The celebrated ancient port capital of Chola is situated on the confluence of the river Kaveri and the Bay of Bengal. It is believed that ancient city of Poompuhar was submerged by the sea which find detailed description in Manimekhalai. The archaeological explorations have brought to light a large number of evidences indicating partial submergence of ancient town. A few brick structures have been found in inter tidal zone and explorations in 5 m water depth yielded the evidence of rolled pottery which suggests that some part of habitation was submerged.
A shipwreck dated to late 18th century AD has also been found off Poompuhar in 19 m water depth. This shipwreck is yielding a large number of lead ingots.
Tranquebar another site about 15 km south of Poompuhar has remains of Chola, Ducth and Danish period. There is a fort of Dutch settlement at Tranquebar which has been partially submerged in sea. This is an indication of shoreline changes during the last 300 yrs.
A shipwreck dated to late 18th century AD has also been found off Poompuhar in 19 m water depth. This shipwreck is yielding a large number of lead ingots.
Tranquebar another site about 15 km south of Poompuhar has remains of Chola, Ducth and Danish period. There is a fort of Dutch settlement at Tranquebar which has been partially submerged in sea. This is an indication of shoreline changes during the last 300 yrs.