Basilica of Bom Jesus
Basilica of Bom Jesus
4.5
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
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21 within 3 miles
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60 within 6 miles
See what travellers are saying
- Shoeb AliBangalore District, India76 contributionsIts all about St Xavier !!!A great place to see history dating back to colonial era. hire a guide who can better explain the history behind this property else there is not much to understand. remains of St Xavier are there and its really nice to know why hundreds of colleges in india are named after him. parking is nearby and not much difficult to find a spot.Visited October 2023Travelled with familyWritten 30 October 2023
- RahulMKBengaluru, India106 contributionsGreat experienceWe started our Goa trip with a visit to this landmark. It was a serene experience, the architecture, the history of the location - everything gave an amazing vibe. We spent an hour or so at the location. It was quite hot as we reached by around 12, recommend an early morning or evening visit.Visited February 2024Travelled with familyWritten 17 February 2024
- Film GNew England1,050 contributionsA Bit UnderwhelmingWhat struck me is the lack of the church being used as a church. Yes, it is, but it had more of a museum quality. Well worth seeing, with an adjacent cloister. Has a toilet. And a gift shop. No good place to light candles, but you can buy flower garlands from one of the many nearby vendors, and place them by one of the statues/altars.Visited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 15 March 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
2,365 reviews
Excellent
1,209
Very good
920
Average
216
Poor
13
Terrible
7
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MissRP95
Leicester, UK290 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
My parents have been to this church before but this was my first time and I didn't even get to go inside. It was a very hot day and we all wore shorts, we walked inside and the females in the group, including myself were refused entry as we were wearing shorts. However, the males in the group, who were also wearing shorts were allowed in.
When we questioned the woman in charge what was the difference between male and female legs, she couldn't give us a proper answer but said to take it up with the Priests.
I could understand and would oblige if the rule was applicable for men and women but India is still a backwards society that treats women like second class citizens.
I have visted Catholic places of worship all over the world and in hot weather shorts on both genders are permitted. What is worse is that this rule is new as my parents didn't have to follow this before.
They offered scrafs to wrap around our legs but most of us refused as it is regression on equality, so we stood at the entrance and waited for those who were allowed in and the woman kicked us out.
So very disappointed, Catholicism in most places if worship are not strict on dress rules, so to have acted in this way is embarrassing and shameful.
When we questioned the woman in charge what was the difference between male and female legs, she couldn't give us a proper answer but said to take it up with the Priests.
I could understand and would oblige if the rule was applicable for men and women but India is still a backwards society that treats women like second class citizens.
I have visted Catholic places of worship all over the world and in hot weather shorts on both genders are permitted. What is worse is that this rule is new as my parents didn't have to follow this before.
They offered scrafs to wrap around our legs but most of us refused as it is regression on equality, so we stood at the entrance and waited for those who were allowed in and the woman kicked us out.
So very disappointed, Catholicism in most places if worship are not strict on dress rules, so to have acted in this way is embarrassing and shameful.
Written 7 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tintu Varghese
Vellore, India36 contributions
Jan 2022
The Basilica of Bom Jesus: Old catholic church. Amazing architecture. The place was crowded with people clicking photos, hence not a serene place for meditation.
Church of St. Francis Assissi & Se Cathedral: Near Bom Basilica, this one is less crowded and equally beautiful. Within walking distance of the archaeological museum, you will find great artifacts and paintings.
Church of St. Francis Assissi & Se Cathedral: Near Bom Basilica, this one is less crowded and equally beautiful. Within walking distance of the archaeological museum, you will find great artifacts and paintings.
Written 31 January 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rahul Singh
Pune, India698 contributions
Oct 2022 • Family
The Basilica of Bom Jesus is a Roman Catholic basilica. It is both a pilgrimage centre and also the most iconic monument of all the churches and convents of Goa, recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and also holds the mortal remains of St Francis Xavier.
Visited on a weekday in October 2022, it was closed for visitors due to renovation work.
Visited on a weekday in October 2022, it was closed for visitors due to renovation work.
Written 7 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RahulMK
Bengaluru, India106 contributions
Feb 2024 • Family
We started our Goa trip with a visit to this landmark. It was a serene experience, the architecture, the history of the location - everything gave an amazing vibe.
We spent an hour or so at the location. It was quite hot as we reached by around 12, recommend an early morning or evening visit.
We spent an hour or so at the location. It was quite hot as we reached by around 12, recommend an early morning or evening visit.
Written 18 February 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mi Do
Goa, India176 contributions
Jan 2023
Today, the Basilica of Jesus, built of laterite, is included in the list of the main attractions of India, is protected by UNESCO and is considered the most popular church in Goa. The Basilica of Bom Jesus is one of the richest decorated churches in Goa. The interior of the church is beautiful and refined. The floor is made of white marble inlaid with semi-precious stones. The altar of the basilica is decorated with elaborate carvings and gilding, the walls are decorated with paintings depicting scenes from the life of Francis Xavier.
Written 23 January 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Vishnu Pendyala
San Jose, CA1,019 contributions
Dec 2019
Certainly a masterpiece as others have also pointed out and worth visiting. The cab driver told a story as to why the coffin is shorter than usual, but not sure how far it is true, so will not reproduce here. Also, I really do not understand the reason for not permitting pictures insider places for prayer. A memory of a place of prayer brings back serenity and peace. Why wouldn't the authorities not permit such a memory to be preserved? Very annoying...
Written 26 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MPAINTAL
Pune, India123 contributions
Nov 2020 • Family
The reverence and low murmur of tourist in the church just spoke volumes. St Francis xavier basilica in old Goa, is part of the Churches and convents of Goa UNESCO World Heritage Site. A must visit when you come to Goa. It is a refreshing change to all else around.
