Thangasseri

Thangasseri, also spelled Thangassery, is a coastal locality in the Kollam district of Kerala, India. Located on the coast at the mouth of the Ashtamudi Lake, it forms part of the wider Kollam urban area and lies along the Arabian Sea. The area is a traditional fishing community and features maritime landmarks that reflect its coastal heritage.

A prominent feature of Thangasseri is the Thangasseri Lighthouse, a colonial-era structure that guards the shoreline and assists navigation for local fishing vessels and coastal traffic. Managed by the central Lighthouse Directorate, the lighthouse is a point of reference for visitors seeking views of the sea and backwaters.

Historically, Thangasseri has been connected to Kollam’s long-standing role as a port and trading center. Its position near the Ashtamudi lake system placed it within broader networks of coastal trade that linked local producers with merchants from various regions. The local economy remains dominated by fishing, with ancillary activities in boat-building and related trades; tourism related to the lighthouse and coastal scenery also contributes to the area.

In terms of administration, Thangasseri is part of the Kollam district and is accessible by road from the city. The closest major rail and air links are found in Kollam and Trivandrum, respectively, with travel typically routed through the road network.