This Beach in Kerala Glows in the Dark

Have you ever witnessed the beach waves emitting blue light? Well, this phenomenon also known as Bioluminescence is famous in a few beaches. While Maldives is one place where you can be sure to spot this, turns out you don’t have to travel that far, after all! While bioluminescence can be witnessed in a few places worldwide, India’s beaches are increasingly becoming hotspots for this natural wonder. Kerala’s beaches are known to exhibit Bioluminescence and in case you haven’t had a chance to witness it, this is your chance to do so!

Also called Kavaru locally, Bioluminescence is spotted mostly in the villages of Kumbalangi and Chellanam, which have vast pokkali paddy fields. People flock here in large numbers to get a glimpse of the magical glow.

What Is Bioluminescence?

A striking blue light illuminates the water, creating a magical spectacle. The glow comes from microscopic plankton, mostly dinoflagellates such as Noctiluca, which give off a flash of light when the water around them is disturbed by a wave, an oar or a hand. Warm, salty water in the hot months helps them multiply, which is why the glow is seen most often in summer.

Where and When to Watch It in Kerala

The glow is seen most often around Kumbalangi and Chellanam, coastal villages near Kochi. Where exactly it appears changes from year to year, so ask your homestay or local fishermen where it has been seen recently. The best chances are on dark, moonless nights from about February to May, an hour or two after sunset. A bright moon or nearby lights make it hard to see.

Although the phenomenon is a longstanding one, it was the Malayalam film Kumbalangi Nights that turned these coastal villages into a popular attraction, with its portrayal of glowing blue water at night.