The Velankanni Tamil Nadu Shrine (Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health) in India is a special place for Christians and it’s a great spot for pilgrims.
People from all over the world and different religious backgrounds come here to pay their respects.
Velankanni church is truly a amazing place to experience spirituality and get closer to God through Velankanni matha.
Mary, also known as Our Lady of Good Health, is the reason for the shrine’s existence.
It’s said that she made an appearance here all the way back in the 16th century and since then, the shrine has been a symbol of faith and hope for millions.
It’s called the Annai Velankanni Shrine, or sometimes the “Lourdes of the East” or the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health.
The church is always open and welcoming, so you can visit any time you want.
The compassionate Mother Mary, known as the Mother of Good Health, extends her care and concern to all her children who are suffering from any kind of illness.
Through her powerful intercession, she obtains healing for her children who approach her with complete trust.
For over 400 years, Our Lady has graced the holy land of Velankanni with her presence, showering her motherly love and compassion upon all those who are struggling in life and turn to her shrine for solace.
Countless blessings have been bestowed upon her devotees, regardless of their caste or religion, making her revered as the Mother of Good Health in Velankanni.
Come, and experience the deep spirituality that surrounds this holy site and be inspired to lead a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
History of Annai Velankanni
Annai Velankanni, also known as Our Lady of Good Health, is a revered figure in the Catholic Church who is believed to have appeared in Velankanni, India in the 16th century.
She is widely regarded as a symbol of hope, healing, and protection.
According to tradition, Annai Velankanni appeared to a shepherd boy who was tending his sheep.
The boy claimed to have seen the Virgin Mary, who asked him to build a church in her honor.
Over time, the followers of devotion to Annai Velankanni grew, and she became widely known as a miraculous healer.
People from all over India and other countries began to make pilgrimages to Velankanni to seek her blessings and intercession.
Annai Velankanni is said to have performed many miracles, including healing the sick and the lame.
The apparitions of the Virgin Mary in Velankanni hold great spiritual significance for Catholics and other Christians.
These miracles have further strengthened her reputation and popularity as a powerful intercessor and miracle worker.
She is highly regarded by Catholics as a motherly figure who cares for her devotees and responds to their prayers and requests.
Annai Velankanni Apparitions
The First Apparition
It is believed that the first apparition of Our Lady Velankanni Madha took place in the mid-sixteenth century.
A young Hindu shepherd boy, who was tasked with carrying milk from Vailankanni to Nagapattinam, was overcome by exhaustion as he passed by a water pond at Anna Pillai street.
To rest himself, he placed the milk pot under a Banyan tree near the pond and fell into a deep slumber.
Suddenly, he was awoken by the vision of a beautiful Lady, who was holding a charming child of divine appearance in her arms.
The Lady asked the boy for some milk for her child, and the boy, filled with reverence, offered the milk with utmost devotion.
Upon reaching his master’s home, the boy explained the miraculous encounter he had experienced on his way.
However, the impatient master was skeptical and did not believe the boy’s story. To everyone’s surprise, the milk in the pot began to overflow, which convinced the master to accompany the boy back to the place where the apparition took place.
When they arrived, Our Lady appeared once again to the boy, but the master could only see a bright, glittering light.
This experience convinced the master and others of the divinity of Our Lady, and the place where the apparition took place became known as Matha Kulam (Our Lady’s Tank).
For devout followers of Mary, this first apparition serves as a powerful reminder of Mary’s role as a mediator between God and humanity.
The miracle of the overflowing milk symbolizes Mary’s generosity and her love for all her children.
This event is also a testament to the power of faith, as it transformed a skeptical master into a devoted believer in the divine presence of Our Lady Velankanni Madha.
The Second Apparition
It is believed that the second apparition took place a few years after the first, where a poor widow and her son lived in Vailankanni.
The son, who was lame, would sit under a banyan tree at a place called Nadu Thittu and sell buttermilk to passing travelers.
One day, as he was carrying out his daily duties, a bright light appeared before him, and from the light emerged a beautiful Lady holding a divine Child in her arms.
The Lady asked the boy for a cup of buttermilk, and after drinking it, she directed him to go to Nagapattinam and inform a wealthy Catholic gentleman of her apparition.
She asked him to build a Chapel in her honor on the spot where she appeared.
The boy, who was amazed to find that his legs were healed, went to Nagapattinam with great joy and carried out the errand.
Upon hearing the boy’s story, the Catholic gentleman was filled with awe and little doubt, as he too had a vision of Our Lady in his sleep the previous night, bidding him to build a Chapel in her honor.
