Vizhinjam Lighthouse

Located near the famous Kovalam Beach in the Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala, the Vizhinjam Lighthouse is a historic coastal landmark offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Vizhinjam was a bustling port, and the demand for a guiding light for ships was pressing. The Vizhinjam Lighthouse was built to fulfill this need and began operating in 1972. Standing tall at 36 meters, the cylindrical tower is easily recognizable by its striking red and white bands. Equipped with metal halide lamps and a direct drive mechanism, the lighthouse continues to be a symbol of the region’s maritime heritage.

Explore Vizhinjam Lighthouse

The Vizhinjam Lighthouse offers visitors a memorable experience, from its charming structure to the breathtaking coastal views from the top. Climbing to the observation deck rewards you with sweeping panoramas of Lighthouse Beach, the vibrant harbor, lush coconut groves, and even distant mosques dotting the shoreline. Though a lift is available, many visitors prefer the staircase to enjoy the cool sea breeze and pause at scenic spots on the way up. Be sure to carry a bottle of water, as the climb can get a little stuffy, especially during weekends.

The beach around the lighthouse, known as Lighthouse Beach, is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports like surfing and parasailing. Nearby, a small cafeteria serves coffee, tea, snacks, and ice cream, making it a great place to relax after your climb. Families with children will appreciate the kids’ play area, while the indoor exhibits showcasing Kerala’s various lighthouses add an educational touch to the visit. Whether it’s the natural beauty of the coastline or the historical importance of the lighthouse, Vizhinjam offers something special for every traveler.

Visitor Information

The Vizhinjam Lighthouse is open to visitors daily except Mondays, with visiting hours split between 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is between October and March when the weather is most pleasant. Reaching Vizhinjam is quite convenient; it is well connected by road, with plenty of transport options available from Kovalam and Thiruvananthapuram city. The nearest railway station is Thiruvananthapuram Central, approximately 15 kilometers away, while the closest airport is Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, also around 15 kilometers from the lighthouse.

The entry fee is modest: INR 20 for adults, INR 10 for children and senior citizens, and INR 50 for foreign nationals. Photography inside the lighthouse is permitted with an additional fee of INR 10. Children under three years enjoy free entry. Visitors should note that access to the engine room, staff quarters, and other restricted areas is prohibited. Additionally, items like umbrellas, walking sticks, bags, and food are not allowed inside the tower for safety reasons.