“It's Beginning To Smell A Lot Like Christmas,” is a song that starts echoing in every mind as soon as December rolls in. With the season’s magic in the air, it is the perfect time to explore the best churches for Christmas in India to kickstart the festivities. Adorned with twinkling lights and whispers of Christmas carols, these churches turn into a mesmerising blend of culture, joy and traditions.
The Christmas celebrations in India start a week in advance, transforming the entire country into something extremely extraordinary. Plan your memorable Christmas getaway with our India trip packages to experience the Christmas spirit like never before. Whether soaking in the holiday season by singing your heart out or just sitting back and enjoying the lively atmosphere, every church offers something unique for every travel enthusiast.
Imagine walking past colonial buildings under a canopy of stars with street vendors selling homemade special delicacies. This is Christmas in India for you, an experience that seems a lot hard to resist. From the magnificent cathedrals of Goa to coastal churches in Kerala, every region has its own charm and festive spirit. In this blog, we will take you through some of the top churches for Christmas in India, blending tradition, culture and fun.
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13 Best Churches For Christmas In India: Iconic Locations You Cannot Miss
From the iconic churches of Kochi to Goa’s historical cathedrals, these 13 historic churches in India for Christmas are a perfect addition to your itinerary.
1. Sacred Heart Cathedral, Delhi
During Christmas, Sacred Heart Cathedral transforms into a magical spectacle embellished with glittering lights and festive decoration. Backing a well-deserved spot in the list of the best churches for Christmas in India Delhi, the cathedral continues to cast a spell of wonder and joy on its travellers. With breathtaking Italian-architecture and high spiritual significance, the ambience of the church becomes even more enchanting when Christmas is around the corner.
The highlight of Christmas here lies in its festivities and celebrations; the Feast of the Holy Family of Nazareth and the Christmas Vigil Service an hour before midnight Christmas Eve. In addition, you can enjoy melodies of the choirs, midnight masses and soak in the sense of harmonious community.
Timings: 6 AM - 8 PM
Location: 1, Gol Dak Khana Roundabout, Ashok Place, Sector 4, Gole Market, New Delhi, Delhi 110001
Nearest Airport: Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL)
Nearest Railway Station: New Delhi Railway Station (NDLS)
Do you remember the iconic church featured in the superhit movie, 3 idiots? Ringing any bells? Yes, you got that right! It was the legendary Christ Church, tucked right in the heart of Shimla atop the Ridge. The captivating neo-Gothic architecture with warm yellow hues and soaring spires catches any eye from far away, giving the perfect opportunity to celebrate Christmas in Shimla.
With glistening lights, festive cheer and amazing decoration, the scenes of the church during Christmas look straight out a painter’s masterpiece. Church services, carols and candle light prayers make the celebrations even more special and memorable. Another distinct feature of Christ Church during the festivities is “Pahadi Nati,” a traditional dance performed by women before prayer.
Timings: 10:30 AM - 1 PM and 2:15 PM - 5:30 PM
Location: 453G+P9F, Ridge To US Club, The Mall, Shimla, Himachal Pradesh 171001
Nearest Airport: Shimla Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Shimla Railway Station
3. Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa
Basilica of Bom Jesus, one of Goa’s most significant and celebrated churches, gives the perfect happy ending to your trip. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Basilica is renowned for its Renaissance Baroque and Portuguese colonial architecture, housing the mortal remains of St Francis Xavier. It ranks high on the list of the top churches to visit in India on Christmas, which is celebrated with high enthusiasm.
The midnight mass can be the major highlight of your trip, a core tradition involving carols, prayers, and Eucharistic celebrations. The shimmering lights, flickering candles and joyful faces come together to create the perfect Christmas celebration in Goa.
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Location: Old Goa Road, Old Goa, Goa 403402
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport (GOI)
Nearest Railway Station: Karmali Railway Station
4. St. Paul's Cathedral, Kolkata
One of the most significant and prominent cathedrals in Kolkata, St. Paul's Cathedral is an unparalleled destination you cannot miss during Christmas. A mind-blowing example of Gothic Revival style architecture, the towering spires, pointed arches and intricately carved wooden doors set it apart from any other churches in Kolkata.