Written 11 December 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
lotusdiamond
Chandigarh, India1,245 contributions
Dec 2020
Pl check dress code before going to this Church. Skirts , shorts, sleeveless, short dress etc not allowed. Even kids are not allowed in case not dressed as per dress code. You may have to wait in queue for sometime in bright sun for entering this place. though the place is very famous among locals and tourists. Cab is not allowed till this place, you have to get down nearby. Body of St Francis Xavier is kept inside the church. Photography is permitted. Few shops of snacks, souvenirs and selling artificial jewellery are available nearby. Good place for photography lovers .
Written 26 April 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kebuh
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia1,854 contributions
Feb 2023 • Friends
Located in old Goa, the basilica is where the body of St Francis Xavier is interred. Built in the 1500’s the building is looking it’s age. Noticed refurbishments ongoing managed by India’s National Mission on Monuments and Antiquities which hopefully will bring back the basilica to its old glory. Having said that, it’s worth visiting given the history of not only the basilica but also St Francis Xavier. The chapel in the basilica is adorned with reliefs of the life of St Francis. Definitely worth visiting.
Written 18 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GIANMARCO P
Milan, Italy2,533 contributions
Jan 2024 • Family
First our visit is directed towards the Basilica of Bom Jesus (of the Good Jesus) built in the part of the city called "Old Goa", that is, the ancient capital of Portuguese India, west coast; it is a baroque style church, built between 1594 and 1605, one of the most important places of religious worship in the city and a pilgrimage destination.
In 1986 it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
The Basilica of Bom Jesus was built by the Jesuits, who settled in Goa after 1542, where they founded a small school which later became a Catholic seminary.
In 1986 it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
The Basilica of Bom Jesus was built by the Jesuits, who settled in Goa after 1542, where they founded a small school which later became a Catholic seminary.
Written 5 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Friends, What is the timing of church for visitors.
Written 14 February 2018
mon to sat 9 am to 6.30 pm
on Sunday 10.30am t0 6.30 pm
Written 15 February 2018
Hello,
Planning to visit Goa during the Easter weekend. Can someone confirm if Basilica of Bom Jesus stays closed for tourists on Easter Sunday?
Written 8 February 2018
The Basilica is open on all days, Sunday and Festival days ...If mass is being celebrated I understand they ask you to wait till it is over ..
I reached the Basilica just after mass ... The main pews (Seating arrangement area ) is cordoned off and and tourists are allowed to move on the side to view St.Francis Xavier's Casket....
If you are a Roman catholic and are carrying a Rosary show it to them and tell them you would like to pray in front of the Alter with the number of your family members...
They allow you to go up to the Alter ...
Tourists on Sundays and Holidays are plenty and of various religious beliefs and the Authorities would like to maintain reverence when you are near the Alter.
Have a nice visit and pray peacefully..
Written 9 February 2018
Plain roasted cashew nuts with the outer skin is a specialty of Goa... spices are also good but you must find the right shop after inquiring.
Alcoholic drinks and feni are very cheap but if you want to take outside Goa a permit is issued for 2 bottles... But the permit is not recognized if you are travelling by bus...They fleece you in the name of penalty if you are caught outside the border.
Written 16 February 2018
I will be visiting Goa on 29sep till 2 Oct 2017....is it good time to visit or will it be raining too much...Please answer asap
Written 25 September 2017
You might get occasional rain. Best time in Goa is in December.
Written 26 September 2017
Tam R
New York City, New York
Hello ! Travelling to Goa in October..please share the weather and the pilgrimage to Saint Xavier
1. Tips on daily Masses and TYPICAL feasts on the 3rd week of October, entrance costs, what to see
2.Need **Guesthouses and BED AND BREAKFAST, walking to Church
3. Tips on PUBLIC transportation, for independent tours
4. Recommendation for Goa City Tours, must -see
Thank you
Written 1 April 2016
Hi, there's no entrance charge for the church but mind the dress code - no shorts and sleeveless clothes for the guys or girls.
The main Feast happens on 3 Dec every year with a 10 novena preceding it but nothing I'm aware of during the time you're going.
Regarding places to stay, I wouldn't recommend staying in Old Goa since its far from most things. Most people prefer the beach or near the beach (if you're the type who likes places not overrun by tourists)
Transportation by bus is mostly private. I'd recommend a private taxi.
Hope this helps! Have a wonderful trip!
Written 2 April 2016
What is good time to visit the church on Sunday so that it is not overcrowded? Is 10 AM on Sunday a good time?
Written 18 January 2016
Is it open on Friday's as well? Listing says it is but I checked Park Hyatt website - where it says it is closed on Friday. Not sure which one is correct. Can anyone confirm? Planning to visit on Dec'4th
Written 17 November 2015
How can i reach basilica of bom jesus from colva area? Good transportation option? And any food or shopping option around there?
Written 31 October 2015
Transport: You need to hire a taxi or two wheeler for BoBJ from Colva. Public transport is not so good. If you are coming from Colva to BoBJ, you can ask the taxi or auto driver to take you via Ponda so that you can also visit the famous Shantadurga & Mangeshi Temple.
Food: Not much option nearby. There is only one Ratna Sagar Restaurant which caters both Veg & Non Veg Food. A Monginis store is nearby for cakes & pastries.
Shopping: You can find small vendors selling tiaras and goan mementos nearby. Just adjacent to Ratna Sagar there is a good shopping arcade for buying handicrafts, mementos and other Goa visit memories etc. etc.
Written 1 November 2015
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