Santhome Church Chennai – Timings, Best Time to Visit, How to Reach, Things To Do, and Places to Stay

Located in Mylapore, Chennai, Santhome Church is a well-known destination that offers peace. The church is dedicated to St. Thomas the Apostle and is said to have been set up in 1523 AD. The Santhome Church Chennai was originally built by the Portuguese, and later, in the late 19th century, the British renovated it. 

Notably, it is among the only three churches worldwide built directly over the tomb of an apostle. If you are planning your next Sunday outing in Chennai, take a look at the Santhome Church in Chennai in detail. 

Quick Details of Santhome Church 

Location – 38, Santhome High Rd, Santhome, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004

Santhome Cathedral Basilica

• Main Shrine – Saint Thomas the Apostle
• Timings: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
• Entry Fees – Free entry
• Best Time to Visit – October – February
• Parking – A free parking lot is available on the campus

A Synopsis of Santhome Church Chennai

Santhome Church, officially known as the National Shrine of St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica, is one of the oldest churches in India, which not only holds religious significance but is also of historical importance. 

It is a Roman Catholic minor basilica built over the tomb of Saint Thomas by the Portuguese in the 16th Century and contains the relics of St. Thomas, one of the 12 Apostles of Jesus.

History of Santhome Church 

The church dates back to 1523 AD, but the structure that we admire today was reconstructed by the British in 1896. The architects favoured a Neo-Gothic architecture of the late 19th Century. The central area is called the nave, holding beautiful chandeliers. It is known to be a major religious sanctuary for the Syrian Christian s of India.

There are two chapels: the main one is built on the ground, and the second is underground. A statue of the revered Saint is also present inside the glass case at his final place. 

How to Reach Santhome Church Chennai?  

Santhome Church is located in the heart of Chennai. It is easy to get the transport to reach the location. The place is accessible by road, train and air. The most convenient way to reach is by road. 

By Road 

The best way to reach Santhome Church is to either travel by your personal vehicle or by public transport. Here’s the layout of all you need to know –

• If you are planning to travel by your personal vehicle, Santhome is well-connected to the road. It is on the South of Marine Drive and is also approachable on Santhome High Road.
• In case you want to reach the location by public transportation, like a bus, it costs between 30 and 120 rupees and takes around 20 minutes from Chennai Central Station. Many buses drive through the city from different parts. The nearest stop is called Santhome Church Bus Stop. Some of the bus routes that connect to the area are 5B, 6D, 12B, 12L, 29C, and 45B.

Santhome Church Distance from Major Cities
Delhi – approx. 2189 km; drive time 38 hrs 49 min
Mumbai – 1325 km; approx. drive time 22 hrs 34 min
Bengaluru – 346 km; approx. drive time 6 hrs 51 min 
Goa – 905 km; approx. drive time 16 hrs 10 min
Kerala – 650 km; approx. drive time 12 hrs 49 min
Kolkata- 1684 km; approx. drive time 30 hrs 0 min

By Air 

If you are planning to go by air, the nearest airport is Chennai International Airport that is around 16 km and 35 minutes drive from the Santhome Church; you can book a cab to reach your location. The nearest metro from Chennai Airport to Santhome Church is around 3.81 km away, which is usually not considered to be the best transportation option. 

Flights From the Major Cities

1. From Delhi – Both direct and connecting flights are available, costing around 8,688 and 7,766 respectively (one-way). 
2. From Mumbai – Direct flights are available, costing around 5,600 (one-way).
3. From Kochi – Direct flights are available, costing around 5,280 (one-way).
4. From Kolkata – Both direct and connecting flights are available, costing around 5,860 and 13,000, respectively (one-way). 
5. From Bengaluru –  Both direct and connecting flights are available, costing around 4,200 and 11,680, respectively (one-way).

By Train and Metro 

The nearest railway station to Santhome Cathedral Basilica in Chennai is Chepauk Station, and metro station is Light House Station. If you want to visit the Santhomes Church by metro, there’s a dedicated metro station directly from the Chennai Central Railway Station (Puratchi Thalaivar Dr MGE Central). 

Trains From the Major Cities

• From Delhi – The direct trains are available, costing around 908 to 3,226(one-way).
• From Kolkata – Direct trains are available, costing around 720 to 4,570(one-way).
• From Bengaluru – Direct trains are available, costing around 188 to 611 (one-way).
• Hyderabad – Direct trains are available, costing around 453 to 1,785(one-way).

