Built by the British in 1901, the lighthouse stands on a rocky promontory above Kapu Beach and remains an active aid to navigation for vessels along this stretch of the Arabian Sea coast. Visitors can climb its winding staircase within permitted hours for sweeping views over the beach, the fishing hamlet below and the open sea, making it a favoured spot for photography around sunset. Kapu Lighthouse sits at an elevation of 10 m. The most favourable months to visit are November, January, December, and February, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Nearby points of interest include St. Mary’s Island, Kapu Lighthouse, and Lighthouse Viewpoint Deck. Other notable highlights include climb 90 spiral steps for sweeping Arabian Sea views, spot red-and-white stripes against blue sky from beach, and watch fishing boats return to Kapu Beach at dusk. It falls within Udupi, Udupi district, and Karnataka, India.
State: Karnataka
Ideal Duration: 1 Hour
November, January, December, February
Yes, there is a nominal entry fee of around Rs 10 per person, and the lighthouse is open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM on all days. It is best to visit in the late afternoon to catch the sunset, but avoid going after 5:00 PM as the gates close promptly. Senior citizens can take their time climbing the stairs, but there is no lift.
The best time is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the sea is calm; avoid the monsoon months (June–September) as the area gets heavy rain and slippery paths. Carry a hat, sunscreen, a light jacket for the sea breeze, and comfortable walking shoes. Also, bring a camera, as the panoramic view of the Arabian Sea and the confluence of two rivers is stunning from the top.
The lighthouse has about 100 steps in a spiral staircase, which can be tiring for some seniors, but it is manageable if you go slowly and take breaks. There are railings to hold onto, but the steps are narrow, so it is not wheelchair accessible. If you have heart or knee issues, it is safer to enjoy the view from the base, which also offers a lovely beach and garden area.
There is a small car park, a few benches, and a small snack stall selling tea, coffee, and packaged snacks near the entrance. Public toilets are available but basic, so it is wise to carry your own water and hand sanitiser. For a proper meal, you will need to drive back to Udupi or the nearby village of Kapu, which has a few simple eateries.
The lighthouse is about 12 kilometres from Udupi town, and you can take a local bus, auto-rickshaw, or taxi. A bus ride takes roughly 30–40 minutes, while a taxi or auto will get you there in about 20–25 minutes. For senior travellers, hiring a taxi is more comfortable due to the winding coastal road.