Vypin Lighthouse


The Vypin Lighthouse or Cochin Lighthouse 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.

Technical details

The tower has a height of and is made of double layered concrete. The light beam has the range of.

History

The old light at Fort Kochi

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.