The shrine was founded by the PIME (Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions) missionaries.
The statue of Our Lady of Lourdes enshrined here was brought from Italy in 1929.
The hill on which the shrine stands is locally referred to as St. Mary's Hill.
The site hosts a significant three-day annual festival every February that draws pilgrims from across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
The museum on-site contains a collection of rare religious manuscripts and historical items documenting the local Catholic mission's growth since the 19th century.
Gunadala Matha Shrine, officially known as St. Mary’s Church, is a prominent Catholic pilgrimage site situated on a hilltop in the Gunadala neighborhood of Vijayawada. Established in 1925, the shrine is dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes and is built directly into the side of a hill. The site features a series of Stations of the Cross stations leading up the slope to the main sanctuary. A specialized museum is located on the premises, housing artifacts and religious relics related to the history of the diocese and the shrine's development. The architecture incorporates the natural rocky landscape, with the main altar integrated into the cave-like formation of the hill. It serves as a major focal point for the annual Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, which attracts thousands of devotees. The grounds include stone-carved grottos and landscaped walkways connecting various prayer points.
The upper balcony area provides an expansive panoramic view of the Vijayawada cityscape and the surrounding plains.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes to navigate the inclined path up the hill.
Carry your own water bottle, as the climb can be physically demanding in Vijayawada's high humidity.
Visit during the early morning hours to avoid the intense midday sun on the exposed hilltop.
Avoid visiting during the peak of the February festival if you prefer a quiet, contemplative atmosphere, as the site becomes extremely crowded.
The shrine experiences significantly higher footfall and restricted movement during the three-day Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes in February.
Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor; dress modestly, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered.
