Poompuhar Beach, Nagapattinam Overview

Located in the quaint little town of Poompuhar, Tamil Nadu, Poompuhar beach is an ancient and natural beach along the Bay of Bengal. The beach starts at river Kaveri and extends towards Neithavasal, around 3 km to the north side. Poompuhar is a coastline town perfect for those who love wandering amidst history and memoirs. It is your gateway to the past. You can plan a weekend trip to the town and live in a unique shell shaped cottages.

The beach is covered with black sand that spreads over 3 km and transmutes as a fun picnic spot when the festivities get over. You can prepare a bassinet and spend some quality time with your family. Although, you wouldn't want to swim here, given the fact that the water is rough.

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History of Poompuhar Beach

Poompuhar beach was once amongst the most significant ports of India, under the rule of Chola Kings. There are many famous poems and epics (in the Tamil language) that depict the greatness of this town. Some notable classics are – Sangam Literature, Manimekalai, Silappadikaram.

Attractions Near Poompuhar Beach

The beach has an old link with South Indian history, making it a prominent attraction for tourists and locals alike. Chitra Pournami, which is celebrated during the full moon night in the month of 'chittrai' (April) is a prominent festival for this beach. Another important festival occurs on the new moon night of January. It involves taking a holy dip river Kaveri.

The beach also has several other attractions that accentuate its history. You can visit the Silappadikaram Art Gallery, a major tourist attraction that is a seven-tiered classic architecture structure. The gallery perfectly highlights the history of the place. It also has an exclusive underwater archaeological site museum that boasts the antiquities recovered from ancient underwater explorations that were held in Poompuhar.

Entry ticket fee for Silappadikaram Art Gallery:
Adult – INR 5
Child – INR 2

After lazing around at the beach, you can take a trip to many temples located around the city, nearby the beach. The nearest temple is Thiruppallavaneeswaram. As you travel further, you will come across other famous temples – Melapperumpallam, Thirusaikkadu, Keezhapperumpallam, Chola temple, and more.
The nearest town is Mayiladuthurai (24 km) and is located on the bank of river Kaveri. 

Best Time to Visit Poompuhar Beach

The best time to visit Poompuhar beach is from November to March when temperatures range comfortably between 20 degrees C to 33 degrees C, and there are seldom chances of a downpour. This is also the peak season time for tourists.

How to Reach Poompuhar Beach

By Air – Tiruchirappalli is the nearest airport, about 141 km away. You can rent a private car or get a public bus from the airport to the town.

By Train – The nearest railway stations are Sirkali (about 21 km away) and Mayiladuthurai (about 24 km away). You should get off at Sirkali if you are travelling from Chennai or other southern cities and towns.

By Road – Poompuhar has decent road connectivity with major towns like Sirkali and Mayiladuthurai. Tourists from Chennai can travel via Pondicherry and Sirkali to reach Poompuhar. The state government well maintains highways connecting all towns with adequate and clear road signs. You can always plan a road trip with your squad.

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