Heritage
Kannur Lighthouse
Positioned close to the old Portuguese fort, Kannur Lighthouse continues to guide shipping. Along a coastline that has been a working harbour. Well before European contact, with its gallery open to visitors. Views over the fort and surrounding beaches. Kannur Lighthouse sits at an elevation of 16 m. Is typically explored in about 30-45 minutes. The most favourable months to visit are January, February, November, and December. Conditions are best suited for sightseeing.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Overview
Positioned close to the old Portuguese fort, Kannur Lighthouse continues to guide shipping along a coastline that has been a working harbour since well before European contact, with its gallery open to visitors for views over the fort and surrounding beaches. Kannur Lighthouse sits at an elevation of 16 m and is typically explored in about 30-45 minutes. The most favourable months to visit are January, February, November, and December, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Nearby points of interest include Baby Beach, Meenakshi Temple, and St. Angelo Fort. Other notable highlights include climb 93 steps for sweeping Arabian Sea views, watch fishing boats return to harbour at dusk, and spot St. Angelo Fort’s laterite walls from top. It falls within Kerala, India.
Highlights
- Climb 93 steps for sweeping Arabian Sea views
- Watch fishing boats return to harbour at dusk
- Spot St. Angelo Fort’s laterite walls from top
- See the lighthouse beam sweep at nightfall
- Observe coir-making and boat-building along nearby beach
- View Moppila Bay’s calm waters and old jetty
Places That Define Kannur Lighthouse
Discover the iconic attractions that make this destination unforgettable
Baby Beach (Payyambalam Beach Extension)
A small, quiet stretch of sand adjacent to the main Payyambalam Beach, just below the lighthouse, ideal for a relaxed walk and watching fishing boats return. It is less crowded and offers a clear view of the lighthouse from the shore.
Meenakshi Temple (Kannur)
A 600-year-old temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, located near the lighthouse, known for its intricate wooden carvings and a large temple pond. It is a peaceful spot to observe local rituals and traditional Kerala architecture.
St. Angelo Fort (Kannur Fort)
A 16th-century Portuguese-built fort overlooking the Arabian Sea, located about 3 km from the lighthouse. The fort features massive laterite walls, a moat, and a small museum, offering a glimpse into colonial history and scenic sea views.
Payyambalam Beach
A serene, palm-fringed beach just 2 km from the lighthouse, known for its golden sands and gentle waves, perfect for a leisurely stroll or quiet relaxation. It is also famous for its memorial to the late Communist leader A.K. Gopalan.
Kannur Lighthouse (Mount Elliot Lighthouse)
A historic red-and-white striped lighthouse built in 1903, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding coastal landscape from its top. The climb involves 93 steps, and the view is especially stunning at sunset.
Getting There
Things To Do
Take a Short Walk to the Nearby Baby Beach (Payyambalam Beach Extension)
From the lighthouse, walk south along the shoreline for about 15 minutes to reach the quieter end of Payyambalam Beach, locally called Baby Beach. This stretch is less crowded, with gentle waves and soft sand, ideal for a relaxed stroll or sitting on a bench.
1 hour
Observe the Working Lighthouse Mechanism (Lantern Room Viewing)
On request, the lighthouse keeper often allows visitors to peek into the lantern room (ground floor glass section) to see the rotating Fresnel lens and the modern LED lamp. It is a rare chance to understand how navigational aids operate in a real, active station.
20 minutes
Climb to the Top of the Lighthouse for Panoramic Harbour Views
Ascend the spiral staircase of this working lighthouse to the top gallery, where you get a 360-degree view of the Arabian Sea, the fishing harbour, and the distant St. Angelo Fort. On clear days, you can watch fishing boats and cargo ships navigating the waters below.
45 minutes
Visit the Kannur Harbour Fish Auction (Morning Only)
Walk down to the adjacent fishing harbour (a 10-minute walk from the lighthouse) between 6:30 AM and 8:30 AM to watch the daily catch being unloaded and auctioned. You will see a lively bustle of fishermen, buyers, and colourful boats – a true slice of local life.
45 minutes
Watch the Sunset from the Lighthouse Grounds
Arrive an hour before sunset and find a spot on the grassy knoll near the lighthouse base, which is a popular local hangout. You will see the sky turn orange and pink over the Arabian Sea, with the lighthouse beam beginning to rotate as dusk falls.
1 hour
Walk Along the Fort St. Angelo Ramparts and Moat
Stroll from the lighthouse down to the adjacent 16th-century Portuguese-built St. Angelo Fort, exploring its weathered laterite walls, secret tunnels, and the moat that surrounds it. The walk offers excellent photo opportunities of the lighthouse itself against the sea backdrop.
1.5 hours
Top Attractions
Baby Beach (Payyambalam Beach Extension)
A small, quiet stretch of sand adjacent to the main Payyambalam Beach, just below the lighthouse, ideal for a relaxed walk and watching fishing boats return. It is less crowded and offers a clear view of the lighthouse from the shore.
Meenakshi Temple (Kannur)
A 600-year-old temple dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, located near the lighthouse, known for its intricate wooden carvings and a large temple pond. It is a peaceful spot to observe local rituals and traditional Kerala architecture.
