
Kannur Lighthouse
A historic beacon offering breathtaking ocean views and a fascinating museum, perfect for sunset vistas.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views

Kannur Lighthouse
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic beacon offering breathtaking ocean views and a fascinating museum, perfect for sunset vistas.
"The climb to the top was great and so was the view from atop."

Bring Cash for Fees
Entry and photography fees are cash-only. Carry enough change! :moneybag:
Climb for the Views
The climb is manageable and the top offers amazing sea vistas. :climbing:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Ocean Views
Top of the lighthouse
Ascend to the top for breathtaking 360-degree views of the Arabian Sea and Kannur coastline.

Lighthouse Museum
Within the complex
Explore fascinating exhibits on the evolution of lighthouse technology and maritime equipment.

Sunset Spectacle
Lighthouse tower
Witness a magical sunset over the sea, a truly unforgettable experience from this vantage point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Views
Cash is King Here
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for Fees
Entry and photography fees are cash-only. Carry enough change! :moneybag:
Climb for the Views
The climb is manageable and the top offers amazing sea vistas. :climbing:
Check Lunch Closure
The lighthouse closes for lunch between 1 PM and 2 PM. Plan accordingly. :stopwatch:
Evening is Ideal
Visit in the evening for a beautiful sunset and a cool sea breeze. :city_sunset:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Fees
Entry and photography fees are cash-only. Carry enough change! :moneybag:
Climb for the Views
The climb is manageable and the top offers amazing sea vistas. :climbing:
Check Lunch Closure
The lighthouse closes for lunch between 1 PM and 2 PM. Plan accordingly. :stopwatch:
Evening is Ideal
Visit in the evening for a beautiful sunset and a cool sea breeze. :city_sunset:
Kid-Friendly Park
A small park within the complex is great for kids to play. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Kannur Lighthouse for its well-maintained structure, informative museum, and stunning panoramic views from the top, especially during sunset. The affordable entry fee and kid-friendly park are also highlights. However, some find the photography charges steep and the restrooms to be unclean.
"This place is captivating given the fact that it is maintained so well.
You'll find ample free parking just outside the main gate.
The ticket costs only ₹20 per person.
The campus is decent in terms of greenery and being near the sea you get an okish view with calm breeze constantly blowing.
The museum is brilliant and it's wooden panels gives a quite archaic look. The display of various types of lighting and communication equipment and their evolution over time gives a detailed outlook and thought process of mariners.
It also contains the complete machinery that would have been used at the light house. There is also a 15 minute video on various light houses across the coast of India. Additionally, there are merchandise books available for purchase.
The climb to the lighthouse was great and so was the view from atop.
The only issue is that the restrooms are portable and not at all clean."
Swaraj Paul
"Kannur lighthouse is one of the most important places to visit in Kannur. It is considered to be first lighthouse built in Kerala and at a strategic place. Public are allowed to go till the top of the lighthouse. The height of the lighthouse is not much and can be easily climbed by young and kids. The steps are wide enough to climb easily. There is a mini park around lighthouse which could be fun for young kids. There is a minimal entry fees, but no parking fees collected. It will.be closed for lunchtime from 1 to 2 PM. There is also a small museum within the same complex, where all earlier time lighthouse apparatus are well maintained. The museum is very informative for curious audience."
Anandan Pillai
"Descent light house. Maintained well. Entry fee 20 ₹ for adults and 10 ₹ for children. They charge for photography also. They charge 20 ₹ for mobile photography. That is not sensible. The atmosphere is good.Top view from the light house is amazing. Small area. The best time to visit is in the evening.No cafeteria is there. There is a small playing area for children also. Situated in the defence area. There is a museum also. You can see old ship parts and certain equipment used in ships."
SANDEEP VALIYANDI
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kannur Lighthouse is located near Payyambalam Beach, a few kilometers from Kannur town. You can reach it by auto-rickshaw or taxi from Kannur town. It's situated in a defense area, so follow signs for access.
Yes, there is ample free parking available just outside the main gate of the lighthouse complex. However, some reviews mention that parking spots can be limited during peak times.
Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available for getting around Kannur and to attractions like the lighthouse. For longer distances or day trips, consider hiring a car.
