velankanni matha church trip

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Search this blog, pilgrimage to the miraculous churches of velankanni: exploring the history, culture, and beauty of this sacred town.

I had the pleasure of visiting Velankanni, a small coastal town in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, and I must say it was a truly unique experience. Velankanni is known for its famous Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, a revered Catholic shrine that attracts millions of pilgrims each year.

For our trip to Pichavaram (at that time we did not know that we would end up at Pondicherry) we chose to drive along the east coast. Our first stop on this day was at Velankanni, where we saw the Morning Star Cathedral, Old Velankanni Church, and the Bascilica of Our Lady of Good Health. We reached there and were surprised to find a service in progress in Hindi. Apparently there is a service schedule in various languages and we happened to visit when it was scheduled to happen in Hindi.

Velankanni is a small town located on the eastern coast of India in the state of Tamil Nadu. It is famous for the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, also known as the Velankanni Church. The church is a popular pilgrimage site for Christians, especially Catholics, who believe that Mother Mary appeared here in the 16th century and performed miracles.

The town of Velankanni is also known for its beautiful beaches, especially the Velankanni Beach, which attracts tourists from all over India. The beach has clear waters, golden sand, and is surrounded by palm trees, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

In addition to the church and the beach, Velankanni has several other attractions such as the Velankanni Matha Shrine, the Nagapattinam Lighthouse, and the Velankanni Museum. The town also hosts the annual Velankanni Festival, which is a grand celebration that takes place in August and September, attracting thousands of devotees and tourists.

The churches of Velankanni, especially the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, are considered important by Catholics because of the belief that Mother Mary appeared here in the 16th century and performed miracles.

According to legend, Mother Mary appeared to a young boy carrying milk on his way to sell it and asked for some milk to quench the thirst of her infant son, Jesus. The boy gave her some milk, and when he reached his destination, he found that the milk had not diminished, and he had enough to sell. This incident was believed to be a miracle, and it led to the building of a small chapel on the spot where Mother Mary appeared.

Over the years, many other miraculous incidents were reported at the site, leading to the growth of the church and the town of Velankanni as a popular pilgrimage site. The church is also considered important because it is believed to have the power to heal the sick and grant wishes.

The churches of Velankanni are not only important to Catholics but also to people of other religions and those who appreciate history, architecture, and culture. The churches of Velankanni are beautiful examples of colonial-era architecture, and they attract visitors from all over India and beyond.

As I made my way inside the basilica, I was struck by the peaceful and serene atmosphere. The dimly lit interiors and the soft hymns playing in the background created a sense of tranquility that engulfed me. The altar was adorned with beautiful floral arrangements, and the statues of the saints were placed in niches along the walls. The highlight, of course, was the statue of Our Lady of Good Health, which was placed atop the altar.

After spending some time in quiet contemplation, I decided to explore the town. Velankanni is a small place with a laid-back vibe, and the locals are friendly and welcoming. I visited the beach, which was just a stone's throw away from the basilica. The beach was clean and pristine, with gentle waves lapping at the shore. I saw fishermen hauling in their catches, and children playing in the sand. It was a picturesque sight.

I also visited the nearby Nagapattinam, a historic port town that was once a major trading hub. The town has an old-world charm, with its narrow streets and ancient temples. I particularly enjoyed visiting the Velankanni Church Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and memorabilia related to the basilica's history.

My trip to Velankanni was a memorable one. The town has a unique charm, and the people are warm and friendly. The basilica is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and religion, and the beach is a great place to unwind and relax. Overall, Velankanni is a hidden gem that is worth exploring.

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• 04 Days : Vailankanni (Your are Here)

Vailankanni Pilgrimage Tours - 4 Days / 3 Nights

Day 01 : arrive in trichy / vailankanni  ( l / d ), day 02 : vailankanni  ( b / l / d ).

Breakfast at hotel.  Day free for visit the Church Complex.  Over night stay at hotel. 

Day 03 :  Vailankanni / Poondi Matha Shrine / Trichy  ( B / L / D )

Breakfast at hotel. 

Poondi Madha Shrine

Rev. Fr. Constantine Joseph Beschi S.J., an Italian Jesuit missionary, built the Church of Mary Queen of Immaculate Conception between 1714 and 1718. He was popularly known as Veeramamunivar. Rev. Fr. Lourdes Xavier, parish priest of the church, noticed in 1955 that the roof looked unsound. An engineer told him that the central roof was unsafe, but the rest of the structure was strong and recommended the roof be renewed. Later, on a rainy night, the roof of the church collapsed, leaving everything else intact, thus saving the cost of taking down the roof. After this the number of pilgrims to the shrine increased and accounts of miracles and cures started to spread. The local people called Mary Poondi Matha. Matha means Mother in Tamil. The shrine became known as Poondi Matha shrine. Poondi Madha Shrine was officially classified a Minor Basilica by Pope John Paul II on 3 August, 1999.

Day 04 : Depart Trichy  ( B )

Annai Velankanni Church: A Day trip to India’s Busiest Holy Site

Apr 21, 2023 Temples , Velankanni Matha Church 0 comments

In the early 1980s, I made my first trip to Velankanni with my cousin. He had decided to offer his hair to Velankanni Matha as part of his sister’s wedding vows and had invited me to join him. During my visit, I made a prayer to the Virgin Mary that if I ever had the opportunity to visit a foreign country, I would return and offer a small gift from the temple’s gift shop. Although my dream of traveling abroad eventually came true, I never found the time to fulfill my promise. Finally, in February 2023, I made the time to visit Velankanni again, this time traveling from Chennai. In this post, I will share my experience of fulfilling my promise to the Annai Velankanni church and include some pictures of the beautiful church and its surroundings.

The Annai Velankanni Church, also known as the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, is a renowned Catholic pilgrimage site located in Velankanni, Tamil Nadu, India. Situated on the Bay of Bengal coast, the church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, commonly referred to as “Annai Velankanni,” and attracts millions of visitors every year, irrespective of their religion or faith, to seek her blessings. The church is widely believed to have miraculous healing powers and is reputed to fulfill people’s desires.