With the cooperation of the local people, who were inspired by the miraculous healing of the boy, the Catholic gentleman soon erected a small thatched Chapel at Vailankanni.
An altar was built inside the Chapel, and a beautiful statue of Our Lady of Vailankanni holding the Infant Jesus in her arms was placed on the altar.
This Chapel marked the beginning of the Shrine of Our Lady of Vailankanni and became a holy place of veneration to Our Blessed Mother, who was thereafter known as Arokia Matha, the Mother of Good Health.
The Third Apparition
One of the most notable incidents that took place in the 17th century involved a Portuguese merchant vessel.
The sailors on board, who were sailing from Macao to Colombo, found themselves caught in a fierce storm in the Bay of Bengal.
Faced with a dire situation, the sailors prayed fervently and invoked the aid of the Blessed Virgin Mary, under her title of Stella Maris or Star of the Sea.
They made a vow to build a church in her name wherever they would land.
Miraculously, the stormy sea became calm and their ship landed near the shores of Vailankanni on September 8th, which happened to be the Feast of the Nativity of Our Lady.
True to their promise, the Portuguese sailors transformed the small thatched chapel built by the Catholic gentleman of Nagapattinam into a magnificent stone-built chapel.
On their next visit, they decorated the altar with porcelain plates that depicted biblical themes, as a testament to their gratitude to Our Lady.
These plates are still visible today, surrounding the miraculous statue of Our Lady of Good Health on the main altar of the Shrine Basilica.
The Feast of Our Lady of Good Health is celebrated every year, beginning with the hoisting of the flag on August 29th.
The third apparition at Vailankanni, as well as the vow made by the Portuguese sailors, played a crucial role in establishing a permanent shrine dedicated to Our Lady.
Despite the fact that all three apparitions led to the building of a shrine to Our Lady, it was the promise of the Portuguese sailors that ultimately resulted in the construction of the magnificent Velankanni Shrine.
Velankanni Miracle 04th March 2023 – Baby Jesus Appears on the Crown
On the 4th of March, 2023, the main basilica was abuzz with people attending the morning mass. However, what happened during the communion was nothing short of a miracle.
It was said that a face of baby Jesus appeared in the crown of our Lady, and this lasted for an astounding 3 minutes before disappearing.
The people who witnessed this miraculous event were filled with awe and wonder. Many were moved to tears as they realized the significance of what they had just experienced. The incident was quickly recorded through the live mass telecast and spread to many people.
The appearance of baby Jesus’ face in the crown of our Lady has sparked a renewed interest in the Velankani Shrine in India. Visitors from all over the world are flocking to this holy site to witness the grace of God and experience the profound spiritual energy that surrounds it.
For many, this event serves as a reminder of the power of faith and the miracles that can occur when one’s heart is open to the divine. As we continue to navigate the challenges of our ever-changing world, let us hold onto the hope and inspiration that this miraculous event has brought into our lives.
Annai Velankanni Movie
Annai Velankanni is a Tamil language movie that portrays the story of the apparitions of Our Lady of Velankanni and the significance of the Velankanni shrine.
The movie is a devotional film that pays tribute to the Catholic community and highlights the historical significance of the shrine.
The movie is centered around the three main apparitions of Our Lady of Velankanni, which are said to have occurred in the 16th century, in the small town of Velankanni, located in the Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu, India.
The first apparition is said to have occurred to a shepherd boy, who saw the vision of Our Lady and Infant Jesus in a grove of trees.
The second apparition is attributed to the healing of a poor widow’s lame son and the third apparition is centered around the vow made by Portuguese sailors during a dangerous storm at sea.
The movie showcases the miraculous events that took place during each of the apparitions and the subsequent construction of the Velankanni shrine.
The film highlights the faith and devotion of the people of Velankanni, who have dedicated their lives to the worship of Our Lady of Velankanni and the preservation of the shrine.
In addition to depicting the historical events, the movie also highlights the spiritual significance of the Velankanni shrine.
The movie showcases the role of Our Lady of Velankanni as a mediator between God and humanity, and the powerful connection that the people of Velankanni have with her.
Annai Velankanni (lit. ‘Mother Velankanni’) is 1971 Indian drama film in Tamil. The film stars Gemini Ganesan, Jayalalithaa, Padmini and K. R. Vijaya. Kamal Haasan briefly appears in an uncredited role as Jesus Christ. The film was directed by noted choreographer K. Thangappan.
The film was dubbed Telugu-language as Mary Matha, released on 25 December 1971.
The film was later dubbed into Malayalam-language as Velankanni Mathavu, released on 27 May 1977 and 1979 Hindi-language as Mata Velankanni.