Santhome Church Timings 

Santhome Church is considered to be one of the most peaceful and aesthetically pleasing places to visit in Chennai. The Church opens at 5:30 am and can be visited till 7 pm. 

Below are the details for your reference –   

Santhome Cathedral Basilica – Schedule 

Weekdays (Monday – Saturday)

• 05:45 am – Adoration, Rosary
• 06:15 am – Holy Mass in English
• 11.00 am – Holy Mass in Tamil [Tomb Chapel]
• 05:30 pm – Benediction
• 05:45 pm – Rosary
• 06:15 pm – Holy Mass in Tamil

Sunday

• 06:00 am – Holy Mass in Tamil
• 07:15 am – Holy Mass in English
• 08:30 am – Holy Mass in Tamil
• 10.15 am – Holy Mass in English
• 11.30 am – Holy Mass in English
• 05.30 pm – Holy Mass in English [Tomb Chapel]
• 06:00 pm – Holy Mass in Tamil followed by Benediction

Every Friday – 3:00 pm – Adoration, Divine Mercy Chaplet and Holy Mass in Tamil

Eucharistic Adoration (Monday – Saturday)

• 7:00 am to 5:30 pm 
• Benediction at 5:30 pm 

Confession Timings: 

Morning – 9:00 am – 12:30 pm

Evening – 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm

Best Time to Visit Santhome Church 

Though the Cathedral is open throughout the year, the best time to visit Santhome Church is between October and February. Due to the hot and humid climate of Chennai, one must avoid visiting there between April and July.

October to February is also the best time to visit Chennai, as many festivals and events take place during this time period. You can be a part of the Chennai Book Fair to celebrate Pongal. Because of its location, one can enjoy the sunset on the shores of the beach. 

Top 6 Places to Stay Near Santhome Cathedral

While travelling, one of the most important things that needs to be sorted is a place to stay. Here are some of my top luxury and affordable choices, which include The Leela Palace, ITC Grand Chola, and Somerset Greenways in the luxury category and in the affordable range. Let’s get into the details of the following –         

Luxury Stays 

1 – The Leela Palace Chennai

The Leela Palace is a 5-star deluxe hotel. It is about a 7-8-minute drive from Santhome Church. Further details of the hotel are – 

Location – Adyar Sea Face, Leela Palace Rd, MRC Nagar, Raja Annamalaipuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600028 

Leela Palace

Services – 

1. Wi-Fi (Free)
2. Air conditioning
3. Couple friendly
4. Breakfast included 
5. Outdoor swimming pool 
6. Free on-site parking 
7. Facilities for disabled guests
8. Family rooms
9. Airport shuttle 
10. Room services

Price per night – 19,500 + taxes; includes free cancellation up to 2 days before arrival

Distance from Santhome Church – 7 minutes drive or 2.8 km 

Places nearby – 

1. Kotturpuram Tree Park 
2. Mahatma Gandhi Statue 
3. Ashtalakshami Temple

Google reviews – 9.2/10

2 – ITC Grand Chola, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Chennai

ITC Grand Chola is a 5-star hotel. It is a 26-minute drive from Santhome Church. Here are more details of the ITC Grand Chola

Location – 63, Mount Rd, Little Mount, Guindy, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600032

ITC Grand Chola, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Chennai

Services –

1. Wi-Fi (Free)
2. Air conditioning
3. Breakfast 
4. Outdoor swimming pool 
5. Free on-site parking 
6. Facilities for disabled guests
7. Family rooms
8. Airport shuttle 
9. Spa and Wellness Centre
10. Pets allowed  

Price per night – 14,000 + taxes ; free cancellation included 

Distance from Santhome Church – 26 minutes drive or 10.9 km 

Places nearby – 

1. Gandhi Beach 
2. Ashtalakshami Temple
3. Guindy National Park
4. Arulmigu Karaneeswara Temple

Google reviews – 9/10

3 – Somerset Greenways Chennai

Somerset Greenways is a 5-star hotel offering a friendly environment. Here are the details below- 

Location – 94, Sathyadev Ave, MRC Nagar, Raja Annamalaipuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600028

Somerset Greenways Chennai 

Services –

1. Wi-Fi (Free)
2. Air conditioning
3. Bar 
4. Outdoor swimming pool 
5. Free on-site parking 
6. Facilities for disabled guests
7. Family rooms
8. Airport shuttle 
9. Pets allowed  

Price per night – multiple types of accommodation are available, which range between 20800 and 13550, with flexibility to reschedule and complimentary 2 pints of beer.  

