Tour of Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health in Velankanni from Thanjavur
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Velankanni is a small town in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is famous for its Roman Catholic Latin Rite Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health. Also known as the "Lourdes of the East", nearly 2 million pilgrims visit the Basilica every year. Three miracles have been reported around the area where the Basilica stands although the Holy See has not sanctified any of these.
Highlights
• Drive to the Basilica past the South Indian countryside
• Gothic style of architecture of the Basilica
• Three miracles attributed to Our Lady of Good Health
Available options
1-8 Travelers
Price per person for 1-8 travelers<br/>Pickup included
What's included
02 bottles of mineral water per person
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Entrance fee
Local English speaking guide
Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
You will be picked up from your hotel in Thanjavur in the morning and driven to the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health.
The origins of the church can be traced back to the mid-16th century. Three miracles were reported from the area around the Basilica - the apparition of Mary and the Christ child to a slumbering shepherd boy, the curing of a lame man and the rescue of Portuguese sailors from a violent storm. The Basilica was finally built by Portuguese sailors. Built in the Gothic style, the Basilica contains three chapels. The shrine started as a thatched chapel in the mid-sixteenth century and became a parish church in 1771 when the Catholics in India were under persecution from the Dutch. In 1962 it was granted the special status of a Minor Basilica by Pope John XIII.
Once your tour will be finished you will be driven back to fixed point / your hotel.
What's not included
Food and drinks, unless specified
Gratuities (optional)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking.
Consider wearing comfortable clothes and walking shoes.
A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops are allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women.
Name and gender as on passport, passport number, expiry date and country of issuance are required at time of booking. Please carry the passport on the day of the tour.
Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.
About Thanjavur
Thanjavur, a historic city in Tamil Nadu, is renowned for its magnificent temples, grand palaces, and rich cultural heritage. It's a treasure trove of Chola dynasty legacy, offering a glimpse into South India's glorious past with its architectural marvels and vibrant traditions.
Top Attractions
Brihadeeswarar Temple
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 11th-century temple is a masterpiece of Chola architecture. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it's renowned for its towering vimana (temple tower), which is the tallest in the world.
Historical/Religious/Architecture
2-3 hours
₹50 (Foreigners: ₹250)
Thanjavur Maratha Palace
This palace complex houses the Saraswathi Mahal Library, an art gallery, and the royal museum. It offers a glimpse into the region's Maratha and Nayak dynasty history.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
₹100 (Foreigners: ₹500)
Schwartz Church
Built by the British in the 18th century, this church is a beautiful example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. It's dedicated to the memory of a Danish missionary.
Historical/Architecture
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Thanjavur Royal Palace and Museum
This museum within the palace complex showcases a rich collection of artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, and royal regalia from the Maratha and Nayak periods.
Historical/Museum
1-2 hours
₹100 (Foreigners: ₹500)
Kallanai Dam
One of the oldest water-regulation structures in the world, this ancient dam on the Kaveri River is a marvel of ancient engineering and offers scenic views.
Nature/Historical
2-3 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Thanjavur Filter Coffee
A strong and aromatic coffee made with freshly ground coffee beans and served in a traditional metal tumbler and cup.
Drink
Caffeinated
Thanjavur Biryani
A fragrant and flavorful rice dish cooked with spices, meat (usually chicken or mutton), and served with raita and pappadam.
Lunch/Dinner
Non-vegetarian
Rasavangi
A sweet dish made from rice flour, jaggery, and coconut, often served during festivals and special occasions.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Thanjavur Sweet Pongal
A sweet dish made from rice, jaggery, and ghee, often served during festivals and special occasions.
Breakfast/Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Temple hopping
Exploring local markets
Visiting parks and gardens
Enjoying a traditional massage
Attending local festivals
Visiting museums and art galleries
Boating at Kallanai Dam
Not applicable
Best Time to Visit
October to February
This is the best time to visit Thanjavur as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The temperature is mild, and the city hosts several festivals during this period.
20°C to 30°C
68°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Indian Rupee (INR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Thanjavur is generally safe for travelers, but petty crimes like pickpocketing and scams can occur, particularly in crowded areas. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use metered taxis or app-based services.
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
Getting there
By air
- Trichy International Airport • 60 km from Thanjavur
By train
Thanjavur Junction
By bus
Thanjavur New Bus Stand, Thanjavur Old Bus Stand
Getting around
Public transport
City buses are the most common mode of public transport. They are affordable and cover most parts of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Ola, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Temple Street
Maratha Palace Area
New Bus Stand Area
Day trips
Swamimalai
20 km from Thanjavur • Half day
A small town known for its ancient temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, Swamimalai offers a peaceful and spiritual experience.
Kumbakonam
40 km from Thanjavur • Full day
A historic town known for its temples and educational institutions, Kumbakonam offers a rich cultural experience.
Trichy (Tiruchirappalli)
60 km from Thanjavur • Full day or overnight
A major city in Tamil Nadu, Trichy offers a mix of history, culture, and modern attractions.
Festivals
Bhramotsavam • April
Float Festival (Theppam • February
Pongal • January
Pro tips
- Visit the Brihadeeswarar Temple early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat.
- Hire a local guide for a more detailed and insightful experience at historical sites.
- Try Thanjavur filter coffee, a local specialty that's a must-try for coffee lovers.
- Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and handicrafts, but be prepared to bargain.
- Respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting religious sites.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
