We were in Kerala, God’s own country for a week and were having an amazing time in this enchanting land of swaying coconut palms, backwaters, and the sea. We were camping in Cherai, a small beach town near to the city of Kochi. After a lazy first half spent gorging on some authentic Kerala food and lazing in the pool at the boutique resort called Le Petit Elephant, we inquired about any nearby attractions that we could visit quickly in the afternoon. We were told that we could visit a Lighthouse which was about 24 Kilometers away as well as a Fish Park and we would just need to take the straight road that ran parallel to the beach. We were also warned that the road was not that good in parts. The options to reach the lighthouse included hiring a bike or calling for an autorickshaw or Tuk-Tuk. The laziness of the day had got into our bones. Hearing that the road was not too good, we were not up to driving. So we settled for the Tuk-Tuk.
So off we went hurtling along the road that ran parallel to the sea to visit the famous Vypin Lighthouse. It was afternoon and the waves of the Arabian Sea rose and crashed languorously on the sand. After driving along the Sea for some distance, the Tuk-Tuk driver took a left turn and moved in a direction that led away from the sea, this was ostensibly to avoid the bad stretch of road ahead and to connect back at a later stage.
We let out a shout of excitement as the road wound between water bodies on either side, these were the famed backwaters of Kerala. The water looked crystal clear and serene and was surrounded by coconut palm trees which threw their shadows on the tranquil waters.
The Tuk-Tuk then hit the main road that led to Kochi and we traveled on this road for about 15 odd kilometers before again turning right and traveling through narrow lanes and small villages finally reaching the Lighthouse.
We were in for a surprise. We had imagined an old, dilapidated structure, a Lighthouse that had withstood the vagaries of time and stood as a silent sentinel, witness to the ebb of time. A structure that had acted as a beacon to ships out in the high seas for years together.
The structure that stood in front of us was a modern one that jutted out proudly in front of the sea. We entered the gates of Vypin Lighthouse after buying tickets which are priced very nominally.
We entered through a small door and were advised to take the lift.
A gleaming high speed lift awaited us and we were whisked to the top in seconds. We emerged out of the Vypin Lighthouse to a spectacular and panoramic view. We walked around the circumference clicking pictures of the view. Though we were high up, there was absolutely no sense of vertigo as the space for moving around the tower was quite large and also the safety railings were quite high.
We first looked out towards the Arabian Sea, the horizon looked foggy beyond the beach and we could see some paddy fields just before the start of the beach.
On the Northern side of Vypin Lighthouse, lush green plantations stretched out as far as the eyes good see and enthralled us with their beauty. Picturesque houses and a church nestled amidst the greenery.
As we looked towards the western side of Vypin Lighthouse, we saw a neat little temple, symmetrically designed in the ancient architectural style of Kerala.
A road ran parallel to the beach leading towards the southern side of the Vypin Lighthouse and vehicles which looked like miniature models ran on it.
We spent about 30 minutes enjoying the views and breathing in the sea breeze that blew atop the tower before we took the lift to descend to ground level. The good thing was that there was hardly anyone around and we had the tower to ourselves.
Once out of the tower we noticed a glass covered kiosk that resembled an ATM center, our curiosity drew us inside. We discovered that this was an information kiosk with a touch screen. The system provided interesting information about the lighthouses across India as well as Naval museums. A great place for kids to learn about Lighthouses and their history and evolution.
We took another look at this modern and efficient lighthouse that must be instilling emotions of joy, hope and anticipation to sailors in the high seas every night.
We were back in the Tuk-Tuk and the driver now maneuvered over impossible stretches of road skillfully as we held on for dear life. After what seemed like hours of driving to nowhere, we reached the Fish Park. Unfortunately, the Park was closed. We were told that one could have a boat cruise at the Park and watch jumping fishes at close quarters. A meal of fish, freshly caught from the backwaters was also on the cards. We took a few pictures of the fish park which looked serene and got back to our Tuk-Tuk to ride back to our hotel.