According to legend, the Velankanni Madha Church was built in the 16th century by Portuguese sailors who were rescued from a violent storm by the Virgin Mary. This is one of the three known miraculous appearances of the Velankanni Madha. She is also believed to have appeared to a shepherd boy and a buttermilk vendor. Over the centuries, the church has undergone several renovations and expansions, with the most recent renovation taking place in the 20th century.

Journey to Velankanni on the Karaikal Express from Chennai

For my journey from Chennai to Velankanni, I chose to take the Karaikal Express train to Nagapattinam, the nearest train station. The train departs from Egmore at 9.00 PM and arrives in Nagapattinam at 3.45 AM, providing a comfortable and time-saving overnight journey. However, there was a delay of nearly two hours on arrival. Although I had the option of taking a local train to my hotel in Velankanni, I decided to hire an auto-rickshaw to Queen’s Inn hotel, which took 20 minutes and cost me 250 Indian rupees for the 11-kilometer journey. Initially, I thought the hotel was within walking distance of the Velankanni Madha Church, but it was around 2 miles away, and we had to take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach there, which cost me 100 rupees for the trip. In this post, I will share my experience and provide useful tips for traveling to Velankanni.

A Comfortable Stay at Queen’s Inn Hotel in Velankanni

When planning my trip to Velankanni, I searched for accommodations through www.agoda.com and decided to book a room at Queen’s Inn hotel. The hotel was selected due to their prompt response to my inquiry regarding early check-in, an important consideration for my arrival at Nagapattinam train station early in the morning. The hotel staff informed me that early check-in was subject to room availability and that they would contact me a week before my arrival to confirm. To ensure a smooth checkout process, I opted for a two-night stay, providing me with flexibility in check-in and check-out times.

During my stay at Queen’s Inn hotel in Velankanni, I was impressed by the spacious and clean room with comfortable bedding and bathroom facilities. The room had a beautiful view of the hotel’s swimming pool, which was well-maintained and offered a refreshing feeling. Although I didn’t dine at the hotel restaurant, it was nice to know that it was available. The staff were friendly and helped me to arrange an auto-rickshaw. The hotel also provided ample space and a secure environment, making me feel safe during my stay. Although I didn’t have the chance to use the swimming pool, it looked inviting and spacious.

Queen’s Inn – Velankanni

Visiting Annai Velankanni Church

To visit the Velankanni Madha church complex, I took an auto-rickshaw and was dropped off in front of the church. As promised, I visited the temple store and purchased some silver replicas to offer to the Madha before entering the stunning church. As soon as I walked in, I felt an overwhelming sense of tranquility. The charismatic face of Velankanni Matha uplifted my spirits. I was grateful for the opportunity to pay my respects to her. After presenting the replicas, I spent a few peaceful moments in her presence before exploring the complex and taking pictures of the various buildings and churches. The complex is truly magnificent and well worth a visit.

Offering silver replicas of body parts, household items, or other objects is a common practice among devotees visiting the Velankanni Church as a way to show their devotion and gratitude to the Virgin Mary

Annai Velankanni Church and Store to Buy Silver Replicas

Knee Walking: A Devotional Practice at Annai Velankanni Church

As I walked around the Velankanni Madha Church, I saw several dedicated devotees walking on the sand path with their knees from one end to the other. It was a humbling experience to witness their devotion and faith. This act of walking on their knees is a common practice for devotees visiting the church as an act of devotion and a way of showing reverence and seeking blessings from the Virgin Mary. However, it’s important to note that this is a voluntary practice and not mandatory for devotees visiting the Velankanni Madha Church.

Knee Walking

Car Blessing and Tying Locks & Hankies

The blessing of new cars and other vehicles is a common practice at the Velankanni Church. Devotees bring their new vehicles to the church and request the priest to bless the vehicle by sprinkling holy water and offering prayers. The blessing of new cars is believed to bring good luck and protection to the vehicle and its passengers. It is also seen as a way to seek the divine protection of the Virgin Mary for safe and smooth journeys.

The practice of tying locks, hankies, and orange color threads to sacred spots outside the Velankanni Church is believed to have started as a way for devotees to make a vow or a prayer request to the Virgin Mary.

Tall Jesus Statue

The Velankanni Church is famous for its 86-feet tall statue of Jesus Christ, which overlooks the church’s entrance. The statue portrays Jesus with his arms outstretched in a welcoming gesture, and it is a popular spot for visitors to take photos and offer prayers.

Jesus Statue

Our Lady’s Tank

Additional Images

Additional Information

Admission is free

Shoes or sandals are not allowed inside the Basilica

Photography or video recording is not permitted

Church Timings are from 5.00 AM to 9:00 PM

Mass Timings :  Holy masses are offered in various languages

Experience the Beauty of Velankanni Beach

After exploring the Annai Velankanni Church complex, I took a short five-minute walk through small shops to reach the nearby beach. There were street vendors selling Mala to offer to Annai Velankanni. The beach was stunning, with calm waters and picturesque views. I spent a few peaceful moments there before catching an auto-rickshaw back to my hotel.

A Walk to The Beach

Visiting Siddhar Temple & Singaravelan Temple

During my journey to the train station, I had the opportunity to explore some local attractions and sample some of the delicious cuisine. With the help of my friendly auto rickshaw driver, I visited the renowned Siddhar Temple and Sikkal Singaravelan Temple. I paid the driver 700 rupees for the ride, which included stops at these temples. Finally, he dropped me off at the train station so that I could continue my journey.

Siddhar Temple & Singaravelan Temple

Trying Tamil Nadu cuisine Before Going to the Train Station

I stopped by a nearby Chettinadu hotel before catching my train. I ordered my favorite onion oothappam and dosa. The staff was very friendly and served the food hot. I enjoyed my dinner and then walked to the Nagapattinam train station. The one-day trip was very satisfying, and I left feeling very happy.