St. Angelo Fort (Kannur Fort)
A 16th-century Portuguese-built fort overlooking the Arabian Sea, located about 3 km from the lighthouse. The fort features massive laterite walls, a moat, and a small museum, offering a glimpse into colonial history and scenic sea views.
Payyambalam Beach
A serene, palm-fringed beach just 2 km from the lighthouse, known for its golden sands and gentle waves, perfect for a leisurely stroll or quiet relaxation. It is also famous for its memorial to the late Communist leader A.K. Gopalan.
Kannur Lighthouse (Mount Elliot Lighthouse)
A historic red-and-white striped lighthouse built in 1903, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding coastal landscape from its top. The climb involves 93 steps, and the view is especially stunning at sunset.
Travel Tips
Visit Early Morning or Late Afternoon to Avoid Crowds and Heat
The lighthouse area gets very hot and crowded by mid-morning. Go right at opening time (around 9 AM) or after 4 PM for cooler weather, easier walking, and better photo opportunities without jostling.
Keep Group Members Together with a Meeting Point and Time
Since the site is open with multiple viewing spots, agree on a clear meeting point (like the ticket counter) and a fixed return time. This avoids panic if someone wanders off to take photos or rest in the shade.
Use the Handrail and Take Slow Steps on the Spiral Stairs
The climb to the top has narrow, winding steps that can be slippery. Hold the railing firmly, pause at each landing, and let younger members go ahead so you set your own pace without pressure.
Wear Flat, Non-Slip Shoes and Carry a Small Water Bottle
The walkway around the lighthouse is uneven and can have loose gravel. Sturdy sandals or walking shoes prevent slips, and sipping water regularly helps you stay hydrated in the coastal humidity.
Check Sunset and Lighthouse Opening Days Before You Go
The lighthouse may be closed on certain holidays or for maintenance, and sunset visits are only possible on specific days. Call the Kannur tourism office or check online a day prior to avoid a wasted trip for your group.
Good to Know Nearby
Practical essentials close to Kannur Lighthouse — handy for senior and group travellers.
Hospitals
- Vasan Eye Care Hospital, Kannur1.3 km
- Dhanalakshmi Hospital3.4 km
Pharmacies
- central Pharmacy1.3 km
- Top Pharmaceuticals & Surgicals1.3 km
- Neethi Medicals1.6 km
- Lakshmi Medical Supplies2.5 km
ATMs
- Federal Bank1.5 km
- Central Bank of India ATM1.7 km
- Indian Bank ATM1.7 km
- SBI ATM1.8 km
- Canara Bank ATM1.8 km
Restaurants
- Cita Pani1.1 km
- Regency1.1 km
- Choice Restaurant1.3 km
- Kismath1.4 km
- Kaypunyam Restaurant1.6 km
Frequently Asked Questions
The lighthouse is open to visitors from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on all days except Mondays and public holidays. The entry fee is a nominal 20 rupees per person, and there is no extra charge for climbing the tower, though a small fee may apply for using a camera.
Yes, group visits are allowed, and it is best to inform the office in advance if you have more than 10 people so they can manage the crowd. There is limited roadside parking near the entrance, but larger buses may need to drop you off and park a short walk away.
There is a small toilet block near the base, but it is basic and may not be clean; carry your own water and snacks. Within walking distance, you can visit the nearby St. Angelo Fort and the calm Payyambalam Beach, where you will find local tea shops and fresh coconut water stalls.
Early morning, just after opening, offers the clearest skies and soft light, while late afternoon before closing gives a beautiful sunset view over the Arabian Sea. Avoid midday in summer as the heat inside the tower can be intense, and check weather forecasts for monsoon days when visibility drops.
The climb involves about 90 steep, spiral steps to the top, which can be tiring for those with knee or heart conditions. There is no lift, so seniors should take their time and rest at the small landings; the staff are helpful and can assist if needed, but it is not wheelchair accessible.
Suggested Itineraries
2 Days in Kannur Lighthouse
Day 1
Begin your visit with a relaxed arrival and a stroll around the town to soak in the coastal atmosphere. Spend the afternoon at the iconic Kannur Lighthouse, followed by a gentle walk to the nearby St. Angelo Fort as the sun softens. End the day with a quiet dinner overlooking the Arabian Sea.
- Visit Kannur Lighthouse (open 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM) and climb to the top for panoramic views of the harbour and the fishing boats returning.
- Walk to St. Angelo Fort (built in 1505) and explore its laterite walls, moat, and cannons, with ample benches for resting.
- Take a leisurely evening walk along the Payyambalam Beach promenade, watching local families and sunset colours.
Day 2
Dedicate the morning to a deeper exploration of St. Angelo Fort and its surroundings, including the sea wall and the lighthouse grounds at a slower pace. After lunch, visit the nearby Arakkal Museum to understand the region’s royal maritime history. Conclude with a relaxed coastal drive or a short boat ride along the harbour.
- Return to St. Angelo Fort in the morning (open 8 AM to 6 PM) for a guided walk along the ramparts, with breaks to watch ships and local fishermen.
- Visit the Arakkal Museum (closed Mondays) housed in a former palace, showcasing artefacts of the only Muslim royal family in Kerala.
- Take a 30-minute harbour cruise or a stroll along the Azhikkal ferry point to see the interplay of river and sea, then enjoy a late-afternoon coconut water break.
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