Vizhinjam Lighthouse

Vizhinjam Lighthouse, also known as Trivandrum Lighthouse, is a coastal navigation beacon situated near Kovalam Beach in Thiruvananthapuram district, Kerala. Commissioned on June 30, 1972, this 36-meter tall red and white striped structure stands on an elevated rocky headland above the Arabian Sea. The lighthouse replaced earlier day mark beacons that served the historic Vizhinjam port, which was a flourishing seaport during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Visitors can climb the lighthouse tower via a spiral staircase of approximately 140-144 steps or use an elevator to reach the top, where they are rewarded with panoramic views of the Arabian Sea coastline, nearby beaches including Kovalam Beach, and the Vizhinjam fishing harbor. The well-maintained grounds feature a garden area, children's play zone, and informative displays about maritime navigation and other lighthouses in Kerala. The site offers a mix of maritime history and scenic coastal views.

Vizhinjam was a busy seaport during the 18th and 19th centuries. A day mark beacon likely existed at the site in the 18th century to assist vessels entering the port. After the port declined in the late 19th century, a lighted beacon was established at nearby Kolachal in 1925, followed by a day mark beacon at Vizhinjam in 1960. The current major lighthouse was completed and commissioned on June 30, 1972, with equipment supplied by M/s BBT, Paris. The incandescent lamp was replaced by a 230V 450W metal halide lamp in 2003.

The lighthouse serves as an important maritime navigation aid along Kerala's coast and represents the region's historical connection to sea trade through the ancient Vizhinjam port. It has become an iconic landmark of the Kovalam coastal area.