Distance from Santhome Church – 2.5 km or 8-minute drive

Places nearby – 

1. Broken Bridge
2. Ashtalakshami Temple 

Google reviews – 9.2/10

Affordable Stays

1- The K11 Golden Gate

When we talk about affordable stays near Santhome Church, The K11 Golden Gate is always on the list. The couple-friendly stay offers you-

Location –  104, Chamiers Road, Alwarpet, Chennai, 600018

The K11 Golden Gate – Chennai

Services –

1. Free Wi-Fi
2. Couple friendly
3. Airport shuttle 
4. On-site parking
5. Lounge 
6. Room service 

Price per night – 2,372 (excluding breakfast), 2,674 (including breakfast); non-refundable 

Distance from Santhome Church – 3.9 km

Places nearby – 

1. Marine Drive
2. Gandhi Beach 
3. Perambur Railway Station
4. Ashtalakshmi Temple 

Google reviews – 4/5

2- Between The Mango Treesno

Between The Mango Treesno is an affordable homestay that provides you with multiple services to make your stay comfortable and smooth going. Here are more details –  

Location – 25/10, 2nd St, Sripuram, Balaji Nagar, Royapettah, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600014

Between The Mango Treesno

Services –

1. Wi-Fi
2. Washing Machine 
3. Dining area 
4. House keeping 

Price per night – 2,920 + taxes; free cancellation available 

Distance from Santhome Church – 3.2 km

Places nearby – 

1. Valluvar Kottum Monument 
2. Chennai Central Railway Station

Google reviews – 4.5/5

3- New Woodlands Hotel 

New Woodland Hotel, located in Mylapore, is a highly-rated 3-star hotel. It is a non-smoking property, known for its clean, modern, and stylish rooms.

Location – 72-75, Dr Radha Krishnan Salai, CIT Colony, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600004

New Woodlands Hotel

Services –

• Free Wi-Fi
• Airport shuttle 
• On-site parking
• Housekeeping 
• Room service 

Price per night – 2,469 + taxes; refundable  

Distance from Santhome Church – 2.8 km

Places nearby – 

1. Marine Drive
2. Vivekanand Museum 
3. Vivekanand House
4. Amir Mahal
5. Valluvar Kottum Monument 
6. Velleeswarar Temple
7. Chennai Lighthouse  

Google reviews – 4/5

Top 5 Eateries Near Santhome Church

The second most important thing to sort after staying is places to eat. Here are the top three places that you can consider visiting for food after you are exhausted from exploring Santhome Church and nearby places. 

Places like Palmshore Santhome, Haunted Restaurant, and Nithya Amirth serve a hearty meal, which is non-negotiable and serves the purpose. 

Let’s get straight into the details:

1. Palmshore Santhome

Palmshore Santhome is known for its food and friendly staff. It serves both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. Here’s everything you need to know:

• Location: 110, Kamarajar Salai, Mandavelipakkam, Santhome, Raja Annamalaipuram, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600028

  Palmshore Santhome

• Signature Dishes:

1. Kunafa 
2. Tender coconut pudding 
3. Mutton 
4. Biryani 

• Average Price: ₹ 1400 for 2
• Distance from Santhome Church – It is about 850 m, which makes it a 2-minute drive.
• Timings: 11:30 AM to 11:30 PM

Google Reviews: 4.6/ 5

2. Haunted Restaurant 

Unlike its name, Haunted Restaurant is one of the safest options for finger-licking food. Here are more details- 

Location: 36, 1st Floor, Dr Radha Krishnan Salai, Loganathan Colony, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004

Haunted Restaurant

Signature Dishes:

1. Prawn 
2. Chicken tikka 
3. Mutton 
4. Biryani 
5. Crab lollipop

• Average Price: ₹600 – 800 for buffet 
• Distance from Santhome Church – It is about 2.5 km, which makes it a 5-minute drive.
• Timings: 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM and 7:30 PM to 11:00 PM

Google Reviews: 4.6/ 5

3. Nithya Amirth

Nithya Amirth is a vegetarian restaurant serving finger-licking food at affordable prices. Here are more details – 

• Location: 39, N Mada St, Madhavaperumalpuram, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004

  Nithya Amirtham – Mylapore

• Signature Dishes:

1. Mini tiffin
2. Sambar rice 
3. Dosa 
4. Adai Avial
5. Mini Coffee

• Average Price: ₹ 200-300
• Distance from Santhome Church – It is about 3.1 km, which makes it a 13-minute drive.
• Timings: 06:00 AM to 11:00 PM
• Google Reviews: 4.2/ 5

