National Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu

We went during 2023 December.
Ample parking for 30-40 vehicles out side the place. But you have to walk nearly 500m.
The place is so calm as it’s somewhat in the middle of a forest. Army is securing the place all the time. You have to drive nearly 10km from Mannar-Medawachchi road which was bit lonely. There were boards saying elephants are crossing but didn’t came across such during day hours.

It is not an exaggeration to say that Madu Shrine is the most sacred catholic church in Sri Lanka. The catholics all around the island come here for pilgrimages. There are around 10 feasts conducted by Madu church in a year. Approximately, 300KMs you have to drive if you come from Colombo (nearly 7 hours consideting the road conditions).
The church is under construction on these days. Pobably the ongoing constructions will be completed by the end of 2024. Consider these facts too. Finally, sorry if you feel boastful me but this sacred place is more popular among non-catholic communities in the country

We visit the place during off season, so there was no wait to get in. Not allowed to take pictures inside.

We went there on the way to mannar. Catholic people considers this place as a very sacred place. This place was attacked by LTTE several times but lately they were also shown respect to this holy place. Madu church was under maintance when we arrive there. Parking is available near the church. People take soil from a place inside the church where they believe the soil is holy and it will bring their families fortune.

One of the secret churches of catholic devotees. Also one of the most visited churches in Sri Lanka very peaceful & calm place to visit.

Holy place.
Common wash room facilities to be improved and Maintained. Main restaurant for public do not have quality food. So if you are going there take your own food since it is a long journey.

Holy Church. Beautiful environment.all the people's of srilanka visiting this church.

Great place for worship. A miraculous place. A place that can feel the love of mother mary

A historical Holy Shrine located at Mannar District visited by not only Christianity followers but all other religious followers as well.

Madhu Shrine is the holy place in the world. Many pilgrims visit every day. All the religious people love to visit this Shrine in srilanka.

The most sacred place for Roman Catholics in the country. How ever the place is worshiped by all religions. Due to covid situation I think we encountered less number of pilgrims. Seemingly the church and the donors have made facilities for the pilgrims during the feast season.

By the way the church is in a remote part but there are police and military personal to assist if there is any requirement.

Madhu church is a Roman Catholic Marian shrine in Mannar district. The Shrine of Lady of Madhu history of over 400 years Mudu church is a well known place of devotion for both Tamil and Sinhalese Catholics.

Church administration is following 100% pandemic safety guidelines
Taking measures with guidance for all pilgrimages

Madhu Shrine is considered to be one of the most sacred shrines in Sri Lanka. With a history of over 400 years, it has become the center of worship of Catholics in the country. The annual feast take place in July, where crowds gather in thousands to worship the Madhu shrine.

The Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu is a Roman Catholic Marian shrine in Mannar district of Sri Lanka. With a history of over 400 years.

Holy Place One of the most Visitors worship of Catholics and other religions peoples more than 300 years.

Shine of miracle, Divine center, can feel the GODs grace and his presents, place to enjoy the holy mothers love; very quite place, surrounded by forest

Most famous church in Sri Lanka. It is located in mannar district. We have to travel around 10km inside from Mannar highway.

Amidst the many legends surrounding the origins of the church the most likely one is that the statue of the Virgin Mary carrying Baby Jesus, arrived in Mannar aboard a ship from either Portugal or Goa. The worship of the Virgin Mary, took root at this spot amongst a small community.

In 1670,20 Catholic families fled Mantai with the miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary amidst Dutch persecution. They had stumbled upon a forest hamlet named Maruthamadhu adjoining an ancient tank, where they had settled and were soon joined by about 700 other Catholics and seven priests fleeing from Jaffna. Among them was a Portuguese named Helena, who created a humble mud structure to house the statue. A strong community, devoted to the worship of the Virgin Mary, took root at this spot.

The small church gradually earned repute for possessing the power of healing drawing more devotees to seek refuge. In 1705, it was renovated by Bishop Joseph Vaz who arrived from Goa in disguise to avoid persecution from the Dutch. The church gradually evolved in structure and its famous annual pilgrimage was initiated by the Oblate Bishop Christopher Bonjean, OMI, in 1872. He arrived in 1868, following his missions in India and discovered the small mud church in a state of ruin and extensive renovations were carried out some years later. The magnificent façade, a spacious presbytery, and the chapel of the Blessed Sacrament were added in time.  

Every August, the small town of Madhu witnesses the arrival of hundreds of thousands of Roman Catholics from all parts of Sri Lanka to celebrate the annual Feast of the Visitation. Although the church celebrates several festivals throughout the year, the Madhu Festival in August is probably the most important Catholic event, drawing hundreds of thousands of believers from across the country. While the feast in August is indeed exceptional, the faithful arrive throughout the year. Pope Francis I visited Madhu Church during his visit to Sri Lanka in January, 2015.

The shrine and the surrounding area is so amazing. If anyone planning to stay and spend the time there can contact the church office and reserve your stay.