A Visit to Simala Shrine, Lindogon Sibonga, Cebu, Philippines ☺️❤️🙏

Hello everyone!

It was another beautiful day when I decided to visit again the famous Simala Shrine in Lindogon, Sibonga, Cebu. Though I’ve been here a few times already with friends, family, and even alone. Each visit always brings a different kind of peace and reflection. ❤️🙏

Simala Shrine, also known as Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, is one of the most visited religious sites in Cebu. Built by the Marian Monks of Eucharistic Adoration, the shrine rose to popularity in the early 2000s due to stories of miraculous healing attributed to the Blessed Virgin Mary of Lindogon. Now, it has become not just a place of pilgrimage, but also a tourist spot because of its majestic, castle like architecture and spiritual ambiance.

From Cebu City, I went to the van terminal heading south. I preferred the van over the bus because it goes directly to Simala without stopovers. The fare is only ₱120, and the travel takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic. You can also ride a bus from the South Bus Terminal, then get off at Sibonga and take a motorcycle going to the shrine. But it takes longer, so the van is more convenient.

Upon arrival, the guards at the entrance check your attire. Make sure to dress modestly, no sleeveless, no shorts or mini skirts for both men and women. Proper attire is really a must as respect to the sacred place.

There are stores outside selling water, snacks, souvenirs, rosaries, and even roses to offer to Mama Mary. After passing the strict attire check, you’ll immediately be greeted by the stunning castle like structures. Sadly, I forgot to take a photo this time. Maybe because it’s not my first visit but it never fails to amaze me. The whole place looks like a European castle, with tall towers, archways, and grand staircases.

As I walked up, I took a few snapshots.

There’s a beautiful view from the top where you can see the surrounding green mountains under the clear blue sky. ❤️

One of the most eye catching things is the words We Love Mama Mary beautifully carved using plants on the side of the hill. It’s a big message with a big impact, carefully arranged and maintained to show deep devotion. ❤️🙏

There are signs everywhere to guide you, whether you want to go to the church first or visit the museum and kiss the image of Mama Mary. You won’t get lost.

For those who want to attend mass, it’s held daily at 12:00 noon, and on Sundays at 12:00 noon and 3:30 PM or there are more schedules available if I am not mistaken. ☺️

Inside the church, I was in awe again at how grand it is. The ceiling paintings are so detailed and divine, showing heavenly scenes and saints. The altar is majestic, with gold accents and the peaceful glow of candles.

To visit the museum and kiss Mama Mary, you need to line up. You’ll pass a wall filled with letters, photos, and testimonies from people whose prayers have been answered, wheelchairs, uniforms, academic medals, and letters of gratitude. It's inspiring and touching to see.

Before entering the museum, you are required to take off your shoes as a sign of humility and respect. You can bring your shoes in a bag or leave them outside. I suggest bringing a small bag so it won’t be hard to find your footwear later.

As I reached the top, silence is encouraged and to be observed. People are praying quietly, and you’ll feel the solemnity of the place. Then, finally, you’ll see the miraculous image of Mama Mary inside a big glass altar. Some visitors offer roses, others kneel and whisper their heart’s desires.

After that, you can go around the museum and see different saints from all over the world.

You can also write your prayers and petitions and drop them in the boxes. There’s a place to donate and even offer thanksgiving Mass intentions.

If you get tired, just sit down and rest, many visitors do that.

Before heading home, don’t forget to light a colored candle based on your prayer:
🔴 Red – Love
🟡 Yellow – Health
🟢 Green – Prosperity
🔵 Blue – Peace
🟣 Violet – Spiritual guidance
⚪ White – Thanksgiving
🟠 Orange – Success

Colored candles are sold at ₱40 per piece.

There’s a designated area for lighting candles and saying a final prayer.

Visiting Simala Shrine again reminded me how blessed I am. No matter how many times I’ve been here, it always feels new. It’s not just the place, but the experience, the peace, the reflection, the prayer. It’s really a sacred and beautiful place to visit again and again.

So if you’re looking for a spiritual break, I truly recommend a visit to Simala. Just remember to come prepared with the right clothes, a prayerful heart, and maybe a camera to capture the beauty (which I forgot again 😅).

Till my next visit, Mama Mary! ❤️🙏

Have a Blessed Tuesday everyone! 😀😀😀💖💖💖

Thank You Lord for the blessings and love!

Be grateful in every little/simple things and you’ll find happiness you ever wanted! 😀😀😀

Everyday is worth to be grateful of!

Praying for the safety and wellness of all.

Heal Our Land Oh God!

Lovelots,
@shikika