Celebrate Christmas in the Most Popular Churches of India

Christmas is about to come, and it is celebrated on a grand scale in the country. As Christianity is one of the popular religions in India, it contributes to 3 per cent of its total population. On the eve of this beautiful festival, churches in India turn really gorgeous. To celebrate the Christmas celebration in India to the fullest, you should explore the churches to visit in India listed below; each offers a unique glimpse into faith, music, architecture and local traditions.

Most of the churches in India date back to 52 AD. It is said that St Thomas introduced this new religious faith in India by founding a few churches in Kerala. He motivated others to construct these places of worship all over India to make them aware of Christianity. Due to the huge migration of Europeans, including British, Dutch, French and Portuguese, many churches were established in India. They introduced this new type of architecture that resulted in offering India some superb churches. At present, many of them have become must-visit places on Christmas Eve and are counted among the famous churches in India that draw crowds for the Christmas events in India held each December.

Se Cathedral Church, Goa

Se Cathedral is supposed to be one of the largest Christmas churches in India, which is devoted to Catherine of Alexandria. This church was constructed to celebrate the victory of the Portuguese over a Muslim army, leading to the takeover of the city of Goa in the year 1510. The day of this triumph was on the feast of Saint Catherine. So, the church was dedicated to her. The construction of this cathedral started in 1562 and was completed by 1619. The church is 250 metres high and 181 metres wide. The key draw of attention of this church is its 'Golden Bell', which is supposed to be one of the most beautiful bells in the world. There are some old paintings on the main altar of the church dedicated to Catherine of Alexandria. The church also houses the Cross of Miracles. During the Goa Christmas celebration, Se Cathedral is often featured on lists of the best churches in Goa to visit for a spectacular midnight service and festive lights.

St. George's Syro – Malabar Catholic Forane Church, Champakulam

It is one of the oldest Roman Catholic churches in Kerala. It is the mother church of about all Catholic Syrian churches in the Alleppey district of Kerala, which was considered to be established in AD 427. The building of this church has gone through several renovations since its construction time. Many archaeological artefacts were discovered around the church related to its history. In one of the renovations that this church has gone through, the picture of this Virgin was enclosed by sculptures, and angels were included with the altar. There is a painting of Heaven over the wall behind the altar. This church is often recommended among churches to visit in India by travellers who want to experience traditional Kerala celebrations and peaceful services.

Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Velankanni

Also known as Velankanni Church, the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health is possibly one of the most admired famous churches in India. It is located in the small town of Velankanni in the state of Tamil Nadu. As per a local belief, apparitions of Mary have been witnessed. There is no historical record about the apparitions of Mary at Velankanni. The basilica features a Gothic style of architecture and boasts of three chapels. The whole architecture of this church is white in colour, except for some top parts that are built of remarkable red-coloured tiles. The basilica draws pilgrims year-round and becomes especially crowded during the Christmas season in India.

Roman Catholic Archdiocese, Imphal

Also known as St Joseph's Cathedral, the Roman Catholic Archdiocese is one of the most beautiful churches in India. It was founded as the Diocese of Imphal on 28th March, 1980. The church is located at a distance of 5 km away from the main city of Mantripukhri, Imphal. Its splendid architecture turns it into one of the most visited attractions of the city. The stunning building of the church enjoys hills in its backdrop, giving an enchanting and soothing effect. Many visitors searching for Christmas mass near me find that regional cathedrals like this list their Christmas service timings in advance during the festive season.

Basilica of the Holy Rosary Church, Bandel

The Basilica of the Holy Rosary is usually recognised as Bandel Church. It is one of the oldest Christian churches in the state of West Bengal. The church is living proof of the Portuguese settlement in West Bengal. It was founded in 1599 and is dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary. It is a parish church, which is part of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Calcutta. Bandel Church is one of the most remarkable historical churches not only in West Bengal but in all of India as well. It often appears on curated lists of Christmas churches in India to explore for their colonial charm and festive services.

Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Pondicherry

Immaculate Conception Cathedral is the cathedral mother church for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Puducherry (formerly known as Pondicherry) and Cuddalore. It is famous as "Samba Kovil", which is derived from 'Saint Paul's Kovil'. The church has gone through several renovations and reconstructions. The current structure of the church has a strong similarity with a church in France. It was built in 1791 over the ruins of the previous church. The striking portico of the church features paired Doric columns. There is an iconic statue of Our Lady with little Jesus in her arms in front of the church. Visitors often check the Christmas service timings posted at the cathedral entrance or online to plan their visit.

Medak Cathedral, Telangana

Immaculate Conception Cathedral is the cathedral mother church for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Puducherry (formerly known as Pondicherry) and Cuddalore. It is famous as "Samba Kovil", which is derived from 'Saint Paul's Kovil'. The church has gone through several renovations and reconstructions. The current structure of the church has a strong similarity with a church in France. It was built in 1791 over the ruins of the previous church. The striking portico of the church features paired Doric columns. There is an iconic statue of Our Lady with little Jesus in her arms in front of the church. Visitors often check the Christmas service timings posted at the cathedral entrance or online to plan their visit.

Medak Cathedral is the cathedral church of the Diocese. The Medak diocese is the largest diocese in Asia and the second largest in the world, following the Vatican. It is the seat of the Bishop in Medak for the Church of Southern India. Midnight Mass in India is celebrated here on a grand scale, and the church is among those often recommended by guides when people ask for Christmas Mass near me in the region.

Moravian Church, Leh

Located at an elevation of more than 11,000 feet, the Moravian Church in Leh is among the highest churches in India. The church is the most primitive yet one of the smallest of the Protestant denominations in India. For locals of the city, it is a great place to enjoy Christmas. This picturesque spot is also featured in lists of Christmas churches in India for travellers who want a serene, high-altitude celebration.

Parumala Church, Kerala

Named after the great Saint Geevargese Mar Gregorios, Parumala Church is one of the major landmarks in the town of Munnar in Kerala. On Christmas Eve, this church witnesses an ample crowd. It is basically a parish church of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church. Pilgrims often include Parumala among their famous churches in their India itinerary during the festive season.

St. Mary's Basilica, Bangalore

Situated in the Archdiocese, St Mary's Basilica is the oldest church in Bangalore, where people of all religious beliefs come with a wish in their hearts. Built in the Gothic style, the basilica of St Mary has been given the status of a minor basilica in the state of Karnataka. Christmas is really special at this place. Locals often search for Christmas service timings or midnight mass in India updates from St Mary’s online or through parish notices before heading to the service.

FAQs About Visiting Famous Churches in India During Christmas

1. Do I need prior permission to attend Midnight Mass at popular churches in India?
In most churches, you can attend midnight mass in India without prior permission, but large and popular churches (especially in Goa, Bengaluru, or Velankanni) may have crowd-control measures. If you’re looking for a local option, search 'Christmas mass near me' for nearby parishes and their posted Christmas service timings. Arriving early ensures a good seat and an easy entry.

2. Are non-Christians allowed to visit churches during the celebrations?
Yes. Churches across India are open to people of all faiths. Visitors are simply requested to be respectful, maintain silence, and dress modestly when entering the worship space. Many travellers include these churches to visit in India on cultural itineraries to witness traditional carols and the wider Christmas celebration in India.

3. What should I keep in mind while photographing the church interiors?
Many churches allow photography in outdoor spaces, but photos during Mass or inside the prayer hall may be restricted. Always look for signage or ask a volunteer or staff member before clicking pictures. While exploring the best churches in Goa or the historical basilicas, be mindful that some monuments are still active places of worship and photography rules can vary.

4. Is there a dress code for visiting churches?
There is no strict dress code, but modest clothing is preferred—especially when attending services or visiting historical basilicas. Avoid shorts, sleeveless outfits, or anything too revealing. When planning to join Christmas events in India or an evening service, check posted Christmas service timings so you can arrive prepared.

5. Can I buy food or souvenirs near these churches?
Yes. During the festive season, many churches have small stalls selling plum cakes, candles, stars, greeting cards, and local snacks. Major destinations like Goa, Velankanni, and Bandel may even have small Christmas markets nearby popular spots during the Goa Christmas celebration and other regional festivals. If you’re visiting Goa specifically, guides often point out the best churches in Goa, where stalls and festive bazaars appear on the eve.