Gunadala Mary Matha Church is one of the most popular churches and is a pilgrimage for Christians in Andhra Pradesh. The shrine is situated in Gunadala, a hilly region at Vijayawada. The holy place is also called as the Mary Matha Shrine and is more popularly known as St Mary’s Church.
The holy church is situated on a rocky hill on the Eastern side of Vijayawada City. A grand fest held during February every year attracts people of different religions. This is located at a distance of about 7 kms from RTC Bus stand.
The church has the rare distinction of having an iron cross set up on the hill top. It houses a museum that has a collection of ancient holy relics and precious gifts from followers. The shrine is filled with people on Sundays and on other important festivals and occasions. The annual feast for Our Lady of Lourdes is celebrated with pomp and gaiety. Lakhs of people come from all over India to worship Mother Mary. From February 9 to 11, when the Gunadala Matha Festival is celebrated, more than 5 lakh people come to visit the shrine. Steps are the only way to reach the church.