Festivals and holidays · Mauritius

Père Laval Pilgrimage

Religious festival · Sainte-Croix (Port Louis), tomb of Père Laval

The giant statue of the goddess Durga in front of a golden lion on the shore of Grand Bassin lake (Ganga Talao)
Photo: Ritish Panchgolam, Unsplash license

Thousands of Mauritians, Catholics and people of every faith, come to pray at the tomb of Father Jacques-Désiré Laval, known as the apostle of the poor. Many make the journey on foot, often at night; the route is lined with flowers, candles and vendors. Drink plenty of water and wear light clothing.