The sun was setting on the western horizon as we reached the backwaters again. We asked the Tuk-Tuk driver to stop as we stepped out to experience a serene sunset on the lovely backwaters. We watched in silence as a boat glided to the shore and the sun slowly faded away from the sky. We felt a strange peace watching the sun go down and we made our way back to the Tuk-Tuk reluctantly.
We now headed back towards the hotel, the sea to our left, we passed some fishermen weaving nylon fishing nets, we spied some bright yellow wild flowers swaying merrily by the side of the road, a couple enjoying the evening by the beach.
The Kochi lighthouse which is also known as Vypin lighthouse is one destination in Kochi which should not be missed. The aerial view of coconut palms, the Arabian sea and the Vypin island itself is breathtaking!
Watch this video on our ride in tuk-tuk and the aerial view from the lighthouse.
Happiness coursed through our being as we thought about an evening well spent and looked forward to many more wonderful experiences on this trip to Kerala including the boat cruise in the Kerala backwaters!
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Fascinating post! And the photographs make it even more prettier. Rightly said : Kerala ‘God’s own country!’
Awesome views, thank you for sharing the blog, well done
I explored Kochi few years ago and loved the languorous pace of life in the time warped town. I somehow missed this lighthouse. Bookmarking it for next visit.
Awesome sexy post. Just I wish if you could have posted a few more pics of the fish park. I have visited Kochi a few times but missed both fish park and this lighthouse. Next time, won’t miss 🙂
Kerala looks gorgeous, especially the lighthouse. India’s a place I’ve never been – but would like to one day.
I love old lighthouses. They’re such cool structures. And the views from the top can’t be beat. 🙂
Perfect post… so interesting!! I love love love old lighthouses 🙂 Great photos as always! Thanks for sharing with us
Wow that lighthouse looks impressive! I unfortunately didn’t make it to Kerala when I was in India but I have heard many great stories about it!
That is a lovely post. A day out on a Tuk Tuk….and that too in Kerala. That would have been fun.
LOL looks like you had a fun adventure in a tuk-tuk! I have never been on one. Lighthouses will always be a classic.
I have heard great things about Kerala. Your post is very informative. As a cyclist, I would consider bicycling there, but sounds like a TukTuk would be the way to go. The video really makes me want to go visit.
Vypin Lighthouse looks like such an interesting structure. And those views are breathtaking. You captured the moment perfectly.
Took me some time to place Kerala on a map, luckily there are ways to get help to find areas. The diversity between the areas in India really seems amazing. Reading more and more about the country makes it even harder to travel there. There are just to many places to visit to be able to plan just one single trip and it is impossible to decide where to start.
Regarding the lighthouse, is there really any better place to enjoy the surroundings than a high tower? 🙂
Sounds like a wonderful day! I love visiting lighthouses around the world and it’s always such a treat when you visit one that lets you visit the top.
What an incredible looking place! I love how tropical it is! I can almost feel the sticky heat on me sitting in Copenhagen.
One thing that never gets old for me is breathing in the sea breeze. Your post made me highly nostalgic of when I lived in Okinawa and I would enjoy the views from the Yomitan Light House. I’m glad the tuk tuk took you to this lighthouse so you could experience a bit of culture and architecture.
Great post, that old light house looks fascinating. And Tuk Tuks are a must, they’re so fun, I remember riding one in Thailand and the battery kept falling out, haha 😉 Happy travels.
You got some amazing shots on this trip! The lighthouse is especially bold. I’m glad you were able to figure out the transportation!
Great post! I thought it was so funny that you were expecting an old regal lighthouse and ended up with something looking more like a giant robot body part 😉
When we went to Kerala, we couldn’t spend much time in Kochi. Have heard a lot about Cherai beach, the lighthouse and the views from it are beckoning. Would definitely plan now
Some fantastic aerial shots, really gives you a sense of the place!
I can just imagine the smell of the sea in the breeze while you took in those views. Great aerial shots, especially capturing the houses tucked in between the trees.
Excellent offbeat place. Such wonderful photo opportunity from top. I hope to get there.
But I kept wondering why the mention of tuk tuk. I was confused whether this post is on Thailand or India. I think it is slightly misleading. Nowhere in India they are called tuk tuk, no?