The film is a must-watch for anyone who is interested in the story of Our Lady of Velankanni and the history of the Velankanni shrine.
The Velankanni Church Shrine
The Velankanni Church, also known as the Annai Velankanni Shrine or the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, is a revered pilgrimage destination for Catholics located in Velankanni, Tamil Nadu, India.
It has four churches:
- Shrine Basilica Main Church
- Lower Basilica
- Morning Star Church
- Naduthittu Church
The holy town of Velankanni, located in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, is a pilgrimage site for devotees of Our Lady of Good Health, also known as the Basilica of Our Lady of Velankanni.
The shrine, which is a special grade panchayat town in the Nagapattinam district, lies on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal, approximately 350 km from Chennai and 33 km from Thiruvarur.
It is 26 km from Karaikal and is situated on the Edward Elliot’s Beach of the Bay of Bengal.
The Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health is a testament to the deep devotion and unwavering faith of the local community, as well as a symbol of the powerful intercession of Our Lady Velankanni Madha.
The shrine has a rich history, dating back to the 16th century, when apparitions of Our Lady were reported to have appeared to local villagers.
For those who seek to make a pilgrimage to this sacred site, the address of the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health is Velankanni, Nagapattinam, Tamil Nadu 611111.
The shrine can be contacted by telephone at 04365 263 423.
The church is dedicated to Our Lady of Good Health and marks the apparitions attributed to the Virgin Mary, attracting millions of pilgrims every year.
With its impressive gothic-style architecture, three chapels, vestry, and various facilities including a church museum, priests’ residence, and beach, the Velankanni Church is a testament to its devotion and significance as a pilgrimage site.
Visitors can participate in daily services, evening prayers, and religious events such as the sacrament of reconciliation, Holy Mass, and First Saturday Devotions.
The church is open daily from 5:30 am to 8:00 pm and is accessible by private taxi, city bus, or auto.
Over time, the church has undergone several expansions and renovations, with the latest being an expansion in the late 20th century that was inspired by the Basilica in Lourdes, France.
Designated as a heritage city under the Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana scheme of the Indian government, Velankanni has a rich legacy that is embodied in the Annai Vailankanni Shrine, one of the largest Catholic pilgrimage centers in India.
It is a living testament to the power of faith, devotion, and the apparitions of Our Lady of Good Health, who has been appearing to devotees in this region since the 16th century.
Velankanni Church Shrine Timeline
1550’s BC
A shepherd boy named Tamil Krishnannesti Sankaranaranayam was carrying milk from Velankanni to Nagapattinam. While passing by a water pond at Anna pillai street, he fell asleep and had a vision of a beautiful Lady holding a divine child.
The Lady asked for some milk, which the boy offered. The milk began to surge over the pot and flow out, and this place began to be called “Matha Kulam” (Our Lady’s Tank).
1600’s BC
A poor widow and her lame son lived in Velankanni. The lame boy used to sell butter-milk under a banyan tree at a place called ‘Nadu Thittu’ (central mound). One day, a Lady of peerless grace with a divine Child in her arms appeared and asked for a cup of butter-milk.
She directed the boy to inform a Catholic gentleman at Nagapattinam to put up a Chapel in her name on the spot of her apparition. The boy realized that his legs had become normal, ran to Nagapattinam, and the Catholic gentleman, with the support of the people, built a Chapel at ‘Nadu Thittu’ where now stands the present Shrine Basilica. The Lady was called ‘Our Lady of Good Health’.
1650
In the 17th century, a Portuguese merchant vessel was caught in a storm and in danger of sinking. The sailors prayed to Our Lady for help, and the storm suddenly abated.
In gratitude, the sailors built a small Chapel at Velankanni where the apparition of Our Lady took place.
1771
The Chapel was renovated, and a big church was built in its place. The Shrine was elevated to the status of a minor Basilica by Pope John XXIII in 1962.
Throughout the centuries, the Velankanni Shrine has been a place of pilgrimage for people of all walks of life, seeking healing and guidance from Our Lady.
The Shrine continues to be a source of inspiration and devotion, reminding us of the power of faith and the love of Mary, who mediates between God and humanity.
Velankanni Church Tour
Watch the tour of Velankanni shrine with high-quality video ie ultra high definition.
Velankanni Church 360 Virtual Tour
Take the 360 virtual tour of the Velankanni Shrine Basilica which helps the online visitors to experience the church from anywhere and at any time.
Using 360-degree panoramic images and sometimes virtual reality technology, the tour provides a full view of the church’s interior and exterior, giving you the feeling of being physically present.
