Kovalam, September 22, 2026: The iconic Kovalam Lighthouse at Vizhinjam was illuminated in vibrant colours as part of nationwide celebrations marking India’s 99th Lighthouse Day, adding a festive glow to one of Kerala’s best-known coastal landmarks.

The illumination was part of a nationwide initiative under which all 205 lighthouses across India were lit up to highlight their historic role in maritime navigation and safety. The Kovalam Lighthouse, standing prominently on the rocky Kurumkal hill overlooking the Arabian Sea, provided a striking sight against the coastal landscape.

The annual Lighthouse Day is observed on September 21 and commemorates the approval of the Lighthouse Bill in 1927 and the establishment of the Lighthouse Department for British India. The occasion highlights the continuing importance of lighthouses in supporting safe navigation while also recognising their growing role as heritage and tourism attractions.

A landmark of Kovalam’s coastline

The Kovalam Lighthouse is approximately 36 metres high and was completed in 1972. The distinctive tower has become closely associated with Kovalam's identity and is one of the most recognisable landmarks along the Thiruvananthapuram coast.

The lighthouse offers visitors expansive views of the Arabian Sea, Kovalam’s coastline and the Vizhinjam International Seaport. The surrounding lighthouse complex also features visitor amenities including a children's park, acupressure pathway, musical fountain and cafeteria.

Managed by the Directorate of Lighthouses and Lightships under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the Vizhinjam Lighthouse continues to serve as both a maritime landmark and an important tourism attraction. The Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships lists Vizhinjam Lighthouse among the lighthouses administered by its Kochi Directorate. (DGLLS)

Lighthouse tourism gains importance

The colourful illumination also highlighted the growing connection between India's maritime heritage and tourism. Lighthouses along the country's extensive coastline are increasingly being developed as visitor attractions while retaining their maritime significance.

For Kovalam, the lighthouse is particularly important because of its location overlooking Lighthouse Beach, one of the destination's most prominent coastal areas. Its elevated position provides visitors with panoramic views of the sea and surrounding coastline.

With Kovalam continuing to attract domestic and international visitors, the lighthouse remains an important part of the destination's tourism identity. The 99th Lighthouse Day illumination offered a fresh opportunity to showcase the landmark's maritime heritage while adding another memorable visual event to Kovalam's tourism calendar.

The colourful display also served as a reminder of the historic role of lighthouses in India's maritime story and their emerging importance as attractions connecting heritage, coastal tourism and local experiences.