About Anchuthengu Lighthouse
The Anchuthengu Lighthouse, also known as Anjengo Lighthouse, is a 130-foot tall coastal lighthouse located in the historic fishing village of Anchuthengu near Varkala in Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala. Commissioned in 1988, it stands near the 17th-century Anjengo Fort and offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, the fort, and surrounding backwaters. Visitors can climb approximately 250 steps to reach the top for scenic coastal vistas.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect to climb about 250 steps via a vintage spiral staircase to reach the top of the 130-foot lighthouse. From the summit, there are panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, Anjengo Fort, the Parvathi Puthanar River, and the surrounding coastal landscape with coconut groves. The lighthouse premises include a garden area. The climb involves steep circular stairs and is not suitable for those with mobility limitations.
Key highlights
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130-foot tall functional lighthouse commissioned in 1988
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Panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and coastline from the top
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Approximately 250-step spiral staircase climb
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Views of nearby Anjengo Fort and Parvathi Puthanar River
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Located in historic fishing village near 17th-century British settlement
History of Anchuthengu Lighthouse
The lighthouse was commissioned on April 30, 1988, and serves as a navigational aid for ships along the Kerala coast. It is located near Anjengo Fort, which was built by the British East India Company in 1684 as one of their earliest trading posts in the Malabar region. The lighthouse is believed to have guided ships arriving from Britain.
Culture & Context
The lighthouse is situated in Anchuthengu, a historic fishing village that was among the first British settlements in Kerala. The area contains colonial-era structures including a cemetery with tombstones dating back to 1704, reflecting the region's colonial maritime history.
Route
| By air |
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