With this tour, you can move around the church, zoom in and out to see details and highlights, and learn about its history, significance, and religious beliefs.
The virtual tour provides an opportunity for those who may not be able to visit the church in person to experience its beauty and significance.
Check out the virtual tour at https://www.p4panorama.com/panos/vailankanni/
Pilgrimage to the Shrine
A Pilgrimage to the Shrine of Our Lady of Good Health at Velankanni is an experience of deep devotion and faith.
This revered Roman Catholic Marian church holds great significance for the Goan and Konkani people who refer to the Virgin Mary as “Shantadurga“, meaning the most compassionate one.
This name reflects the fusion of Hindu and Catholic beliefs, making the basilica a harmonious meeting point of two of the world’s major religions.
The depiction of Mary wearing a sari only adds to the unique cultural aspect of this shrine.
The peak season for pilgrimage is during the Annual Festival, Holy Week and Christmas, where devotees flock to the shrine to offer their prayers and pay homage to Our Lady of Good Health.
While some choose to travel to the shrine by conventional modes of transport, there are also those who undertake the journey through “walking pilgrimages.”
The pilgrimage to the Shrine begins with a visit to the Madha Church, the oldest church in the area, which is dedicated to Our Lady of Good Health and is known for its miraculous statues.
At the shrine, the pilgrims participate in mass, novenas, flag-hoisting and carry the palanquin of Mary in a procession.
Pilgrims then visit the Adoration Chapel, where they can offer prayers and spend time in meditation, followed by a visit to the Grotto, which is the most sacred area in the shrine and is believed to be the site of the apparitions of Our Lady of Good Health.
This procession is a major event, where only women are permitted to pull the first car, and the statue of Mary is placed in the last and most beautifully decorated car.
People of diverse religious backgrounds take part in the procession, reflecting the universal appeal of the shrine.
Some pilgrims choose to offer their hair as a sacrifice and undergo ear-piercing ceremonies, both being Hindu customs.
Dipping oneself in the holy pond is also considered a sacred ritual.
The festival comes to a close when the holy flag is lowered, marking the end of this spiritual celebration.
The pilgrimage is a time for reflection, devotion, and renewal, as devotees connect with their faith and deepen their relationship with God through Mary, who is believed to be a bridge between God and humanity.
Holy Mass
Daily mass is held at the shrine and can be attended by devotees.
Live Mass
The Velankanni Shrine has taken a step forward in promoting their religious services and teachings by live telecasting all their mass services for free through the popular video sharing platform, YouTube.
This move has made it possible for devotees and followers from all over the world to tune in and experience the spiritual essence of the Velankanni Shrine from the comfort of their own homes.
The live telecast of the masses is a great initiative that will not only promote the teachings of the shrine but also reach out to a wider audience, spreading the message of love, hope, and faith.
To check latest live streaming visit: https://www.youtube.com/@Vailankannishrinetvlive2
Here is recent sample live stream:
Mass timings
Main Shrine (Everyday)
- 05:40 AM: Morning Prayer
- 06:00 AM: Tamil Mass
Lower Basilica (Everyday)
- 07:00 AM: Tamil Mass
- 10:00 AM: English Mass
- 12:00 PM: Tamil Mass
- 06:30 PM: Tamil Mass
- 07:30 AM (Sunday Only): Tamil Mass
- 05:00 PM (Sunday Only): Tamil Mass
Upper Basilica (Everyday)
- 08:00 AM: Telugu Mass
- 11:00 AM: Hindi Mass
Morning Star Church (Everyday)
- 08:00 AM: Konkani Mass
- 09:00 AM: Malayalam Mass
Our Lady’s Tank (Saturday Only)
- 07:00 AM: Tamil Mass
Events at the Shrine
Visitors to the Annai Vailankanni Shrine can participate in various religious activities throughout the year, The shrine offers various religious activities and events for devotees to participate in, including:
Devotions
Devotees can participate in devotions to Our Lady Velankanni Madha, including Rosary prayers, Novenas, and other forms of worship.
Confession
Confession is available for devotees who wish to receive the sacrament.
First Saturday Devotions
Devotees are encouraged to participate in the First Saturday Devotions to Our Lady of Fatima.
Annual Festival
The Annai Velankanni Shrine holds an annual festival in honor of Our Lady Velankanni Madha, which attracts a large number of devotees from around the world.
The feast of Our Lady of Good Health, celebrated on September 8, is a time of great devotion and reverence.
Commemorating this day, the celebration begins on August 29 and continues until the feast day itself.
The annual festival takes place from August 29 to September 8, and is a 11-day celebration of the apparitions of Our Lady.
