The Vypin Lighthouse or Cochin Lighthouse[1][2] is situated at Puthuvype in Kochi, Kerala. Even though the current lighthouse started functioning only by 15 November 1979, the Cochin Lighthouse has a long history. The lighthouse which was functioning in Fort Kochi from 1839 was shifted to Puthuvype in 1979. It is the tallest lighthouse in Kerala.
Location | Puthuvype, Kochi, Kerala India |
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Coordinates | 9°59′54″N 76°13′18″E |
Tower | |
Constructed | 1839 (first) |
Construction | concrete tower |
Height | 46 metres (151 ft) |
Shape | octagonal tower with balcony and lantern |
Markings | white and red horizontal bands, white lantern |
Light | |
First lit | 1979 (current) |
Focal height | 49 metres (161 ft) |
Range | 28 nautical miles (52 km; 32 mi) |
Characteristic | Fl (4) W 20s. |
Visiting Time: 10am-1pm,2pm- 6pm
Working day: Tue,Wed,Thu,Fri,Sat,Sun
Holiday: Monday
Entry Fees: 20rs
Now visitors are allowed after Covid-19 pandemic. Putuvype beach is nearby and is open for visitors. Last updated on 8 Dec 2021.
The tower has a height of 46 metres (151 ft) and is made of double layered concrete. The light beam has the range of 28 nautical miles (52 km; 32 mi).[3]
An oil lamp light started functioning at Fort Kochi in 1839. In 1902, a new light and reflecting mechanism was introduced. Modifications were made in 1914. In the 1920s, a new 10-meter tall tower was erected.
In 1936, a 25-meter tall steel tower was installed with a gaslight. In 1966, a mechanism called sun valve was introduced. Plans to construct a taller and brighter light and a radio beacon were drawn up. Since there was a paucity of land, the new light was transferred to Puthuvype in the Vypin Island and the radio beacon was shifted to Azhikode.[4]
Lighthouses in Kerala | ||
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Lighthouses are listed in a north to south sequence. Italics indicate inactive sites. | ||
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