Minicoy South Lighthouse

Minicoy Lighthouse, also referred to as Minicoy South Lighthouse, is a historic coastal lighthouse at the southern tip of Minicoy Island in Lakshadweep, India. Built in 1885 during British rule and designed by Sir James Douglass, the 49.5-meter brick tower is one of the oldest and tallest lighthouses in the region. It remains an active navigational aid guiding vessels through the Eight Degree Channel and offers panoramic views of the island, lagoon and Arabian Sea.

Visitors can expect a tall red-and-white banded brick lighthouse tower with an internal spiral staircase leading to a lantern room and viewing gallery. The site is set at the southern end of Minicoy Island surrounded by coconut palms, beach and lagoon waters. From the top, visitors get 360-degree views of the island, lagoon, reef and open sea. The ground area includes the lighthouse complex and keeper's quarters. Access is by guided visit with staff explaining the light's operation.

Constructed by the British and commissioned on 2 February 1885, Minicoy Lighthouse was designed by Sir James Douglass. Built with bricks imported from England, it was established to guide maritime traffic through the Eight Degree Channel between Maldives and Lakshadweep. It is one of the oldest lighthouses in Lakshadweep and has been in continuous operation for over 135 years, later modernized with updated optical and electrical systems.

The lighthouse is a prominent landmark and navigational symbol for Minicoy Island and is closely associated with the island's maritime heritage. It is a key orientation point for local fishermen and seafarers and represents colonial-era engineering heritage in Lakshadweep.