South Indian Veg. Dinner

Nagapattinam Train Station

• Velankanni, Tamil Nadu – Natasha Gracious

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Velankanni Church

Apart from the beautiful beaches, picturesque hill stations and the places of religious importance for the Hindus, Tamil Nadu is also home to one of the most important places for Christians, Velankanni Church, an extremely important Roman Catholic Shrine dedicated to "Our Lady of Good Health" .

Velankanni Church is located in a small town on the shores of The Bay of Bengal and was a Parish under Tanjore Roman Catholic Diocese.Velankanni is well connected By Air, Rail and Road with the nearest airport in Tiruchirapalli, which is around a four hour driving from Velankanni. The nearest railway station is only 11 kilometers from the town at Nagapatinam and the city is well connected by a network of roads with all southern cities.

The shrine at Velankanni, popularly known as "Sacred Arogya Matha Church" is dedicated to Our Lady of Good Health which is believed to have miraculous healing powers. Velankanni Church is flocked daily by thousands of visitors of different creeds and beliefs and the Church itself is an amazing piece of architecture.

The main attraction for the visitors to this small hamlet is the Velankanni Church that hosts a ten day long festival starting at the end of August every year and pilgrims from all over the world visit this place at that time of the year to seek the blessings of mother Velankanni.

The visitors to Velankanni Church can also visit the beautiful Velankanni beach and the museum at Basilica that showcases splendid collection of exhibits. Tourists can also shop for local handicrafts as handloom products and silk fabrics are readily available at the Velankanni beach.

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Velankanni Tourism | How to Plan a Trip to Velankanni

• Average Climate: 22 °C - 32 °C
• Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
• STD Code: 04365

Velankanni Travel Guide

A small hamlet in Tamil Nadu on the sandy shore of the Bay of Bengal, Velankanni is 350 km far from Chennai and 14 km south of Nagapattinam. Velankanni is an eminent tourist destination and as a great deluge of pilgrims turn up here, like Lourdes in France, it is nicknamed as Lourdes of the East. Numerous tourists come and visit the church of Mother Mary. Delicate handlooms and silk are extensively available in Velankanni. you can also make velankanni tour where you can enjoy in the beach alongg with your family.

Here is the list of top tourist attractions in Velankanni

Some of the famous tourist attractions in Velankanni are the -

Velankanni Church:

The shrine here is dedicated to Our Lady of Health, the Madonna of Velankanni, and is well-known as Sacred Arogya Matha Church. Fully consecrated to Virgin Mary and the Heavenly Mother, this church is nestled on the shores of the Bay of Bengal.

Velankanni festival:

For ten days from 28th August to 10th September every year, a magnanimous festival is celebrated at the Velankanni Church. Pilgrims from different parts of India and even abroad throng to the site, bathe religiously in the sea, have their heads shaved and then walk on their knees or roll up to the shrine as rituals.

Sri Rangam Temple:

The first Vaishnava temple in South India, this temple, located in Trichy, is the premier amongst the 108 Vaishnava divyadesas.

Things To Do in Tamil Nadu

How to reach, best time to visit, arts and crafts, hill stations, historical monuments.

• Fairs and Festivals in Tamil Nadu

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Other cities of tamil nadu.

• Mahabalipuram
• Kanyakumari
• Kancheepuram
• Krishnagiri
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A Sanctuary of Faith and Heritage

By ranjini vincent, last updated: 22 jan 2021.

Lourdes in France is a well-known pilgrimage site dedicated to the Marian Apparitions. What if I tell you that a tiny town of Velankanni in Tamil Nadu, India resembles this location? The Basilica of Velankanni, also know as the Velankanni shrine attracts millions of visitors from across the world, some drawn by religious beliefs and others by the exquisite architecture. This little town harbors numerous churches, each with a unique significance but bound by a common faith in Mother Mary. It is one of the few Basilicas in the world and a must visit for the experience. A ritual started by my parents, we carry forward the tradition to this day. So what is it that draws us to this beautiful place? For me it is a pilgrimage. A place of peace and serenity to spend time reflecting on the bygones and refocus on the future. For others, it is a stunning heritage landmark that boasts of several churches with the most exquisite gothic-style architecture.

An overview of the several churches in Velankanni

The Velankanni Shrine - Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health

Famously known as The Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, this town came into the limelight after the Marian apparitions believed to have taken place here in the 16th century and the saving of Portuguese sailors in the 17th century. The first apparition was of a mother with a child who appeared in front of a local shepherd boy who was delivering milk and second is believed to be to a young boy who was crippled and selling buttermilk. It is also believed that Portuguese sailors, who were in the middle of a storm, invoked the protection of Mother Mary. Soon the sea became calm and the ship landed in Velankanni on 8th September. The history of Velankanni is an interesting fact about Tamil Nadu that visitors should be aware of prior to their visit.

Since then, this day (8th September), the Nativity of Mary, is celebrated with great fervor. The two apparitions and the saving of the Portuguese sailors resulted in a shrine that was built to honor Our Lady of Good Health. Over the years numerous churches were constructed and each structure has a story to tell. Locals in Tamil Nadu refer to it as Velankanni Matha Church (Matha means mother). It is for this reason that they refer to Mother Mary as Velankanni matha. I have been exploring Velankanni for many years. I continue to discover new things every time I visit this holy place and keep adding them to Velankannin city guide as it helps other visitors.

Velankanni Church: Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health

In 1771, the small thatched shrine of Our Lady of Good Health was turned into a beautiful chapel. The chapel houses a beautiful statue of Mother Mary carrying a child (believed to be infant Jesus). This chapel is alongside a water tank, known as Matha Kulam (Our Lady's Tank) from which the shepherd boy is believed to have drunk water. This tank has never run out of water since and is believed to be holy water that devotees consume and carry back home. Several miracles are believed to have taken place on consumption of this holy water.

