Tamil Nadu Completes First Phase of Underwater Archaeological Survey at Poompuhar

The Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology (TNSDA) has completed the first phase of its underwater survey off the Poompuhar coast, an ancient port city that once thrived during the Chola period. This marks an important step in rediscovering India’s lost maritime history.

Poompuhar Underwater Survey: Key Details

The survey was carried out from September 20, 2025, for nearly 12 days, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. when the sea was calm and visibility was good. It covered the area between Poompuhar (Kaveripoompattinam) and Nagapattinam, both known as ancient trade ports of Tamil Nadu.

Archaeologists and trained divers used advanced marine equipment to study the seabed up to a depth of 23 metres. The project was conducted in partnership with the Indian Maritime University, combining archaeological expertise with modern ocean research technology.

What Makes This Survey Important

Poompuhar is mentioned in ancient Tamil literature as a bustling Chola-era trading port, believed to have been partly submerged due to sea erosion and natural disasters.

Through this underwater exploration, experts hope to discover remains of ancient ports, docks, warehouses, shipwrecks, and trade routes that can reveal more about South India’s maritime history. This effort highlights Tamil Nadu’s commitment to protecting and promoting its rich cultural heritage.

What’s Next for the Poompuhar Project

After the successful completion of the first phase, TNSDA plans to start the second phase soon. The next stage will expand the study area, deploy more divers, and use high-tech tools for 3D seabed mapping. Researchers will also analyse the findings and publish detailed reports in the coming months.

There are also plans to introduce heritage tourism initiatives based on the discoveries, giving visitors a chance to learn about the lost city beneath the sea.

Also read: BREAKING: Tamil Nadu Seeks ASI Approval to Excavate Seven Ancient Sites from Sangam and Chola Eras

Why This Matters

The underwater survey off Poompuhar is more than an archaeological mission; it’s a chance to reconnect with Tamil Nadu’s glorious past and bring its forgotten history back to life. Each new discovery could reshape what we know about ancient Indian maritime trade and civilisation.

(Featured image taken from inarchcenter.com)