• February 28, 2026

India’s First Tunnel Light-and-Sound Show Debuts as Chilakoor Tunnel Reopens in Varkala

India’s First Tunnel Light-and-Sound Show Debuts as Chilakoor Tunnel Reopens in Varkala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM Feb 28: Kerala on February 26 unveiled India’s first-ever light-and-sound show inside a tunnel, with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurating the renovated century-old Chilakoor Tunnel near Varkala.

Powered by advanced video-mapping technology, the six-minute immersive spectacle traces Kerala’s cultural heritage and reform movements, with a special focus on the life and teachings of saint and social reformer Sree Narayana Guru and his close association with Varkala. Designed and executed at a cost of ₹4.5 crore, the show marks a pioneering milestone in India’s tourism infrastructure and is the first fully digitised, tourism-oriented spectacle in the State.

The reopening of the 350-metre Chilakoor Tunnel is part of Phase I of the 280-km Akkulam-Chettuva Waterway, a key component of Kerala’s flagship West Coast Canal Renovation project. The initiative is expected to significantly boost water-based tourism while supporting sustainable and inclusive development across sectors such as logistics and heritage tourism.

The tunnel restoration was carried out by Kerala Waterways Infrastructure Limited (KWIL), a joint venture between the State government and Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL). Built during the reign of the erstwhile Travancore kings to facilitate inland navigation, the tunnel has been restored without disturbing its original heritage structure.

Coinciding with the inauguration, CIAL also launched a specially designed 20-seater electric boat service for visitors to experience the show while travelling through the tunnel. The Kochi-based start-up NavAlt Green Mobility developed the eco-friendly vessel, which is equipped with four high-intensity imported laser projectors, advanced onboard sound systems, and battery-powered operations to ensure a synchronised and sustainable visual experience.

According to S. Suhas, Director of KWIL, the Chilakoor Tunnel has re-emerged as a landmark heritage destination. “Given the tunnel’s historical and logistical significance, no embedded fixtures were used on the surface. Visitors can experience the show seamlessly while cruising through the tunnel,” he said.

As part of the broader tourism development plan, a boat jetty and beach park are also being developed at Chilakoor Beach. The reopening of the tunnel and launch of the light-and-sound show are expected to add a new dimension to Kerala’s inland water tourism and heritage conservation efforts.