The Basilica of the Holy Rosary, commonly known as Bandel Church, is a magnificent testament to West Bengal’s rich colonial and religious history. Located along the serene banks of the Hooghly River in Bandel, this stunning structure was originally founded in 1599 by Portuguese settlers under the decree of Mughal emperor Akbar . Dedicated to Nossa Senhora do Rosário (Our Lady of the Rosary), it’s one of the oldest and most prominent Christian churches in India.
About the Church
The Basilica of the Holy Rosary, popularly known as Bandel Church, is one of the oldest Christian churches in West Bengal, India. It was originally built in 1599 by Portuguese settlers as part of a Catholic monastery. However, it was destroyed in 1632 by Mughal forces and later rebuilt in 1660. The church is dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary (Nossa Senhora do Rosário) and serves as a minor basilica under the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Calcutta.
Description
The Basilica of the Holy Rosary, commonly known as Bandel Church, is one of the oldest Christian churches in West Bengal and one of the most significant historical churches in India. It was originally built around 1599 by Portuguese settlers and was later rebuilt in 1660 after being destroyed by the Moors. The church is dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary and stands as a testimony to the Portuguese colonial presence in Bengal. It features a blend of Portuguese and colonial architecture, with a prominent clock tower, several altars, and beautiful stained-glass windows.
Speciality
Historical Significance: One of the oldest churches in eastern India, linked to the early Portuguese colonial period.
Minor Basilica Status: Declared a Minor Basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1988, giving it special ecclesiastical status.
Pilgrimage Site: A major pilgrimage center for Catholics, especially during the Feast of the Rosary in November.
Miraculous Statue: Home to a miraculous statue of Our Lady of Happy Voyage, which attracts thousands of devotees.
Unique Architecture: Combines Gothic, Baroque, and Portuguese styles, with a ship’s mast placed in front of the church as a symbol of gratitude by a rescued sailor.
Special Features of Bandel Church
Portuguese Ship’s Mast: A mast from a Portuguese ship, which was miraculously saved from a storm, stands in front of the church.
Historic Architecture: The church is a mix of Portuguese, Gothic, and Baroque styles with three altars, a pipe organ, and stained-glass windows.
Our Lady of Happy Voyage Statue: A famous statue of Mother Mary, believed to have miraculous powers.
Ancient Bell Tower: One of the oldest church bells in India, still in working condition.
Keystone of 1599: The original keystone from the first church (1599) can still be seen on the eastern gate.
Church Address & Location
Address: Sahaganj, Chinsurah, West Bengal 712104, India
Geographical Coordinates: 22.9190°N, 88.3952°E
Church Timings & Sevas
Mass Timings
Sunday Masses:
06:30 AM – Hindi
09:00 AM – Bengali
11:00 AM – English
05:00 PM – Hindi
02:00 PM – Santali (Last Sunday of the month)
Weekday Masses:
12:00 PM – Bengali (Monday to Saturday)
Special Prayers & Services
Novena Prayers: Every Saturday in honor of Mother Mary.
Confession Services: Available on Sundays and special occasions.
Rosary Prayers: Recited daily before Mass.
Traveling Facilities
By Road (Bus Services)
Bandel is well-connected by government and private buses from:
Kolkata → Barrackpore → Bandel
Howrah → Serampore → Bandel
Chinsurah → Bandel
By Train (Railway Services)
Nearest Railway Station: Bandel Junction Railway Station (2.5 km from the church)
Train routes:
From Howrah Station – Local trains available every 15-20 minutes
From Sealdah Station – Requires interchange at Naihati or Howrah
From Burdwan/Dankuni – Direct trains available
By Air (Flight Services)
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (Kolkata) – 60 km away
From the airport, cabs, buses, or trains are available to Bandel.
Accommodation & Food Facilities
Stay Facilities
Church Guest House:
Available for pilgrims (requires prior permission from the parish priest).
Basic rooms with essential amenities.
Nearby Hotels & Lodges:
Hotel Girish (2 km away)
The Hooghly Inn (3 km away)
Food Facilities
Several restaurants near Bandel station offer Bengali, Indian, and Chinese cuisines.
Popular Local Dishes:
Kolkata-style Biryani
Fish Curry & Rice (Machher Jhol)
Mishti Doi & Roshogolla (Bengali sweets)
Nearby Places of Interest
Religious & Historical Sites
Hooghly Imambara (5 km): A 19th-century mosque & congregation hall.
Hanseswari Temple (10 km): A distinctive 13-towered temple dedicated to Goddess Kali.
Mayurpankhi Ghat (3 km): A scenic riverside spot, perfect for boating & photography.
Serampore Danish Colony (15 km): Former Danish settlement with colonial-era buildings.
Nearby Cities
Kolkata – 60 km
Howrah – 55 km
Chinsurah – 5 km
Serampore – 15 km
Burdwan – 65 km
Preferable Visiting Season
Best time to visit: October to March (pleasant weather).
Annual Church Festival: Held in November, attracting thousands of pilgrims.
Shopping & Local Specialties
Handicrafts & Religious Items:
Rosary beads, candles, and Mother Mary idols.
Famous Local Sweets:
Bandel Cheese (a unique Portuguese-style cheese).
Mishti Doi & Sandesh (traditional Bengali sweets).
Ghugni & Telebhaja (Bengali street snacks).
The Bandel Church stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Portuguese influence in India and remains a cherished religious and historical landmark. Its serene ambiance, architectural beauty, and spiritual significance continue to draw pilgrims and tourists alike. Whether for faith, history, or architectural admiration, a visit to this ancient basilica offers a glimpse into a bygone era while preserving the essence of devotion and cultural heritage.
