Discovering India’s Grandeur In Its 14 Most Famous Churches

The land of spirituality, India, is a perfect mix of varying cultures and religions and all of these elements have added to the country’s opulence over the years.  Every religion has bestowed the country with relics that are magnificent and attract globetrotters towards India tour packages. One of those elements exuding grandness and unique charm is the glorious churches of India that are reminders of a rich past and make up for the most beautiful structures standing on the lands of this country. Join us in exploring 14 most amazing churches of India that will make your India tour worth it!

Beautiful Basilica of Bom Jesus in Goa

Goa is known for its splendid beaches but if there’s one thing that is more striking than its glistening sand, it’s the 300 years old Basilica of Bom Jesus. A fine specimen of the Baroque style of architecture, the church houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier and has been declared one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Towering Our Lady of Dolours Basilica in Thrissur

One of the major highlights of a tour to Kerala, this church is the third tallest church in Asia and the largest in India. Its captivating murals, sights from the scriptures, and reflections of saints make its interior one of the most gorgeous church interiors and definitely a sight to behold.

Splendid Se Cathedral Church in Goa

Located in the gorgeous surrounding of Old Goa, the Se Cathedral de Santa Catarina was built to rejoice the victory of the Portuguese in capturing Goa in 1510. The Golden Bell of this church is said to be one of the best church bells in the world and this glorious structure has also been presented with the Golden Rose which is a token of affection given by Pope of Catholic churches.

Charismatic Christ Church in Shimla

Standing tall, right at the heart of the stunning city of Shimla, this church is one of the most interesting places to visit in North India as it is the second oldest church there. The church’s pipe organ is considered the biggest in the Indian subcontinent and is a major tourist attraction. 

Prestigious St. Philomena’s Church in Mysore

A visit to Mysore is incomplete without going to St. Philomena’s Church as it is one of the tallest churches in Asia with its twin towers standing at an incredible 175 feet. Designed by a French architect, the church is home to a glorious statue of Saint Philomena along with a piece of her bone and clothes.

Stunning Santhome Church in Chennai

Adding all the more charm to the city of Chennai is this absolutely amazing Santhome Basilica Cathedral. The church is one of the four prestigious churches in the world that are known for being established over the tomb of an apostle, in this case, the reverenced St. Thomas’s tomb.

Magnetic Moravian Church in Leh

Not only is this church located in one of the most picturesque places in the country but it is also one of the highest churches of India, stationed at a height of 11000 feet. The surrounding beauty of the place covered in pristine snow makes it one of the most interesting places to visit in Leh.

Sacred St. Thomas Church in Guruvayoor

Another one of the churches dedicated to St. Thomas, this beautiful edifice is one of the oldest Romo-Syrian churches in India. Its architecture reflects an alluring mix of Hindu and Persian ornamental decorations which are exquisite. What makes the church stand apart from the rest is its 14 granite statues at its entrance which are a symbol of the 14 sages of St. Thomas’s glorious life.   

Sanctimonious Shettihalli Rosary Church in Karnataka

This abandoned marvel is still a very famous tourist attraction of Karnataka because of the glorious sight that this structure presents. During the monsoon season, half of this church gets submerged in the water which looks absolutely stunning to the visitors who especially visit this church to get a glimpse of that spectacular sight.

Sightly Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Puducherry

Also known as Samba Kovil in the native region, the Immaculate Conception Cathedral is a beautiful exemplar of the excellence of French architecture in India. Its central dome adorned with eight circular openings is a fine work of art, appreciated by all. However, the most striking aspect of the church is the statue of Our Lady at the entrance that is shown holding the infant form of Christ in her delicate arms.

Revered St. Francis Church in Kochi

A highlight of Kochi sightseeing tour, the St. Francis Church is one of the oldest churches in India of the European origin. It is said that for a brief point this church was a resting place for Vasco Da Gama, but later his remains were transferred to Lisbon.

Sanctified Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church in Goa

A famous example of the architectural magnificence of churches established in the Portuguese Period, this pure white marvel is the first church that was ever erected in Goa. The carved ornamentation in its interiors and its minimalistic yet charming presence makes it one of the most loved places to visit in Goa.

Picturesque St. Aloysius Chapel in Mangalore

Having an uncanny yet striking resemblance to the world-renowned Sistine Chapel at Rome, the St. Aloysius Chapel is the pride of Mangalore. The art painted on its beautiful ceiling along with other gorgeous paintings representing various scenes from the Bible is a highlight of this church that appeals to a lot of travellers who visit South India.

Sacrosanct All Saints Cathedral in Allahabad

Commonly known as the Patthar Girja, this fine specimen of Gothic architecture is a soothing sight in the city of Allahabad. Its gorgeous marble altar and intricately designed interior make it one of the most beautiful European structures in India.

All these grand edifices have been a glorious addition to India’s architectural, cultural and historical significance and should definitely be visited by globetrotters during their visit to India.