Our Lady's Tank, where Mother Mary appeared to the shepherd boy

The Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health dates back to the 16th century and was built in the typical gothic style. Later, the architecture underwent changes following the Portuguese invasion. The main Basilica of Velankanni is the place where offerings are made and prayer services were held. Gradually, several expansions took place. The southern side of the church was extended in the year 1928 while the northern side underwent extension in 1933. However, in the year 1974-75, extensions were made keeping in mind the design of the Basilica in Lourdes, France. As it stands now, there is the main Basilica behind which is the Lower Basilica. Prayer services are held in both churches through the day in several languages. There is an additional church above the Lower Basilica where prayer services are held occasionally. All these extensions have been planned and executed seamlessly. One will not realize that these additions were made over a period of time, owing to the uniformity of all the structures. Exquisite, white, and stunning! Several phases of expansion took place owing to the increase in the number of pilgrims and travelers over the years.

Intricate architecture of the Basilica of Our Lady of Vailankanni

Besides the main Basilica and its extensions, there are smaller churches in the vicinity with specific significance. The Naduthitu Church is situated at the beginning of the road leading to the Basilica. This church signifies the place where the lame boy was healed by Mother Mary. Here no masses are offered; only pilgrims offer prayers and spend time in silence.

The Naduthitu Church, a symbol of the many miracles that are believed to have taken place here

Another beautiful place to spend time in silence and reflection is the Adoration Chapel. The approach to this chapel is scenically decorated and adds to the charm and peaceful ambience. Here one can spend hours in silence and experience tranquility and serenity that is surreal.

The Adoration Chapel - A place for reflection

Morning Star Church - a masterpiece of architecture

The latest addition to this conglomerate of churches is the Morning Star Church in Velankanni. This magnificent church is an architectural marvel. Besides the sheer size, the design and detail is unbelievable. The highlight though is the fact that this structure is engineered to stand without the support of a single pillar inside. Imagine that! The interiors are aesthetically done. The huge stained glass windows and the intricately designed doors enhance the beauty of the Church. The altar is exquisite and ornate, one of the largest in the world. Drawing your attention to the roof are the gigantic propeller fans that create a cool ambience. Once you enter the church you get lost in the enormity of every aspect of its construction and decor. This is one of those structures that will leave you awe struck. This is where Velankanni live mass is conducted in Tamil and English.

The Morning Star Church Velankanni: A masterpiece of architectural excellence; 500 ft. long, 150 ft. wide and 40 ft. high

Jesus Statue of Velankanni - the tallest in India

Jesus Statue of Velankanni is another wonder in this tiny town. This enormous statue can be seen from a distance and has placed Velankanni on the world map for its magnificence. The stupendous size is overwhelming and leaves you just standing there feeling tiny and insignificant. One thing that runs common in all the churches is the color, all the structures are predominantly white. This creates an ambience of purity and serenity everywhere.

Jesus Statue of Velankanni, a towering structure that is 200 ft. tall

As a pilgrim, there are several rituals that are followed. One of the common rituals is offering candles as thanksgiving. Wax replicas of various body parts are also offered to Mother Mary seeking recovery and healing from ailments. There is also the option to offer silver images of male, female, baby, house, wedding rings etc. Another famous ritual performed by devotees is tonsure. This is a very Indian culture and is usually done to fulfill vows for health and prosperity. One of the more challenging rituals that devotees undertake is walking on their knees on the sand along the Holy to fulfill their vows. This is usually done along the Holy Path leading to Our Lady's Tank. It is heart-warming and heart-breaking at the same time. The path has beautiful depictions all along side. One side has the depictions of The Way of the Cross and the other has The Mysteries of the Holy Rosary. Pilgrims are also seen reciting the rosary while walking along the Holy Path. Annually, on September 8, the feast of Our Lady of Good Health (also known as the Velankanni festival) is celebrated with grandeur. Millions of pilgrims throng the place to participate in this auspicious celebration.

One of the beautiful depictions along the Holy Path

My favorite thing to do is spending time outside the church when the crowds have disappeared, in the calm of the night. The feeling of merging with the surroundings and imbibing the beautiful sensations is grounding and I head back to my resort feeling rejuvenated and blessed.

Stunning view of the Velankanni Shrine at night

Another attraction just outside the Main Basilica is The Velankanni Church Museum. This place is dedicated to the miracle that happened in the 16th century (the appearance of Virgin Mary) and has an extensive display of offerings made by individuals who have received favor and blessings from Mother Mary. It also has some of the greatest collection of the exhibits imparting immense knowledge about the churches. Inside the museum, there is a bookstall as well as counters to buy blessed oil, religious souvenirs, and offer masses.

St. Anne's Church

About 14 kms from Velankanni, is a small church known as St. Anne's Church famously known as St. Santhanamatha Church. This is one of the offbeat places to visit in Velankanni. History has it that in the 1930s, the statue of St. Santhanamatha was brought from Sri Lanka to this village of Rangiem near Velankanni. It is believed that the villagers started worshiping her and saw many wonders and miracles take place. Word spread about these miracles and people from near and far started visiting this church to offer their prayers. Over the years, this church was renovated to accommodate the massive flow of devotees. The church exudes the same positivity and calmness as that of the churches in Velankanni.

Saint Anne Catholic Church is also known as St. Santhanamatha Church

Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Nagapattinam

We traveled to Nagapattinam to visit Our Lady of Lourdes Church, which is also known as Nagapattinam Church. It is one of the oldest churches in the area and has a history of 600 years! Although it is a small, old church, the architecture is beautiful and there is such a positive aura in and around the church. This church is visited by a large number of devotees and it is a must visit if one visits Velankanni. We spent some time wandering around and absorbing the beauty and positivity of the place.

Visitors to Velankanni are overwhelmingly pilgrims, but there are also travelers in search of offbeat coastal destinations . This town caters to a broad spectrum of travelers and has a variety of accommodation from luxurious resorts to budget rooms. It is preferred to make advance booking during peak season as there are millions of pilgrims visiting at that time. Food is also available in a similar fashion. From simple south Indian meals to exotic seafood, it is all there for tourists to enjoy and experience. Of special mention are the live seafood counters along the beach which is a must try. Here, there is another interesting dish called Kothu Parotta. The preparation of this dish is performance in itself and keeps customers entertained.