Cherai was on our list when we visited Kochi in Feb but had to change the plans last minute due to rains.. and completely agree with you Kerala is picturesque. We need to plan another trip soon 🙂
Fascinating and intriguing, especially the authentic photos make this post a really good one!
The shape of the lighthouse looks really interesting! The way you’re describing the Arabian Sea, the drive, the view, make me feel like I was there, too. Actually I was only once on a lighthouse, many years ago… but have “survived” numerous adventurous tuk-tuk rides already. Sounds like a great combination 🙂
The views look really nice and beautiful. The tuk tuk ride seems very fun as well. For sure it was really an enjoyable day.
I am planning to visit Kerala from a long time. Will definitely visit places mentioned by you. The pics are beautiful. Thanks for sharing.
I love searching out lighthouses when I travel. And riding on tuk-tuks, too! Although they are called different things in different countries. The Kerala region looks lovely. Thx for sharing.
What spectacular views from the top of Vypin Lighthouse! I love that you had the Tower to yourselves too to really soak in the moment and capture some incredible memories!
The lighthouse looks pretty cool and I think the TukTuk ride around Kerala would be exciting. I’ll actually be in Kerala next April so maybe I’ll check out Le Petit Elephant!
I love those views from above, they really give us a different perspective seeing the town peek out from behind the green palms.
It’s one of the earlier images that really had me on board with your tag of ‘backwater’ with that lone cyclist on that narrow empty lane
Hey! It looks like you had an amazing time in Kerala! This place seems to be quite stunning! Great article!
I would have loved to have seen this lighthouse when we were in Kerala. You get a real sense of the back waters and how much water there really is. We did a backwaters cruise but I don’t think I got a sense of how how vast the area is.
Kerala seems like a beautiful area to visit 🙂 Love the shots from the top, the view looks awesome! Definitely going to put this on my list of places to go for when I finally make it to India.
Kerala looks gorgeous! The lighthouse and the water among all the lush green tress – just beautiful. It looks so relaxing and it sounds like you had a great time!
I love lighthouses! The Kochi Lighthouse looks like it gives you beautiful views around the area. Definitely looks worth visiting.
I’ve been to north India, but never the south, need to make sure I make it to Kerala at some point, love the photos!
I love this story (and the video)! I’ve been dying to visit India for so long and Kerela is at the top of my list!
Kerala looks so interesting, we’ve still never been to India yet, but I enjoy reading your posts on the country as they are such an insight, thanks!
Tuk-tuk seems like a really fun way to tour around. You saw so many places without having the pain of driving and getting lost. I think I may look into using a tuk-tuk if I ever make it there.
Sounds like a fun and exciting way to see the island!
Great views from the top of the lighthouse. Kochi’s been on my list for quite a while but haven never been able to make it. Next April seems to be the time as I have a friend’s wedding I can’t afford to miss. Until then I’ll have to keep looking at this pictures. Saving this into list of things to do!
I’ve heard so many things about Kerala- really have to start looking at planning a trip there!
It was wonderful to know about the Information Kiosk…we need to introduce so many such measures to step up tourism efforts in India.
This post is interesting! I like all of the photos and the video you made. It seems like there is so much fun with the Tuk-tuk ride!
What a neat opportunity, and I what a neat lighthouse. Wonderful surprise that it was such a cool lighthouse. Love the photos, they really help tell the story.
Fascinating trip! I had fun reading your article. Cheers to more! xx
It’s always the spur of the moment ideas that turn out the best! Was a good idea to go see the lighthouse. The view from up there is incredible. Looks like you can see all around!
I was thinking where to plan my next weekend trip. This comes in handy and places looks prefect to explore from the hotel. Bookmarked it.
This looks really beautiful. I have a thing about seeing things from above so whenever there is a tower I can go up, I am off. This will definitely be on my list when I finally make it to Kerala.
Sounds like you had another fun adventure in Kerala! Lighthouses are one of my favourite things so that in itself would’ve made the trip for me, but you packed in so much more. Keep on travelling & sharing!
