Old Lighthouse

Standing proudly on Goubert Avenue, promenade Beach (called Cours Chabrol during French times) in Pondicherry, the Old Lighthouse holds a storied past that dates back to 1836. The French have long wanted to build a tower that would beam light to help mariners at night. In November 1835, they chose the vicinity around the “Mat de Pavillon,” and by March 1836, the lighthouse had been built by the expert hands of renowned engineer Louis Guerre. The 29 – metre tower was anchored by a 9 – metre foundation, defying sandy ground. Its circular tower encompasses three distinct sections: a watchman’s chamber, a quaint shop, and a winding staircase that leads daring souls to its zenith. Its light beam could be seen from a distance of 15 miles. Its six oil lamps and reflectors were modern marvels, later upgraded to electric lamps in 1913, reaching 26 nautical miles.

Due to frequent technical issues with the light source, a new lighthouse was built at Vamba Kirapalayam, fisherman Village in 1970, and the old lighthouse found a new life as a museum, a cherished Pondicherry attraction. The space surrounding the lighthouse thrives as a hub for commerce, music, and culture, engaging locals and tourists alike. Amidst its historical significance and architectural brilliance, the Old Lighthouse continues to draw visitors, preserving its legacy and stories for generations to come. Despite the fact that the Old Lighthouse is no longer open to the public, the New Lighthouse still fulfils the needs of visitors who come to see the town from the top in all its glory.

Good To Know

Tourist Spot:

Old lighthouse (Le Phare) was taken up during the tenure of Governor Saint Simon in 1835. Louis Guerre was the engineer, lighthouse was laid at the end of 1836.

Distance:

In front of Mahatma Gandhi Statue, White town.

Entry charges:

The public is not allowed to enter inside.

Door opening hours:

Anytime, you can visit the lighthouse from outside.

Shop Near:

Craft Bazaar & Pudumai Handy craft.

Food Near:

1 Rue Suffren, Le Café & Coromandel Cafe.

Stay Near:

Promenade & The Retreat.

Parking:

Vehicle is not allowed to enter beach road. Two wheeler free parking outside (Mahe de Labourdonnais Street) of French War Memorial. Car parking near old port, minimum charge applicable.

Restroom:

Public toilet located at Dumas Street and Mahe de La Bourdonnais Street (front of Craft Bazaar).

Location:

Door Nº 22, Old lighthouse, Goubert Avenue (Beach road), Puducherry, 605001, 605001, INDIA.

Continuously evolving, the Old Lighthouse has undergone several renovations to preserve its historical significance and architectural brilliance. Most recently, the lighthouse underwent a renovation from 2021 to 2022. Embracing its status as a cherished tourist magnet, the Old Lighthouse welcomes a steady stream of visitors both local and international throughout the year. Its legacy endures, a testament to engineering prowess, maritime history, and a captivating transformation from beacon of navigation to beacon of cultural engagement.


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