New Delhi, 10 October Lighthouse tourism in India has risen from about 4 lakh visitors in 2014 to 18.63 lakh in 2024–25, and 75 lighthouses have been developed as tourism destinations to preserve their historical and architectural significance, a government factsheet said on Saturday.
With a coastline stretching over 11,000 km and 205 lighthouses, India is now reimagining these historic maritime guardians.
“Today, the lighthouse is becoming much more than a distant landmark. Its first purpose remains unchanged: helping vessels navigate safely along India’s coastline. Around that enduring role, however, a new chapter is taking shape. Lighthouse stations are being upgraded and opened to the public,” said the official statement.
Some of these include the Mandvi Lighthouse and Dwarka Lighthouse in Gujarat, Tadri Lighthouse in Karnataka, Pamban Lighthouse in Tamil Nadu, and Vizhinjam Lighthouse in Kerala.
A digital ticketing portal has also been launched under the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL), bringing the visitor experience onto a common digital platform.
According to the statement, lighthouses have become part of India’s wider maritime information network.
Around 87 Automatic Identification System (AIS) shore stations have been installed on lighthouses along the coast. This ensures that the beam remains dependable, responsive, and ready to guide vessels safely.
“AIS is a ship and shore-based data broadcast system in accordance with SOLAS (International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea). It is a powerful tool for enhancing situational awareness, thereby contributing to the safety of navigation and efficiency of shipping traffic management,” said the statement.
