15 Churches in Karnataka You Can’t Miss To Visit

Karnataka has a rich religious history, where different religious communities influence each other. Christianity in Karnataka dates back to the early Common Era and is believed to have been brought by St. Thomas the Apostle. The following article will take you on an insightful journey through some famous churches in Karnataka.

Exploring Spirituality through Famous Churches in Karnataka

Christians form about 1.9% of Karnataka’s aggregate population, approximately 1.1 million people. Karnataka is home to numerous historic churches worshipped by this large population. Let’s Explore!

Here Are The 15 Notable Churches In Karnataka

St. Francis Xavier’s Cathedral, Bangalore

St. Francis Xavier’s Cathedral is the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bangalore, serving as a spiritual hub for the city’s Catholic community. The first church was constructed in 1851 by French missionaries of the Paris Foreign Missions Society.

St. Francis Xavier’s Cathedral is open from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM every day, except Sunday. This church is famous for its impressive Gothic-style architecture and you can miss this church in your list of churches in Karnataka.

• How to reach St. Francis Xavier’s Cathedral? The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport, located 34 KM away from the church. The nearest railway station is the KSR Bengaluru City Junction, located 6 KM away from the church. Visitors can also take a bus from the Bangalore Bus Stand is located opposite the Bangalore City railway station.
• What is the Francis Xavier Chruch famous for? Serving as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bangalore, it is a central hub for Catholic worship and administration in the city and is renowned for its vintage aesthetic and intricate Gothic architecture.
• Best time to visit the Francis Xavier Cathedral: The best time to visit Francis Xaier’s Cathedral is from November to March as the weather is cooler and pleasant.

St. Aloniuyus Chapel, Mangalore

Also known as the Chapel of St. Aloysius College, this Catholic chapel lies in the list of top 10 churches in Karnataka. It is located on Lighthouse Hill within the St. Aloysius College campus. It is famed for its stunning interiors and cultural heritage.

The Church was constructed by Jesuit missionaries in 1880, with its interiors painted by Italian Jesuit Antonio Moscheni in 1899, as part of the Mangalore Mission initiated in 1878.  It is open from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the mornings and 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM in the evenings all days of the week.

• How to reach the St. Aloniuyus Chapel? The nearest airport is the Mangaluru International Airport, located 14 KM away from the church. The nearest railway station is the Mangalore Junction, located 1.5 KM away from the chapel. Visitors can also take a bus from the Mangalore Bus Stand, located 650 M away from the chapel.
• What is the St. Aloniuyus Chapel famous for? Modelled after the Basilica of St. Lawrence in Rome, it reflects strong Italian architectural influences. It is particularly famous for its magnificent frescoes and paintings that cover its walls and ceilings, created by the Italian artist Antonio Moscheni.
• Best time to visit the St. Aloniuyus Chapel: The best time to visit the St. Aoniuyus Chapel is from October to February as the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

Our Lady of Rosary Cathedral, Mangalore

Originally built in 1568 by the Portuguese, it is one of the oldest churches in Karnataka. It was the first Roman Catholic church in the Canara region. As the seat of the Diocese of Mangalore, it is a central hub for religious administration and activities in the region.

Legend says that fishermen found the image of the Virgin Mary at sea, caught in their net. It was later brought to the church and installed at the high altar. It is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

• How to reach Our Lady of Rosary Cathedral? The nearest airport is the Mangaluru International Airport, located 15 KM away from the church. The nearest railway station is the Mangalore Junction, located 6 KM away from the chapel. Visitors can also take a bus from the Mangalore Bus Stand, located 2.3 KM away from the chapel. 
• What is Our Lady of Rosary Cathedral famous for? It is one of the oldest churches in Mangalore and shares a deep connection to the country’s colonial past. It also serves as a seat for the Diocese of Mangalore and is a significant religious landmark.
• Best time to visit the Our Lady of Rosary Cathedral: The best time to visit the Our Lady of Rosary Cathedral is from October to February when the weather is cooler and suitable for exploring.

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Holy Cross Church, Mangalore

Situated at Cordel, it was established by Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century. Also known as the Cordel Church, it features traditional Portuguese architecture blended with local styles.

Catholics who had fled the Seringapatam captivity were ceremoniously escorted by Fr. Dubois to the Cordel plateau. There, they discreetly gathered to worship at the Cordel Church. It is open daily from 5:30 AM to 7:00 PM.

