San Thome Basilica, located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, is one of the most significant religious and historical landmarks in India. Built over the tomb of Saint Thomas the Apostle, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ, this church is one of only three in the world that are constructed over the tombs of apostles (the others being St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and Santiago de Compostela in Spain). A beautiful example of neo-Gothic architecture, the basilica not only serves as a place of worship but also as a symbol of Chennai's colonial and spiritual heritage.
About the Church
San Thome Basilica, officially known as St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica and National Shrine of Saint Thomas, is a Roman Catholic minor basilica located in the Santhome neighborhood of Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It was originally built by Portuguese explorers in 1523 over the tomb of Saint Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. The church was later rebuilt by the British in 1896 in the Neo-Gothic architectural style.
Description:
Originally built by Portuguese explorers in the 16th century and rebuilt in neo-Gothic style by the British in 1896, the basilica is a stunning piece of colonial architecture. The church houses a museum, a library, and the tomb of St. Thomas in the underground chapel.
Speciality
San Thome Basilica is one of only three churches in the world built over the tomb of an apostle of Jesus Christ, the other two being St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City and the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Spain. This makes it a significant pilgrimage site for Christians worldwide.
Address
38, Santhome High Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004, India.
Location (Latitude and Longitude)
13.0339° N, 80.2770° E
Church Timings
The basilica is open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Services and Sevas
Regular Mass services are conducted in both Tamil and English. Special services and feasts are held on significant days, such as the feast of Mylai Matha in December.
Travel Facilities
By Road (Bus Routes)
The Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) runs several buses to Santhome High Road, where the church is located.
From Chennai Central Railway Station: Bus numbers 21G, 29C, 1B, 1C
From Chennai Egmore Railway Station: Bus numbers 27B, 29B, 12B
From Koyambedu Bus Terminal (CMBT): Bus numbers 1B, 27H, 45B
By Train
The nearest suburban railway station is Light House MRTS Station, located about 1 km from the basilica. Visitors coming from other cities can take express trains to Chennai Central (7 km away) or Chennai Egmore (6 km away), then take an auto-rickshaw or cab.
By Air
Chennai International Airport (MAA) is 17 km away.
From the airport, visitors can take:
A prepaid taxi (approx. 40–50 minutes)
Metro rail to Egmore or Central, then take a bus or cab
Nearest Transport Hubs
Railway Station: Chennai Central Railway Station (7 km), Chennai Egmore Railway Station (6 km)
Airport: Chennai International Airport (17 km)
Bus Station: Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus (CMBT)
Nearby Cities
Pondicherry (Puducherry) – 155 km
Mahabalipuram – 60 km
Vellore – 140 km
Tirupati (Andhra Pradesh) – 140 km
Bengaluru (Karnataka) – 350 km
Nearby Visiting Places and Temples
Kapaleeshwarar Temple – A renowned Hindu temple in Mylapore
Marina Beach – One of the longest urban beaches in the world
Parthasarathy Temple – A famous Vishnu temple (7 km)
Valluvar Kottam – A monument dedicated to the Tamil poet Thiruvalluvar (6 km)
Fort St. George – A British-era fort with a museum (8 km)
Elliot’s Beach – A quieter, scenic beach (5 km)
DakshinaChitra – A heritage museum showcasing South Indian culture (25 km)
Mahabalipuram – UNESCO heritage site with rock-cut temples (60 km)
Food Facilities
There are several restaurants and eateries around the basilica that offer a variety of cuisines, including South Indian, North Indian, and Continental dishes. Some notable places include:
Sangeetha Veg Restaurant (pure vegetarian)
Saravana Bhavan (famous for South Indian delicacies)
Sea Shell Restaurant (multi-cuisine, known for Arabian dishes)
The Marina (seafood specialty)
For quick snacks, local street food stalls also serve traditional Chennai delicacies like idli, dosa, vada, and filter coffee.
Stay Facilities (Hotels Nearby)
Luxury Hotels
The Leela Palace Chennai
Taj Club House
ITC Grand Chola
Mid-range Hotels
Clarion Hotel President
Hotel Savera
The Residency Towers
Budget Hotels & Lodges
Hotel Pearl International
Treebo Trend Elan
FabHotel Santhome Inn
For pilgrims, some guest houses and lodges near the church provide affordable accommodation.
Best Time to Visit
November to February is the best time, as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
Avoid peak summer months (March to May) due to extreme heat.
Shopping and Local Specialties
T. Nagar & Pondy Bazaar – Best for shopping South Indian silk sarees, gold jewelry, and handicrafts.
George Town & Parry’s Corner – Known for wholesale markets and electronic goods.
Spencer Plaza & Express Avenue Mall – Popular for branded shopping.
Poompuhar Handicrafts Store – Government shop for wooden carvings, Tanjore paintings, and souvenirs.
San Thome Basilica is not just a religious monument but also a symbol of Chennai’s rich cultural and historical legacy. It continues to attract visitors from around the world, offering a glimpse into the deep-rooted Christian traditions in India. Whether for spiritual solace, historical exploration, or architectural admiration, a visit to this iconic basilica is a journey through time and faith, reinforcing its importance as one of India’s most treasured landmarks.
