallest structure in India. Apart from that, this mast has the distinction of tallest military structure and also 6th tallest man made structure in the world.


Link

The project was commissioned in 1990. Though the news link below wrongly mentioned it as 2014, the date when a new mast was commissioned.

However, the news link gives an aerial view of the facility.

Link

Masts are visible from far. However, thanks to overcast sky, it is difficult to make it out it in picture.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1233.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1238.jpg

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1239.jpg


It is not possible to go near the masts obviously, the place is protected by high walls and armed personnel.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1249.jpg


Its 12:00 PM by now, we turn back and find a parking spot next to the road about a KM from the complex.

We have the packed snacks that we were carrying and spend few minutes watching the birdlife here.

This area has lots of Indian Rollers, however we are unable to get any decent pics of one.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1260.jpg


Optimus against lush green fields

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1261.jpg


At 12:10 PM we head to Tiruchendur. We decide not to head back towards Uvari, instead we decide on trying Mannarpuram - Sathankulam - Meghanapuram - Paramankuruchi - Tiruchendur.


Road conditions are manageable enroute, with some sections having patchy roads.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1264.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1266.jpg

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Old 30th March 2018, 13:25   #7
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Day 2 Ctd

Tiruchendur

Our first stop at Tiruchendur was Udhayam. The place has sufficient parking space and also serves good meals. Time is 1:15 PM, hence we decide to have lunch first.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1267.jpg

Temple is around 700 meters from the hotel. If not at Udhayam, another option you can consider here is TDTC restaurant. This is around 300 meters down the lane, closer to the temple. This hotel too has sufficient parking space.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1278.jpg


The reason for mentioning about the parking was due to this

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1269.jpg



Parking at the temple is crowded and we saw during onward and return walk that there was a block at exit of parking. So would suggest anyone to leave your vehicle at hotel and walk to the temple unless its unavoidable.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1268.jpg



May be since its a holiday, temple was crowded

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1273.jpg


Temple is located on the beach

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1271.jpg

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1274.jpg


Since it was crowded, we decide not to get in the temple. Instead we spend some time around the temple.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1275.jpg

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1276.jpg


Once done we walk back to the restaurant, its 03:10 PM. Since it's getting late for our drive to Rameshwaram, we start without wasting any time.

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Old 30th March 2018, 14:29   #8
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Day 2 Ctd

From Tiruchendur, we head towards Toothukudi. Road till Thoothukudi bye-pass is patchy at many sections. Seems like it was dug up for some road work, however we did not find any work happening.

From Thoothukudi bye-pass we head towards BP COCO and fill up the tank.

Our initial plan was to head on this same road north and then take right at Kurukkuchalai. However, the bunk attendant said that it's better to take a U turn and head few KM's back, then take east coast road (ECR) from there. We decide to go with that approach, it was 04:17 PM when we start from the bunk.


Road passes through salt pan


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1292.jpg


Traffic enroute

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1294.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1301.jpg



Sun set in rear view mirror

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1302.jpg


Soon it gets dark

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1313.jpg




We cross Pamban bridge in darkness


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1316.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1319.jpg



There is an entry charge for vehicles at Rameshwaram. Below pic was taken during our return journey, putting it here since the onward trip pic was taken in darkness.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1607.jpg





Hotel Pearl Residency

We had booked our stay at Hotel Pearl Residency. Its located next to the railway station and with ample parking space, would suggest this to anyone looking for budget accomodation at Rameshwaram.

It was 07:04 PM when we reach the hotel, we were toying with an idea of going to temple after check-in. However, it started raining heavily as soon as we check-in, so we dropped the plans and hit the bed after dinner.

Pics of hotel from next day

Bedroom

Exterior & parking area

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1604.jpg

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1322.jpg

Bathroom

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1323.jpg

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Old 30th March 2018, 16:22   #9
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Day 3

Dhanushkodi - Rameshwaram - Madurai

We get ready and start towards Dhanushkodi by 06:37 AM, since the hotel is towards south of town, we are able to get onto the road to Dhanushkodi in no time.

