Here the beach is not rocky like in Pondicherry or Kanyakumari. Nor is it sandy like most of India’s west coast. Instead, the waves of the Bay of Bengal crash against the bricks that used to be the historic Danish city of Trankebar. Thanks to global warming and climate change, only a small portion of the brickworks breathe in the atmosphere. Rest of them remain below the water’s surface.
This brickwork from the era gone by is what creates an unique aura at Tranquebar (Tharangambadi). Tharangambadi is a small seaside town situated on the east coast of India, about 100 kilometres south of Pondicherry.
The feeling of being one with nature becomes ominous if one were to climb these brick walls. And if it is high tide time and you are the at the edge of brick walls that jut out into the sea, then you are greeted with foamy spray that promises to give you a mad thrill. Swimming is also possible, though only in small recommended pockets. The rest of the beach is considered unsafe for swimming unless you are well versed with the terrain underwater.
But that is not the end of it. This beach line has other charms too. It has a small golden sandy stretch that is enough for relaxed beach walks. This is where the locals and tourists alike come to soak in the seaside atmosphere. This golden beach is right in front of the Dansborg fort that towers in the background.
The fishermen community are also based on this beach. After all, the entire town of Tharangambadi revolves around this small beach line. Typical beach line stalls, though much smaller in size can be seen here selling food and snack items. And the umpteen fishing boats moored on the beach here act as seats for the beach lovers.
This different beach line at Tranquebar truly forms an unique experience. Let’s hope that the beach remains as it is and global warming and climate change do not take this amazing nature’s gift from us in the future.
Travel blog of an Indian traveler living his dream of experiencing the world and inspiring others to live their travel dream. Focus areas are travel and visa tips, destination guides, experiential travel stories and traveling as a vegetarian.
How does one go there if one doesn't have his own vehicle ? What do you suggest ? Public transport ?
ReplyDeleteIs there a place to stay overnight as well?
If you are travelling from Bangalore, i would suggest taking a bus to Pondy. Public Transport to Tharangabadi is easily available from Cuddalore, Chidambaram and Pondicherry. There are 3 places to stay overnight: 1) Bungalow on the Beach - 17th century British collector's bungalow - about 3-5K per night, 2) Gatehouse - about 3.5k per night and Tamil Nadu Hotels (about 400-800 Rs per night). Let me know if you need more details.
ReplyDeleteThat's too much of details ! :P
ReplyDeleteLet me also find out something when I go there. Some elements of surprise should always be there. Right?
:-) Sure! Do share that surprise element with me once you are back.
ReplyDelete