• How to reach the Holy Cross Church?  The nearest airport is the Mangaluru International Airport, located 13.5 KM away from the church. The nearest railway station is the Mangalore Junction, located 3.6 KM away from the chapel. Visitors can also take a bus from the Mangalore Bus Stand, located 5.4 KM away from the chapel. 
• What is the Holy Cross Church famous for? The Holy Cross Church in Mangalore is famous for its historical significance and architectural beauty. It holds immense cultural significance as a heritage site and is a significant religious landmark for the Catholic community in Mangalore.
• Best time to visit the Holy Cross Church: The best time to visit the Holy Cross Church is from October to February when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Monte Mariano Church, Mangalore

Situated in Farangipet near Mangalore, the Roman Catholic festival Monti Fest was here for the first time in 1763, by Joachim Miranda, a Goan Catholic priest. It was built by the Portuguese in 1568 and is one of the top 10 biggest churches in Karnataka.

The Italian traveller Pietro Della Valle mentioned this church during his visit to Mangalore in 1623, referring to it as the Church of St. Francis of Assisi. Regular English Mass is held at 6:00 AM while special Sunday Konkani Mass is held at 8 AM.

• How to reach the Monte Mariano Church? The nearest airport is the Mangaluru International Airport, located 22.6 KM away from the church. The nearest railway station is the Mangalore Junction, located 10 KM away from the chapel. Visitors can also take a bus from the Mangalore Bus Stand, located 14 KM away from the chapel. 
• What is the Monte Mariano Church famous for? It is renowned as the birthplace of the Roman Catholic festival known as Monti Fest. This celebration commemorates the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and is widely observed by the Catholic community in Mangalore
• Best time to visit the Monte Mariano Church: The best time to visit the Monte Mariano Church is from October to February when the weather is cool and perfect for travelling.

CSI East Charade Church, Bangalore

Established in 1865, CSI East Parade Church is one of the oldest churches in Bangalore, originally serving the British military personnel stationed in the cantonment area.

Originally built as the Wesleyan Mission Chapel by Wesleyan believers of the Madras Army, it initially held services in Tamil and English. Today, it offers services also Malayalam. The name “East Parade” is derived from its location east of the Parade Grounds of the Madras Engineer Group (MEG) regiment.

• How to reach the CSI East Parade Church? The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport, located 36 KM away from the church. The nearest railway station is the KSR Bengaluru City Junction, located 6 KM away from the church. Visitors can also take a bus from the Bangalore Bus Stand which is located opposite the Bangalore City railway station.
• What is the CSI East Parade Church famous for? The church showcases classic colonial architecture, with an imposing structure, arched windows, and a tall steeple that stands out in the Bangalore skyline. Its multilingual services cater to a diverse congregation.
• Best time to visit the CSI East Parade Church: The best time to visit the CSI East Parade Church is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and perfect for visiting.

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Milagres Church, Mangalore

Established in 1680 by Bishop Thomas de Castro, it is one of the oldest churches in Dakshin Kannada  It was initially built to serve the Portuguese settlers and the local Catholic community.

Dedicated to Our Lady of Miracles, it is open daily from 6:00 AM to 5:30 PM. During Tipu Sultan’s reign, many Christian places of worship were destroyed. However, Milagres Church was spared due to the intervention of non-Christian locals who appreciated its cultural value.

• How to reach the Milagres Chruch? The nearest airport is the Mangaluru International Airport, located 14 KM away from the church. The nearest railway station is the Mangalore Junction, located 4.6 KM away from the chapel. Visitors can also take a bus from the Mangalore Bus Stand, located 800 M away from the chapel. 
• What is the Milagres Chruch famous for?  Apart from its stunning blend of Gothic and Portuguese architectural styles, it houses several sacred relics and statues, including the revered statue of Our Lady of Miracles, which is believed to have miraculous powers.
• Best time to visit the Milagres Chruch: The best time to visit the Milagres Chruch is from October to February when the weather is cool and moderate.

St. Lawrence Shrine Basilica, Karkala

Also known as Attur Basilica, it is a Roman Catholic church, built in 1759 by Rev Fr Frank Pereira and is believed to be the site of many miracles. Over the years, its patronage has been notably significant.