Rain from yesterday has stopped, however in between there is a drizzle which appears.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1327.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1330.jpg

Soon we start seeing sand on both sides of the road

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1346.jpg


We cross police check post enroute, past which it is said that entry is restricted between 06:00 PM to 06:00 AM. We didn't notice anyone or any signboard mentioning the same though.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1352.jpg


We cross Dhanushkodi village, apart from few hutments there are no buildings worth mentioning here after the 1964 cyclone. We decide to head south and stop at Dhanushkodi on way back.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1367.jpg


Road past Dhanushkodi

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1370.jpg



We start noticing end of road

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1381.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1384.jpg


It's 06:58 AM when we reach end of the road. There is only one another vehicle and handful of people when we reach there. Thankfully, drizzling has stopped for now.


Location


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1389.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1405.jpg


I move the vehicle bit further away from the circle since there is a bus trying to turn back at the circle.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1429.jpg


We walk towards the beach

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1432.jpg

Beach is not a continuous stretch, there are few places where water forms like canals. I guess during high tide this area will be below water.

Further south, you can notice couple of smaller islands in distance. Gulf of Mannar national park is also located roughly in this area.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1443.jpg


Google maps location


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-screenshot_20171106072546.png

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-screenshot_20171106073706.png



Our mobiles start displaying Sri Lankan networks

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-screenshot_20171106073300.png


By now, there are few people reaching the beach. So we decide to head towards Dhaushkodi.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1485.jpg

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Old 30th March 2018, 17:15   #10
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Day 3 Ctd

Dhanushkodi

Location

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1519.jpg

It's the place on the Indian side which took maximum impact of 1964 cyclone. Hence not much of any buildings are left here.

Those interested in reading about the cyclone can check out here.


An interesting report of the cyclone on Reading Eagle, a US based newspaper shows how much the first world cared, rather didn't care about any issue in India & Srilanka more than 50 decades back.

News report link

There are few huts around, people living there sell products made of shell to tourists.

Parking space next to shops

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1501.jpg


This is the most iconic image of the ruins, what was once a village church.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1502.jpg

Altar

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1503.jpg


Ruins of village

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1504.jpg

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1508.jpg


Ruins of railway station

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1510.jpg

Strangely, just next to the station, where the earlier railway line used to be, someone has put over a tent with a sign in different languages mentioning that its a 1000 year old temple.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1512.jpg


Ruins of the jetty, from where ferry service used to function to Sri Lanka

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1514.jpg

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1515.jpg


We start from here after a stop of around 15 minutes and head to Kothandaramaswamy temple.




Kothandaramaswamy temple


Location


Temple is located on a small island off few hundred meters from the main road.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1337.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1548.jpg


Temple as seen while driving towards the island from fork on the main road.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1554.jpg


Rameshwaram town and temple can be seen at a distance across the sea


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1568.jpg

Last I visited Rameshwaram was around 2001, at that time this temple was very much an isolated one. However, on reaching here I was not able to recognize the place, the area surrounding the temple is now covered by a structure, guess it is to protect people from sun.


However, the entire place was crowded. On top of that, where earlier it was an empty sea beach, some innovative guy has created a small platform and placed idols on top of that. He is charging some amount for which he clicks pictures of pilgrims offering flowers on the idols.


Due to the rush and commotion, we head off from the place without spending much time. Only later we realized that we forgot to get a close up pic of the place. So this is the only pic we have.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1571.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1579.jpg



By 09:25 AM we are back at hotel and proceed directly for having breakfast.

Last edited by mpksuhas : 1st April 2018 at 17:10.
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Old 30th March 2018, 17:44   #11
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Day 3 Ctd

Rameshwaram


Ramanathaswamy Temple


Location


Breakfast done, we head to Rameshwaram temple by an autorickshaw. We decided not to take car since parking around temple is a challenge.