4. The Brew Room 

The Brew Room is a cozy cafe known for its coffee, carrot cake, and eggs benedict. Here are further details- 

• Location: 146, Dr Radha Krishnan Salai, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004

  The Brew Room

• Average Price: ₹ 400-500
• Signature Dishes –

1. Cold-brewed latte
2. Turkish coffee
3. Carrot cake
4. Espresso
5. Grilled fish with lemon butter sauce
6. Sriracha cottage cheese
7. Cilantro chicken

• Distance from Santhome Church – It is about 2 km, which makes it a 6-minute drive.
• Timings: Weekdays – 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM

  Weekends – 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM

• Google Reviews: 4.4/ 5

5. Kaaraikudi Chettinad Restaurant

Kaaraikudi Chettinad Restaurant serves authentic South Indian food and is an easy-to-locate restaurant. Here are more details-  

• Location: Dr Radha Krishnan Salai, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004

  Kaaraikudi Chettinad Restaurant

• Signature Dishes:

1. Crab masala 
2. Chicken 65 biriyani
3. Mutton kola urundai
4. Elaneer payasam 
5. Sintamani chicken 

• Average Price: ₹950 (for two)
• Distance from Santhome Church – It is about 2.4 km, which makes it an 8-minute drive.
• Timings: 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM

  7:00 PM to 11:00 PM

• Google Reviews: 4.4/ 5

Top Places to Visit Near Santhome Church 

The top places to visit near Santhome Church are Marina Beach, Lighthouse, Kapaleeshwarar Temple, and Vivekananda House. You can also visit Queensland Amusement Park in Chennai to chill with your friends and family. 

Here’s a detailed description – 

1. Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Kapaleeshwarar Temple is one of the famous temples of Chennai and a centre of attraction near Santhome Cathedral. The centrally located temple is devoted to Lord Shiva. Here are further details- 

Location – 16, 1st Floor, Dwaraka Colony Rd, Vinayaka Nagar Colony, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004

Kapaleeshwarar Temple Pond, Mylapore, Chennai

• Entry fee- free entry for all
• Timings- 5:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM 
• Best time to Visit- between October and February 
• Google reviews- 4.6/5

2. Marina Beach

A natural urban beach spread over an area of 6 km, Marina Beach is known as India’s longest and the world’s second-longest urban beach. Here are more details-

Location – Marina Beach

• Entry fee- free entry for all
• Timings- 5:00 AM to 7:30 AM and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM 
• Best time to Visit- between October and February 
• Google reviews- 4.2/5

3. Lighthouse 

Lighthouse Chennai is one of the most beautiful and famous spots in the city. It is located near Marine Beach, offering an eye-pleasing view of the Bay of Bengal.  Here’s everything you need to know.  

Location – Marina Beach Road, Marina Beach, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004, (Landmark: Opposite All India Radio & IG Office)

Lighthouse, Chennai 

• Entry fee- adults – 20; kids – 10
• Timings- 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM; Monday is closed 
• Best time to Visit- between October and February 
• Google reviews- 4.3/5

4. Vivekananda House

Vivekanandar Illam Museum is a historical building in Chennai. It was built in 1842 by Frederic Tudor. The place was used by Swami Vivekananda for his stay during his visit to Chennai. Later, to honour Vivekananda, it was named after him.   

Location – VIVEKANANDA HOUSE, Kamaraj Salai, Marina Beach Road, Triplicane, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600005

Vivekananda House 

• Entry fee- 40 rupees 
• Timings- 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM to 7:15 PM; Monday is closed. 
• Best time to Visit- between October and February 
• Google reviews- 4.5/5

Dos and Don’ts During Your Visit to Santhome Church

Dos	Don’ts
Dress in modest attire.	Do not litter around.
Take off your shoes before entering the premises of the church.	Avoid wearing short dresses and sleeveless tops.
	Do not take videos and photos inside the church.
	Avoid creating noise inside the church.

Picture Gallery of Santhome Church 

While observing the peace that this place provides can be witnessed by the visit, here are some images of Santhome church’s beauty and aesthetics. 

Conclusion 

St. Thomas’ Church is one of the most visited sites in Chennai, which offers you peace and aesthetics at the same time. The church also holds historical significance. It is surrounded by multiple sites of various types, from historical sites to the top marketplaces; Santhome Church has it all. People who are planning their next trip to Chennai must add Santhome Church to their to-be-visited places list.