Prayers are offered in multiple languages, including Tamil, Malayalam, Telugu, Kannada, Konkani, Hindi, and English.
On the feast day, Our Lady is carried in a float, carried by her faithful followers, as she is honored by the throngs of devotees who come to pay their respects.
Some kneel with open palms, others with complete surrender, each seeking the intercession of Our Lady with their own reasons for reverence.
The penultimate day of the Velankanni Feast is marked by the Velankanni car festival, a grand and colorful celebration that takes place on the Tuesday evening before the feast day.
Against the dark evening sky, the only sources of light are the shrine and the vehicles carrying the divine representations of the gods.
The festival attracts millions of pilgrims from all over India and is a popular event, with colorful lights decorating the shrine and processions of devotees held with an image of Our Lady of Good Health.
During the festival, the shrine is decorated with lights, flowers, and other decorations, and there is a festive atmosphere as devotees come together to celebrate their faith.
The Annual Festival is an important event for many devotees, as it provides an opportunity to connect with their religion and spiritual community, and deepen their relationship with God through Mary.
Shrine Facilities
The Annai Velankanni Shrine, also known as the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, offers several facilities to the visiting pilgrims.
Velankanni Shrine Office
The Shrine Office of Velankanni Madha is a place of great spiritual and historical significance.
It is a place where the faithful can come to seek guidance and support in their devotion to Our Lady of Velankanni.
The office is staffed by dedicated individuals who have a deep faith in Mary and her role as a mediator between God and humanity.
They work tirelessly to provide support and assistance to those who come to the shrine seeking solace and spiritual renewal.
The Shrine Office operates from 09.00 a.m. to 05.30 p.m. with a break for lunch between 12.30 noon to 02.00 p.m. On Sundays, New Year’s Day, Good Friday, and Christmas, the office is closed to observe these holy days.
Despite its limited hours, the office is a crucial resource for those seeking to deepen their spiritual connection with Our Lady of Velankanni.
The office serves as a central hub for the administration of the shrine, providing essential support to the Rector and Priests.
Velankanni Shrine Historical Museum
The Velankanni Shrine Historical Museum is a place of great religious and historical significance.
It is a testament to the love and devotion of the countless pilgrims who have come to Velankanni to seek the blessings of Our Lady of Velankanni.
Located in Vailankanni, the museum serves as a repository for the offerings of gold, silver, and other precious metals received from grateful pilgrims.
These offerings speak volumes about the deep love and gratitude that the faithful have for Our Lady, and the profound impact that her blessings have had on their lives.
The museum is open every day from 6.30 a.m. to 8.00 p.m., providing visitors with an opportunity to experience the rich history and spiritual significance of Velankanni.
Whether you are a devout believer or simply seeking to deepen your understanding of the role of Our Lady of Velankanni in the spiritual lives of so many, the Velankanni Shrine Historical Museum is an excellent resource that is sure to provide you with a wealth of information and inspiration.
Velankanni Shrine Book Centre
The Velankanni Shrine Book Centre, also known as Annai Book Centre, is a place of great spiritual significance for devotees of Our Lady of Velankanni.
This book centre is a hub of devotional literature and serves as a source of inspiration and guidance for those who seek to deepen their faith in Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, and her role as a mediator between God and humanity.
At the Velankanni Shrine Book Centre, one can find a diverse range of books on various aspects of Mary’s apparitions, including the history and significance of the Velankanni Shrine, the miraculous events that took place at the shrine, and the devotional practices associated with it.
The centre also offers a selection of prayer books, rosaries, and other religious articles, making it a one-stop-shop for those seeking to deepen their devotion to Our Lady of Velankanni.
