La Saleth Church

La Saleth Church, Kodaikanal.

Built-in shades of white and blue, the La Saleth Church is Kodai’s most valued church. It is very old, say almost 133 years old and is nestled magnificently on the edge of a cliff. Its known as Mother Salette Church where pilgrims throng in large numbers. The church is famous for Our Lady of La Saleth statue that captivates your senses the moment you lay lies on her calming grace. 

The church is known among locals to be the epitome of beautiful architecture. It is an amalgam of French and Tamil styles of architecture. It was constructed by Father St. Cyr who was cured of sickness with the blessings of Mother Saleth. This inspired him to build it. It is a common belief that its foundation was laid in 1863. Including the La Saleth Church in the Kodaikanal tour package is crucial for those interested in delving into the history of this place.

The interiors are exquisitely built and some highlights to see here are the statues of Our Lady and that of St. Joseph’s. Both these statues were gifted to the church by a French Bishop. Most noteworthy architectural highlights to catch your breath instantly would have to be the exquisite paintings that were painted by a French noblewoman called Madame Coile. These paintings can be seen embellishing the windows of the church. 

This church was the first Catholic church in Kodaikanal before others came into existence. There are plenty of reasons why you must make a trip down here and is one of the places to visit in Kodaikanal - 

• Apart from experiencing the enthralling architecture and paintings, you will also fall in love with the calm surroundings that make you feel one with God. 
• Also, if you happen to be in Kodai during August (14th-15th), you can attend the annual festival that is held in the church. The festival is a gala affair that lasts for around nine days and is attended by hundreds of travelers. It is not uncommon to spot foreign visitors at this festival. During this festival, a special procession of Our Lady statue is taken out with great fervor through the whole town and believers of every caste and creed take part in it. Watching the procession gives lot of joy as you can enjoy listening to melodious instrumental songs that are played. The whole town of Kodai comes alive during this festival when religion and caste don’t matter at all. It can be called Kodai’s own ‘carnival’!

La Saleth church must be on your Bucket List if you are coming down to Kodaikanal!