The ancient Syrian Christian community in India traces their church’s origin to St. Thomas the Apostle. In 1523, people built a shrine dedicated to “Our Lady of Expectation” (Mother Mary) at the top of the Mount. The altar marks the spot where tradition holds that St. Thomas died.
At the northern foot of the Mount, a gateway with four impressive arches rises, topped by a cross inscribed with the date 1547. Visitors climb 160 steps, donated by the Armenian Coja Petrus Uscan, to reach the summit. Along the way, they pass 14 Stations of the Cross.
The church celebrated its 500th anniversary in November 2023. Pope John Paul II visited on February 5, 1986. On July 3, 2025, authorities elevated the shrine to the status of a minor basilica. The basilica also houses the Bleeding Cross of St. Thomas, which the Apostle is believed to have carved. Tradition says the cross oozed blood on December 18th, marking St. Thomas’ martyrdom, for 150 consecutive years.
St. Thomas Mount National Shrine Basilica, Chennai, India
Airways
The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, located approximately 13 km from St. Thomas Mount National Shrine Basilica.
Railways
The nearest railway station is St. Thomas Mount Railway Station, which is about 1 km from the basilica.
Roadways
The basilica is approximately 20 km from Chennai Mofussil Bus Terminus (CMBT) and around 12 km from Chennai Egmore Bus Stand, making it easily accessible by bus.
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