Christmas 2023: Experience The Magic of Christmas At India's Most Enchanting Churches

If you want to spend this Christmas with your near and dear ones but are having trouble deciding where to go then here is a list of some of the popular and ancient churches in India that are worth the visit and will fill you with the joy of Christmas.

famous churches to visit in india for christmas

India is a country known for its diverse culture and religious heritage. And with Christmas just around the corner, we bring you some of the famous churches in India that you must visit during the Christmas holidays in India. Christmas is the season of love and peace as it celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.

These churches are not only beautiful architectural marvels but also have a rich history and cultural significance that makes them worth visiting during Christmas celebrations in India. Take a look at these top famous churches to visit in India for Christmas celebrations:

1. Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa

One of a kind building in India with exceptional baroque architecture is the Basilica of Bom Jesus Church in Goa, it is also one of India's top churches to visit around Christmas. The construction of this church started in 1594 and finished in 1605.

Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa

Image credit: Wikipedia

This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier and it is renowned for its Baroque architecture and ornate interiors. The Basilica of Bom Jesus hosts special Christmas services throughout the festive season. These services include Midnight Mass, carol singing, and prayer sessions. Attending these services allows you to share the joy of Christmas with other worshippers and experience the traditions of the Catholic community in Goa.

2. Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, Panaji

According to Goa Tourism, the old bell that was taken from the Augustinian remains of the Church of Our Lady of Grace is kept in this church. The Golden Bell, housed in the Se Cathedral, is said to be the biggest bell of its sort in Goa, making this one the second largest.

Church of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception

Image credit: Goa Tourism

This charming church is known for its sparkling white colour; its main altar is carved in Renaissance style. During Christmas, the church comes alive with joyous celebrations. You can experience carol singing in various languages, traditional Portuguese Christmas hymns, and heartwarming prayer services. The festive atmosphere is contagious and will fill you with the spirit of Christmas.

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3. Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Velankanni

Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Velankanni

Image credit: Wikipedia

According to the Karaikal.gov.in site, it states that Velankanni is home to the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, one of the largest Catholic pilgrimage sites in the nation. It is referred to as the Lourdes of the East and is dedicated to Our Lady of Good Health.

During Christmas, the basilica is adorned with lights and flowers, and special prayer services are held throughout the festive season. The basilica's serene atmosphere is perfect for prayer and reflection, especially during the Christmas season. The basilica hosts special Christmas celebrations, including carols, novenas, and masses in various languages.

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4. Christ Church, Shimla

Christ Church

Image credit: Freepik

One of the oldest churches in North India is Christ Church, which is also one of the best places to visit during Christmas in India. The British established it in 1857 to cater to the substantial Anglican British community residing in the region. The church is an excellent must-see in Shimla because of its magnificent beauty and stunning surroundings.

At Christmas, the church is decorated with lights and Christmas trees, and carol-singing sessions are held in the evenings. The sight of the snow-capped Himalayas in the background adds to the magical atmosphere.

No matter which church you choose to visit, you're sure to experience the joy and spirit of Christmas in India. So head to one of these stunning churches to create lasting memories of a truly special Christmas celebration.

For more such stories, stay tuned to HerZindagi.

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