Also do note that mobile phone, camera and bags are not allowed inside the temple.

We find a lady at a shop next to the temple who has a rudimentary locker system. So we keep our belongings there and visit the temple.


May be due to the odd timing, we find the temple less crowded.

Only picture of the temple


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1595.jpg






House of Kalam



Once temple visit is done, we take an auto to house of former President APJ Abdul Kalam.

The place is around a KM from the temple.

Location

Do note that Google Maps location of the place is wrong, I have suggested an edit to Google. Hence do check with the location if you are using the link above.

The plot in front of the house is developed into a mini shopping mall to cater to all the tourists coming there. I don't think late presidents family has anything to do with that.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1597.jpg


There is limited parking here, however would suggest anyone coming, to catch an auto like we did.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1596.jpg



House is on the lane behind the shopping complex

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1598.jpg



Rules for visitors

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1599.jpg


Timings

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1600.jpg


Narrow bye-lanes next to the house.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1602.jpg


It is impressive for anyone to come out of this bye-lanes to occupy the highest position of the nation, all without any fingers being pointed at you.


Photography is not allowed inside the house. The house is divided into three sections, the ground floor is where the family stays and is out of bounds. Second floor has few photographs, paintings and books. While, third floor has a gift shop.


Do note that, Kalam memorial is not located at this place and its bit far off out of Rameshwaram town towards Pamban.




Since the place is near to our hotel, we decide to walk back. Once at hotel, we quickly pack and check out.


At 12:33 PM we start from the hotel and head to APJ Kalam memorial.






APJ Kalam memorial


Location



The memorial is located next to main road and parking is next to the road on the opposite side of the memorial. We reach there by 12:45 PM.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1611.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1615.jpg



View of memorial from across the road.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1616.jpg


Photography is not allowed inside the memorial, found it bit strange though. For a man who lived a very organized life, the memorial is bit of a let down. Though it was unveiled only few months back, practicality wasn't given much thought I feel. There is no parking space, main entrance is closed and visitors are let in through a side door for whatever reason also, interior has already developed seepages.

I hope the place is maintained properly in coming months.

We start from memorial at 1:22 PM.

Last edited by mpksuhas : 1st April 2018 at 17:14.
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Old 31st March 2018, 23:48   #12
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Day 3 Ctd

Pamban bridge

Location

Since its past 1:30 PM, we wanted have lunch before heading to Madurai. We remember seeing few restaurants near Ramanathapuram bye-pass during our onward journey to Rameshwaram.

We decided to drive till there for lunch. Enroute, we cross Pamban bridge, in daylight this time.

Both rail and road bridges are next to each other. Rail bridge was destroyed during 1964 cyclone, drowning an entire train and its passenger. The bridge was later reconstructed in record time under leadership of E. Sreedharan of Delhi metro/ Konkan railway fame.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1618.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1621.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1622.jpg


We have just missed the train by couple of minutes. Train can be seen at far end of the bridge. Would have been a great sight to see the train on the bridge.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1631.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1633.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1638.jpg


Parking is banned on the bridge, however there was a block due to vehicles stopping for viewing the train crossing.


We proceed towards Ramanathapuram, the road here is recently widened by NHAI. It's a beautiful 2 lane road, though at some sections there is heavy traffic.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1676.jpg


Though there are toll booths, none of them are functioning


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1692.jpg



We reach Ramanathapuram bye-pass junction at 02:13 PM. There are two hotels at this junction on either side of the road.


We decide to have lunch from Hotel Vasantham.

Location

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1701.jpg


However, we find this place covered with insects and unhygienic. We would not suggest this place for anyone.

On hindsight, we feel we should have opted for Hotel Aishwarya on opposite side of the road.

Location


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1702.jpg



We start from the restaurant at 02:55 PM towards Madurai.


