The church was constructed in the architectural form of a 'Kettuvallam' or ship to honor the coastal history of Kalmadi.
The original church in Kalmadi was established in 1972 before the construction of the current ship-shaped structure.
The shrine is one of the few places in the region specifically dedicated to the devotion of Our Lady of Vailankanni.
The altar inside the church is designed to mimic the bridge of a ship, maintaining the nautical theme throughout the interior.
The church building is constructed with reinforced concrete but features stained glass and aesthetic elements that emphasize its maritime motif.
Stella Maris Catholic Church, widely known as the Our Lady of Vailankanni Shrine, is a prominent pilgrimage center in Kalmadi, Udupi. The current church building is uniquely designed in the shape of a ship, symbolizing the seafaring nature of the local community. The site holds a historic connection to the Malpe coast, which has been a center for Christian devotion for several decades. It serves as a major destination for the annual feast of Our Lady of Vailankanni, attracting thousands of devotees. The parish is under the administration of the Diocese of Udupi. The architecture reflects modern liturgical aesthetics while maintaining the traditional identity of a Marian shrine.
The front exterior of the church, which captures the full scale of the ship-shaped architecture against the sky.
Visit during the weekday mornings to avoid the heavy crowds typical of weekend masses.
Check the parish calendar for special feast days, as the area becomes exceptionally crowded during these times.
Ensure you spend time in the outdoor prayer grotto area, which is separate from the main ship-shaped building.
Avoid visiting during Sunday morning mass if you are a casual tourist, as the facility is reserved for congregation members.
The shrine remains open daily, but access to the main interior may be restricted during ongoing liturgical services.
Maintain silence inside the sanctuary, dress modestly covering shoulders and knees, and remove footwear before entering the prayer hall.
