Created by Igorcaf
Last edited October 23, 2025


Machilipatnam Lighthouse
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LocationTemplate:Wikidata location
OS gridTemplate:Gbmappingsmall
Coordinates16°14′48″N 81°14′01″E / 16.24666667°N 81.23361111°E / 16.24666667; 81.23361111
Tower height50 metres (160 ft)
Tower shapecylindrical tower with balcony and lantern
Markingsblack and white bands
Template:Infobox lighthouse/light

Machilipatnam Lighthouse was first established in 1858, at Manginapudi Beach, approximately 11 kilometres (6.8 mi) from the town of Machilipatnam, India.

History[edit | edit source]

The first light at Machilipatnam was commissioned in 1852 at a different location.[1]

The current lighthouse was commissioned in 1984, replacing a smaller structure built in 1930. During the tsunami of 2004 that caused deaths at Machilipatnam, the tsunami waves reached the base of the lighthouse.[2]

Architecture and fittings[edit | edit source]

The current lighthouse is a 50 metres (160 ft) tall RCC structure situated around 50 metres (160 ft) above MSL painted with alternating black and white bands. It has a geographical range of 16.5 nautical miles and a nautical range of 20 nautical miles. Fitted with a metal halide lamp, the rotation speed of the light beam is three rotations per minute with an effective beam intensity of 166,000 candelas.[3]

Visit and facilities[edit | edit source]

The lighthouse is open for visitors. It has a powerhouse and staff quarters.[3]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. Swaminathan, S (2012). History of Science and Technology in Tamil Nadu Through the Ages. Research Publishing. p. 152. ISBN 978-981-07-1409-3.
  2. "Machilipatnam Lighthouse". Director General of Lighthouses and Lightships, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India.
  3. 3.0 3.1 "Master Ledger of Machilipatnam Light house" (PDF). Director General of Lighthouses and Lightships, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Government of India.