Velankanni is a Special Grade Panchayat Town in Nagapattinam district lies in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, and the most important thing is Velankanni has been chosen as one of the heritage cities for HRIDAY – Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana scheme of Government of India.
The specialty of this town is that, it’s the home to the country’s one of the biggest Catholic pilgrimage. The renowned Basilica of Our Lady of Health draws pilgrims from all over the world. Not only Christians but also the people of other religions come to this church to pray at the shrine of “Our Lady of Health.
Places to visit
Velankanni has a number of places to visit; estimated 3 million people visit the shrine during its annual festival from 29 August to 8 September. The 11-day annual festival concludes with the celebration of the Feast of the Nativity of Mary on 8 September. Velankanni Church, the Gothic style of architecture is a unique feature of the Church. The church was modified by Portuguese. Velankanni Beach and their sea food for food lovers and their handicrafts and silk are sold to a number of pilgrims. In Sikkal, 7kms from Velakanni, a beautiful Muragan Temple is built which is dedicated to Lord Singaravelan. The pillars of this temple are adorned with intricate and exquisite carvings. Nagapattinam city’s long stretch of beach runs along the Bay of Bengal for 188km, is a must watch scene. Velakanni Church Museum was built to house the offerings which the devotees presented to the mother as a token of gratitude for the bountiful blessings they received.
Transport
Vailankanni is nicely connected to roads and rail to the rest part of the country, so no need to worry for the transportation. Means, if you are bored of your routine life and want to explore new things and peace, then this destination is for you and it is calling you. The nearest operational airports are Tiruchirappalli International Airport and Chennai International Airport.
