About Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Velankanni
Velankanni, a fishing town on the Bay of Bengal, is home to one of the most visited Christian shrines in Asia. Local tradition tells of three Marian apparitions in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries: to a shepherd boy, to a lame buttermilk seller who was healed, and to Portuguese sailors saved from a storm, who built a chapel in thanks.
The present white Gothic style basilica, often called the Lourdes of the East, welcomes Catholics, Hindus and people of other faiths seeking healing. Pilgrims arrive in saffron clothes, shave their heads or walk on their knees along a path to the shrine. The September feast draws millions.
What to see
- White Gothic basilica facade
- Shrine of Our Lady of Good Health
- Offering museum of votive gifts
- Our Lady's Tank and penance path
- Velankanni beach
Visiting Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Velankanni: practical guide
- Best time
- November to March; late August to September for the feast
- Hours
- Open daily, roughly 5 am to 9 pm; frequent Masses in several languages
- Entry
- Free
- Dress code
- Modest clothing
- Nearest airport
- Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ), 150 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Book lodging early for the September feast
- Masses run in Tamil, English and other languages
- Beware of the strong sea currents
Festivals and special days
- Feast of the Nativity of Mary (29 August to 8 September)
- Christmas
- Easter
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Christianity tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Cover shoulders and knees when entering churches, cathedrals and monasteries.
- Men usually remove hats indoors, while some Orthodox churches ask women to cover their hair.
- Avoid sightseeing in the main aisle during Mass or services.
- Check whether photography and flash are allowed before taking pictures.
- Keep your voice low and switch phones to silent.
- Only receive Communion if you understand and follow that church's rules.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Velankanni?
Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Velankanni is in Velankanni, Tamil Nadu, India, Asia. GPS coordinates: 10.6806, 79.8516. The nearest airport is Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ), 150 km.
What is the best time to visit Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Velankanni?
November to March; late August to September for the feast
Is there an entry fee for Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Velankanni?
Free Opening hours: Open daily, roughly 5 am to 9 pm; frequent Masses in several languages
What should I wear when visiting Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Velankanni?
Modest clothing
Which religion is Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Velankanni sacred to?
Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Velankanni is sacred to Christianity, Hinduism. Active place of worship.