List of Parish Priests
| Name | Month | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Fr. António do Rosário | Sep | 1771 |
| Fr. José de Santa Rosa de Viterbo | Aug | 1774 |
| Fr. António do Rosário, Commissary | Jul | 1777 |
| Fr. Luís dos Remédios | Sep | 1779 |
| Fr. António do Rosário, Commissary | Jan | 1783 |
| Fr. António de Jesus Maria José | Dec | 1788 |
| Fr. António do Rosário, Commissary | Sep | 1789 |
| Fr. José de Santa Rosa de Viterbo, Commissary & V. F. | Sep | 1792 |
| Fr. Constaantino de Jesus Maria, Commissary | May | 1814 |
| Fr. Tomás da Piedade | May | 1819 |
| Fr. Francisco Xavier Mascarenhas | Feb | 1822 |
| Fr. Francisco das Dores | Aug | 1822 |
| Fr. Felipe de Jesus | May | 1824 |
| Fr. Francisco Dos Dores | Sep | 1825 |
| Fr. Felipe de Jesus | Jun | 1828 |
| Fr. Clemente das Dores | Jun | 1828 |
| Fr. Isidoro Manuel Alemão | Oct | 1847 |
| Fr. José Felix Fernandes, AG.PP | Apr | 1858 |
| Fr. Felipe de Nery Joaquim Dias | Nov | 1863 |
| Fr. Inácio António de Andrade | May | 1876 |
| Fr. Miguel Francisco Fernandes | Aug | 1886 |
| Fr. Joaquim José, Ag. P. Vic. Nagapattinam | Dec | 1890 |
| Fr. Guilherme José Dias | Feb | 1891 |
| Fr. Joaquim José Luís, Ag. P. Vic. Nagapattinam | Dec | 1892 |
| Fr. Martinho Valeriano de Sá | Mar | 1893 |
| Fr. Joaquim Francisco da Piedade Dias | Sep | 1899 |
| Fr. Camilo Fernandes | Aug | 1900 |
| Fr. Sebastião Xavier de Noronha | Jun | 1910 |
| Fr. M. V. Rodrigues | Sep | 1942 |
| Fr. S. Maria Soosai | Jun | 1963 |
| Fr. Tomás Vaz | Sep | 1980 |
| Fr. S. L. Gabriel | Sep | 1982 |
| Fr. M.M. Sammanasu | May | 1990 |
| Fr. G. Arul Iruthayam | Jun | 1997 |
| Fr. P. Xavier | Jun | 2003 |
| Fr. P. Xavier | Jun | 2003 |
| Fr. A. Michael | Jun | 2009 |
| Fr. A.M.A. Prabakar | Jun | 2015 |
| Fr. C. Irudhayaraj | Nov | 2021 |
Population and Literacy Rate
With a population of 10,145 according to the 2001 Indian census, Velankanni is a hamlet located in the Nagapattinam district of Tamil Nadu.
The literacy rate in Velankanni is 69%, with 75% for males and 64% for females.
This is higher than the national average of 68%, which speaks to the town’s commitment to education and knowledge.
Velankanni Geography & Climate
Velankanni is located on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is 350 km south of Chennai and 33 km southeast of Thiruvarur.
The climate in Velankanni is tropical, with hot and humid summers and warm, mild winters.
The average temperature is around 27°C, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C in summer.
The monsoon season lasts from October to December, bringing heavy rains to the area.
Accommodations
Visitors who are planning to stay in Velankanni for an extended period can choose from several hotels near the church.
The hotels offer rooms ranging in price from INR 900 to 10,000. Some of the popular hotels include Velankanni Guest House, Hotel Velankanni Palace, and Annai Velankanni Residency.
These hotels provide basic amenities like air conditioning, television, and internet services.
Visitors can book these hotels in advance to ensure that they get a room.
Things to Do
Visiting the Shrine is a spiritual and cultural experience that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.
The Shrine provides a peaceful and reflective atmosphere for visitors to contemplate their faith, reflect on their lives, or simply take in the beauty of the surroundings.
Here are some entertainment things to do when visiting the Shrine:
Tour of the Shrine
A guided tour of the Shrine is a great way to learn about its history, architecture, and significance. Visitors can get a glimpse of the intricate details and stunning artwork inside the Shrine and learn about the stories behind each piece.
Attend Mass
The Shrine is a place of worship, and attending Mass is a wonderful way to experience the spiritual side of the Shrine. Visitors can join the local congregation for a traditional Mass or attend a special Mass celebrated for tourists.
Explore Gardens
The Shrine is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parklands that are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Visitors can walk along the pathways, admire the landscaping, and soak in the serenity of the surroundings.
Visit the Gift Shops
The Shrine’s gift shops offers a range of unique souvenirs and gifts, including books, rosaries, medals, holy cards, religious items, and handmade crafts.
Visitors can pick up a memento of their visit to the Shrine to take home with them and you can also buy locally made handicrafts and other items as souvenirs.
The prices of these items vary depending on the quality and craftsmanship.
Visitors can also purchase velankanni kappu, a traditional Velankanni shawl, which is worn by pilgrims as a symbol of their visit to the church.
Novena / prayer session
Visitors can take some time to reflect and meditate in the peaceful surroundings of the Shrine. There may be opportunities for group prayer or meditation sessions, or visitors can choose to spend some quiet time on their own.
Cultural or educational program
The Shrine may offer cultural or educational programs for visitors, such as concerts, art exhibitions, or lectures on the history of the Shrine. These programs provide a deeper understanding of the Shrine and its cultural significance.
