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Velankanni, often called the “Lourdes of India,” is a beautiful coastal town with a quaint amalgamation of spirituality, natural beauty, and rich cultural experience. It is made famous by the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, attracting pilgrims and tourists. Beyond the religious experience, many exciting things to do in Velankanni suit every intention. One can indulge in the pristine beaches of this town and eat mouth-watering local cuisine. Whether one seeks solace for their soul or intends to discover things to see in Velankanni, the town promises a varied and enriching experience that will be remembered for a long time.
14 Best Things To Do In Velankanni
Discover the best things to do in Velankanni, from relaxing at serene beaches to exploring historic temples and beautiful whitewashed churches.
1. Visit The Basilica Of Our Lady Of Good Health
The Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health is the soul of Velankanni and a major pilgrimage centre. This church is famous for its beautiful Gothic architecture and peaceful surroundings. Thousands of visitors come to this Basilica every year. As you move around the Basilica, you will see beautiful stained glass windows and quiet spaces for prayer and contemplation. One of the most important things to do in Velankanni is to visit this place for spiritual comfort and a glimpse into the town’s religious past.
Location: Basilica Campus, Main Road, Velankanni, Tamil Nadu 611111
Major Attractions: The central pilgrimage site
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Chengalpattu
2. Relax At Velankanni Beach
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Relaxation and leisure haven. The beach is a quiet space with soft sands and gentle waves, so one could easily indulge in sunbathing or other games, submerging himself in the calm surrounding coastal view. The other popular things to do in Velankanni are wandering at the shores, where one can buy snacks from stalls selling its local specialities and maybe take a refreshing sea bath. Spending time here is one of the best things to do in Velankanni for those who seek quiet time and to be a little close to nature.
Location: Velankanni Beach Road, just behind the Basilica complex
Major Attractions: Vibrant atmosphere of the beach
3. Visit The Velankanni Church Museum
The Velankanni Church Museum transports tourists to the church town, which has a rich religious history. The small informative museum showcases artefacts, photographs, and other memorabilia connected with the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health and its history as a pilgrimage centre. Visitors can be updated about the miracles associated with the Basilica and the cultural heritage of Velankanni. The exploration of the museum will enrich your visit, making it one of the must-do activities in Velankanni.
Location: Holy Path, Velankanni, Tamil Nadu 611111
Major Attractions: Collection of artifacts and rich history
Suggested Read: Royal Palace Museum
4. Attend The Feast Of Our Lady Of Good Health
Photo: August de Richelieu / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Velankanni Feast of Our Lady of Good Health is a vibrant annual celebration that attracts thousands of devotees and tourists to this temple town of Velankanni. Celebrated in September, this festival becomes a kaleidoscope of coloured processions, religious rituals, and cultural performances, creating vibrant vibes in the entire atmosphere. Join in prayers and feast as you experience the enthusiasm and devotion of the local community. Visiting this feast is one of the most memorable things to do in Velankanni, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the town’s spiritual traditions.
Location: Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Velankanni
Major Attractions: Delicious homely meals
5. Take A Boat Ride On The Backwaters
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The serene backwaters of Velankanni present a very different view of natural beauty within the town. Boat rides allow visitors to move through the calm waters, surrounded by lush greenery and colourful wildlife. This peaceful sight is for those seeking peace and Mother Nature’s reverberation. Whether you choose a traditional canoe or a guided boat tour, a boat ride is one of the highest activities to do in Velankanni for a lifetime trip in this breathtaking landscape.
Location: Velankanni Backwaters
Major Attractions: Sighting villages and fishermen
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Thanjavur For Every History Buff
6. Savour Local Cuisine
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Sampling the local cuisine is an experience that will be noticeable during your visit to Velankanni. With a variety of mouth-watering seafood dishes and traditional South Indian meals to offer, the town displays its coastal culture. Flavours Galore From fresh catches of the day to spicy curries and unique snacks, Velankanni promises flavours in plenty. The local food is a must-do thing in Velankanni that offers the most delectable taste of the local cuisine.
Top Restaurants: Seagate Family Restaurant, Chellams Seafood Restaurant
Major Attractions: Fresh and savoury seafood
7. Visit Other Local Temples
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Velankanni is most known for the Basilica; however, the adjacent temples can provide rich cultural and spiritual experiences. These ancient structures are full of traditions and impressive in intricate architecture; thus, visiting them offers a connection with the local heritage. Visiting these temples adds to the knowledge of the spiritual heritage of the region and provides a serene ambience for introspection. One of the enriching things to do in Velankanni is to visit the nearby temples, providing a comprehensive experience of the region’s faith and history.
