Featuring on the itinerary of most visitors to India is the vibrant city of Mumbai in Maharashtra. And standing tall among the various attractions of Mumbai is the three-centuries-old St. Thomas Cathedral. It was constructed by the British in 1718 AD and is the first Anglican church in Mumbai. Its initial purpose was to better serve the religious needs of the British population of the city and has now become an iconic landmark serving thousands of parishioners. Named after the first apostle to land in India, St. Thomas, this cathedral is situated in a posh area of south Mumbai, near major city landmarks like Flora Fountain, Horniman Circle, etc. Governed by the nearby Cathedral and John Connon School, this church has a beautiful architecture, both inside and outside. Several British-era memorials are also located here. To know more, simply scroll down and take a look at our guide to St. Thomas Cathedral, Mumbai.
Things to do / Highlights
Admire the exquisite architecture
The architecture style of St. Thomas Cathedral can be typified as Neo-Gothic and Neo-Classical. The exterior of the structure is primarily white with a bit of ochre and looks quite plain. But the interior is quite magnificent with its stunning stained glass windows, exquisite Plaster of Paris detailing in the ceiling, marble statues of angels, arched windows, intricately carved sculptures, and memorials of the British-era soldiers. It is said that the cathedral interiors were modelled after its namesake cathedral in Ireland. Another highlight of the architectural style of this cathedral is its ‘cannon ball-proof’ ceiling, that has disintegrated quite a bit over the years. Standing inside the church, visitors will be enamoured by the beauty of the vivid stained glass windows depicting St. Thomas the Apostle. Outside, there are other beautiful structures and sculptures like a gorgeous fountain.
Visit the British-era memorials
A part of the UNESCO Asia-Pacific heritage list, St. Thomas Cathedral, was primarily constructed to meet the religious needs of British parishioners stationed in Mumbai. Now, it serves as a church as well as a museum and has several memorials dedicated to soldiers, officers and other prominent parishioners of the British-era. Carved in stone, these memorials serve as a reminder of the British rule in India. Some are very intricately carved, like the one dedicated to a former governor of the erstwhile Bombay Province, Jonathan Duncan. He is also credited with establishing Varanasi’s Sanskrit College and his memorial depicts a Brahmin (person belonging to a higher caste in the Hindu caste system) clad in traditional attire under a banyan tree. Other famous memorials here are those of Col. J.A. Ballard of the Mumbai Port Trust, Thomas Carr, Capt. George Nicholas Hardinge, Rear-Admiral Sir Frederick Lewis Maitland and more.
Travelers tips
Time your visit
For those keen on visiting this cathedral, it is advisable to avoid Holy Week i.e. the days preceding Easter for the church can get quite crowded at that time. Afternoons are the best since you can spend some peaceful time by yourself and admire the beautiful architecture of the church. Early mornings and evenings see the faithful flock in for daily mass; so you may choose to visit at those times if you want to join in the prayers.
Prayer box
A prayer box is placed at the entrance of the cathedral, where visitors can write their prayers on a piece of paper and drop it in the box. Many believe that their prayers have been answered after dropping them in this prayer box. You can do the same and you never know, your prayers just might get answered!
How to get there
Public transport
Churchgate station on the Western Railway is the closest suburban rail station to St. Thomas Cathedral. The church is a five-minute walk away from the station. Alternatively, you can even take one of the many public transport buses, known as B.E.S.T bus, to reach the church.
Private vehicles
Since the church is located in a very well-known and popular area of Mumbai, near Horniman Circle, reaching it by private car or motorcycle or even a rental vehicle will not be difficult. Driving directions are also easily available. Mumbai is well-connected to several other cities of India by the national highway network. Thus, St. Thomas Cathedral is easily accessible to those travelling by road.
Taxis or ride-hailing apps
Taxi is the easiest and most convenient way to reach the church. You can hail a taxi from anywhere in the city or pre-book one if you prefer. Alternatively, you could even use Uber or Ola ride-hailing apps to get a car to take you to the church.
Parking information
Since the church is located in a busy area of south Mumbai, finding a parking spot may not be very easy. Street parking is available, but there is no dedicated parking.
St. Thomas Cathedral information
St. Thomas Cathedral
Address: 3 Veer Nariman Road, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400023, India
Opening hours: 7am - 6pm (daily)
Cost: Free
Official Website: St. Thomas Cathedral
Department of tourism: Maharashtra Tourism
News & updates for St. Thomas Cathedral: St Thomas’ Cathedral: A chapter in Mumbai’s history
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to