Kerala looks beautiful, I love the view towards the western side! So pretty!
Stunning views from up there! Looks like a great place to visit! Great post!
We have not been to India as yet, but this does look like an interesting place to visit. Great views too! #feetdotravel
Such a lovely scenery! The views from the lighthouse are amazing. I would love to visit Kerala a lot!
Kerala looks like a great place to visit! I keep hearing about it recently but I don’t know an awful lot about it!
Interesting post, this sounds like a great place to visit. I would love to visit one day!
The view from this lighthouse is stunning, despite it being quite foggy (pollution or just bad weather?). And I love the fact that there’s an elevator. 😉 Clearly worth a visit!
We find the best places when we ask the locals where we should visit – often they are places that aren’t found in any guidebooks or online searches. This lighthouse was a gem of a find. Such stunning views!
I wish I could have spent more time in Kerala, but I really enjoyed what I did see. I certainly didn’t make it to Fish Park or the lighthouse though. Loved the ocean there.
Beautiful views. Fingers crossed, I’m hoping to get to Kerala soon!
It must be a modern lighthouse if it has a lift in it! Usually you have to climb a lot of windy stairs 🙂
Definitely sometimes taking the local transport is the best way to go. I prefer driving but if I was unsure of the way or the safety of it, I’d opt for the local taxi or tuk tuk too.
Kerala is among one of the most beautiful places in India. We really liked Munnar and Kochi. Nice post, we are bookmarking it 🙂
I’ve always wanted to take a Tuk Tuk! I adore lighthouses; we always stop along the east coast USA in little towns so I can get out and visit the lighthouses. They’re so pretty!
What a lush area! Going on a tuk-tuk ride there would be fun. A visit to the lighthouse sounds like a great idea and something I’d like to do – it’s perfect for soaking up those views!
I’m thinking of going to the Kerala next year, this is a great idea. I want to see the other parts too. I heard its really pretty.
Tuk-Tuks are so much fun! They allow us to connect more with the locals and get the “insider” details. We hope to make it to Kerala sometime in the near future.
A lighthouse is always a good spot to find a great view. It certainly looks like you got that in Kocchi. Now, about that tuk-tuk… 🙂
Kerala looks like a lovely place to visit. I have heard so many funny stories about riding in a Tuk Tuk and I think when they hit the main road with traffic I would be having my heart racing 🙂 Just for the adventure I would give it go anyway.
Those are some pretty incredible images from the lighthouse. I wish I had more time to explore Kochi.Is camping popular and safe in Kerala?
Thanks for sharing an area I was not familiar with. Looks like India has a lot of hidden gems to explore. Your pictures caught the essence of the area very nicely and the Tuk Tuk looks like fun!
Did not know about this lighthouse in Kochi. Seems like an interesting thing to do. Maybe the next time I am there, will look it up. Thanks for sharing it.
Kerala is such a wonderfully lush place and your photos from the lighthouse really show it off. I especially liked the shot looking down into the traditional temple. I missed the lighthouse when I visited Kochi a few years back but I’d love to return with my kids – I bet they’d love it!
wonderful views… especially the shots from the top of the lighthouse. I have passed throuh Kochi a couple of times but could never manage time to explore it. Probably should have done that.
I was lucky enough to be able to see this lighthouse 🙂 Kerala is a truly magical place. I was there in January 🙂 Your post brought back some lovely memories.
I love exploring lighthouses. This is really such beautiful country and an impressive place to explore!
I’ve never been to India but it is definitely on my travel bucket list. This city looks beautiful – will definitely keep this in mind once I start building that India itinerary!
Great post! Love the photos! Thanks for sharing! 🙂
Definitely not an old, dilapidated structure!! The aerial view of coconut palms, the Arabian sea and the Vypin island itself looks surreal … I would love to visit! Thanks for the introduction, Kochi is on the list!
Great day out! And beautiful views! I have yet to visit India so thank you for sharing a little bit of it with me.
Looks like it was a beautiful trip!! Great photos and narrative – I felt like I was there right along with you 🙂
A nice article showing perfectly how very often it’s the small things that make travel special.