While direct public transport to the lighthouse might be limited, you can take local buses to Payyambalam Beach and then walk or take a short auto-rickshaw ride to the lighthouse.
Kannur Lighthouse is located a few kilometers from Kannur town, making it easily accessible for a short trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee for adults is ₹20 per person, and for children, it's ₹10. There's also a separate fee for photography.
Yes, there is a photography fee, which is ₹20 for mobile photography. Some visitors find this charge unnecessary.
The lighthouse is generally open to visitors, but it is closed for lunch between 1 PM and 2 PM. It's advisable to check the exact timings before your visit.
No, currently there is no virtual payment or online booking option. You must pay in cash for tickets and photography.
The museum is located within the lighthouse complex, and the entry fee typically covers access to both the lighthouse and the museum.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can climb to the top for panoramic views, explore the informative museum showcasing lighthouse equipment, and enjoy the sea breeze. There's also a small park for children.
The climb is generally considered easy, with wide steps for most of the ascent, making it accessible for most visitors, including children.
The view from the top is amazing, offering a 360-degree panorama of the Arabian Sea, the coastline, and the surrounding area.
Portable restrooms are available, but reviews suggest they are not always clean. It's advisable to use facilities before arriving if possible.
There is no cafeteria within the lighthouse complex itself, but there is a refreshment center in the garden/park area selling juice and ice cream.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the lighthouse offers stunning panoramic shots. The lighthouse itself against the sea and sky is also a great subject.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the museum, but there is a specific fee for mobile photography.
Late afternoons, especially around sunset, provide beautiful lighting for photography.
Given its location in a defense area, drone usage is likely restricted. It's best to check local regulations or inquire on-site.
Expect scenic coastal views, architectural shots of the lighthouse, and potentially interesting maritime artifacts in the museum.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Visiting in the late afternoon allows for pleasant weather and beautiful sunset views, which can be captivating for all ages. The relatively low entry fee makes it an affordable option for families looking for a unique attraction.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider capturing the details within the museum, showcasing the vintage maritime equipment. Be prepared for the photography fee if you plan to use your mobile phone for extensive shots. The surrounding area, including Payyambalam Beach, also offers complementary photographic opportunities.
❤️ Couples and Day-Trippers
It's a relatively quick visit, making it ideal for day-trippers exploring Kannur. Combine it with a visit to nearby Payyambalam Beach for a complete coastal experience. Remember to bring cash for entry and photography, and plan around the lunch closure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Kannur Lighthouse
The lighthouse is not just a navigational aid but also a point of interest for tourists. Its construction and operation reflect the advancements in maritime technology over the years. The lighthouse complex also houses a museum that details this evolution, providing visitors with a glimpse into the lives of mariners and the importance of these beacons.
Visitors often remark on the well-maintained condition of the lighthouse and its surroundings. The blend of historical significance, functional importance, and scenic beauty makes it a unique attraction in Kannur.
Experiencing the Climb and Views
Upon reaching the summit, visitors are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. The 360-degree vista encompasses the vast Arabian Sea, the picturesque Kannur coastline, and the surrounding landscape. Many recommend visiting in the late afternoon to witness the magical sunset, which casts a golden glow over the sea and sky, creating a truly memorable experience. The constant sea breeze adds to the pleasant atmosphere at the top.
While the climb and views are universally praised, some visitors note that the final steps might be a bit steeper. However, the overall experience of reaching the top and taking in the expansive scenery is consistently described as a must-do activity.
The Informative Lighthouse Museum
The museum also features a short video presentation on different lighthouses along the coast of India, providing a broader perspective on these maritime structures. For those interested in history and engineering, the exhibits offer a compelling look at the ingenuity and dedication of lighthouse keepers and engineers.
Many reviewers highlight the museum as a brilliant addition to the lighthouse visit, especially for those with a curious mind or for families looking to educate their children. The wooden panels and archaic look of the displays add to the museum's charm.

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