Standing close to the old Anchuthengu Fort site, the Anjengo Lighthouse guides shipping along a stretch of coast that was once one of the earliest British East India Company trading footholds in India, and its gallery offers views over the fishing village and backwater inlet below. Anjengo Lighthouse sits at an elevation of 14 m and is typically explored in about 30-45 minutes. The most favourable months to visit are December, January, February, and March, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Nearby points of interest include St. Thomas Church, Vettukad Church, and Anjengo Fort. Other notable highlights include climb 145 steps for panoramic Arabian Sea views, see the 18th-century Dutch-built masonry tower up close, and walk to the adjacent Anchuthengu Fort’s old bastions. It falls within Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram district, and Kerala.
State: Kerala
Ideal Duration: 30-45 Minutes
December, January, February, March
The lighthouse is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on all days except Mondays and public holidays. The entry fee is a nominal ₹20 per person, and climbing to the top is allowed, though you should be prepared for a steep spiral staircase of about 140 steps.
Early morning, right after opening, or late afternoon (around 4:00 PM) are ideal, as the light is softer and the heat is less intense. Avoid midday, as the sun can be harsh and the metal stair railings get very hot. On a clear day, you can see the Arabian Sea, the backwaters, and the nearby Varkala cliffs.
The climb is quite steep and narrow, with no lift, so it may be challenging for those with mobility issues or heart conditions. If you are a senior traveller, it is advisable to stay at the base and enjoy the surrounding gardens and sea views, or have a companion assist you slowly if you must go up.
The lighthouse is about 10 km from Varkala town, and you can take an auto-rickshaw (around ₹300 one way) or a local bus that stops at Anjengo junction, followed by a 10-minute walk. There is a small, unpaved parking area near the gate that can fit 4-5 cars, but for a large tour bus, you will need to drop off passengers and park on the main road.
There are basic public restrooms near the entrance, but they may not be very clean, so carry your own tissues and hand sanitiser. Drinking water is available at a small kiosk, but it is safer to carry your own bottle. There are no proper restaurants nearby, so pack light snacks or eat before you come.