Udhayam Inn sits 1,557 metres - approximately 1.6 km - from the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health in Velankanni. On foot, that is roughly a 20-minute walk; most pilgrims cover the distance by auto-rickshaw in five minutes or less. The hotel holds a rating of 4.2★ from 771 guests on Google Maps, placing it among the better-reviewed properties in the area.
Location
The hotel is on Church 58, Main Rd, Periyar Nagar, Velankanni - a short auto-rickshaw ride from the basilica gates. Guests describe the setting as calm and removed from the busiest stretches of the shrine town, making it a quieter option for families and older pilgrims who prefer to rest away from street noise. Covered car parking is available on the property, which recent guests have described as convenient and secure.
Rooms and Amenities
Rooms at Udhayam Inn are described by recent guests as spacious, clean, and well-maintained. Air conditioning is available and reported to function effectively. Hot water is supplied through solar heating, which guests have found to work reliably throughout their stay. The property operates 24 hours a day, every day of the week - useful for pilgrims arriving after evening novena services or departing early for Holy Mass.
The hotel has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and wheelchair-accessible parking, making it a practical choice for elderly pilgrims or those travelling with mobility aids. It is also family-friendly and well-suited for pilgrim groups travelling with children. There is no lift in the building; however, staff have been noted to assist guests with luggage on arrival without being asked.
Payment is accepted by debit card and contactless (NFC), as well as cash.
What Guests Say
Guest feedback from recent months has been consistently positive, with reviewers highlighting three themes in particular: the cleanliness of the rooms, the friendliness of the staff, and the location.
Anu Sunny (3 months ago, 4★) wrote: “The rooms were spotless, spacious, and very comfortable. The staff were extremely professional, friendly, and always ready to assist with anything we needed.”
Meghana Kolukula (4 months ago, 5★) noted clean rooms and attentive service, but flagged one minor issue: “The hand wash bottle wasn’t dispensing properly when pressed. This could be improved for better convenience.” She also appreciated the staff carrying her bags since there is no lift.
Prakash (4 months ago, 5★) highlighted the parking and atmosphere: “Located away from the crowded main area, the hotel provides a calm and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for families. The covered car parking was very convenient and secure.”
Sandesh (4 months ago, 5★) praised a staff member by name - “Karikalan Anna provided invaluable assistance” - and noted budget-friendly pricing alongside efficient air conditioning.
Henry Tom (3 months ago, 5★) summed up the stay: “They were polite, helpful, and ensured all our needs were taken care of promptly. Their warm hospitality made us feel at home.”
Among five recent reviews, the average rating is 4.7★, reflecting a strong and improving trend.
Contact and Booking
- Website: udhayaminn.com
- Front desk: Open 24 hours, seven days a week
- Address: Church 58, Main Rd, Periyar Nagar, Velankanni, Tamil Nadu 611111
- Payment accepted: Debit cards, contactless NFC, cash
Bookings can be made through the hotel website or by walking in directly. The 24-hour front desk means late arrivals and early departures - common during feast season and novena days - are handled without difficulty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Udhayam Inn from the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health? The hotel is 1,557 metres - 1.6 km - from the basilica. An auto-rickshaw from the hotel takes roughly five minutes. Walking takes approximately 20 minutes.
Does Udhayam Inn have parking for cars? Yes. The hotel has covered car parking on the property. Wheelchair-accessible parking is also available.
Is Udhayam Inn suitable for elderly or wheelchair-using pilgrims? The hotel has a wheelchair-accessible entrance and wheelchair-accessible parking. There is no lift in the building, but staff assist guests with luggage between floors.
Does Udhayam Inn accept card payments? Yes. The hotel accepts debit cards and contactless (NFC) payments, as well as cash.
Is Udhayam Inn open during the Velankanni feast season? The hotel is open 24 hours a day year-round, including the annual feast in September when pilgrim numbers are highest. Advance booking is strongly recommended for feast dates.
Plan Your Visit
Udhayam Inn is well-suited for families and pilgrims who want a calm base slightly away from the busiest streets near the basilica. The combination of accessible facilities, a helpful front desk team, and reliable cleanliness makes it a practical choice for both first-time visitors and returning pilgrims. Book ahead for the September feast - rooms fill quickly.
For Holy Mass schedules at the basilica, see Mass timings at the basilica. For a full list of accommodation options, visit All hotels in Velankanni.