Vallarpadam Basilica – Famous Christian Pilgrimage in Kerala
The National Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Ransom, also known as Vallarpadam Basilica, is a minor basilica and a significant Christian pilgrimage centre in Kerala. It is situated in Vallarpadam, a suburb of Ernakulam in the city of Kochi, Kerala. Constructed n the year 1524 by Portuguese Missionaries, it stands as one of the oldest European Churches in India.
Vallarpadam Basilica - Kerala
Annually, approximately 5 million people from various parts of the world, regardless of their caste or creed, visit the Vallarpadam Basilica to seek the blessings of the Blessed Virgin Mary, revered as "Vallarpadathamma." Vallarpadathamma is revered as the patron saint of sailors and fishermen, providing protection from the perils of the sea to her devotees.
The church houses the famous painting of the Lady of Ransom, believed to possess miraculous powers. It was brought by Portuguese merchants led by Vasco da Gama in 1524. In 1676, a severe flood destroyed the old church, known as the Church of the Holy Spirit, established by Portuguese missionaries. The image was discovered floating in the backwaters, and only Paliyath Raman Valiyachan, the prime minister of the Maharaja of Cochin, was able to retrieve it. The present Vallarpadam Church stands on land donated by Paliyath Raman Valiyachan, with a sanctuary lamp he donated in his honor burning continuously since 1676.
The church is tied to a miraculous rescue involving a young Nair lady named Meenakshi and her son from a capsized boat. After their rescue, Meenakshi vowed lifelong servitude to Mary. Her picture was later placed beside Mary's in the church, and a local painter added it to the shrine's portrait, completing Vallarpadathamma's image. Hindus continue to offer new-borns as servants of Vallarpadathamma during the annual feast of Our Lady of Ransom, presenting buttermilk or sambaram in a wooden boat to devotees.
Mass Timings
Weekdays - 6:30 AM, 5:30 PM.
Saturdays - 6:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 4 PM, 4:30 PM, 6 PM (Eng.)
Sundays - 6 AM, 7 AM, 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, 4 PM (Tamil), 5:30 PM.
Specialty
Vallarpadam Basilica is a famous Catholic pilgrim centre in Kerala.
Pilgrims sweep the floor of the church as a gesture of thanksgiving at the Vallarpadam Basilica.
Dress Code
There is no special dress code for visiting Vallarpadam Basilica. But, it's advisable to dress modestly and respectfully while visiting the shrine.
Festivals
The Feast of Vallarpadathamma
Best Time to Visit
September to May
How to reach
By Air : Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport, 33 Km away from Vallarpadam Basilica in Kochi. From the airport, you can avail of public transport or get a cab/ taxi to reach the church.
By Train :The nearest railway station is Ernakulam Junction Railway Station, 6.9 Km away from Vallarpadam Basilica in Kochi. From the railway station, one can hire a bus or an auto-rickshaw to reach the church.
By Road :Vallarpadam Basilica in Kochi is easily accessible by road. You can choose private transportation, take a bus, or hire an auto-rickshaw to reach the church.