Famous Churches in Goa
Goa, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, is also home to some of the most beautiful and historically significant churches in India. These churches stand as a testament to Goa’s rich history and heritage, attracting visitors from all over the world. Each church has its unique charm and story to tell, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring this picturesque state.
- Basilica of Bom Jesus
- Se Cathedral
- Church of St. Francis of Assisi
- Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception
- Church of St. Cajetan
- Church of Mae De Deus
- Church of St. Alex
Also Read: Top 5 Largest Church in India
Basilica of Bom Jesus
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this 16th-century church in Old Goa houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. Bom Jesus Basilica is a famous church in Goa Dead Body, it has stunning baroque architecture and a serene ambiance attracts visitors worldwide.
Location: Old Goa
Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Things to Do: Admire the baroque architecture, view the remains of St. Francis Xavier, attend a mass
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Built in: 1605
Se Cathedral
Known for its Portuguese-Manueline architecture, this grand church is one of the largest in Asia. Dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria, it is famous for its giant bell, the Golden Bell. It is one of the best Old Goa church.
Location: Old Goa
Timings: 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Things to Do: Visit the Chapel of the Cross of Miracles, explore the art and architecture
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Built in: 1619
Church of St. Francis of Assisi
This 17th-century church is renowned for its beautiful interior adorned with intricate gilded and carved woodwork, paintings, and frescoes depicting the life of St. Francis of Assisi.
Location: Old Goa
Timings: 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Things to Do: Admire the architecture, visit the adjoining museum
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Built in: 1661
Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception
Perched atop a hill in Panaji, this 16th-century church is known for its pristine white facade and a grand staircase with 78 steps, a popular photography spot. It is one of the most famous church in Goa.
Location: Panaji
Timings: 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM, 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Things to Do: Climb the zigzagging stairway, admire the architecture, attend a mass
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Built in: 1541
Church of St. Cajetan
Inspired by the design of the original St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, this church is known for its Corinthian architecture and impressive dome. It is dedicated to St. Cajetan, the founder of the Theatines. It is one of the best church among the list of famous churches in Goa.
Location: Old Goa
Timings: 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM, 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Things to Do: Admire the Corinthian architecture, explore the church grounds
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Built in: 1661
Church of Mae De Deus
Located in Saligao, this picturesque church is known for its distinctive Gothic architecture and serene surroundings. The church is dedicated to Mother Mary. It is one of the best church in South Goa.
Location: Saligao
Timings: 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Things to Do: Admire the neo-gothic architecture, explore the surroundings
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Built in: 1873
Church of St. Alex
Situated in Calangute, this 18th-century church is known for its simple yet elegant architecture. Dedicated to St. Alex, it is a peaceful place for prayer and reflection. It is one of the best church in North Goa.
Location: Calangute
Timings: 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM, 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Things to Do: Attend a mass, explore the church and its surroundings
Time Required: 1-2 hour
Built in: 1741
How to Reach Goa
Getting to Goa is easy as you can book bus tickets to Goa from your city. Also, Goa has a well-connected transportation network. Whether you’re traveling by air, train, or road, here’s a detailed guide on how to reach this beautiful destination:
How to Reach Goa by Air
- Dabolim Airport in Goa is the state’s only airport and is well-connected to major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kolkata.
- Several domestic airlines operate regular flights to Goa, making it convenient for travelers from across the country.
- From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use app-based cab services to reach your destination in Goa.
How to Reach Goa by Train
- Goa has two major railway stations: Margao (Madgaon) and Vasco da Gama, both of which are well-connected to various cities in India.
- The Konkan Railway route offers a scenic train journey to Goa, passing through lush greenery and picturesque landscapes.
- It is advisable to book your train tickets well in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
How to Reach Goa by Road
- Goa is well-connected by road to major cities in the neighboring states of Maharashtra and Karnataka.
- Several state-run and private buses operate regular services to Goa from cities like Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, and Mangalore.
- If you’re driving to Goa, the roads are generally in good condition, making it a pleasant journey.
How to Reach Goa by Bus
Reaching Goa by bus is a popular and convenient option for many travelers, especially from neighboring states. Here are some of the most travelled bus routes to Goa:
The churches of Goa are not just places of worship but also architectural marvels that offer a glimpse into the state’s rich history and cultural heritage. Visiting these churches is a spiritual experience and a journey back in time, where one can appreciate the craftsmanship and dedication that went into their construction. Whether you are a history buff, a religious pilgrim, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to these famous churches in Goa is sure to leave you awe-inspired.