A trip to Velankanni is always memorable, irrespective of how many times you visit. A place that bounced back after being devastated by the tsunami, it speaks volumes about the resilience of the people of this bustling town. Surely, special blessings and grace are upon this land. It is a place we would love to go back to over and over again. Rituals accomplished and blessings acknowledged, we leave this blessed abode heading back home, to move forward, renewed.

The beautiful holy town at night

Frequently Asked Questions :

Why is Velankanni church famous? The history of Velankanni churches dates back to the 16th century. It is believed that Mother Mary had appeared in this small village. It is the most revered pilgrimage in India for Catholics. In which year did Mother Mary appear in Velankanni? It is believed that Mother Mary with an infant child (believed to be Jesus) in her hand appeared in Velankanni during the 16th century. Why do people shave their head in Velankanni? Shaving head is an Indian tradition that devotees perform at pilgrimage places. This is their way to fulfill their wishes for health and safety of their children and family members.

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Ranjini Vincent

An environmentalist at heart and a management person by profession, people and nature is what makes me tick. Travel is a dream that I am pursuing and hope to realise slowly, but steadily. The experiences, the people, the land, all contribute to my personal growth and contentment. Sharing my stories is my way of connecting with people while capturing my memories.

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Pattumala Velankanni Matha church

At Pattumala is situated the Velankanni Matha church- a not-so-discovered pilgrim center set amidst the shining silky meadows of Peermedu in Idukki. Built entirely with high-quality granite, this church is a perfect sample of how a pilgrim center is filled with a divine ambiance that soothes one’s soul instantly. Adorned with a beautiful garden where numerous flowers smile at its visitors’ faces this church is special and incredible too.

Getting there Nearest railway station: Kottayam, about 75 km away Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 150 km

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Velankanni Tourism

Quaint and calm, Velankanni is a little hamlet tucked away in the state of Tamil Nadu, on the coast of Bay of Bengal. It is a famous Roman Catholic pilgrim centre and is visited by thousands of devotees for its shrine of ‘Our Lady of Good Health’ aka Mother Mary. Inspired by the Lourdes in France, Velankanni is also known as the “Lourdes of the East”. It has become one of the vital Marian sanctuaries of the world.

Though it is very religiously charged, Velankanni is worth exploring for the rich culture it holds of the colonial rule. The Virgin Mother appeared to the people and solved the problems they had. Her visits were cut into three events; appearing in front of a shepherd boy, the curing of a lame buttermilk vendor and protecting Portuguese traders from drowning during a storm. This gave her the name 'Our Lady of Good Health'. The church of Our Lady of Good Health was built in Gothic architecture and was modified by Portuguese and then further expanded later on due to the influx of pilgrimages.

Places To Visit In Velankanni

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1-Day Velankanni Itinerary

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• Velankanni in 1 day

Table of contents

1-day itinerary, basilica of our lady of good health.

Velankanni Beach

Where to eat, mariya hotel, popular road trips from velankanni, what's the weather like in velankanni.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Velankanni for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Velankanni in January
• Weather in Velankanni in February
• Weather in Velankanni in March
• Weather in Velankanni in April
• Weather in Velankanni in May
• Weather in Velankanni in June
• Weather in Velankanni in July
• Weather in Velankanni in August
• Weather in Velankanni in September
• Weather in Velankanni in October
• Weather in Velankanni in November
• Weather in Velankanni in December

All road trips from Velankanni

• Velankanni to Bengaluru drive
• Velankanni to Chennai (Madras) drive
• Velankanni to Pondicherry drive
• Velankanni to Mysuru (Mysore) drive
• Velankanni to Kochi (Cochin) drive
• Velankanni to Munnar drive
• Velankanni to Hyderabad drive
• Velankanni to Ooty (Udhagamandalam) drive
• Velankanni to Mahabalipuram drive
• Velankanni to Kodaikanal drive
• Velankanni to Madurai drive
• Velankanni to Rameswaram drive
• Velankanni to Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) drive
• Velankanni to Kanyakumari drive
• Velankanni to Tiruchirappalli drive
• Velankanni to Coimbatore drive
• Velankanni to Tirupati drive
• Velankanni to Yercaud drive
• Velankanni to Visakhapatnam drive
• Velankanni to Alappuzha drive
• Velankanni to Kanchipuram drive
• Velankanni to Thrissur drive
• Velankanni to Mangalore drive
• Velankanni to Vellore drive
• Velankanni to Kozhikode drive
• Velankanni to Kannur drive
• Velankanni to Palakkad drive
• Velankanni to Udupi drive
• Velankanni to Kollam drive
• Velankanni to Tirunelveli drive

Explore nearby places

• Nagapattinam
• Tharangambadi
• Thirupampuram
• Thirukkadaiyur
• Thirukadaiyur
• Mayiladuthurai
• Thiruvavaduthurai
• Thirunageswaram
• Vaitheeswarankovil
• Thirukkarugavur
• Chidambaram
• Keelathirupanthuruthi
• Thiruvaiyaru
• Perumpuliyur

All related maps of Velankanni

• Map of Velankanni
• Map of Nagapattinam
• Map of Nagore
• Map of Karaikal
• Map of Thiruvarur
• Map of Vedaranyam
• Map of Tranquebar
• Map of Tharangambadi
• Map of Thirupampuram
• Map of Mannargudi
• Map of Thirukkadaiyur
• Map of Thirukadaiyur
• Map of Mayiladuthurai
• Map of Thiruvavaduthurai
• Map of Thirunageswaram
• Map of Vaduvur
• Map of Vaitheeswarankovil
• Map of Kumbakonam
• Map of Oothukadu
• Map of Senganur
• Map of Sirkazhi
• Map of Swamimalai
• Map of Thirukkarugavur
• Map of Thanjavur
• Map of Chidambaram
• Map of Keelathirupanthuruthi
• Map of Thiruvaiyaru
• Map of Perumpuliyur
• Map of Manganur
• Map of Neyveli
• Map of Karainagar

Velankanni throughout the year

• Velankanni in January
• Velankanni in February
• Velankanni in March
• Velankanni in April
• Velankanni in May
• Velankanni in June
• Velankanni in July
• Velankanni in August
• Velankanni in September
• Velankanni in October
• Velankanni in November
• Velankanni in December

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Here is where the divinity of a holy shrine meets with the serenity of mother nature; and seamlessly gifts an experience of absolute joy and bliss to any traveller. Velankanni is an amazing destination for all kinds of visitors.

