Velankanni

✝️ Velankanni Sightseeing – The Lourdes of the East

Velankanni, a peaceful coastal town in Tamil Nadu’s Nagapattinam district, is one of India’s most important Christian pilgrimage destinations. Known as “Our Lady of Good Health”, Velankanni attracts millions of visitors annually from all faiths who come for spiritual healing, prayer, and peace.

In addition to the sacred church, Velankanni also offers calm beaches, heritage spots, and a serene coastal charm.

🌟 Top Places to Visit in Velankanni

1. Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health (Velankanni Church)

• A stunning white Gothic-style basilica built in the 16th century

• Dedicated to Mother Mary, believed to have miraculous healing powers

• Pilgrims from all religions visit for blessings, healing, and peace

• Highlights:

  • Main Church (Morning Masses in multiple languages)

  • Chapel of the Apparitions (where Mother Mary is believed to have appeared)

  • Stations of the Cross, Adoration Center, and Rosary Church

  • Candle lighting, thanksgiving offerings, and special novenas

🕒 Open: 24 hours
🎉 Special Fest: Annual Feast on Aug 29 – Sep 8

2. Velankanni Beach

• Located just beside the Basilica

• Calm and spiritual environment, ideal for reflection and relaxation

• Pilgrims often walk along the shore after mass

• Local shops selling candles, seashells, and souvenirs nearby

🚫 Caution: Not ideal for swimming due to sudden waves

3. Morning Star Church (Our Lady’s Tank)

• A quieter, serene place for prayer surrounded by greenery

• Said to be near the sacred tank where the second apparition occurred

• Ideal for peaceful personal devotion

4. Velankanni Museum

• Located within the church campus

• Displays religious relics, offerings, and history of miraculous events

• Educational for first-time pilgrims and tourists

5. Nagapattinam Town (13 km away)

• Visit the Dutch Cemetery, Kayarohanaswamy Temple, and Nagore Dargah

• Ideal for those wanting to explore religious harmony and nearby attractions

6. Velankanni Shopping Street

• Streets around the church are lined with local shops selling:

  • Candles in the shape of body parts (for healing prayers)

  • Rosaries, holy water, souvenirs, photos of the Virgin Mary

  • Local snacks and religious books

🧭 Velankanni Tour Options

Western Ghats Getaways offers:

• Day Trip to Velankanni from Thanjavur / Trichy

• Weekend Pilgrimage Package (2N/3D)

• Velankanni + Nagapattinam + Poompuhar Beach Combo

• Family & Group Religious Packages with Mass Arrangements

📌 Best Time to Visit:

• August–September – For the Annual Feast & Flag Hoisting Festival

• November–February – Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

🚘 Travel Info:

• Nearest Airport: Tiruchirapalli International Airport (≈150 km)

• Nearest Railway Station: Velankanni Railway Station (connected to Chennai & Madurai)

• Road Access: Well connected by buses and taxis from Thanjavur, Karaikal, and Nagapattinam