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Kadapakkam Lighthouse

Fl (3) White 20s🇮🇳INOperational

Location & Light Range

About Kadapakkam Lighthouse

Also known as: Kadapakkam (Alam Parai Fort, Marakkanam)

Constructed of concrete in 2013, the Kadapakkam Lighthouse stands 32 meters tall with a focal height of 36 meters. Its cylindrical tower features red and white spiral bands, topped with a lantern and gallery. The light emits a single white flash every 20 seconds, visible for 16.4 nautical miles. This modern structure was placed in service in November 2013 and is located near Kadapakkam, a town situated about 40 kilometers north of Puducherry. The lighthouse is positioned close to the historic Alamparai Fort.

Why it matters: The light aids vessels navigating the coast north of Puducherry and helps ensure safe passage near the historic Alamparai Fort.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl (3) White 20s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
3 flashes
Interval
20s
Raw Code
Fl W 20s
Focal Height
36m
Geographic Range
16.4NM

Construction & History

Year Built
2013

Significant events: placed in service November 2013

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Pondicherry(23.3 km)
Admiralty No.
F0929
NGA No.
27110
ARLHS No.
IND-052

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
32m
Tower Shape
cylindrical
Tower Color
with red and white spiral bands
Material
concrete

Structure: round cylindrical concrete tower with lantern, gallery, and a round observation platform

Location

Country
🇮🇳India
Region
Tamil Nadu
Sea Region
Kadapakkam, a town about 40 km north of Puducherry, close to the historic Alamparai Fort
Latitude
12.2755°
Longitude
80.0110°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Kadapakkam Lighthouse at night?+
Kadapakkam displays the characteristic Fl (3) White 20s — 3 white flashes every 20 seconds. Each lighthouse has a unique flash pattern published in the List of Lights, allowing mariners to positively identify it and distinguish it from other navigation aids in the area. The white color may indicate a specific sector or warning zone.
Which ports and harbors does Kadapakkam Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Kadapakkam Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 3 nearby ports. The closest is Pondicherry at 24.2 NM to the SSW. Other ports served include Attur (27.7 NM N), Cuddalore (40.6 NM SSW). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Kadapakkam Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Kadapakkam Lighthouse is currently operational. It is actively maintained and continues to emit its characteristic light signal for marine navigation. Most modern lighthouses are automated and monitored remotely by the national maritime authority.
How can I track vessels near Kadapakkam Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Kadapakkam Lighthouse in real time using MarineRadar. The platform shows live AIS positions of ships in the area, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page to open the live map centered on this lighthouse.