It’s a name that is an integral part of the prayers of believers all over South India. It’s a shrine of faith that has been for years the guiding light of many people. It’s also a destination that is visited by millions of people annually, both for pilgrimage and leisure. Velankanni is one of the most famous Christian pilgrim destinations in India, as well as a beach town that is loved by many visitors who come over and over again.  Beaches, churches, markets – there’s every reason to say that this part of Tamil Nadu is indeed enchanting. Located at a distance of 12 kms from Nagapattinam, Velankanni is primarily famous these days for the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health church. The church, which is a holy place of worship for Christians all over the world, is the light that fills this town. However, history has it that Velankanni was once an important port town in the past. The town used to have direct trade relations with empires as far as Rome and Greece. The destination was a centre of various commercial activities as well. Today, Velankanni gets much of its revenue from the thriving tourism sector and of course the pilgrims who come in large numbers to visit the church.  Chosen as one of the heritage cities for the Heritage City Development And Augmentation Yojana scheme of the Government of India, Velankanni is all set to further enhance its potential as a destination of history and culture.

• How to Reach
• Best Time to Visit

Bus services are available from Tiruchirappalli, Thanjavur, Chennai, Madurai, and Pondicherry to Velankanni Bus Stand on a regular basis.

Tiruchirapalli International Airport, about 153 km away. Chennai International Airport, about 300 km away.

Nagapattinam Railway Station, about 12 km away.

The ideal time to visit Velankanni is from December to February. However, the pilgrim centre receives tourist footfalls throughout the year.

Nearby Destinations

Velankanni Beach

Thyagarajaswami Temple, Tiruvarur

Koothanur Saraswathi Temple

Explore Nagapattinam District

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Velankanni: In search of miracles

My visits to Vailankanni or Virgin of Velai, the town, and the shrine of Our Lady of Good Health would never qualify for the tag pilgrimage, which the place is famous for. Vailankanni or Velankanni, a small hamlet at the shores of the Bay of Bengal, is home to one of the world's biggest Catholic pilgrimage centres. Visiting this place as a six-year-old, I was both fascinated and deflated by Velankanni — enchanted by the divine interventions and appalled by the human 'intercession'. The legends recounted to me about the three apparitions of the Blessed Mother, which paved way for the building of the basilica, drew many of my dreams as a boy. Velankanni was the first church I visited in my life. Apart from the key to dream land, it offered me a first-hand lesson in life — ignorance is the main cause of pain. Illiterate of the Christian practices, after a long early-morning service when the rector of the shrine started giving away a small appam (bread) and something to drink (wine) I was happy to join the queue. Just as the line started moving an announcement came through the old horn speakers of the church — “only those who have received baptism should step in to receive the holy Eucharist” — making that bread and wine a distant dream. Only the soft idli and vada dipped in hot sambar and chutney could wipe out my tears and embarrassment. **Cherishing the food I heard the first three miracles associated with the church** Among the three, I felt the third story, the one involving a Portuguese ship and its sailor, the most fascinating one. **The legend goes like this:** Some time in the 17th century a Portuguese merchant ship was caught in a deadly storm when they were crossing the Bay of Bengal. The sailors prayed to the Star of Sea, Mother Mary, for help. They promised themselves to build a chapel at the place of landing if they ever escaped the violent sea. When the storm subsided, the sea had spared the nearly-wrecked ship and its 150 crew. The violent sea had guided them to the shore of Vailankanni/Velankanni and coincidently it was September 8, the Nativity of Mother Mary. As promised, the crew rebuilt the chapel of Our Lady of Good Health and kept on improving the building each time they crossed the Bay of Bengal. I gobbled down every bit of the story even faster than the idli, as it had everything I wanted to hear — the sea, adventure and magic. **Violent seas again** My second visit to Velankanni was in 2004, weeks after the Boxing Day tsunami wreaked havoc on its shore. The tsunami that killed 275,000 people in fourteen countries across two continents, demolished everything other than the church's main building killing over 1,500. I was visiting the place as a student volunteer associated with the college's rebuilding activities in tsunami struck areas. Faith was in turmoil. My first assignment was in a Kerala island, a base of Hindu woman monk, which was the worst hit area in the state. Personal losses were raising questions in believers' hearts about the intentions of their saviours. The story was no different in Nagapattinam. I heard heart rending stories of non-believers turning into ardent followers and faithful devotees becoming atheists—all thanks to the violent sea and its mad waves. **You don't mess with Mom-in-Laws** I returned to the Lourdes of the East after six years and out of compulsion. My mother-in-law had vowed to visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health when my wife had troubles while giving birth to our son. Thus I was on the road once again, heading towards Velankanni. According to the [**church website**](http://vailankanni.info/howtoreach.html) and [**Tamil Nadu tourism website**](http://tamilnadutourism.org/Temples/CitywiseTemples/Velankanni.aspx?catid=020120P01), Velankanni is best connected with road. Though, since 2010, Velankanni is connected by rail only couple of local trains ply to here from Nagapattinam. Nagapattinam is connected to all major cities in the country through rail and visitors could choose the road or the local trains after reaching the coastal district via train. The nearest airport is at Tiruchirapalli, about 165 km away. It is an international airport with daily services to major cities in India and abroad. **Six years' story in one night** After reaching the place late in the night, I took my wife for a stroll, putting our sleeping son under the care of my mother-in-law. Walking under the starlit sky, the sea-kissed breeze rushed to us like how the kindergarten children would swarm their favourite teacher and started telling us stories of how things changed from my last visit to this place. Massive rebuilding has happened, the stores and damaged parts of the church was all back in place. Seeing the place back into its good looks, I wondered about fate of the faith— was it also restored? We walked to the main church and then to the old one through the 'Holy Path' flanked by the Stations of Cross and Stations of Rosary. These three places along with Nadu Thittu Church, Adoration and Reconciliation chapel and museum should be on your must see list if you are on a devotional trip to Velankanni. In the morning, following the tradition of offering Our Lady of Health a silver shape of one's prayer, my mother-in-law offered a baby's figure. According to the church notice board, a person praying to get a heart ailment cured would first offer a candle in the shape of a heart and once the prayer is answered he/she would return to the church and offer a silver or gold heart as a thanksgiving. Some times offerings are dropped into the sea sealed in bottles or big hollow bamboos with the address of the shrine written on them. Such offerings are believed to reach the holy spot without fail. As the day grew old the place in and around the church started getting crowded — amongst all the noise I could hear the waves breaking on the sandy beach of Velankanni.