As December hits and the air starts to smell like Christmas, it becomes one of the most famous Christmas churches in India, dazzling with lights and decorations. The Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve makes the celebration even more special with harmonious voices of the choir, creating an atmosphere of profound reverence and wonder.
Timings: 10 AM - 6 PM
Location: Rabindra Sadan, 1A, Cathedral Rd, Maidan, New Market Area, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kolkata Chitpur Railway Station
5. Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, Kochi
One of the most famous churches for Christmas in India, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica holds a special place in the hearts of both travellers and locals alike. During the Christmas season, the atmosphere of the church comes alive in an unmatched way.
This is one of the best churches in Kerala with Gothic and Neo-Classical architecture, making it a visual delight. Festive lights, nativity displays and wreaths bring the entire place to life like nothing else. One of the eight basilica’s in India, the midnight mass on Christmas eve is celebrated with utmost enthusiasm.
Timings: 9 AM - 1 PM and 3 PM - 5 PM
Location: X67V+W4G, Bastian St, Fort Nagar, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Nearest Airport: Kochi International Airport (COK)
Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam Junction (South) station
6. Cathedral Of Mary Help Of Christians, Shillong
One of the best churches for Christmas in India, Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians is an enchanting place you cannot miss, especially during the festive season. Can you imagine a stunning masterpiece built on sand instead of rock? Yes, this church is one such remarkable example, which shines and glows even more during Christmas.
Christmas here is more than just a celebration, it is an experience that will simply captivate you. You can enjoy the midnight masses, featuring Christmas carol singing, admire the breathtaking illumination and experience the festive atmosphere.
Timings: 7 AM - 5 PM
Location: HV9R+CFP, Laitumkhrah, Shillong, Meghalaya 793003
Nearest Airport: Shillong Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Guwahati Railway Station
7. St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica, Chennai
St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica in Chennai stands as one of the most revered churches for churches for Christmas in India. Also known as Santhome Basilica, the Christmas celebrations here feature midnight masses, carol singing and a decorated nativity scene. As the season approaches, the entire façade is covered with glistening lights outlining every curve and pinnacle.
Celebrating Christmas at St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica is one of the most amazing experiences, which blends culture, traditions and festivities.
Timings: 5 AM - 8 PM
Location: 38, Santhome High Rd, Santhome, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport (MAA)
Nearest Railway Station: Thirumayilai railway station
Searching for one of the oldest churches in India for Christmas celebrations? Look no further as Se Cathedral in Old Goa is the answer to your question. This famous landmark features Portuguese-Manueline architectural style, making it a splendid landscape. It also houses Goa’s largest Golden Bell, renowned for its powerful ring that echoes far and wide.
The traditional Midnight Mass draws thousands of tourists to enjoy melodious choirs sung in many different languages. The stunning Golden Altar, dedicated to St. Catherine, becomes even more radiant during the season. The entire surroundings burst with vibrants markets, stalls and fairs, making it a must-visit destination during Christmas.
Timings: 7 AM - 6:30 PM
Location: Old Goa, Goa 403402
Nearest Airport: Dabolim Airport (GOI)
Nearest Railway Station: Karmali railway station
9. St. Francis Church, Fort Kochi
St. Francis Church is one of the most historic churches in India for Christmas with European style architecture blending rich history, culture and tradition. The church carries a simple charm, authentic environment and spiritual significance. The place was once a burial site for Vasco da Gama, whose remains rested here for 14 years before being moved to Lisbon.
The celebrations at this church begin in a uniquely charming way, with a community-led pine tree decoration on the Sunday before Christmas, accompanied by joyful carol singing and Santa Claus offering gifts to children. Christmas in Kochi brings in a lot of joy where you can enjoy midnight masses, witness breathtaking views and partake in different carnivals.
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Location: St Francis Church Rd, opp. Head Post Office, Fort Kochi, Kochi, Kerala 682001
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Ernakulam Junction
10. St. Philomena’s Cathedral, Mysore
St. Philomena’s Cathedral, one of the tallest and most breathtaking churches in India, rises majestically above the skyline with its iconic twin spires. The splendid façade, stained-glass windows and soaring towers make it a sought-after destination on any trip to Mysore. As December approaches, the entire city turns into a fairytale of joy, harmony and celebrations.
