Quick answer
Velankanni, on the coast of Nagapattinam district, is home to the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health — one of the most visited Christian shrines in India, by people of every faith. The big annual feast runs from 29 August to 8 September. Velankanni is about 90 km from Thanjavur, 150 km from Trichy, 250 km from Madurai and about 310 km from Chennai via the ECR.
The Basilica and the shrine
The white Gothic-style basilica stands near the beach. Pilgrims visit the main church, the Our Lady’s Tank, the Shrine Museum of offerings, and walk the Way of the Cross. Masses are held through the day in Tamil, English, Malayalam, Konkani and other languages.
During the feast (29 August – 8 September) the town is extremely crowded; book transport and rooms early and expect traffic diversions.
Places to visit near Velankanni
- Nagore Dargah — the famous Sufi shrine, about 12 km away.
- Nagapattinam — port town and the Soundararaja Perumal temple, about 12 km.
- Tharangambadi (Tranquebar) — the Danish fort by the sea, about 40 km.
- Thirunallar Saneeswaran Temple near Karaikal, about 35 km.
- Kodiyakarai (Point Calimere) bird sanctuary, about 50 km.
Thanjavur to Velankanni taxi fare
One way · ~90 km · driver bata included
Sedan 4+1₹2,350
SUV 6+1₹3,000
MUV 7+1₹3,130
Innova Crysta 7+1₹3,390
Distance to Velankanni
| From | Approx. distance | Approx. time |
|---|---|---|
| Nagapattinam | 12 km | 20 min |
| Thanjavur | 90 km | 2 hrs |
| Kumbakonam | 75 km | 1.5–2 hrs |
| Trichy | 150 km | 3–3.5 hrs |
| Madurai | 250 km | 5 hrs |
| Chennai | 310 km | 6.5–7 hrs |
| Bangalore | 450 km | 9 hrs |
Frequently asked questions
When is the Velankanni feast?
Every year from 29 August to 8 September, ending on the Nativity of Mary.
How far is Velankanni from Chennai?
About 310 km via the East Coast Road, roughly 6.5–7 hours.
What is the nearest airport to Velankanni?
Trichy airport, about 150 km away.