Sadly Never been in India…yet. Kerala from your pictures looks wonderful…I really love lighthouse, I have a giant one in my city, that’s is pretty famous…it’s called Capo Caccia, have a look ;). Anyway..the TukTuk ride there was surely a good experience, I liked that way of transportation in Thai 🙂
Tuk Tuk Superstar, really nice. I fell in love with these little motor thingies on my first Thailand trip. They are perfectly made to move from A to B in many asian regions. And to reach a lighthouse with a Tuktuk is obviously also not something that you day by everyday 🙂
Nice post, was fun to read and thanks a lot for sharing!
Love your adventure on the Tuk Tuk to the Lighthouse. The views from the Lighthouse were spectacular. Great photos and Kochi looks so peaceful. I pinned this for later and thanks for sharing 🙂 #feetdotravel
This sounds like a nice and restful trip. Catching the sunset was probably amazing in person.
I love lighthouses and seeing towns from a high destination. The views looked very pretty regardless of the fog.
We have never visited a lighthouse and would definitely love to go there once. Amazing pictures and catchy description of your tuk-tuk experience. Good job!
A wonderful adventure and some absolutely stunning views of the area! Love the sunset waters and the ride along the water. I expected an old-school lighthouse too but even the modern one looks striking and has sensational views! Love your photos and experiences as always!
Interesting post with great photos. The lighthouse is cool and the views from the top are spectacular. Thank you for sharing 🙂
What a lovely trip you had! The lighthouse sounds interesting and something I’d love to explore! The palm trees remind me of here in Maldives! Such a beautiful destination and one I will be sure to bookmark for the future! Thanks for the great tips!
Kristie (you.theworld.wandering)
A tuk-tuk ride sounds like THE way to go. If I am ever in that area, I am definitely going to travel that way.
Never ever heard of this place before. Nice you have the opportunity to travel so much. Looks like a nice place to visit but there are so many places we want to see it is hard to choose.
Wow, the views in your photos are amazing. I would like to travel to India one day and visit all of these beautiful places.
I love the video! What a fun trip! I love the idea of a tuk-tuk ride and the scenery is so pretty.
I love to explore little known places. I have never been to India but if I do I know I would like to check out this area. It looks beautiful and looks peaceful.
Been reading a lot about Kerala and I find it interesting. Still part of my bucket list and I am looking forward to visit it very soon.
Wow what an amazing looking place to visit, the lighthouse is just beautiful. I’ve always found something fascinating about them.
What an unusual lighthouse! You take some really amazing photos – I would love to travel to some of the places you go!
I love all of these pictures. The scenery here is beautiful and it sounds like such a great place to travel!
What beautiful photos. I have always loved water views and seeing beautiful lighthouses!
What an interesting place! I love old lighthouses, I feel like they have so much history behind them. The view of the plantations is beautiful!
This place looks majestic and beautiful. That view from the lighthouse is just remarkable. Great post!
I must admit I wasn’t sure where Kerala was so I had to look it up. It looks like a lovely place and the view from the lighthouse is great!
This sounds like a dream vacation. Finding a destination with rich history and beautiful views is always my goal with traveling.
Beautiful travel recap! I wasnt sure where Kerala was located but now I am aware is near the coast of India.
Beautiful views! Lighthouses are nice to spots to visit any where in the world. They look like lonely night watch men, but they are a welcome sight for sailors at sea. Thanks again for sharing a part of India I wish to visit.
WOW! So beautiful! I love exploring lighthouses whenever we travel and this looks like an amazing one!
I have always been awe-struck everytime I see lighthouses. There’s just something magical in them, especially when you see them at night with that bright light beam. Thank you for sharing yet another beautiful place in your country.
Wow, that view is amazing! I love to visit light houses when I am traveling, they always feel like a great piece of history. This one is stunning!
I have always been fascinated by the beauty of Kerala. I have a lot of friends from Kerala living in Dubai and I am always impressed by the beautiful landscapes. The light house is giving breath taking views. I would love to visit Kerala with my friends some time soon.