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Tourist Places in Tamil Nadu – Velankanni matha church nagapattinam

VELANKANNI (11 kms. from Nagapattinam) Known as the Lourdes of India, this prosperous town has developed as a great place of pilgrimage not only for the Roman

Back view of Basilica Catholic Christians, but also to Hindus and Muslims. It is located on the sea shore in idyllic surroundings at the confluence of river Vellayan with the sea. Started a small shrine for Virgin Mary by some Portuguese sailors, it grew into prominence as Our Lady of Health or Arogya Matha. The present magnificent new Church gives a majestic appearance. The structure has two lofty spires towering to a height of 25 metres. A miniature statue of Virgin Mary wearing a crown of gold and precious stones and holding Infant Jesus in her arms stands on the altar. A grand annual festival is celebrated from August 29th to September 8th on the birth day of Virgin Mary, when thousands of devotees assemble here with their thanks giving offerings.

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Velankanni, a city in Tamil Nadu, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India because of its proximity to the Bay of Bengal. Basilica of Our Lady of Health is a popular pilgrimage destination due to its prominence as a religious site. After learning about Velankanni's significance, the Pope of Vatican City designated it a Holy city. In addition to churches, you can spend your time exploring various temples in the city as well.

Things To See & Do

Singaravelar

Revered temple for hindus.

1 to 2 hours

Suggested Time

Old Velankanni Church

Sacred site for christians.

Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health

Peaceful place of worship.

2 to 3 hours

Vellankani Beach

Beach with incredible views.

3 to 4 hours

Vellayar Beach

Scenic beach for tourists.

Velankanni Church Museum

Insightful tourist attraction, best time to visit velankanni, winter destination, peak season, moderate season.

• What To Expect : Cool weather with clear skies
• Things You'll Love : Religious spots, parks and other outdoor spots

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Thaipusam Second Week of January

Pongal Third Week of January

Thiruvaiyaru Festival Third Week of January

Mahamaham Third Week of February

Natyanjali Dance Festival March

Tamil New Year's Day Second Week of April

Christmas December

Karthigai Deepam First Week of December

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Velankanni - lourdes of the east.

One of the most visited pilgrim centres in India, Velankanni, a city in Tamil Nadu, is nestled on the shores of the Bay of Bengal. The well-known shrine named Basilica of our Lady of health entices pilgrims globally. Moreover, people of other religions also pay a visit to this Church to seek blessings and pray at the shrine of Our lady of health.

The Pope in the Vatican City declared Velankanni place to be a Holy city after learning about the significance of this place. The statue of Jesus Christ is located in the enlarged Basilica of this Roman Catholic church, which has two floors. One distinctive aspect of the Church is its Gothic-style architecture. Moreover, the Church itself is a large structure with beautiful architecture. While the structures are painted white, the Church's roof comprises red tiles that stand out against the white walls. The ambience surrounding the shrine is entirely spic and span. Sending out rays of piety and hope. There is also a shrine called "Lady of Sorrow," where a picture of the grieving Mother is shown holding the child Jesus.

It is believed that the apparition of the Virgin Mary to a slothful shepherd boy led to the construction of the Basilica at this place. In the year 1519, Antonio da Montecucculi, an Italian merchant from Genoa, came to this place and built a chapel. Later, in the year 1542, the chapel was destroyed by the Portuguese, who attacked this place. The Shrine of Our Lady of Health, popularly known as the Basilica of Our Lady of Health, was constructed in the year 1547 by the Portuguese.

Moreover, the most important festival of Vallankanni is the festival of Our Lady of Health, celebrated on the 8th of September every year. It is one of the largest and most popular festivals in India. The festival attracts a vast number of devotees from all over the country. This festival commemorates the apparition of the Virgin Mary to a slothful shepherd boy who was tending his flock of sheep.

Velankanni Overview

Best time to visit velankanni.

The Velankanni weather remains salubrious throughout the year. The place has a tropical climate, and if you want to visit the tourist places in Velankanni , you must visit this city in the months from October to March. The weather in Velankanni is calm and chilly, which will make your journey to this beautiful city great. The Velankanni temperature is warmest during the months of April to May. The lack of rain during the monsoons makes things worse by increasing humidity. The best time to visit this city is, therefore, during the winter.

How to Reach the Places to Visit in Velankanni?

You can reach this city to visit tourist places in velankanni by Road, Rail, and Air. The majority of pilgrims go by road from Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, or Andhra Pradesh to this city. Reasonably decent, well-maintained roadways connect significant cities with this city.

Chennai is only at a distance of 313 km from Velankanni place via the National Highway 45, whereas Tiruchirapalli or Trichy is only 155 km away via NH67 highway. Pondicherry is only 156 km away via NH-45A. The State Transport Authority of Tamil Nadu operates daily buses from significant towns to this city because it is a well-known pilgrimage destination.