We take Ramanathapuram bye-pass, to join NH 87. The byepass has some work-in-progress sections. However, surface wise there are no issues.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1703.jpg



Once bye-pass ends, road conditions improves.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1728.jpg



However, around Paramakkudi there is road widening ongoing. Hence there are lots of wrong side driving and deviations.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1731.jpg



As we near Madurai, road becomes narrow and has lots of two wheeler traffic.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1738.jpg




Madurai


We find it difficult to navigate inside Madurai, however after few missed turns we reach our place of stay, Hotel North Gate.

Location

Hotel has ample parking and is value for money. Would suggest this for anyone who is planning on visiting Madurai.


We reach hotel at 05:11 PM.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1822.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1740.jpg

Last edited by mpksuhas : 1st April 2018 at 17:17.
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Old 1st April 2018, 00:01   #13
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Day 3 Ctd

Madurai Meenakshi Temple

Location

After resting for a while, we decide to head to Madurai Meenakshi Temple, instead of driving, we decide on taking Ola for Madurai commute.

Photography is banned inside the temple, hence we do not carry camera with us. Few pictures from mobile camera.


Area around temple is crowded and getting parking spot may be tricky. Would suggest anyone traveling to park car at hotel and get a cab like we did.



Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-img_20171106_183902655.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-img_20171106_183956554.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-img_20171106_185808941.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-img_20171106_200550006.jpg


Once we are done with visiting the temple, we take a walk around the shopping area next to temple.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-img_20171106_203111160.jpg


After that, we head to Hotel Sree Sabarees for dinner.

Location


We had come to know of this place based on online reviews, this is around 1.5 KM from temple and we did it by walk. Our initial impression of the place was not good, since it is a smallish restaurant located on a crowded street.

However, service and food were good and the reviews are well deserved.


Once dinner was done, we hail an Ola back to hotel.

Last edited by mpksuhas : 1st April 2018 at 17:18.
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Old 1st April 2018, 00:12   #14
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Day 4

After an early breakfast from our hotel, we take a taxi to Thirumalai Nayakar Palace.


Thirumalai Nayakar Palace

Location



Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1814.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1812.jpg


Entrance to the palace


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1813.jpg

There is light & sound show conducted at evenings in the palace.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1745.jpg


Ticket charges


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1744.jpg



Parking space again is very limited at the palace.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1743.jpg



History about the palace


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1785.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1811.jpg


Inside the palace


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1787.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1780.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1778.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1752.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1751.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1749.jpg



There is a small museum also inside the palace. All done, we head get another cab towards Gandhi Memorial Museum.




Gandhi Memorial Museum


Location


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1816.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1817.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1818.jpg


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1821.jpg



Photography is not allowed inside the museum. It takes us around half hour to complete going through all the exhibits. The place has story of Indian Independence struggle depicted through pictures, also on display is the cloth worn by Mahatma Gandhi when he was assassinated.


We get back at hotel around 11:50 AM.

Last edited by mpksuhas : 1st April 2018 at 17:19.
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Old 1st April 2018, 00:34   #15
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Day 4 Ctd

We pack and start from hotel at 12:51 PM. It takes some effort to get out of Madurai city in traffic.

Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1826.jpg


Madurai Meenakshi Temple can be seen at a distance.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1827.jpg


Soon we get on to NH 7.



Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1832.jpg


Road over here is scenic


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1847.jpg


We stop at Valluvar for lunch at 02:32 PM. Its 03:20 PM when we start after lunch. The same place we stopped for breakfast during our onward journey.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1864.jpg


As we near Karur, it starts to rain heavily.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1873.jpg



Thankfully, rains stop soon and we get to see a beautiful rainbow.


Wanderlust Traveler: Bangalore - Kanyakumari - Rameswaram - Madurai-suh_1933.jpg



After a bio break past Salem, we cross Hosur at 07:15 PM.


To avoid traffic, we take Bagalur - Sarjapur road and reach home near HSR layout at 08:30 PM.

Last edited by mpksuhas : 1st April 2018 at 17:20.
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