Location: Sri Agneeswarar Temple, Muthumariamman Temple
Major Attractions: Spiritual atmosphere and serene surroundings
Suggested Read: Ancient Temples In Chennai
8. Climb The Velankanni Lighthouse
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Velankanni Lighthouse is an imposing landmark that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the shoreline. Climbing to the top of the lighthouse rewards with panoramic views of the sea and lands surrounding it. This is a place suited for photography enthusiasts and those interested in experiencing the beauty of Velankanni and nature. The lighthouse tour is a view and a chance to learn about the town’s maritime history. This is one of the thrilling things to do in Velankanni that will be explored.
Location: Near Velankanni Beach, along Beach Road
Major Attractions: Panoramic views of the coast
9. Witness The Evening Prayers At The Basilica
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Evening prayer at the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health is an experience through which one can witness the religious ambience in Velankanni. Such congregations make you realise you are a part of the community and bind you with other pilgrims, creating a peaceful ambience for praying and devotion. The soothing candlelight and the chanting of prayers would make your visit all the more peaceful. Coming to say evening prayers is one of the most potent things to do in Velankanni, and you may get a connection to the local faith and traditions.
Location: Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health
Major Attractions: Spiritual atmosphere and local traditions
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10. Shopping For Souvenirs
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Shopping for souvenirs in Velankanni is an entertaining way to cherish your stay. One is exposed to local handicrafts, religious artefacts, and other traditional goods, which makes it easy to find the desired souvenir. Unique ornaments, spiritual tokens, or local delicacies can easily be found, for most people have something to offer. It also helps one learn about the culture and the quality of that area when engaging with local vendors. Shopping for souvenirs is one of the enjoyable things to do in Velankanni, which ensures a little bit of this place returns home.
Location: Unnamed Road, Velankanni, Tamil Nadu 611111
Major Attractions: Vibrant atmosphere and shopping experience
11. Explore The Morning Fish Market
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Velankanni is a scenic town on the Coromandel Coast of the Bay of Bengal. It is one of the most amazing places to visit in Velankanni. Being a coastal town the fish market is Velankanni famous things, to experience local culture, and observe the diversity of seafood fresh from the ocean. It is one of the places, you need to visit to spot local fishermen selling their fresh catches. The local views makes it a heaven for photographers and explorers.
Location: Velankanni, Tamil Nadu 611111
Major Attractions: A vibrant, authentic, and perfect for experiencing local life
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12. Explore Handicraft Shops
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Experience the culture of Velankanni through the creativity and art of people, made using primitive techniques. You will find handcrafted furniture, handwoven rugs, embroidered wall hangings, and pottery with intricate carvings, vibrant textiles, and unique ceramic creations. Exploring these shops will not only have you be awe-struck by the majestic designs but also narrates stories of the place. On the list of best things to do in intricate carvings, vibrant textiles, and unique ceramic creations Velankanni, it is shopping at these shops.
Location: Velankanni, Tamil Nadu 611111
Major Attractions: Get wooden carvings, beads, and local art pieces
13. Shop At The Church Street Market
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Velankanni is famous for its churches and pilgrim site, so exploring the markets nearby the church is one of the best things to see in Velankanni. The calming and vibrant atmosphere at these places makes it a perfect place to indulge in shopping candles, prayer books, religious statues, incense, framed pictures of Velankanni Matha, and sacred oils. You can wander around this market for a scenic getaway in the majestic town of Velankanni.
Location: Church Road, Velankanni, Tamil Nadu 611111
Major Attractions: A narrow, bustling street packed with devotional item
Suggested Read: Famous Street Shopping In Pondicherry
14. Take a Cycle Tour of the Town
Photo: Ranjit Shrestha / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Cycling through the peaceful lanes dotted with chapels, coconut groves, local homes, and small eateries is one of the best things to do in Velankanni. You can observe the local life, admire the surroundings and also stop at the eateries to grab a delicious bite. It is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Velankanni. The roads around the basilica, beach, and nearby backwaters offer a refreshing way to explore the serene side of Velankanni, perfect for quiet observation or relaxed sightseeing.
Location: Velankanni, Tamil Nadu 611111
Major Attractions: Fishing villages, coconut groves, and serene backroads
Velankanni has rich experience and reflects all the spiritual heritage, which sums up the natural beauty of this place and its vibrant culture. From visiting the iconic Basilica to enjoying the serene beaches, there is almost everything a tourist can do in Velankanni. Be you wondering what to do in Velankanni or looking for a peaceful retreat, this town has an enriching journey suited for all. Experience the charm and tranquillity of Velankanni as you unearth its hidden treasures. Plan your tour with us, and let’s share some unforgettable moments at this mystique destination.
Cover Photo: Balurbala / Wikimedia Commons
