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Poompuhar Lighthouse

Fl (4) White 15s🇮🇳INOperational

Location & Light Range

About Poompuhar Lighthouse

Also known as: Poompuhar (Pumpoohar, Puhar)

This cylindrical concrete lighthouse, built in 2010, stands 30 meters tall and features red and white vertical stripes. The octagonal structure includes a lantern and an octagonal observation level positioned just below it. Its white light emits a single flash every 15 seconds, visible for 20 nautical miles. Located near Kaveripatnam, about 30 kilometers north of Karaikal, it guides vessels in the coastal waters of Tamil Nadu. The tower is open to the public daily from 3 to 6 pm.

Why it matters: The lighthouse aids navigation near Kaveripatnam, a region historically significant for maritime activity.

Light & Optic

Characteristic Signature
Fl (4) White 15s
Flash Type
Flashing
Light Color
White
Flash Count
4 flashes
Interval
15s
Raw Code
Fl W 15s
Geographic Range
20NM

Construction & History

Year Built
2010

Visiting

Open to public
Yes

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.

Tower & Structure

Tower Height
30m
Tower Shape
cylindrical
Tower Color
with red and white vertical stripes
Material
concrete

Structure: octagonal cylindrical concrete tower with lantern, gallery, and an octagonal observation level below the lantern

Location

Country
🇮🇳India
Region
Tamil Nadu
Sea Region
near Kaveripatnam, about 30 km north of Karaikal
Latitude
11.1414°
Longitude
79.8568°

References & Identifiers

Nearest Port
Karaikal(18.1 km)
Admiralty No.
F0918
NGA No.
27134
Wikidata
Q33130325 →
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do mariners identify Poompuhar Lighthouse at night?+
Poompuhar displays the characteristic Fl (4) White 15s — 4 white flashes every 15 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 Poompuhar Lighthouse guide vessels into?+
Poompuhar Lighthouse assists vessels approaching 4 nearby ports. The closest is Karaikal at 18.5 NM to the S. Other ports served include Nagappattinam (22.9 NM S), Cuddalore (30.3 NM N), Pondicherry (46.6 NM N). Mariners should consult the relevant chart for full approach and pilotage information.
Is Poompuhar Lighthouse still active and maintained?+
Yes, Poompuhar 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 Poompuhar Lighthouse?+
You can track vessels near Poompuhar 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.