Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu
மடு மாதா ஆலயம்
Sri Lanka's most important Catholic pilgrimage site, a jungle shrine with a Madonna statue more than 400 years old, drawing hundreds of thousands of devotees to its August festival.
The Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu lies in the jungle about 40 km south-east of Mannar. Its origins go back to the 17th century: after Portuguese rule ended, Catholics fleeing Dutch persecution brought a statue of the Virgin Mary here. The present white church was built in the late 19th century and houses the statue, which is believed to protect devotees from snakebite. Around 15 August, the Feast of the Assumption, is the largest religious festival in the country, when pilgrims from different communities camp and stay in the surrounding area. During the civil war the site served as a refuge. It is usually quiet, so visitors can look around calmly, but dress modestly. The drive takes about an hour.
Opening hours
About 06:00–18:00
Nearby sights
- Giant's Tank
- Thiruketheeswaram Temple
- Doric Bungalow, Arippu
- Vankalai Sanctuary
- Mannar Baobab Tree
- Mannar Fort
- St. Sebastian's Cathedral, Mannar
- Talaimannar Pier & Lighthouse