Immaculate Conception Church

4.7

Location: R. Emidio Gracia, Altinho, Panaji, Goa 403001, India

Estimated Visiting Time: 1 to 2 hours

The Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church is one of the most famous churches located in Panjim, under the state of Goa, India. Every day the Church conducts mess in English, Konkani, and Portuguese. The façade of the church is painted an immaculate, sparkling white, according to its name. The church became more famous when the ancient bell was shifted here from another famous church (Church of St. Augustine). This ancient church of Goa is very famous among tourists all over the world. If you are in Goa, this is a must-visit place

Attraction

This is a historical landmark in Goa. It also has a great religious significance. This church offers you to have a silent and relaxing prayer to the Lady of the Immaculate Conception. It will heal you from the inside and give you lots of positive energy. You can spend a wonderful time here. You will like to have a walk around the place. This is a great tourist destination for history lovers. And this place is great for photography.

History

It is believed that this site was originally constructed as a Chapel in 1541. So that the Portuguese sailors could Thank God for delivering the safety. Later from 1600 to 1609, the small chapel was replaced by the large present church. The symmetrical zigzag form was added to the church at the starting of the 18th century. In 1871 the second-largest been in Goa was shifted here from the Church of St. Augustin.

Inside/Outside Views

Inside view of Immaculate Conception Church.

The exterior face of the church is made in the Portuguese Baroque style of architecture. It is an excellent creation of architecture. The bright white painting of this church signifies the Immaculate Virgin, Mary. The imposing façade is distinctive with two towers and an even taller belfry which can be seen from a long distance. That is the reason it is called the ‘crown’ of Panaji. A visitor can also find here a wonderfully designed zigzag staircase of 78 steps leading to the church.

The interior design of the church is very simple but elegant. The decoration of the church is very graceful. The main altar of the church is dedicated to Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception. There are two sub-altar also. The right one is dedicated to Our Lady of Rosary and the left one is dedicated to the Crucifixion of Christ.

Opening Hours

The Immaculate Conception Church opens every day of the week. The opening and closing time of the church is 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 3:30 pm to 7:30 pm.

Entry & Others Fees

No entry fee is required to visit this holy place. It is free for all.

Near Restaurants

Tandoor and Spice
Hunger Camp
Hightide Restobar
Melt – Casual Dining, Eden Park Restaurants
Basaveshwara Khanavali

Near Hotels

How to Reach

By air: The nearest airport to the church is Goa international airport. It is about 26.5 km away from the church. It is well connected with the other major cities of India. Local transports are easily available at the airport. You can hire them to reach your destination.

By train: The nearest railway station to the church is the Karmali railway station. It is located at a distance of 12.8 km from the church. You have to hire any local transport to reach your destination which is easily available at the railway station.

Tips for Travellers

Follow the dress code of the church. Carry your photo ID card. You may carry a water bottle.

FAQ

Que-01: Is this place safe to visit?

Ans: Yes, this place is safe for visitors. People from different places of the world come to visit this church every year. If you face any kind of problem, you can contact the police. Here is the local police station information for you:

Location: Pundalik Nagar, Alto Porvorim, Goa 403521, India

Google map: https://goo.gl/maps/qddV3SDKYkSu8Whu8

Phone no: +918322417704

Que-02: Is photography allowed in this place?

Ans: Yes, photography is allowed in the excellent church. This place is wonderful for photography. The beautiful architecture of the church and the exterior gives a wonderful background for photos.

Que-03: Is there any dress code in Immaculate Conception Church?

Ans: There are some restrictions about dresses in Immaculate Conception Church. Sleeveless dresses, short pants, t-shirts, tennis shoes these kinds of dresses are not allowed in the church. You need to wear decent clothes.

Que-04: When is the best time to visit the Immaculate Conception Church?

Ans: This majestic church in Goa can be visited any time of the year. But the perfect time to visit this place is from October to December. During those months the weather in the city remains wonderful and in the month of December, the church celebrates the feast of the Immaculate Conception in a grand style.