Home » TRAVEL EVENT NEWS » India’s Third Lighthouse Festival in Visakhapatnam Celebrates Coastal Culture, Lighthouse Tourism, and Local Entrepreneurship Published on
January 10, 2026Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh’s scenic coastal city, recently hosted the third edition of the Lighthouse Festival, a significant step towards promoting lighthouse tourism and coastal culture. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways collaborated with local stakeholders to organise this annual event, which began on the evening of January 9th. With its engaging cultural shows, vibrant exhibitions, and thought-provoking interactive sessions, the two-day festival has captivated the attention of both domestic and international visitors, helping to boost regional tourism.Cultural Showcases and Exhibitions Highlight Local TraditionsThe Lighthouse Festival is more than just a celebration of coastal tourism; it also serves as a platform for showcasing the rich traditions and culture of coastal communities. The event featured a series of cultural performances that were designed to engage visitors and offer them a glimpse into the regional art forms and customs that shape the local identity. Traditional music, dance, and folk performances were held throughout the festival, drawing audiences into the rhythms and stories of coastal life.Exhibitions also played a significant role in the festival’s success. Visitors were treated to a variety of displays, from handcrafted artefacts to educational exhibitions on lighthouse history and maritime heritage. These exhibits highlighted the important role that lighthouses have played in India’s coastal development, as well as the economic and cultural connections they maintain with local communities.Focus on Empowering Coastal CommunitiesA key element of the festival was its emphasis on empowering coastal communities. Organizers highlighted how the Narendra Modi government has been instrumental in integrating local communities into the lighthouse tourism sector. By turning lighthouses into active tourism hubs …
