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Velankanni, Tamil Nadu, India

Velankanni, Tamil Nadu, India

About the Velankanni

Velankanni, also known as Vailankanni, is a coastal town in Tamil Nadu, India, famous for the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, a Roman Catholic shrine. It's a major pilgrimage site attracting millions seeking blessings and healing. The town blends devotion with local culture, offering bustling markets, traditional cuisine, and a scenic coastline.

Best Time to Visit

October to March offers pleasant, cooler weather. Avoid monsoon (June-September) and peak summer (April-May) unless attending the annual feast (August 29th - September 8th).

Trip Duration

1 day 2 days
A 1-day trip is enough for a quick visit to the Basilica. A 2-day trip allows a more relaxed exploration of the town and nearby attractions.

Best Tourist Places to Visit in Velankanni

Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health
Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Velankanni Beach
Velankanni Beach
★★★★★

4.2

Popularity

OUR LADY'S TANK
OUR LADY'S TANK
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Morning Star Church Vailankanni
Morning Star Church Vailankanni
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Vailankanni Shrine Museum
Vailankanni Shrine Museum
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health
Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health
Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health
★★★★★

4.7

Popularity

Tsunami Memorial pillar
Tsunami Memorial pillar
★★★★★

4.1

Popularity

Activities / Things To Do in Velankanni

  • Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health Attend mass, light candles, offer prayers, and explore chapels. Observe the devout atmosphere and witness the pilgrims' faith.
  • Explore Velankanni Beach Stroll along the beach, enjoy the sea breeze, and watch fishermen. Swimming isn't recommended due to currents, but it offers a peaceful escape.
  • Visit the Morning Star Church A beautiful church near the beach, offering a serene atmosphere and stunning architecture for quiet reflection.
  • Shop for Souvenirs Explore local markets for religious artifacts, rosaries, and statues. Find local handicrafts and traditional items.
  • Visit Annai Velankanni Church Museum Located in Basilica complex, this museum offers a glimpse into the history and development of the shrine. You can find several historical artifacts, offerings and other important items.

Velankanni Best Restaurant | Your Ultimate Dining Guide

HOTEL ORCHARD INN VELANKANNI
HOTEL ORCHARD INN VELANKANNI
★★★★

3.4

Popularity

Annai Mess
Annai Mess
★★★★★

4.1

Popularity

Hotel Prakash
Hotel Prakash
★★★★

3.6

Popularity

Hotel Seashell
Hotel Seashell
★★★

2.1

Popularity

Annai in Saravana Bhavan Fine Stay and Restaurants - Beach Road
Annai in Saravana Bhavan Fine Stay and Restaurants - Beach Road
★★★★★

4.1

Popularity

Chellams Seafood Restaurant
Chellams Seafood Restaurant
★★★★★

4.5

Popularity

DEVIES INN
DEVIES INN
★★★★★

4.3

Popularity

Annai in Saravana Bhavan Fine Stay and Restaurants - Beach Road
Annai in Saravana Bhavan Fine Stay and Restaurants - Beach Road
★★★★★

4.1

Popularity

Annai in Saravana Bhavan Fine Stay and Restaurants - Beach Road
Annai in Saravana Bhavan Fine Stay and Restaurants - Beach Road
★★★★★

4.1

Popularity

Hotel Seagate
Hotel Seagate
★★★★

4

Popularity

Accommodation

MGM Vailankanni Residency
MGM Vailankanni Residency
★★★★★

4.1

Popularity

GS Resorts
GS Resorts
★★★★

3.8

Popularity

Hotel Picnic
Hotel Picnic
★★★★

3.6

Popularity

Sea La Vie Beach Resort
Sea La Vie Beach Resort
★★★★

4

Popularity

Clinton Park Inn
Clinton Park Inn
★★★★

3.9

Popularity

Hotel Wilson
Hotel Wilson
★★★

2.9

Popularity

Golden Sand velankanni
Golden Sand velankanni
★★★★

3.5

Popularity

Hotel Vasantham
Hotel Vasantham
★★★★

3.8

Popularity

HOTEL CHURCH PARK
HOTEL CHURCH PARK
★★★★★

4.1

Popularity

Hotel Seagate
Hotel Seagate
★★★★

4

Popularity

How to Reach Velankanni

Air

Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ) is the nearest airport (165 km). Hire a taxi or take a bus to Velankanni.

Bus

Well-connected by road to major cities in Tamil Nadu and neighboring states. Regular bus services available. Taxis are also an option.

Train

Velankanni Railway Station (VLNK) is well-connected to major South Indian cities. Direct trains from Chennai, Bangalore, etc.

Important Notes

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) when visiting the Basilica.
Expect large crowds, especially during the annual feast.
Stay hydrated, especially in summer.
Respect religious sentiments.
Be cautious of pickpockets.
Negotiate prices for taxis/auto-rickshaws.

Velankanni Nearby Destinations

Nagapattinam

Nagapattinam

A nearby town with historical temples and a bustling port.

Distance : 3 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.3

Popularity Score : 4.2

Must Visit : Kayarohanaswami Temple, Soundararajaperumal Temple.

Karaikal

Karaikal

A coastal town with French colonial history and temples.

Distance : 15 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.2

Popularity Score : 4.1

Must Visit : Karaikal Ammaiyar Temple, French War Memorial.

Tharangambadi

Tharangambadi

Also known as Tranquebar with Danish Colonial architecture

Distance : 26 KM (approx)

Rating : 4.2

Popularity Score : 4.1

Must Visit : Danish Fort

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of Velankanni?
A major pilgrimage site for Christians due to the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, believed to be a place of miracles and healing.
Is there an entry fee to the Basilica?
No, there is no entry fee.
Are there photography restrictions inside the Basilica?
Photography is generally allowed, but be respectful and avoid disrupting prayers. Flash photography may be restricted.
What language is spoken in Velankanni?
Tamil is the primary language. English is widely understood in tourist areas.
Are ATMs available in Velankanni?
Yes, near the Basilica and in the market area. Carry cash, especially for smaller establishments.
Are there hospitals in Velankanni?
Yes, there are hospitals and medical facilities available to cater to the needs of pilgrims and residents.

Location Map

Coordinates: Latitude 10.7883, Longitude 79.8428 (Velankanni, Tamil Nadu, India)