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Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pondicherry
⛪ Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Pondicherry
🎫 Entry Fee: Free for all visitors
📞 Phone: 0413 222 8916
⭐ Rating: 4.0 / 5 (38 reviews)
📍 Address: Door No. 132, South Boulevard, MG Road Area, Near Railway Station, Puducherry – 605001, India
Gracefully standing near the Pondicherry Railway Station, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is a masterpiece of Roman Catholic heritage. Built by French missionaries in 1908 and elevated to Basilica status in 2011, it is one of only 21 basilicas in India and one of the most iconic churches in South India.
Known for its Gothic architecture, breathtaking stained-glass windows, and devotion-filled atmosphere, this church attracts both pilgrims and tourists alike — especially during festive times like Christmas and New Year’s Eve.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit
✔ October to March — ideal weather and festive vibes
✔ Christmas and New Year for grand celebrations and decorations
✔ Open every day with specific Mass schedules on weekdays and weekends
✔ Christmas and New Year for grand celebrations and decorations
✔ Open every day with specific Mass schedules on weekdays and weekends
Send a Massage
📌 Highlights of Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
✔ One of the largest and most beautiful churches in Pondicherry
✔ Built in Roman-Byzantine-Gothic style, blending Indian and French elements
✔ Features 24 inscribed columns and 28 stained-glass depictions of saints
✔ Declared a Basilica by Pope Benedict XVI in 2011
✔ Houses a Grotto, Adoration Chapel, and Latin-rite cross architecture
✔ Famous for peaceful morning/evening Mass and spiritual ambience
🚗 How to Reach
✔ By Air: Pondicherry Airport – 6 km away. Chennai International Airport – 150 km away
✔ By Train: Just ~300 meters from Pondicherry Railway Station – walkable
✔ By Road: Well connected by buses and taxis from Chennai, Cuddalore, Villupuram, etc.
✔ Local Commute: Autos, cabs, and two-wheelers available for hire near MG Road and White Town
💡 Travel Tips
✔ Maintain silence and respect during Mass and inside the church
✔ Photography inside is restricted – take permission first
✔ Wear modest clothing and avoid visiting during prayer hours if not participating
✔ Carry water and keep your phone on silent mode while inside
✔ Church gets busy on weekends and during major Christian festivals — plan accordingly
🌟 Things to Do at the Basilica
✔ Admire the stained-glass windows and Gothic-style façade
✔ Attend a Tamil or English mass service
✔ Sit in peaceful prayer or reflection in the main hall or Adoration chapel
✔ Explore the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes and nearby small chapels
✔ Witness architectural features like the Corinthian pillars and ornate altars
✔ Attend a Tamil or English mass service
✔ Sit in peaceful prayer or reflection in the main hall or Adoration chapel
✔ Explore the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes and nearby small chapels
✔ Witness architectural features like the Corinthian pillars and ornate altars
🙏 Mass Timings
| Day | Mass Schedule |
|---|---|
| Mon–Sat | 5:30 AM, 12:00 Noon, 6:00 PM |
| Sunday Morning | 5:30 AM, 7:30 AM (Tamil)8:45–9:30 AM Catechism (Tamil)12:00 Noon Mass (Tamil) |
| Sunday Evening | 4:00–5:00 PM Catechism (English)5:15 PM Mass (English)6:15 PM Mass (Tamil) |