Poompuhar Lighthouse — Attraction in Tamil Nadu

In the last post (No. 94) I made an error by omitting a place we visited lying between Karaikal and Cuddalore. Poompuhar cannot be ignored.

The southern Coromandel Coast mostly within the territory of Tamilnadu state is thick with history.This history is not only of the European colonization but goes back to the ancient times when many places along the coast were centres of international trade. One such place which is said to have flourished from 200 BC onward is Poompuhar. The seaside town which was once the second capital of the Chola dynasty and a major centre of international trade with both eastern and western people. Silk appears to be a major item of exports from here. The ancient port as destroyed and is now found by the archaeologists submerged off the coast for up to 5 Kms. Erosion of land or a Tsunami have been cited as possible causes.

There are no archaeological remains on the shore. A small maritime museum displays a few objects, not very impressive. The beach is a major attraction and the tourism department of the state seems to have made efforts to promote the destination. There are a couple of temples, quite nice. We did not go into the details. One is of Godess Kamakshi. One impressive feature of the Poompuhar beach is the fish trading activity. This is of two types. Fresh fish is sold fried in the several small kiosks. Apart from fish Crabs and Prawns are also sold. The tourists seem to be providing the client base. The second one is sale of dried fish. This appears to be economically more important. This market has a vast variety of dried fish in sizable quantities. I cannot imagine a tourist carrying dry fish in his bags on his way back home. It is seriously smelly. The market must be for tradesmen dealing in fish for other parts of the State or the local consumers. Poompuhar Beach Poompuhar beach is a nice rocky beach with less waves. This beach is good to visit to watch sunrise and sunset.

Poompuhar beach is the remaining of the glorious Chola kingdom. Visiting this place will goose bumps for people who have read about Cholas and this city.

Poompuhar History Poompuhar is a town, which was once called as Kaveri poompattinam, an ancient port city. It is located near the end of the Kaveri River in Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu. Poompuhar has served as a capital of Chola Kings.

Kovalan and Mathavi from the famed tamil epic “Silapathikaram” or the “Epic of anklet” lived here. It has been the capital of Manuneethi Cholan, Karikal Cholan and Sembiyan, the most prominent South Indian rulers.

It has previously served as a harbour during Sangam Period. Most of the parts in the old town has be destructed as a result of tsunami struck...

The lighthouse in Poompuhar stands as a majestic sentinel overlooking the picturesque Poompuhar beach and its surrounding attractions. This iconic structure offers visitors a remarkable experience, both in terms of the breathtaking scenery it provides and the historical significance it represents.

For a mere Rs. 10, adults can gain admission to the lighthouse, a small price to pay for the awe-inspiring panoramic views it affords. The lighthouse opens its doors to the public from 3 to 5 pm every day, except for Fridays when it observes a holiday. This allows tourists to time their visit accordingly, ensuring they don't miss out on this incredible experience.

Once at the top of the lighthouse, visitors are treated to an unobstructed view of all of Poompuhar's historical sites. The gentle sea breeze that wafts through the area provides a refreshing contrast to the scorching sun. Tourists are granted a leisurely ten-minute stay at the pinnacle, allowing them to soak in the breathtaking vistas and capture memorable moments.

The management of the lighthouse is highly commendable, taking excellent care of the visitors. The premises are kept tidy, contributing to the overall pleasant experience. Photography enthusiasts will be pleased to know that they can capture the beauty of the surroundings for a nominal fee, with still cameras charged at Rs. 20 and video cameras at Rs. 25.

In essence, the Poompuhar lighthouse is more than just a landmark; it's a tranquil oasis where visitors can unwind, connect with history, and marvel at the beauty of the coastal landscape. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking a serene escape, a visit to the Poompuhar lighthouse is an essential part of any trip to this charming coastal town. So, when you visit Poompuhar, make sure to include the lighthouse in your itinerary. It's not just a place to see; it's a place to experience, and connect with the natural beauty of this...

Poompuhar Lighthouse is a hidden gem on the Tamil Nadu coastline, offering stunning views, rich history, and a peaceful coastal vibe. Located near the ancient town of Poompuhar (also known as Kaveripoompattinam), this lighthouse stands as a tall, proud reminder of the region's maritime heritage and Chola-era significance.

The climb to the top is short but exciting, and once you reach the viewing gallery, you're rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal, the Kaveri river mouth, and the vast shoreline. The gentle sea breeze and the sight of fishing boats sailing in the distance create a calm, meditative atmosphere—perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts.

The lighthouse is well-maintained, and staff are helpful and informative. It's a great spot for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a peaceful escape away from the crowd. Sunset views from here are especially spectacular and a must-see.

Poompuhar itself is a place of great historical importance, once a thriving port city during the Chola dynasty. You can combine your lighthouse visit with a trip to the nearby Silappathikaram Art Gallery, beach, and the remnants of ancient Poompuhar.

Whether you're passing through or planning a coastal trip, Poompuhar Lighthouse is definitely worth a stop. It’s not just a viewpoint—it’s a place where history, sea, and serenity meet. A peaceful and scenic destination that captures the timeless beauty of Tamil Nadu’s...