This city has its own railway statiaon and is linked to Nagapattinam- Velankanni, a comprehensive gauge line. However, it lacks excellent connectivity. Nagapattinam Railway Station is appropriate for linkage to significant Indian cities.

The airport that is closest to this city is Trichy or Tiruchirapalli, which is about 153 kilometres away. Chennai Airport is only 312 km and is a significant international airport.

What are the things to see and do in Velankanni?

There are numerous tourist sites in the city. There are a number of things to see and do in this city, including visiting the Velankanni Beach , the Velankanni Church, the Velankanni Museum, and the Our Lady of Health Shrine . You can take a stroll on the beach with your loved ones and attend festivals held at the Church of Our Lady of Health. You can also take a boat ride around this city. You can also shop for souvenirs at Velankanni Market.

Places to Visit in Velankanni

Some of the popular tourist sites in the city are:

Velankanni Church

Situated on the shores of the Bay of Bengal, Velankanni Church is regarded as one of the sacred Christian pilgrimage sites in India and is located on the Coromandel Coast. This beach is 12 kilometres away from Nagapattinam and 350 kilometres away from Chennai. It is deemed that Virgin Mary and Baby Jesus made an appearance here, making this city a prominent location for the Christian community. The Pope declared it to be a holy city, attracting numerous followers from all over the world.

Velankanni Beach

One of the most beautiful beaches on the eastern coast of India is Vellankani Beach. Because of its close proximity to the Church of Our Lady of Health, it is a popular destination for tourists. Culture and Religion have a long history in Vellankani. It served as a port of trade for ancient Greece and Rome. In Southern India, it is one of the most popular pilgrimage locations.

The beach is nearby Vellaiyar River, which offers boating services to tourists. This river offers a distinctive boating experience because it links directly to the Bay of Bengal. The abundance of the ocean's catch is also celebrated at the beach, where a range of delicacies is offered at a number of fresh seafood vendors.

Velankanni Beach is located at a distance of 12 km from the city of Nagapattinam. Velankanni Beach is a beautiful sandy beach with clear waters and is ideal for swimming.

The museum is a structure next to the church. Velankanni Church Museum was created to house the gifts that the devotees gave to the mother as a sign of the numerous favours they had received. There are some highly intriguing articles here. Numerous notes and even drawings on rock can be found here.

Nagapattinam Tourism

A town on the Bay of Bengal coast with significant historical value, Nagapattinam is also a well-known pilgrimage site with the Divya Desam of this city, as well as numerous mosques and temples dotted throughout. Named after Nagur, the country of serpent gods, Nagapattinam is endowed with admirable historical and cultural value. In addition to numerous holy locations, this area has a long beach.

Restaurants in Velankanni

Some of the restaurants that serve scrumptious foods in this city are:

Hotel Dravidar: Visit Hotel Dravidar to eat delicious food after admiring Morning Star Church for Our Lady of Vailankanni. Don't leave without tasting some excellent fish curry and biryani. This location is well known for its excellent customer service and helpful staff that are always available to assist you.

Neithal ocean food Restaurant: Neithal Ocean Food offers Indian food. People can indulge in delectable delicacies at this location and relish expertly prepared crabs, fried fish, and prawns.

Hotel SeaBreeze: Hotel SeaBreeze offers delicious Chinese food and scrumptious fish. The first bite of good fish will leave you impressed.

Places to stay in Velankanni

Some of the hotels to stay in this city are:

Sri Gnana Vedha Beach Residency: You may have a wonderful stay at this opulent hotel with well-maintained rooms, a fantastic restaurant, and a variety of services.

Queens Inn: Hotel: The Queens Inn offers a remarkable range of amenities as well as scenic destinations.

MGM Velankanni Residency: The opulent MGM Velankanni Residency, built with contemporary architecture, is a centre of top-notch services near nature.

Hotel Golden Sand: The hotel offers panoramic views with lots of amenities and delicious food.

Hotel Picnic: Hotel Picnic offers cosy lodgings, cutting-edge amenities, and budget-friendly South Indian specialities located close to the well-known Vailankanni Church.

GS Resorts: GS Resorts offers a memorable stay in this town with several accommodations, a fantastic pool, and an on-site restaurant.

Food to Try in Places to Visit in Velankanni

Some of the most popular foods that you must try in this city are Fish Curry, Prawn Curry, Crab Curry, Chicken Curry, Mutton Curry, Vegetarian Curry, Basmati Rice, Garlic Bread, Dosa, Idli, Vada, Sambar, Rasam, Puliyodarai, Paruppu Payasam, Pollachi Nandu Fry, Rasam, Mutton Kola Urundai, Chicken Chettinad, Filter Kaapi, Pongal, and Murukku.

Things to Buy in the Places to Visit in Velankanni

The villages of Velankanni are known for their unique hand looms and silk, which are widely available there. You can buy handmade items from there, like Shawls. Some other items you can buy from this city are Dry fruits, Spices, Paintings, Wooden toys, and Pottery.

Some of the popular markets in this city include

Velankanni Fish Market

If you’d like to buy fresh seafood, then you can head to Velankanni Fish Market and purchase fish at cheap rates.

Velankanni Commercial Street

This street is lined with several shops on either side. You can purchase everyday items as well as clothes from here.

Annai Madhura Supermarket

Here you can find a wide range of edible items including dry fruits and local spices to take back home.

Velankanni Tamil Nadu is home to the famous Roman Catholic shrine, the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health. It is one of the most popular pilgrimage destinations in India and attracts around 1 million pilgrims from all over the world every year. You can visit this place to seek the blessings of God. It is a perfect place to visit with your kith and kin.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Velankanni

How is the weather of velankanni in peak season.

The weather of Velankanni in peak season is cool weather with clear skies. It means you can easily plan a trip in this season for maximum fun during this season.

What are the things that you should not miss out on when you are in Velankanni?

If you are a true traveller, you should definitely not miss out on Revered temple for Hindus, Sacred site for Christians, and Peaceful place of worship when you are in Velankanni to make a funfilled vacay.

What are the best places to visit in Velankanni?

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