The midnight masses taking place on Christmas eve and Christmas Day is the major reason why people visit this church from all over the city. One of the most famous Christmas churches in India, the cathedral glows with spectacular illumination, creating a sight that feels almost otherworldly.
Timings: 6 AM - 8 PM
Location: 3042/1, Sawday Rd, near St. Chnilomina Church, Lashkar Mohalla, Lourdu Nagar, Mandi Mohalla, Mysuru, Karnataka 570001
Nearest Airport: Mysore Junction railway station
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction railway station
11. St. Mary's Basilica, Bengaluru
The oldest church in Bangalore and one of the top churches for Christmas in India, St. Mary’s Basilica is one of the most stunning spectacles with a towering façade and stained glass windows. It is a place where festivities and faith intertwine giving every traveller an almost otherworldly experience. This Gothic-style Church is home to a 6-feet tall statue of Mother Mary with Infant Jesus in her arms.
The heart of the festival is the midnight masses, where the entire region echoes with bells and prayers. The entire church and its surroundings are adorned with lights and ornaments, making it a sight to behold. In addition to the services and celebrations, you can also enjoy and explore the neighbouring stalls and markets to enjoy Christmas in Bangalore.
Timings: 9 AM - 10 PM
Location: XJM3+QQ3, MF Norrona St, Shivaji Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560051
Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru
Nearest Railway Station: Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru
12. Church Of St. John In The Wilderness, Dharamshala
The Church of St. John in the Wilderness is one of the oldest churches in India for Christmas celebrations. Nestled cozily amidst the Deodar forests near Dharamshala, it offers a serene atmosphere paired with breathtaking views. As the Christmas season tiptoes in, the ambience becomes even more enchanting, wrapping the entire place in a magical, festive glow.
The church glows with dazzling lights and decorative ornaments with enormous mountains in the backdrop. The Midnight Mass is one of the major parts of the celebrations drawing tourists from all over the hill station. You can savour delicious cake, soak in the festive ambience and admire the marvellous landscapes on your trip to Dharamshala.
Timings: 9 AM - 5 PM
Location: Road to Naddi Village from McLeod Ganj, McLeod Ganj, Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh 176215
Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Pathankot Junction
13. Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Mount, Mumbai
Also known as Mount Bandra and Mount St Mary Church, Basilica Of Our Lady Of The Mount is one of the most unmissable churches for Christmas in India. The sparkling façade of the church with twin towers creates a sight you will never forget.
Christmas celebrations in Mumbai feel even more special at this church, where you can witness the statue of Mother Mary holding Infant Jesus. The serene gaze on Mother Mary’s face seems to understand every unspoken prayer. The midnight mass, festive lights and joyful atmosphere make the celebration even more unforgettable.
Timings: 6 AM - 1 PM and 2 PM - 8:30 PM
Location: Mount Mary Rd, near Shanti Avedna Sadan, Mount Mary, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050
Nearest Airport: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (BOM)
Nearest Railway Station: Bandra railway station
Church service timings, including Midnight Mass are subject to change. Visitors are advised to check the latest timings directly with the Cathedral/Parish Office.
Tips For Visiting The Best Churches For Christmas In India
- Check service timings: It is advisable to check midnight mass timings in advance.
- Dress respectfully: Wear modest clothing inside the church and avoid overly casual clothes.
- Arrive early: It is best to arrive early to get a good seat for the service and spend time admiring the decorations and lights.
- Respect local traditions: Be mindful of the local traditions and follow church etiquette.
- Participate in masses: One of the major highlights of Christmas celebrations is the midnight masses, so make sure to attend those.
- Stay comfortable and hydrated: Wear comfortable shoes and carry a water bottle if you plan on exploring the nearby surroundings.
Christmas in India is celebrated with vibrant energy and utmost enthusiasm, offering a blend of history and cultural diversity. The best churches for Christmas in India blend a magical festive atmosphere with India’s colonial past. With beautifully-lit churches, vibrant markets and the air smelling like delicious cakes, you are sure to have the time of your life.
No christmas celebration is complete without a visit to the marvellous churches, which come even more alive during this time. Whether you are looking for the best churches for christmas in India Delhi or Shimla’s Christ Church, these iconic landmarks are ideal for spirituality seekers, pilgrims and tourists alike. Plan a trip through some of the top churches to visit in India on Christmas.
