One Day Trip to Velankanni: Spiritual and Devotional Exploration

1. 6:00 AM: Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health
   Located on the shores of Bay of Bengal, The Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health is one of the most visited religious shrines in India.

   Take part in the morning mass, light candles and admire the stunning architecture.

2. 8:00 AM: Morning Walk at Velankanni Beach
   A serene and peaceful long beach, Velankanni beach is perfect for a morning stroll or jog.

   Enjoy the beauty of the sunrise at the Bay of Bengal and see the fishermen at work.

3. 10:00 AM: Velankanni Museum
   Get to know the history of the Basilica, the legend of Our Lady of Health and the miracles that happened at Velankanni.

   The Museum includes paintings, sculptures, photos and a video documentary.

4. 12:00 PM: Lunch at Anna Poorna Restaurant
   A vegetarian restaurant serving South-Indian cuisine.

   Try their specialties such as Dosa, Biryani and Payasam.

5. 1:30 PM: Shopping at Velankanni Market
   A souvenir shop with religious artifacts, clothes, and local handicrafts.

   Buy a statue of Our Lady of Good Health as a remembrance of your pilgrimage.

6. 3:00 PM: Velankanni Church Museum
   The museum displays items that are related to the history of the Velankanni Church.

   Admire statues of saints, relics, and other items used in the past for the celebrations of the feast.

7. 4:30 PM: Evening Walk at Velankanni Beach
   Enjoy the sea breeze and the calming sound of the waves as you watch the sun set over the Bay of Bengal.

   Take a stroll along the beach, or relax under a thatched roof enjoying fresh coconut water.

8. 6:00 PM: The Shrine of Our Lady of Velankanni
   The Shrine is visited by thousands every day to pay their respect and offer prayers to Mother Mary.

   Attend the evening mass, pray and light candles as an offering of thanksgiving.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health (2 hours, free)
• Velankanni Beach (2 hours, free)
• Velankanni Museum (2 hours, 80 INR)
• Anna Poorna Restaurant (1.5 hours, 300 INR)
• Velankanni Market (1 hour, varies)
• Velankanni Church Museum (1.5 hours, 20 INR)
• The Shrine of Our Lady of Velankanni (1 hour, free)

Total Estimated Costs: 400 INR

Useful Tips

To extend your trip, you can include a visit to Nagapattinam, a historic town located 10 km away from Velankanni. It has ancient temples, churches and a beach. If you have less time, you can skip the Velankanni Market or Velankanni Church Museum. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes, dress modestly for the places of worship. Seeking the blessings of Our Lady of Good Health is believed to give you peace and happiness.