Guided by a Goan priest, devotees carried a statue of St. Lawrence, hoping to find a suitable church site. At Attur, the statue wouldn’t budge near a spring. When the site was chosen for construction, the statue then easily lifted. The church is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

• How to reach the St. Lawrence Shrine Basilica? The nearest airport is the Mangaluru International Airport, located 46.5 KM away from the church. The nearest railway station is the Udupi Railway Station, located 36 KM away from the chapel. Visitors can also take a bus from the Karkala Bus Stand, located 5 KM away from the chapel. 
• What is the St. Lawrence Shrine Basilica famous for? It is renowned for its Attur Festival, an annual feast in honour of St. Lawrence, which attracts numerous pilgrims It is also home to several religious relics, including a piece of the cross on which St. Lawrence was martyred.
• Best time to visit the St. Lawrence Shrine Basilica: The best time to visit the St. Lawrence Shrine Basilica is from October to February when the weather is pleasant.

St. Philomera Cathedral, Mysore

Also known as St. Joseph’s Cathedral, it is the second-largest and tallest church in Asia. Built-in 1936 in Neo-Gothic style, its design was inspired by Cologne Cathedral in Germany.

The church was designed by a Frenchman named Daly. There’s a myth which says that the design and construction of the cathedral were so flawless that no blueprint was used during its construction. It is open every day from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

• How to reach the St. Philomera’s Cathedral? The nearest airport is the Mysore Airport, located 12 KM away from the church. The nearest railway station is the Mysore Railway Station, located 1.5 KM away from the church. Visitors can also take a bus from the  KSRTC Bus Stand, located 1 KM away from the church. 
• What is the St. Philomera’s Cathedral famous for? It is renowned for its incredible Neo-Gothic architecture. Dominating the cathedral’s façade are two imposing spires which soar up to 175 Ft. The floor plan forms a cross, leading to the sanctuary where the altar is located.
• Best time to visit the St. Philomera’s Cathedral: The best time to visit the St. Philomera’s Cathedral is from October to February as the weather is mild and tranquil.

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St. Mary’s Basilica, Bangalore

Constructed in the 19th century, it is the oldest church in Karnataka. This church in the state was elevated to the status of a minor basilica in 1973 by Pope Paul VI. Originally called the ‘Chapel of Kanikkai Madha’, it was built by Tamil Christian migrants.

The current structure was completed in 1882 under the guidance of a French missionary, Jean-Antoine Dubois. It is open on all days, except Sunday from 9:00 AM to 10 PM, excluding Saturday.

• How to reach the St. Mary’s Basilica? The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport, located 34 KM away from the church. The nearest railway station is the KSR Bengaluru City Junction, located 4.6 KM away from the church. Visitors can also take a bus from the Bangalore Bus Stand which is located opposite the Bangalore City railway station.
• What is the St. Mary’s Basilica famous for? St. Mary’s Basilica is particularly famous for its annual Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, celebrated with great fervour and drawing large crowds of devotees. It is also renowned for its stunning Neo-Gothic architecture.
• Best time to visit the St. Mary’s Basilica: The best time to visit the St. Mary’s Basilica is from October to February as the weather is cool and soothing.

Infant Jesus Church, Bangalore

Established in 1971, it is a Roman Catholic church, dedicated to Infant Jesus and was built to commemorate the historic Infant Jesus of Prague.

Rev. Fr. Paul Kinatukara, a parish priest of Sacred Heart Church, prayed for land in Somanahalli. With guidance from the Infant Jesus of Prague, he acquired a rose garden at a low price. This was where the church was constructed. It is open every day from 10: Am to 9:00 PM.

• How to reach the Infant Jesus Church? The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport, located 38.5 KM away from the church. The nearest railway station is the KSR Bengaluru City Junction, located 8.5 KM away from the church. Visitors can also take a bus from the Bangalore Bus Stand which is located opposite the Bangalore City railway station.
• What is the Infant Jesus Church famous for? The church is renowned for its shrine dedicated to the Infant Jesus, which is believed to have miraculous powers. Its annual feast celebrated on January 14th, draws in thousands of pilgrims from various parts of the country.
• Best time to visit the Infant Jesus Church: The best time to visit the Infant Jesus Church is from October to February as the mild and serene conditions prevail in the weather.

Sacred Heart Church, Bangalore

The church’s origins trace back to the late 19th century when Bangalore was expanding rapidly due to British colonial influence and a growing European and Anglo-Indian community.

