Suriya Lodge sits 1,234 metres - approximately 1.2 km - from the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health in Velankanni, a short auto-rickshaw ride from the shrine. The lodge holds a rating of 3.8★ from 127 guests on Google Maps, placing it in the average range for the town.
Important: Suriya Lodge accepts cash only. Bring sufficient Indian rupees before arrival - there are no card payment facilities at the property.
Location
The lodge is at No. 29, 1st Cross, Railway Station Road, near Morning Star Church, Velankanni. The Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health is 1.2 km away - pilgrims typically take an auto-rickshaw for under ₹50 each way, or walk the route in around 15 minutes. The railway station is approximately 700 metres from the lodge, making arrival by train straightforward. Restaurants are available in the immediate vicinity, so meals are easy to find without travelling far.
Note that the lodge has no parking facility on site. Pilgrims arriving by private vehicle should enquire about street parking or nearby options before checking in.
Rooms and Amenities
Suriya Lodge offers non-air-conditioned rooms priced at approximately ₹2,000 for two rooms. Each room accommodates up to four persons, making it practical for families or small pilgrim groups. In some configurations, a common area is also available with additional sleeping space - able to hold around four more persons - which can suit larger groups travelling together.
The front desk is open 24 hours, seven days a week, which is helpful for pilgrims arriving on overnight trains or departing for early morning Holy Mass. Check-in is available from 6 a.m., aligning well with early train arrivals into Velankanni station.
The property is noted as family-friendly and suitable for children. No specific accessibility data is available for wheelchair users - pilgrims with mobility needs should contact the lodge directly before booking.
What Guests Say
Guest feedback at Suriya Lodge is mixed, leaning positive on value and staff helpfulness but noting cleanliness as an area to watch.
Ganesh GS (one week ago, 5★) described the rooms as “very comfortable and well-maintained” and praised staff who were “always ready to assist.” Abin George (one year ago, 4★) gave a detailed account: the location near Morning Star Church was convenient, the rooms accommodated four persons each, and he found the stay “overall satisfying” for a group of seven adults and two children - though he noted neatness was “average but manageable.” Sabin Thomas (5 months ago, 5★) acknowledged the value for the price paid but mentioned visible dust on the floor, saying the staff “could have kept the rooms a little more clean.” Flying Dutchman (5 months ago, 4★) called it a “decent hotel” with good service, singling out a staff member named Senthil for assistance, and confirmed there is no parking facility.
The overall picture: a budget lodge that delivers on basic comfort and value, with helpful staff and a practical early check-in time. Cleanliness and parking are genuine limitations to be aware of.
Contact and Booking
Phone: 079043 23038 (note: at least one guest has reported the number not always connecting - try multiple times or visit in person if needed)
Address: No 29, 1st Cross, Railway Station Road, near Morning Star Church, Velankanni, Tamil Nadu 611111
Hours: Open 24 hours, all days
Payment: Cash only - no cards accepted. Bring enough rupees to cover your full stay.
Rooms can reportedly be booked online; however, always confirm payment terms and availability directly with the lodge before arrival.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Suriya Lodge from the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health? The lodge is 1,234 metres - 1.2 km - from the basilica. Most pilgrims take an auto-rickshaw for the short journey.
Does Suriya Lodge accept UPI or credit cards? No. The lodge accepts cash only. Bring sufficient Indian rupees before checking in, as there are no card or UPI facilities on site.
What is the check-in time at Suriya Lodge? Check-in is from 6 a.m., which suits pilgrims arriving on overnight trains to Velankanni station, located about 700 metres away.
Is Suriya Lodge suitable for families with children? Yes, the property is noted as family-friendly. Rooms accommodate up to four persons, and larger groups can use additional common-area sleeping space.
Is there parking at Suriya Lodge? No. The lodge does not have a parking facility. Pilgrims coming by private vehicle should enquire about street or nearby parking on arrival.
Plan Your Visit
Suriya Lodge is a practical, budget option for pilgrims who need a clean, affordable base a short auto-ride from the basilica. The 24-hour front desk and early check-in make it convenient for those travelling by train. Remember to carry sufficient cash, as no other payment is accepted. For novena schedules and daily Holy Mass timings, see the link below.