Visiting the Shrine is a wonderful opportunity to connect with your faith, learn about new cultures, and experience the beauty of the surrounding area.
Beach
Visitors can also enjoy the beach and the beaches offer a chance to relax and soak up the sun. Visitors can also take a leisurely stroll along the shore and admire the stunning views of the ocean and nearby landscapes.
Shopping
The local markets offer a wide range of souvenirs, including traditional crafts, jewelry, textiles, and spices.
Visitors can also find clothing, footwear, and other essentials at the local shops.
Whether you’re looking for unique keepsakes or just want to take home a taste of the local culture, shopping is a great way to spend some time during your visit to the shrine.
Food
Another popular activity in the area is trying the local sea food. The region is known for its delicious seafood cuisine, offering a variety of fresh and flavorful dishes, including fish, prawns, and crabs.
Whether you’re dining at a local restaurant or trying street food, be sure to sample some of the local sea food for a taste of the area’s culinary delights.
How to Reach?
Reaching Velankanni, the famous pilgrimage center dedicated to Our Lady of Good Health, is a devotional journey that can be made by air, rail, and road.
This revered shrine, located on the east coast of India, attracts millions of devotees every year from across the country and abroad. Let’s look at the different ways you can reach Velankanni.
Airways
The nearest airport to Velankanni is the Tiruchirapalli International Airport, located approximately 165 km away.
It is a well-connected international airport with daily domestic flights to cities such as Chennai, Cochin, Mumbai, Bangalore, Madurai, Coimbatore, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur.
It also has several international flights from destinations like Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Railways
The railway track work has been completed up to Velankanni, connecting it to Nagapattinam.
There are two local trains that run daily in the morning and evening towards Nagapattinam.
- Velankanni Express Train (No:17315) from Vasco-Da-Gama in Goa to Velankanni
- Velankanni-VSG Express Train (No:17316) from Velankanni to Vasco-Da-Gama
Nagapattinam, located just 12 km away using the seashore road or 18 km away using proper road, is well-connected to major cities in India through Chennai and Trichy via railway.
Taxis can be availed from Nagapattinam to Velankanni for low cost too.
Roadways
Getting to Velankanni by road is a convenient option, as the East Coast Road runs through the town.
Roadways is one of popular way devotee travel to the shrine.
From Chennai to Velankanni
- Take NH45 and reach Tindivanam (131 km)
- Take NH66 to reach Pondicherry (43 km)
- Take NH45A to Cuddalore (25 km)
- Continue to Chidambaram (44 km)
- Then to Karaikal (64 km)
- Reach Nagapattinam (10 km) and take NH67
- Take a left at Puththoor (5 km before Nagapattinam)
- Drive 10 km to reach the Velankanni Church entrance arch
Total distance from Chennai to Velankanni is 400 km
From Bangalore to Velankanni
Option 1
- Take NH7 to Namakkal (195 km)
- Take SH25 to Trichy (80 km)
- Take NH67 to Nagapattinam (144 km)
- Take a right at Puththoor (5 km before Nagapattinam)
- Drive 10 km to reach the Velankanni Church entrance arch
Total distance from Bangalore to Velankanni is 424 km using option 1
Option 2
- Take the route to Tiruvannamalai (210 km)
- Continue to Tirukkovilur – Panruti – Cuddalore
- Take Chidambaram (113 km) to Nagapattinam (74 km)
- Drive 18 km to reach Velankanni Church
Total distance from Bangalore to Velankanni is 415 km using option 2
From Mumbai to Velankanni
- Take the Eastern Express Highway and drive to Mumbai-Pune Expressway (85 km)
- From Pune, take NH48 to reach Chennai (625 km)
- From Chennai, follow the route as described above.
Total distance from Mumbai to Velankanni is 1,312 km
From New Delhi to Velankanni
- Take NH48 to reach Agra (343 km)
- From Agra, take NH19 to reach Kanpur (318 km)
- From Kanpur, take NH27 to reach Lucknow (206 km)
- From Lucknow, take NH16 to reach Varanasi (342 km)
- From Varanasi, take NH19 to reach Kolkata (652 km)
- From Kolkata, take NH12 to reach Bhubaneshwar (354 km)
- From Bhubaneshwar, take NH16 to reach Visakhapatnam (597 km)
- From Visakhapatnam, take NH16 to reach Vijayawada (397 km)
- From Vijayawada, take NH16 to reach Chennai (557 km)
- From Chennai, follow the route as described above.