As part of the Archdiocese of Bangalore, the church is under the pastoral care of the Archbishop and serves as a focal point for Catholic worship and ministry in the region. it is open every day from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the mornings and 3;00 PM to 6:00 PM in the evenings.

• How to reach the Sacred Heart Church? The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport, located 36.8 KM away from the church. The nearest railway station is the KSR Bengaluru City Junction, located 7.4 KM away from the church. Visitors can also take a bus from the Bangalore Bus Stand which is located opposite the Bangalore City railway station.
• What is the Sacred Heart Church famous for? It features a mix of traditional and modern architecture, including elegant interiors, stained glass windows, and detailed carvings.  It is well-known for its vibrant spiritual life, offering regular Masses, novenas, and special liturgical celebrations.
• Best time to visit the Sacred Heart Church: The best time to visit the Sacred Heart Church is from October to February as the weather remains mild and pacifying.

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Holy Trinity Church, Bangalore

Located at Trinity Circle, it is an Anglican church and a prominent landmark in Bengaluru. Constructed in 1851, it was built to serve the British Regiment stationed in the city.

The church has a congregation of 450 families and can accommodate 700 people at once. It is regarded as the largest “military” church in southern India. It holds public masses at 6.30 AM and 6 PM daily, except on public holidays. 

• How to reach the Holy Trinity Church? The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport, located 50 KM away from the church. The nearest railway station is the KSR Bengaluru City Junction, located 19.5  KM away from the church. Visitors can also take a bus from the Bangalore Bus Stand which is located opposite the Bangalore City railway station.
• What is the Holy Trinity Church famous for? The church features exquisite Neo-Gothic architecture with its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and tall spires, reminiscent of Victorian-era churches in England. The interiors are decked with ornate marble murals and tablets.
• Best time to visit the Holy Trinity Church: The best time to visit the Holy Trinity Church is from October to February as mild and calming conditions prevail in the weather.

St. Antony’s Friary Church, Bangalore

It was established by the Capuchin friars, a branch of the Franciscan order. Following the traditions of St. Francis of Assisi, it emphasizes simplicity, poverty, and connection with nature.

The church is dedicated to St. Antony of Padua, a revered Franciscan saint known for his powerful preaching and numerous miracles. This is one of the beautiful churches in Karnataka and many devotees have reported miraculous healings after praying at St. Antony’s Friary Church.

• How to reach the St. Antony’s Friary Church? The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport, located 40.8 KM away from the church. The nearest railway station is the KSR Bengaluru City Junction, located 10 KM away from the church. Visitors can also take a bus from the Bangalore Bus Stand which is located opposite the Bangalore City railway station.
• What is the St. Antony’s Friary Church famous for? Every Tuesday, the church holds special devotions to St. Antony, drawing large crowds of devotees. It is also notable for the grand celebrations, community gatherings and special masses conducted for the feast of St. Antony.
• Best time to visit the St. Antony’s Friary Church: The best time to visit the St. Antony’s Friary is from October to February as the weather is pleasantly mild and comforting.

St. Patrick’s Church, Bangalore

It is one of the oldest churches of Karnataka and belongs to the Archdiocese of Bangalore. Initially dedicated to Our Lady, it has served as a Cathedral in the past and later as a personal parish.

Established in 1844, it was initially built to cater to the spiritual needs of the Irish soldiers stationed in Bangalore under British rule. It became known as St. Patrick’s Church due to its popularity among the Irish troops stationed in the surrounding area. It is open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

• How to reach the St. Patrick’s Church? The nearest airport is the Kempegowda International Airport, located 36 KM away from the church. The nearest railway station is the KSR Bengaluru City Junction, located 6.6 KM away from the church. Visitors can also take a bus from the Bangalore Bus Stand which is located opposite the Bangalore City railway station.
• What is the St. Patrick’s Church famous for? The church is one of the popular churches in Karnataka, featuring high vaulted ceilings, intricate stained glass windows, and tall spires. it is also famous for its Annual Feast of St. Patrick, celebrated on March 17th.
• Best time to visit the St. Patrick’s Church: The best time to visit the St. Patrick’s Church is from October to February as the weather is cool and soothing.

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In conclusion, We discussed some stunning churches in Karnataka, each with its unique architecture and rich history, offering profound experiences for visitors. Whether seeking spiritual solace or admiring the architectural splendour, these churches provide a serene and enriching retreat for all.

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