Total distance from New Delhi to Velankanni is 1,723 km
From Hyderabad to Velankanni
- Take NH65 to reach Nagpur (653 km)
- From Nagpur, take NH7 to reach Seoni (188 km)
- From Seoni, take NH44 to reach Jabalpur (250 km)
- From Jabalpur, take NH12 to reach Mandla (155 km)
- From Mandla, take NH30 to reach Bandhavgarh (71 km)
- From Bandhavgarh, take SH27 to reach Umaria (33 km)
- From Umaria, take NH7 to reach Katni (93 km)
- From Katni, take SH27 to reach Satna (74 km)
- From Satna, take NH7 to reach Allahabad (190 km)
- From Allahabad, take NH27 to reach Varanasi (209 km)
- From Varanasi, take NH19 to reach Kolkata (652 km)
- From Kolkata, take NH12 to reach Bhubaneshwar (354 km)
- From Bhubaneshwar, take NH16 to reach Visakhapatnam (597 km)
- From Visakhapatnam, take NH16 to reach Vijayawada (397 km)
- From Vijayawada, take NH16 to reach Chennai (557 km)
- From Chennai, follow the route as described above.
Total distance from Hyderabad to Velankanni is 873 km
From Trichy to Velankanni
- Take NH67 and drive towards Nagapattinam (144 km)
- From Nagapattinam, take the road towards Tanjore about 5 km to reach the village called Puththoor
- Take a right at Puththoor and drive about 10 km to reach the Velankanni Church entrance arch
Total distance from Trichy to Velankanni is 144 km
From Kolkata to Velankanni
- Take the NH16 to reach Bhubaneshwar (650 km)
- From Bhubaneshwar, take the NH16 to reach Visakhapatnam (450 km)
- From Visakhapatnam, take the NH16 to reach Chennai (700 km)
- From Chennai, take NH45 to Tindivanam (131 km) and then take NH66 to reach Pondicherry (43 km)
- From Pondicherry, take NH45A to Cuddalore (25 km)
- From Cuddalore to Chidambaram (44 km) and after Chidambaram to Karaikal (64 km), the road is curvy and care is needed while driving
- From Karaikal, reach Nagapattinam (10 km) and from there take NH67 and drive towards Tanjore about 5 km to reach the village called Puththoor
- Take a left and drive about 10 km to reach the Velankanni Church entrance arch
- From the arch, the Velankanni church is just 3 km away
Total distance from Kolkata to Velankanni is 1,850 km
From Pune to Velankanni
- Take the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and drive to Mumbai (162 km)
- From Mumbai, take the NH48 to reach Bangalore (420 km)
- From Bangalore, take NH7 to reach Namakkal (195 km) and then take SH25 to reach Trichy (80 km)
- From Trichy, take NH67 and drive towards Nagapattinam (144 km)
- From Nagapattinam, take the road towards Tanjore about 5 km to reach the village called Puththoor
- Take a right at Puththoor and drive about 10 km to reach the Velankanni Church entrance arch
Total distance from Pune to Velankanni is 1,230 km
From Coimbatore to Velankanni
- Take the NH544 to reach Tiruppur (76 km)
- From Tiruppur, take the NH67 to reach Salem (124 km)
- From Salem, take the NH48 to reach Bangalore (224 km)
- From Bangalore, take NH7 to reach Namakkal (195 km) and then take SH25 to reach Trichy (80 km)
- From Trichy, take NH67 and drive towards Nagapattinam (144 km)
- From Nagapattinam, take the road towards Tanjore about 5 km to reach the village called Puththoor
- Take a right at Puththoor and drive about 10 km to reach the Velankanni Church entrance arch
The total distance from Coimbatore to Velankanni is 460 km
Bus Route
Bus is another popular mode of transport for Velankanni from other cities in India.
Both private buses and government buses are available.
Let’s take a look at dedicated guides for each:
Conclusion
The Annai Velankanni Church is a place of spiritual and historical significance that attracts millions of pilgrims every year.
The apparitions of Our Lady Velankanni Madha have been a source of inspiration and faith for generations of Catholics, who visit the shrine to pray and seek blessings.
The church is also a testament to the rich heritage and history of Christianity in India.
With its beautiful architecture, serene atmosphere, and various religious activities, the Velankanni Church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a spiritual experience.
Whether you are a devout Catholic or simply seeking a peaceful retreat from the chaos of modern life, the Velankanni Church is the perfect place to rejuvenate your soul.
So, we encourage you to visit the Annai Velankanni Church, bask in its beauty, and experience the blessings of Our Lady Velankanni Madha.
Let the peace and serenity of this holy shrine fill your heart and soul and help you to reconnect with your faith.
May you leave Velankanni with a renewed sense of purpose and a heart full of love and peace.